Utilisation of grazed grass in temperate animal systems : proceedings of a satellite workshop of the XXth International Grassland Congress, [3 July to 6 July] 2005, Cork, Ireland

Leading authorities from wide geographical regions of the globe will review the most up-to-date information in relation to temperate grasslands. Topics covered are: nutritive value of pasture; plant characteristics conducive to high animal intake and performance; modelling of both grass growth and animal production and intake in grazing systems; optimising financial returns from grazing; decision support systems; optimal animal breeds and traits for grazing systems; challenges and opportunities for animal production in the immediate future. In addition, short papers will present the most recent research on the above mentioned topics. One paper will present a comprehensive overview of animal production from pasture in Ireland. This book will be of interest to grassland and ruminant production scientists, mathematical modellers working on grazing systems, extension workers, students of agriculture and animal production and progressive livestock farmers Intro -- Foreword -- Table of contents -- Opening of conference address -- Keynote presentations -- Overview of animal production from pastures in Ireland -- Plant and sward characteristics to achieve high intake in ruminants -- New insights into the nutritional value of grass -- Genetic characteristics required in dairy and beef cattle for temperate grazing systems -- Grass growth modelling: to increase understanding and aid decision making on-farm -- Modelling of herbage intake and milk production by grazing dairy cows -- Decision support for temperate grasslands: challenges and pitfalls -- Challenges and opportunities for animal production from temperate pastures -- Optimising financial return from grazing in temperate pastures -- Section 1 Appropriate plants for grazing -- Section 2 Appropriate animals for grazing -- Section 3 Developments in modelling of herbage production and intake by grazing ruminants -- Section 4 Decision support systems for grazing -- Section 5 Constraints and opportunities for animal production from temperate pastures -- Section 6 Other aspects of grassland/grazing -- Section 7 Open debate - What should grassland/grazing research focus on now? -- Keyword index -- Author index