2012 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416): Facilitate research in forage management and livestock production at the Grazinglands Research Laboratory, El Reno, OK including cooperative research between OAES and ARS. 1b.Approach (from AD-416): OAES and ARS will collaboratively maintain experimental herds of cattle and flocks of sheep at the Grazinglands Research Laboratory, sufficient in number and kind to meet research objectives in the areas of forage and livestock production, impacts of agriculture on the environment, and conservation of natural resources. 3.Progress Report: The Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station has maintained a herd of about 300 cows and 200 ewes during the year for use by location scientists. Collaboration has been ongoing with two graduate students being shared by faculty at Oklahoma State University and scientist at the Grazinglands Research Lab, one supported by the cow-herd account. The herd has undergone significant modification as we move to a new five-year plan. Angus (n=35) and Angus-Brahman F1 (n=28) heifers were purchased to augment the herd and prepare for new directions in research.