Cattle per Acre Calculator
Calculate stocking rates and grazing capacity for cattle operations
Note: This calculator determines appropriate stocking rates based on forage production, cattle size, and management practices. Always monitor pasture conditions and adjust stocking rates accordingly.
Formula: Stocking Rate = (Forage Production × Utilization Rate) / Daily Forage Requirement
AU (Animal Unit) = 1000 lbs of cattle
Forage Production (lbs/acre/year)
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Animal Units (AU)
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Recommended Stocking Rate
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Cattle per Acre
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Total Cattle Capacity
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Grazing Days Available
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Stocking Recommendations
- Conservative Stocking: 80% of calculated rate for new pastures
- Moderate Stocking: 100% of calculated rate for established pastures
- Aggressive Stocking: 120% of calculated rate with excellent management
- Monitor: Pasture height, animal condition, and forage availability
Grazing Capacity by Forage Type
Bermudagrass
2-4 AU/acre/year
Tall Fescue
1.5-3 AU/acre/year
Alfalfa
3-5 AU/acre/year
Native Grass
0.5-2 AU/acre/year
Important: These calculations are estimates based on typical conditions.
Actual stocking rates may vary due to weather, management practices, and local conditions.
Always start with conservative rates and adjust based on pasture monitoring and animal performance.