Mark Kruse will discuss his pasture conversion experiences, his rotational grazing system, organic pasture management, and manure management at a pasture walk on June 22.
Mark and Marcia Kruse have been dairy farming at their current 176 acre Lansing, Iowa, farm since 1977. An organic farming meeting, hosted by noted organic pioneers, the late Bill Welsh and his son Greg, inspired the Kruses to switch to organic methods in 1987, even though there was no market at the time. In 1994, the Kruses became the first organic dairy in Iowa for CROPP Cooperative/Organic Valley.
Due to increased pasture requirements under the organic rules, and from his own interest in grazing systems, Mark decided to convert 56 acres of cropland to rotationally grazed pasture in 2004. With assistance from the NRCS, who provided the plans and cost share funds, the Kruses converted ridge top fields, previously in corn, small grains and alfalfa, to a timothy, orchardgrass, brome and clover pasture. “I really enjoy this setup,” notes Mark Kruse, which allows him to easily move his 80 cows to a new paddock each day.
A pasture-based system has multiple benefits for the farmer, the livestock, the environment and consumers: For the farmer it can help reduce input and labor costs. For the cattle it can improve health and longevity. For the environment it can reduce soil erosion and manure runoff (especially from steep cropland), and for the consumer it can provide milk and meat higher in healthy fatty acids like conjugated linoleic acid (CLA).
Kruse Family Organic Dairy Farm is located at 2601 Lafayette Ridge Road, Lansing. From Lansing, take Highway X52 South, drive 6 miles and then turn left on Lafayette Ridge Road. Drive 2 miles (keep left at the Y in the road) to 2601 Lafayette Ridge Road. From Harper’s Ferry, take Highway X52 North, drive 8 miles and then turn right on Lafayette Ridge Road. Drive 2 miles (keep left at the Y in the road) to 2601 Lafayette Ridge Road.
The walk is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. This event is free and all are welcome. Be prepared for the weather and a walking tour of the farm. To register, or for more information, call (715) 778-5775. PD
—From ISU Extension news release
