Grasslands (Pasture and Range)

Overview and Production

Grasslands used for grazing- commonly referred to as pasture and rangeland- make up the largest share of agricultural land in the United States. In 2017, approximately 805 million acres were categorized as grazing lands, including rangeland, managed pasture, grazed forestland, and cropland pasture. Of these, about 82% were classified as grassland range and pasture. However, the extent and type of grazing land vary significantly by region. 

In the Western US- including the Mountain West, Northern Plains, and Southern Plains- rangeland dominates the landscape. These areas have lower annual precipitation, leading to more extensive, less intensively managed systems. Vegetation on rangeland is often native, and grazing management is typically adapted to the limitations of the environment, such as lower forage density and slower regrowth. 

In contrast, the Eastern US and Corn Belt regions, where rainfall is more consistent and soils are often more productive, have smaller areas of grazing land, with more land dedicated to cropland and forest. Grazing systems in these regions rely more on managed pasture- smaller, intensively grazed fields seeded with a mix of native and introduced forages. These pastures are often rotationally grazed and receive inputs such as fertilizer or reseeding to maintain productivity. 

The distinction between pasture and rangeland lies in their level of management and vegetation type. 

• Rangeland is generally native, less intensively managed, and suited to low-input, extensive grazing. 
• Pasture is more productive, intensively managed, and often seeded with high-yielding forage species. 

In Iowa and much of the Midwest, grazing occurs primarily on managed pasture and cropland pasture. These systems support both beef and dairy operations, often integrated with crop production systems. 

Market

Pastureland typically does not have an open commodity market, as it is often owned and operated by the same producer. However, leasing arrangements are common, especially in regions where livestock producers do not own enough land to meet grazing needs year-round. 

Pasture rental rates vary widely based on location, forage quality, water access, fencing, and overall carrying capacity. The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) publishes annual cash rent surveys, including values for pastureland by state and region. For example, in 2024, pasture rental rates in Iowa averaged around $64 per acre, while rates in more arid western states ranged from $5 to $20 per acre. 

Alternative arrangements, like pasture exchanges, are gaining popularity. Websites such as the Midwest Grazing Exchange facilitate connections between landowners with underutilized pasture and livestock producers needing grazing land. These platforms help expand access to forage resources and support more sustainable land use. 

In conservation and cost-share programs, agencies such as NRCS and FAS provide financial incentives for implementing grazing systems that enhance soil health, improve forage productivity, or protect water resources. 

Useful Links, Background Information, and References 

Midwest Grazing Exchange- Midwest Grazing Exchange

Cash Rent, 2025, USDA NASS

ERS Data Series Tracks Major Uses of US Land With a Focus on Agriculture, 2024, USDA ERS

Range and Pasture, USDA NRCS

Pasture Management Guide for Livestock Producers, 2018, Iowa State Extension

Figure 2: Cattle out on pasture.  

Figure 3: Pasture mix of forages composed of cool-season grasses and clovers.