The Pasture Pioneers: Fertilization and Farming in Buenos Aires
Ah, Buenos Aires! Known for its tango, football, and… electrified fences? That’s right, folks! Colonel Vidal swags us right into a pastoral drama where cattle are at the heart of a fertilization revolution. Move over, elegant dance moves; it’s time for a field trip unlike any other.
Colonel Vidal has set the stage with electrified fences that are less about shock value and more about separating the good pasture from the “let’s never talk about that again” pasture. With lush patches resembling a green carpet, one might think they’ve stumbled onto the set of a nature documentary. But hold on to your boots! Recent grazing has left some areas looking like they’ve survived an equine hurricane, with grass standing tall as fingers on a hand—all five of them, no less.
The Fertilization Formula
Now, let’s delve into the nitty-gritty—agricultural engineer María Alejandra Martino is leading the charge here, preaching that it’s not merely about seeing grass; no, my friends, it’s all about the ‘kilos of animal’. Honestly, if I had a peso for every time I heard that phrase, I’d befield rich—but I digress. The team from Civil Association Fertilizar and INTA are tirelessly working to ensure that our bovine buddies have the finest forage possible. They’re on a mission, folks. A mission to get those cows not just looking good, but feeling like champions!
Picture this: Four establishments scattered across Buenos Aires where a sprinkling of science meets a lot of cow. From Ojo de Agua to Pinar Chico, these geographical gems showcase a variety of conditions for grazing. José Gugliemelli from Ojo de Agua proudly claims 2000 hectares, with a solid 40% dedicated to extensive livestock farming. And what’s cookin’ on the ranch? None other than Hereford steers! These beauties are destined for European export—because nothing says prestige like the waltz of Argentine beef on the world stage!
Pasture Management: A Balancing Act
With a mix of fescue, alfalfa, and good old white clover, these pastures are not just happy; they’re thriving under rotational grazing and a dual-source water system that would make your head spin! As Mariano so aptly pointed out, while producers know how many animals are munching away, when it comes to the pasture… well, that’s a different story. They’re clocking the goodies with a nifty invention called the ‘pasturometer’—yes, it’s like a speedometer, but for grass! Who knew lawns could be so thrilling?
In a world where rain seems to play hide and seek, these experts against all odds insist that a little fertilization can do wonders. They highlight the shocking fact that without nutrients, yields can drop by a whopping 50%. It’s like trying to run a marathon without breakfast; just not happening!
Species Selection and Soil Diversity
But what about our star foragers, alfalfa? Our dear Esteban Ciarlo brings us back to the main event: “Suma P!”—a campaign to introduce phosphorus where it’s scarce. Alfalfa needs that phosphorus more than I need my morning coffee, and that’s saying something!
As the tour continues to Pinar Chico, spot the vast lands dedicated to livestock production. With 1500 bellies ready to export 30% of theirweighty charm at 500 kilos a pop, it’s clear this place means business. Federico Allende, the manager, has it all planned out. If they’re growing sunflower or corn? That’s just to keep the fodder game strong. They’re playing the long game, and it’s paying off!
Conclusion: The Cow Whisperers’ Legacy
In the epic tale of pasture productivity, the Fertilizar team stands tall—like the proud grass they cultivate. They’re setting precedents, reminding us that with proper management and a sprinkle of science, we can turn mediocre pastures into lush landscapes. So, let’s raise a glass (or a pastureometer) to the crafty innovators in Buenos Aires—they’re not just growing grass; they’re sowing the seeds for the future of farming!
One thing is for sure, when it comes to cows, grass, and kilograms, this crew knows how to put the ‘moo’ in improvement!
COLONEL VIDAL.- The electrified fence distinctly delineates the test areas, strategically located at the foot of the mountains, situated midway between the vibrant towns of Balcarce and Mar del Plata. Surrounding these plots are captivating water bodies and natural springs that enhance the ecosystem. The other test site is in the expansive field of Coronel Vidal, nestled within the Mar Chiquita game region. These areas are adorned with lush patches of vibrant green, despite a recent grazing by cattle that left the grass cut short. These carefully arranged plots serve as modules designed to showcase innovative fertilization strategies. Preliminary results have indicated a remarkable increase, doubling and even tripling the volume of premium forage produced compared to that of natural growth. Experts emphasizing this project assert its success should be evaluated not merely by the height of the grass but by the overall health and appearance of the livestock.
“It’s not about seeing grass but kilos of animal,” explains agricultural engineer María Alejandra Martino, a key member of the initiative led by the Civil Association Fertilizar, in collaboration with INTA. Their mission is to demonstrate the significant benefits derived from the application of fertilizers, which ultimately enhance pastoral productivity for farm-fed livestock. This project spans across four diverse establishments throughout the province, each offering unique geographical conditions; Ojo de Agua borders General Pueyrredón and Balcarce, while Pinar Chico is located in Mar Chiquita, Estancia San Miguel resides in General Guido, and La Chacra lies in Laprida. During a recent visit, this chronicler observed the first two sites alongside the dedicated team of experts who are demonstrating innovative approaches to creating rich pasturelands with multiple varieties.
José Gugliemelli, manager of Water Eye, stated their expansive property encompasses 2000 hectares, with an impressive 40% allocated for extensive livestock farming, which relies on a balanced mix of natural pasture and vital supplemental feed. “All the feed consumed by our livestock is produced on-site,” he elaborates, referring to the corn harvested there. This sustainable ranching operation features Hereford steers, each weighing approximately 520 kilos, destined for export, with meat cuts proudly branded and sent to European markets. Production rates fluctuate between 650 to 850 kg/ha, contingent on whether supplements are factored into the calculations.
In these rich pastures, it’s common to observe species such as fescue, alfalfa, and white clover thriving. The innovative approach employs rotational grazing techniques coupled with a dual-source water supply system, highly efficient windmills, and strategically devised solar screens for water pumping. Additionally, they utilize gravity-fed spring systems that are distributed across the agricultural landscape.”
“Producers know how many animals they have and how much each animal eats, but very few in the world know how much pasture they have,” warns Marino, underscoring the central objective of Fertilizar, which is to effectively produce and accurately measure these pastures. In this initiative, prior to allowing livestock access to any particular pasture area, they utilize a pasturometer to gauge production levels.
“We aim to demonstrate the potential for pasture production within the environmental capacities available,” Marino explained while highlighting the extraordinary conditions offered by the Pampas region for growth. He notes, however, that pasture management receives limited attention and claims it currently generates between 30 to 50% of what could be achieved with more focused management and well-applied fertilizers. “During periods of reduced rainfall, pastures without nutrient supplementation yield 50% less than those that are fertilized,” he stated emphatically. In the Pampas region, grass typically flourishes at a rate of 50 to 60 grams per hectare per day. “Sadly, this growth often goes underutilized and raises concerns during winter shortages,” Marino emphasized. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that maintaining pasture areas presents challenges; many farms struggle with limited staffing and budgetary constraints, often prioritizing their crop yields instead. As a testament to this, it has been determined that a staggering 77% of the livestock area remains covered in unmanaged natural grassland.
Esteban Ciarlo, the technical coordinator of Fertilizar, brought attention to the program Suma P, designed to enhance phosphorous-poor soil surfaces. He pointed out that alfalfa, a crucial legume species in Argentina, requires substantial phosphorus to effectively fix nitrogen in the soil. This innovative initiative seeks to elevate yield outcomes through targeted fertilization practices.
The journey continued to Pinar Chico, one of three establishments owned by El Pinar Agropecuaria SA in the vicinity. These plots have also been cultivated for the experience of fertilization alongside pasture management. The project commenced in April 2022, focusing on fescue and wheatgrass for exclusive livestock production. “Any additional crops like sunflower or corn generated are sold to purchase necessary fodder,” clarified Federico Allende, the firm’s general manager, noting they manage a herd of around 1,500 animals and export 30% of livestock averaging 500 kilos.
The coastal proximity and surrounding water bodies create a notable contrast with the mountainous terrain, resulting in a unique soil composition and environmental dynamics. “This is a distinctly different area,” Marino explains, referencing a limited variety of forage species available, notably lacking alfalfa.
“By eye,” says Feco, who oversees the grazing management practices, assessing the optimal timing for livestock to access specific pastures. As part of this innovative approach, a pasturometer will be employed to deliver quantifiable results that reinforce the positive impacts of fertilizer application.
What are the benefits of integrating alfalfa into phosphorus-deficient pastures for improving soil health?
H –s”>Turning to the indispensable topic of soil health, it’s vital to note that introducing nutrients is not merely a suggestion but a necessity. Alfalfa, in particular, thrives on phosphorus, which has resulted in initiatives like “Suma P!” aimed at promoting its presence in phosphorus-deficient areas. With the right balance of nutrients, not only do we foster a thriving pasture environment, but we also ensure optimal growth for our star foragers.
As our journey continues to Pinar Chico, we find ourselves on another thriving livestock-producing expanse. Federico Allende, the manager of this 1500-hectare site, reveals how meticulous planning leads to sustainable success. With a goal of exporting 30% of their total livestock, which averages around 500 kilos each, the operation is designed to provide a reliable source of premium beef for international markets. The cultivation of sunflowers and corn is not merely an ancillary task but a strategic move to maintain robust fodder production year-round, ensuring the livelihoods of those involved and the longevity of their agricultural practices.
Conclusion: The Cow Whisperers’ Legacy
In the epic tale of pasture productivity, the Fertilizar team stands tall—like the proud grass they cultivate. They remind us that to transform mediocre pastures into lush landscapes, a blend of science, dedication, and sound management is required. As we toast to these innovators in Buenos Aires, we celebrate not only their achievements in pasture advancement but also the future they are crafting for sustainable farming practices. Indeed, when it comes to optimizing the synergy between cows and their grass, this team truly knows how to put the ‘moo’ in improvement!
