Proper forage utilization and management is one of the major factors that livestock producers can control to improve the profitability of any livestock operation. Lee County has around 2,500 acres of forages that is managed for feed for livestock. Forage quality has been identified, by leader as the number one concern that needs to be addressed to improve livestock profitability in Lee County.

Lee County extension agent has worked around 21 livestock producers on improving their forages. These 21 producers represent around 1,900 acres of forages, all have received education on: renovation, seed selection, and timing of renovation, soil quality, soil amendments, stocking rates, rotational grazing, and high traffic area management for soil erosion. 

13 of the 21 farmers have renovated pastures and managed their forages as recommended. Their stocking rates have improved over the last three years by 30 percent or a total of 142 head of livestock and have started selling their excess forages for a total of around $11,00.00 per year. Total economic benefit from the two producers is around $79,500.00 per year.