Tips On Controlling Locoweed: How to Keep Your Livestock Safe

Locoweed is a common term used for plants that can cause harm to livestock when ingested. These plants contain toxic compounds that can lead to neurological damage, reproductive problems, and even death in some cases. Keeping locoweed under control is crucial for the health and well-being of your animals, as well as the financial stability of your farm. Here are some tips on how to control locoweed:

1. Know Your Enemy

The first step in controlling locoweed is to identify the different types of plants that fall under this category. Some of the most common species include Astragalus spp., Oxytropis spp., and Swainsona spp. These plants thrive in dry areas with low rainfall, and can be found in pastures, rangelands, and along roadsides.

By knowing what to look for, you can prevent your livestock from grazing on these dangerous plants. Make sure to inspect your pastures regularly and remove any locoweed that you find.

2. Use Herbicides

If you have a large infestation of locoweed, it may be necessary to use herbicides to control the growth of these plants. However, it is important to choose the right herbicide for the job. Some herbicides may not be effective against certain types of locoweed, and may even harm other plants in the area.

Before using any herbicides, make sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions for application. It is also recommended to consult with a professional before using any chemicals on your property.

A photo of a locoweed plant.

3. Practice Good Grazing Management

Proper grazing management is key to preventing the spread of locoweed. Overgrazing can create bare spots in pastures, which allows locoweed to take hold and spread rapidly. To prevent this, make sure to rotate your livestock regularly to give your pastures time to recover.

You should also avoid overstocking your pastures, as this can lead to increased competition for resources and an increase in weed growth. By practicing good grazing management, you can keep your pastures healthy and prevent the spread of locoweed.

4. Consider Biological Controls

In some cases, biological controls can be an effective way to control the growth of locoweed. One example of a biological control method is the use of sheep to graze on locoweed.

Sheep are able to tolerate the toxic compounds found in locoweed, and can help reduce the spread of these plants by eating them before they have a chance to produce seeds. However, it is important to note that this method may not be effective for all types of locoweed, and may not be feasible for all farmers.

A photo of sheep eating locoweed.

5. Educate Yourself and Others

One of the best ways to control the spread of locoweed is to educate yourself and others about the dangers of these plants. By understanding the risks associated with locoweed, you can take steps to prevent your livestock from coming into contact with these toxic plants, and encourage others to do the same.

You can also work with your local extension office or agricultural organization to promote awareness of locoweed and provide resources for farmers who need assistance with control methods.

6.

Controlling locoweed is essential for the health and well-being of your livestock, and the success of your farm. By knowing your enemy, using herbicides, practicing good grazing management, considering biological controls, and educating yourself and others, you can keep your pastures free from harmful levels of locoweed.

Astragalus spp., Oxytropis spp., and Swainsona spp., herbicides, grazing management, biological controls, livestock