Hands-On Grazing Training in Wisconsin - Register Now

By Blake Jackson

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Marshfield and Lancaster Agricultural Research Stations are set to host two-day intensive grazing schools for both beginning and experienced graziers.

The Marshfield Grazing School will be held on August 8-9, while the Lancaster event is scheduled for September 22-23.

These hands-on training sessions will immerse participants in core grazing skills through real-world pasture experience and in-the-field learning. Attendees will gain practical knowledge in estimating pasture yields, sizing paddocks, moving livestock, and using fencing tools and equipment. The program also offers valuable networking opportunities with fellow graziers and expert instructors.

The Marshfield station, located in Stratford, sits in one of Wisconsin’s most dairy-intensive areas. With more than 100 acres of rotationally grazed pastureland, the facility focuses on sustainable practices and conservation-based grazing systems.

Lancaster’s station, nestled in the rolling hills of Grant County in southwest Wisconsin, has maintained a beef grazing herd since the 1960s. Its 200 acres of managed pasture provide an ideal setting for participants to learn grazing techniques through outdoor, hands-on instruction.

Registration is currently open, but class sizes are limited. Interested individuals are encouraged to sign up soon via the Wisconsin School of Grazing website, where a full agenda is also available.

The Marshfield station is located at 208356 Drake Avenue, Stratford, while the Lancaster station is at 7396 WI-35 & 81, Lancaster. For questions about the event, contact Beth Heinze at outreach@grassworks.org.

The program partners include GrassWorks, the University of Wisconsin’s Marshfield and Lancaster Research Stations, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and UW Extension.

Disability accommodation is available upon request. Attendees should ars_accommodation@cals.wisc.edu at least 10 days before the event. Same-day requests will be considered as feasible.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-hirurg