Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
increasing the biodiversity of a basic orchardgrass-white clover pasture
increased mineral concentration of the pasture, particularly when chicory
was included in the mixture. Restrictions on herbicide use and the greater
biodiversity often found in organic pastures may result in greater concen-
trations of weeds in organic systems. Therefore, the mixed pastures often
found in organic systems may help provide livestock with needed minerals
through plant species biodiversity. Similar to the non-organic feed indus-
try, within the organic sector there is a wide range of products marketed
to improve animal performance and health. Kelp meal is commonly used
as a natural source of chelated minerals throughout the northeastern US
on organic dairy farms; however, limited scientific information is avail-
able on the impacts of including kelp meal in dairy or beef rations. Allen
et al. [47] reported that feeding kelp extract to grazing beef cattle reduced
body temperature and increased cell-mediated immune function during
hot weather. However, others have reported no benefits to kelp feeding of
dairy cattle for long periods of time [48] or short term [49].
4.3.3 TREATMENT OF PARASITES IN ORGANIC CATTLE
SYSTEMS
Parasitic infections of ruminants as a result of grazing are considered one
of the greatest challenges to animal welfare in organic production systems
[50]. In non-organic systems, anthelmintics are routinely used to control
or prevent heavy infestations of internal parasites. However, this practice
is prohibited under the NOP regulations except in extreme cases of heavy
infestation [4]. While fluke and lungworm infections can be addressed
with some success by vaccinations which are allowed under National Or-
ganic Program rules in the US, nematodes continue to pose problems in
organic systems. Temperate forages containing condensed tannin (e.g.,
birdsfoot trefoil, sainfoin, and sulla) have been found to have effi cacy
against nematodes [50,51]. Alternative dewormers such as garlic and di-
atomaceous earth have shown little effi cacy in scientifi c studies despite
anecdotal claims [52,53]. Commonly recommended practices to control
internal parasite issues include: (1) graze youngstock on the cleanest pas-
tures (pastures not grazed by animals of the same species within the past
 
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