By Scout Nelson
Woody encroachment presents a significant challenge to the sustainability of grasslands in the Great Plains, including Kansas. K-State Extension plays a pivotal role in addressing this issue by providing vital educational resources and outreach to agricultural producers.
In recent years, the spread of woody plants into grasslands has severely impacted these ecosystems. Notably, in 2022, the Great Plains grasslands experienced an estimated loss of 11.9 million tons of production due to woody encroachment, equating to a substantial reduction in available forage that could have sustained approximately 2.5 million cattle for a year. This encroachment not only reduces potential agricultural production but also adversely affects vital ecosystem services.
K-State Extension, in collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), offers a comprehensive approach to combat this issue. This collaboration is part of a broader initiative known as the Great Plains Grassland Initiative (GPGI), which is a rancher-driven, science-informed, and agency-supported effort aimed at conserving the remaining grassland regions within the Great Plains biome.
The strategy adopted, termed "Defend the Core, Grow the Core," focuses on prioritizing actions to prevent further grassland loss and defend intact grassland areas. This approach provides a clear framework for ag producers to engage in proactive land management practices that are crucial for maintaining the ecological and economic viability of these regions.
For those interested in learning more about the impact of woody encroachment and the available strategies for managing this challenge, K-State Extension has organized a session that will delve into these topics in detail. The session will also cover the available resources for producers, including funding opportunities for control efforts, and will showcase how educational efforts can be integrated with existing NRCS programs to create a continuous process for addressing this issue.
The virtual session will be held on April 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM CDT. Participants can join via Zoom using the link https://ksu.zoom.us/j/97386251067 or by dialing in at 669.444.9171 with the meeting ID: 973 8625 1067. This meeting is open to all interested parties who wish to contribute to and learn about sustaining the health and productivity of Kansas's grasslands.
Photo Credits:pexels-jeffrey-czum
Categories: Kansas, General