Alternative winter systems to housing cattle and sheep

Find out about outwintering, deferred grazing and outdoor straw pads. Read our tips and advice, including how to manage the environmental impact.

The benefits of outwintering include reduced feed and building costs.

However, it is not low labour and requires careful management. 

Planning, flexibility and backup plans are key to managing the environmental impact.

Ideal for extending your grazing period through winter, at the end of autumn, or in early spring.

Design and management of straw pads, including expected straw requirements and space requirements for cattle are crucial.

If you want to increase flexibility in your system, you should consider: