* Reduced grass height: As cattle graze, they consume the tops of grass plants, reducing the overall height of the grass sward.
* Increased tillering: Grazing can stimulate tillering, or the production of new shoots from the base of the grass plant. This helps to maintain a dense, healthy sward and can increase pasture productivity over time.
* Changed species composition: Different grass species have different palatabilities to cattle. Some species, such as tall fescue, are less palatable than others, such as perennial ryegrass. Over time, this can lead to a shift in the species composition of the pasture in favor of the less palatable species.
* Reduced litter accumulation: Cattle will trample and consume fallen leaves and other litter, reducing the amount of organic matter that accumulates on the soil surface.
Long-term effects:
* Nutrient cycling: Cattle manure and urine help to recycle nutrients back into the soil, which can improve soil fertility and pasture productivity.
* Soil compaction: Heavy grazing can lead to soil compaction, which can restrict root growth and reduce water infiltration. This can reduce pasture productivity and make the soil more susceptible to erosion.
* Overgrazing: Overgrazing, or grazing at a stocking rate that exceeds the pasture's ability to produce new growth, can damage the pasture and lead to a decline in productivity. Overgrazed pastures are more susceptible to weed invasion, erosion, and other problems.
The management of cattle grazing is important to balance the short-term and long-term effects on the pasture. Proper grazing practices can help to maintain a healthy and productive pasture while minimizing the risk of damage to the soil and plants.