Benefits of legumes for organic beef production systems

Organic beef production systems (i.e., beef suckler herds) are experiencing major growth. Animals are largely grass fed, and feed autonomy is the goal. When mineral nitrogen fertilisers are not used, legumes can help improve system productivity, feed protein content, and dietary balance. On an experimental farm in Thorigne-d'Anjou, the benefits of legumes are being explored using grasslands composed of multiple species, pure cultures (i.e., lucerne), and grain-legume associations (harvested for seeds or forage). The findings underscore the benefits and constraints associated with legume use on organic beef farmers and with respect to the soil and climate conditions found in Thorigne-d'Anjou.