Carrying Capacity Calculator
Calculate pasture carrying capacity (animal units per acre) using forage yield, utilization rate, and grazing period.
Inputs
How It Works
Available Forage = Yield × Acres × Utilization %
1 Animal Unit Month (AUM) = 780 lbs of dry forage
Animal Units Supported = (Available Forage ÷ 780) ÷ Grazing Months
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FAQ
What is carrying capacity?
Carrying capacity is the number of animal units a pasture can sustainably support during a grazing period.
What is an Animal Unit Month (AUM)?
One AUM equals approximately 780 pounds of dry forage, which represents the average monthly intake of a 1,000-pound cow with calf.
What utilization rate should I use?
Continuous grazing systems often use 30–50% utilization, while rotational systems may support 50–70% depending on management intensity.
Understanding Pasture Carrying Capacity
Carrying capacity is a fundamental grazing management metric that determines how many animal units a pasture can sustainably support over a defined grazing season. This carrying capacity calculator helps producers estimate animal units per acre using forage production, pasture size, utilization rate, and grazing duration. Proper stocking decisions protect pasture health while maintaining livestock performance.
Forage yield is typically measured in pounds of dry matter per acre. However, not all forage should be consumed. Utilization rate accounts for trampling, plant recovery, and residual cover needed to maintain root health and soil stability. Applying an appropriate utilization percentage ensures long-term pasture productivity.
Animal Unit Months (AUM) provide a standardized way to measure grazing demand. By dividing available forage by 780 pounds per AUM, producers can estimate total grazing capacity. Adjusting stocking rates based on accurate carrying capacity calculations helps prevent overgrazing, reduce feed supplementation costs, and improve overall herd efficiency.