Pasture workshop in Tryon teaches ways to maximize grass for horses

CLEMSON — The Appalachian foothills boast climate and soils to grow some of the finest pasture grass on the planet. Horse owners can make it even better.

They can start at the Carolina Foothills Forage Management Workshop: “A guide to better horse pasture management” on Friday, Oct. 26, in Tryon, North Carolina.

The workshop brings together the resources of two land-grant universities in the Carolinas — Clemson and N.C. State — to focus on topics specific to horse pasture management in the foothills region of both states.

Subjects include choosing ideal forage varieties for this area, managing soil nutrients and grazing management tips for smaller acreages.

The agenda includes both classroom instruction and hands-on activities, such as weed identification and management, body condition scoring (BCS) and temporary fencing systems to manage pastures.

The cost is $25 and includes lunch and course materials. Course space is limited. Register here.

The one-day workshop begins at 9 a.m. at the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE), 3381 Hunting Country Road near the state line in Tryon.