agist

Agistment refers to the practice of paying for the keep of an animal, typically livestock, on land that is not owned by the animal's owner. This arrangement is common in agricultural sectors where landowners with available pasture may offer agistment services to other farmers or individuals who need temporary or long-term accommodation for their animals. The terms of agistment are usually outlined in a contract that specifies the duration, cost, type of care provided, and responsibilities of both parties. Costs can be calculated on a per-animal basis, per-acre basis, or a combination thereof, and may include grazing rights, water access, and sometimes basic handling or veterinary care. Agistment is a flexible solution for managing livestock, allowing owners to utilize suitable grazing land without the capital investment of purchasing or maintaining their own properties. It can be particularly useful for seasonal grazing, breeding programs, or when an owner’s land is unavailable or overstocked. The practice contributes to efficient land use and supports the broader agricultural economy by facilitating the movement and care of livestock.