Crop and livestock production are both important parts of Minnesota’s agricultural economy.
Crop producers add fertilizer inputs to their fields to ensure proper plant growth so they can make a profit from their crop. Livestock producers manage their operations to ensure their livestock have adequate food and living conditions throughout the year. This may include the purchasing of additional feed resources at the end of a season.
To achieve benefits for both types of operation, livestock can be integrated into cropping systems.
Benefits of crop and livestock integration include:
- Diversified feed resources for livestock
- Additional nutrients for crops
- Increased soil organic matter
- Improved soil water regulation (infiltration and water holding)
Examples of crop and livestock integration practices:
- Grazing cover crops
- Grazing annual forages as part of a crop rotation
- Grazing crop residues
- Bale grazing on cropland
University of Minnesota Extension works to promote crop and livestock integration practices through various means.
Field days
We organize field days at host farms that use crop and livestock integration practices. At these events, you will hear from experienced farmers, Extension educators, and conservation professionals. Topics focus on science-backed information on the benefits and implementation of integration practices.
Educational sessions
We organize and speak at events and conferences to provide information about crop and livestock integration. Our interactive activities engage learners in the integration planning process.
Learners will gain valuable information and skills necessary to successfully integrate crop and livestock systems on their own farms or on the farms they advise.