Production and Environmental Implications of Equine Grazing

Horses' physical and digestive well-being is often enhanced when allowed to graze on pastures. Furthermore, a well-managed pasture can contribute to economic viability. Grazing can however have deleterious effects on the environment if not properly managed. Although equine grazing, defecating, and ground trampling behavior is unique from that of other livestock species, pasture management practices are often based on those derived from cattle grazing. This review summarizes the current knowledge of impacts of equine grazing on pasture quality and environment and identifies gaps where further information is needed to formulate and recommend sustainable grazing methods specific to equine.