For feed budgeting when set stocking. Measures pasture height only.
Model SS400M

• Fast no bending down
• Accumulates and averages results for each paddock
• Non - destructive of sward
• Can be used on pugged or hill country
• Ideal for sheep, cattle, deer and other stock grazing
• Can measure up to 400mm

The regular appraisal of sward conditions is fundamental to effect grazing management. Sward surface height can be measured using the Automated Sward Stick. The model SS400M is an improved version which follows on from development work at Massey University, as a modification of the original Sward Stick.

Operating Principle

The Automated Sward Stick measures height from the top of the shaft down to the sward. The difference between the travel of the slide tube and the total length of travel to ground level is the height of the sward. the operator need only record the start and end readings from the bottom counter and the number of samples from the top counter, for each paddock. A simple formula is then used to convert the readings to average sward surface height for the paddock.

Measurements are simple and fast - recording of individual heights and bending down are not required and recordings are accumulated for the whole paddock.

Recommended Sward surface heights to maintain Liveweight

Recommended Sward surface heights for Lamb Growth