Conclusions

Tall fescue has a longer growing season than most other forage crops. This important characteristic increases grazing time and reduces stored feed requirements, typically the largest single cost in a forage-livestock enterprise. The use of various management approaches discussed here can extend substantially the already long period during which tall fescue normally provides pasture forage. When properly managed, tall fescue pastures can result in excellent animal performance. However, because most pastures are infested with the toxic N. coenophialum endophyte, tall fescue requires a unique multifaceted approach to reduce the effects of fescue toxicosis.