Water stress affects pastures in Rio Grande do Sul Translation: Water stress affects pastures in Rio Grande do Sul

The prolonged drought has negatively impacted the pastures in Rio Grande do Sul, with strong signs of water stress. The lack of rainfall and high temperatures have slowed the growth of annual and perennial pastures, affecting the supply of green mass in various regions of the state. According to Emater/RS-Ascar, the water stress has been evident, especially in the sudan grass and millet areas, which have wilted severely during the day, reducing the palatability of the forage. In several regions, the native pasture, which had been developing well, has also entered a phase of stagnation after a new period without precipitation. The situation is even more critical in areas with shallow, rocky, and sandy soils, which face greater grazing pressure, increasing the risk of soil compaction and reducing the capacity for water retention. The lack of moisture has also delayed activities such as nitrogen fertilization and the establishment of pastures, which can only be resumed when the soil ...