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The Importance of a Healthy Mineral Cycle |
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This photo taken at the Escuela Ranch shows how cattle affect the mineral cycle. This aspect of grazing management is often overlooked. By moving from the top of the hills to the bottom, cattle are transporting minerals. The mineral cycle recyces nutrients that are important to plant growth. The average cow can redistribute over 150 pounds of nitrogen. |
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An effective mineral cycle also requires a biologically active soil. When cattle are grazing they are also defecating and replacing nutrients. These nutrients are absorbed into the ground by time and weather and are used by plants and trees. The cycle is completed when cattle eat the grass and start the whole process over again. In the picture taken at the Walters Ranch in one of the riparian pastures you can clearly see healthy native grasses growing and conrtibuting to the diversity of this land. |
