Barnhart, Steve; Duffy, Michael; Smith, Darnell

ISU Extension, No. AG 96 (November 2000)

This report summarizes estimated costs of improving pasture by five different systems. For each system, both the initial cost per acre and the annual maintenance cost per acre are presented. In addition, costs of establishing alfalfa or alfalfa-grass hay meadows and annual maintenance costs for alfalfa-based hay production are presented. Included in the pasture and hay alternatives listed are the recommended steps for achieving rapid establishment and productive forage stands. Individual producers may wish to add to, delete, or otherwise modify some of these estimated cost factors where better estimates are available or where local site conditions, equipment availability, or producer expectations are appropriate.