Summary
This field-based study of 30 grassland sites in Oxfordshire examined how botanical diversity influences nutritional quality of forage used for livestock production. Species-rich grasslands produced forage with substantially higher micronutrient density (up to 56% more phosphorus, 106% more potassium, 183% more calcium) and 27% more protein than conventional hay and cereals, meeting nutritional requirements for beef cattle, sheep, and horses. The research integrates ecological sampling with farmer interviews to identify both the agricultural value and adoption barriers—including agro-environmental scheme restrictions and invasive species pressure—for conservation-orientated grassland management.
Regional applicability
This study was conducted in lowland England (Oxfordshire) and directly applies to United Kingdom grassland management practice and agro-environmental policy. The findings provide evidence for revising restrictive grazing and hay-cut timing regulations in agri-environment schemes to enable greater uptake of biodiversity-friendly pasture management by UK livestock farmers and conservation bodies.
Key measures
Forage dry matter; sugar content; phosphorus (P); protein; potassium (K); calcium (Ca); species richness and composition; farmer perceptions via ethnobotanical interview
Outcomes reported
The study measured forage dry matter, sugar, phosphorus, protein, potassium, and calcium content across 30 grassland sites and compared nutritional composition to cereals and conventional hay. It also documented farmer and grazier perceptions of the agricultural and conservation value of species-rich grasslands.
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