ARS researchers are developing a database that will analyse historical and simulated data. The database will predict future forage growth and help ranchers decide how many animals to graze on native range.
The new database is based on GPFARM, a computer simulation model developed at the ARS�s Great Plains Systems Research Unit (GPSR) to help central Plains farmers and ranchers make management decisions. GPFARM interprets data and predicts the outcomes of various management strategies. But its complexity intimidates many farmers and ranchers, decreasing its efficacy.
According to soil scientist Gale H. Dunn, ranchers, in particular, were missing the program�s benefits. So he submitted a proposal to the US Department of Agriculture�s Risk Management Agency and received $570,000 to develop and deliver a database to help ranchers manage range and livestock production systems. The program, currently in the early developmental stage, will predict the effects of drought on range, forage and livestock production.
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