Forrage production estimate by two methods: the ruler (height) and the density meter disc

DOI: 10.52945/rac.v28i1.185
Published 2015-10-26

Authors

  • Jorge Homero Dufloth
    Epagri / Estação Experimental de Urussanga, C.P 49, 88840-000 Urussanga, SC, fone: (48) 3465-1209
  • Álvaro José Back
    Epagri / Estação Experimental de Urussanga
  • Roberto dos Passos
    Clivesul Campeira Agropecuária Ltda., C.P. 222, 85601-610 Francisco Beltrão, PR, fone: (46) 9975-1503

Abstract

Abstract : Accurate assessment of pasture availability is one of the most important information for planning forage in grazing systems. Traditionally, production estimates of herbage mass have been performed with direct sampling of forage production, carrying out cutting, manually or mechanically, in a given area followed by weighing. However, the production of fodder can be estimated using one of several techniques available of indirect sampling. The aim of this study was to evaluate two indirect methods for estimating the production of forage by using the ruler (height) and the density meter disc. Between the two methods tested, the technique using the disc meter had a higher coefficient of determination, was more accurate for those conditions in which the work was performed.

Author Biographies

  • Jorge Homero Dufloth
    Engenheiro-agrônomo, M.Sc.
    • Álvaro José Back
      Engenheiro-agrônomo, Dr.
      • Roberto dos Passos
        Médico-veterinário

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        Keywords

        • forage assesment
        • sampling
        • pasture.