Horse pastures differ in several respects from cattle pastures, although most principles of establishing and fertilizing forages developed for cattle pastures also apply to horse pastures. In general, horses are much more destructive to pastures than cattle. Horses tear the sod, denude paths along fences, gates, etc., and punch holes in the sod in times of excessive moisture.

The purpose of this publication is to help horse owners get the most out of the time, effort, and money they are (or should be) putting into permanent pasture management. Discussed first are two basic pasture-planning decisions: (1) the nutritional role of your pasture acreage whether it's to be a major feed source or just an exercise lot; and (2) the options for pasture improvement-whether to renovate, reestablish, or merely maintain. Presented next are step- by-step procedures for renovating or reestablishing an existing pasture, and for establishing a new one. The final section reviews those practices that help maintain-even extend-pasture productivity.

The role of improved pastures in supplying forage varies from farm to farm, depending on the type of livestock operation, available facilities, quality of these facilities, and personal preference of the operator. It is possible for animals to receive a large portion of their feed from pastures; however, if this is to be achieved, careful consideration must be given to planning and carrying out a forage production and utilization program.