Cover

CHAPTER IV: WILDLIFE HABITATS FOR MISSISSIPPI’S SGCN,

THREATS AND CONSERVATION ACTIONS^108

2.3 Hay and Pasture Lands

„ Value to SGCN - 48

„ Rank - 19th of 29 Inland Terrestrial Complexes

(Terrestrial, Wetland, Subterranean and Anthropogenic)

DESCRIPTION
Hay lands and improved pastures may be seeded to
produce bahia grass, fescue, Bermuda grass and other
varieties. Many areas including hay lands, vacant fields,
roadsides and yards are maintained by periodic mowing during the growing season. Mowing reduces
their overall value for wildlife by eliminating vegetative cover and reducing insect concentrations and
seed production. Areas not mowed support a larger number of ruderal herbs including annual ragweed,
Canada goldenrod, annual marsh elder and Queen Anne’s lace.

Pasturelands are often improved by liming and fertilizing and planting more productive grass varieties,
such as fescue and Bermuda grass. Other unimproved pastures that are heavily grazed contain a variety
of native and domestic grasses and weeds. Some weeds that are unpalatable will increase in grazed
pastures. If left ungrazed or managed by mowing, trees and shrubs quickly invade and form brushy
thickets and eventually woodlands.

LOCATION, SIZE, CONDITION AND CONSERVATION STATUS

EGCP, UEGCP, MSRAP

Hay and pasture lands are distributed similarly to agricultural lands, but are more
extensive, as they are estimated to cover more than 21 percent of the state. They
often occur on less productive soils and steeper hill slopes. They are
concentrated in agricultural districts of the state with the exception of the
Mississippi Delta, which is dedicated largely to row crop agriculture. Pine and
hardwood forests, pine plantations and cutover areas often adjoin this subtype.

Hay and pasture lands are habitats used to raise forage for domestic livestock. These open lands are
available for use by wildlife, but are only marginally attractive to most of SGCN. Cultural practices
which leave sufficient stubble on pasture and hayfields provide additional cover and ensure better grass
vigor. Overgrazing increases erosion potential and allows unpalatable weeds and exotics to invade the
pastures.

Hay and pasture lands are considered common, widespread and abundant in the state and are secure
from significant declines in extent or quality.

Range of Hay and

Pasture Lands