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South Georgia
  Fort Valley State University
Dr. Tom Terrill
478-825-6814
terrillt@fvsu.edu

  Preliminary data was collected in 2006 on suitability of goats and sheep as species for biological control of kudzu. Mature ewes and does were given access to an area of well-established kudzu along with other forages in a large grazing paddock (36 acres) throughout an entire growing season (April-October). Both ewes and does grazed in the kudzu area throughout the season, but the sheep spent more time than goats grazing kudzu when other forage choices were available. As a result the sheep removed a greater percentage of the available (kudzu) plant material over the growing season compared with goats.
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Trials to be completed in 2007 will use mature ewes only. Effectiveness of rapid rotational (mob) grazing to control kudzu growth will be tested in three areas (open field, fencelines, forest margins) at two times during the growing season (Early season growth with immature plants and minimal vines; Late season growth with mature plants and thick vine growth). Effects of grazing in each area will be compared with an ungrazed control. Each plot area will be delineated using temporary electric fencing, with visual estimates of ground cover and forage species composition made before and after grazing. Available dry matter/unit area will be determined before and after grazing by cutting and drying plant material in 1 m2 quadrants. After the initial grazing, the plot areas will be regrazed when there is adequate regrowth to support animals.

  sheep image
 
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