As you read through this, you might think “DANG! This is really complex!” And you’re right it is! But that doesn’t mean you can’t figure it out. Think of it as one of those strategy games where you’re trying to maximize your points in the face of lots of variables. If you’re not good at those kinds of games, we bet you know someone who is. Just see it for the game it is, and go out and WIN!

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About the author

Rachel Gilker

Author and editor emeritus

Rachel's interest in sustainable agriculture and grazing has deep roots in the soil. She's been following that passion around the world, working on an ancient Nabatean farm in the Negev, and with farmers in West Africa's Niger. After returning to the US, Rachel received her M.S. and Ph.D. in agronomy and soil science from the University of Maryland. For her doctoral research, Rachel spent 3 years working with Maryland dairy farmers using management intensive grazing. She then began her work with grass farmers, a source of joy and a journey of discovery.

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1 Comment

1. Gene Schriefer says:

   January 13, 2015 at 7:09 am

   We are fortunate to have Geoff Brink in Wisconsin doing this research.

   While not part of Geoff’s research on residual height, residual also helps to shade soil and maintain cooler soil temperatures in summer creating a more favorable micro-climate. We’re in a continental climate zone, cold winters, warm summer, and keeping soil (and plants) in the temperature comfort zone keeps them actively growing and reduce soil moisture loss.