Stocking rate

Stocking rate refers to the number of animals, typically livestock like cattle or sheep, that a specific area of land can support sustainably over a period of time. It considers factors such as land quality, forage availability, and climate. A higher stocking rate means more animals per land unit, while a lower rate means fewer animals, allowing the land to recover and prevent overgrazing. Proper stocking rate management helps maintain healthy pastures, enhances productivity, and ensures environmental sustainability by balancing animal needs with the land’s capacity.