Recovering grassland and setting autumn priorities

After one of the most challenging grazing seasons in recent years, many livestock farmers are asking the same question: where do we go from here?

Reduced grass growth, shrinking grazing covers and increased reliance on supplementary feed have put pressure on livestock performance, body condition and farm profitability.

While recent rainfall has brought some relief to some areas, the decisions made over the coming weeks will play a major role in how quickly grazing systems recover and how well farms are prepared for autumn and winter.

To help farmers navigate these challenges, we recently hosted a webinar with James Daniel of Precision Grazing, exploring practical options for grassland recovery following drought conditions.

If you missed the live event, the webinar recording is now available to watch on YouTube.

Drawing on his experience working with livestock businesses across the UK, James explains how prolonged dry weather can affect grass production, animal performance and farm productivity. He also shares practical strategies to support recovery.

The webinar explores:

• The likely impact of drought on autumn pasture growth and forage crops
• How to recover drought-affected paddocks when rainfall returns
• Prioritising livestock groups when feed supplies are tight
• Grazing management decisions that support recovery and future productivity
• Common mistakes that can slow grassland recovery
• Setting up grazing systems for a successful spring 2027

The session provides practical, farmer-focused advice that can be applied immediately, helping businesses make informed decisions as they move into the autumn period.

The effects of a difficult growing season do not end when grass growth returns.

Reduced forage stocks, variable forage quality and lower autumn covers can create challenges throughout the winter and affect the amount of grass available the following spring.

To help farmers plan ahead, James Daniel of Precision Grazing will return for the second webinar in the series.

Date: 8 October 2026
Time: 7:30pm to 9:00pm

This practical session will focus on the steps farmers can take this autumn and winter to protect livestock performance and maximise grazing opportunities in spring 2027.

Topics include:

• Creating a winter feed plan
• Assessing forage stocks and likely utilisation
• Calculating feed requirements for different livestock groups
• Identifying potential feed shortfalls early
• Assessing alternative feed and forage options
• Autumn grazing strategies
• Balancing immediate feed demand with the need to build grass for spring grazing

You'll leave with the tools to create a practical winter feed plan and a clearer understanding of the actions needed to maintain livestock performance while setting the farm up for a successful start to the 2027 grazing season.

Whether you’re focused on recovering from this season's challenges or planning for next year's grazing season, these webinars provide practical, experience-based advice to help you make the most of your grassland and forage resources.