JUDA — Many farmers have rightfully complained about the slim profit margins when growing corn and soybeans recently. But have they done anything different to improve their chances to being more profitable? Farmers of the Sugar River are sharing ideas on how to do just that — one idea to be more profitable with your cropland is to convert it to pasture and grazing animals on it. There will be a field day on the Ron Mandel farm southwest of Juda on Brunkow Road, south of County KS at 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 27.

The producer-led group is encouraging farmers to consider expanding pastureland and managing pastures for productivity. They will talk about fencing options and costs along with potential cost sharing sources available. There is money to be made by running forage through the animals on site. One does not need to own cattle or land to make money managing both for farmers, but they will need experience and a plan. Neighbor support and mentors are key to success. Learning how much land it takes to support a certain size herd is very valuable and important to maintaining productive pastures. Raising cattle on pasture is not a new idea, it’s a lost art and tool that hasn’t had widespread adoption or permanence. By converting more row crop fields to pasture or perennial cover, the health of the watershed and community will improve through increased soil protection, more water infiltration, cleaner runoff, financially sustainable farms and businesses, a tighter network of neighbors and building community.

Ron Mandel, the host farmer, is excited to share his success in converting from row crops to grazing his neighbor’s heifers. The field day site is across from N1795 Brunkow Road, Juda. The event is expected to last two hours and lunch will be served afterward. Organizers are asking attendees to RSVP to plan for enough food. Contact Tonya Gratz with the Green County LWCD at Tonya.Gratz@wi.nacdnet.net or text 608-426-2218 with your RSVP or any questions.