Pasture has the potential to provide
1. The horses nutrition
2. A Safe exercise area
Potentials rarely achieved, often neglected

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All information given here is believed to be correct but the author cannot be responsible for any consequences of it's use.

Pasture Management
for
Horses

by Denis Lindsell

Grazing Systems

The Grazing Year

The aim of a management plan?
1. To provide a regular food supply.
2. Freedom from weeds
3. Freedom from parasites

Spring

Operation	Reasons	Conditions or Considerations Required
Soil testing	Assess fertilizer requirements	As soon as possible if this has not already been done.
Harrowing	To pull out dead grass, allow air into the soil, and help level any poached areas.	Land should be drying but still have some moisture
Fertilizer application	Promote grass growth	Accordint to results of soil tests, when soil is beginning to warm up and grass is about to grow. Horses should not graze the paddock until the fertilizer has been washed into the soil.
Rolling	To consolidate loose soil, level rough areas, push stones below the surface, encourage tiller formation (especially in young swards).	When soil has enough moisture for the process to be effective without damaging soil structure.
Weed control	Increase grass production.	When weather and growth stages of weeds are suitable. Always follow manufacturers instructions for chemical weed killers

Summer

Operation	Reasons	Conditions or Considerations Required
Regular harrowing	Spread droppings if these are not being collected, to kill parasitic worm eggs. The effectiveness of this is debatable.	Good drying weather
Control grazing by rotation of paddocks, strip grazing, or mixed grazing.	Control the horses intake of feed and reduce the effects of overgrazing.
Topping	Cut rough grass that horses refuse to eat.	When necessary and convenient.

Autumn

Operation	Reasons	Conditions or Considerations Required
Control grazing by rotation of paddocks or by strip grazing.	Maintain nutrient intake of the horse.	There will be a rapid decline in grass growth
Consider feeding suppliments	Maintain nutrient intake of the horse.	There wil be a decline in the nutrient status of the grass.
Apply fertilizer		As required

Winter
When selecting paddocks for winter use you will need to consider the following factors.
The paddock should be well drained. This may be a gently sloping paddock. Steep gradients should be avoided in wet slippery conditions.
The sward should be well established and dense. This will reduce the risk of poaching compared to a young, open sward.
Fencing is likely to be put to the test more than usual by horses looking for greener pastures.
Stocking densities should be kept low.
You will need to consider whether you should sacrifice the same paddock each winter or a different one. This will depend on individual circumstances.