If utilizing CRP this time of year, especially if the CRP is a warm-season-dominated grass stand, it can be injured by cutting too close to the ground, because it is in a rapid stem elongation phase.
Cool-season-dominated grass stands are already mature of generally poor quality. Grazing might be a better option. It is less harmful to the stand, and you can set the stocking rate to leave sufficient residual.
Second, determine and develop a new weed management plan for acres hayed or areas sacrificed for supplemental water location. Pure grass stands are easier to manage for weeds than diverse mixtures of grasses and desirable forbs.
Thirdly, managers might also need to keep in mind how haying or grazing changes wildlife habitat quality. If you rely on hunting income, you might have to balance the pros and cons of using CRP for your livestock operation.
Drought planning is essential, and CRP can be used if the acres qualify for haying and grazing.
Source : sdstate.edu