The meter is used for measuring the amount of pasture in your paddocks. The rising plate principle allows the meter to measure the average height of the pasture, allowing for any variations in pasture density. Readings can then be converted to an amount of Dry Matter (DM), ready for use in Feed Budgeting.

The meter's plate is calibrated for weight and area. During use the plate is supported by the pasture. The taller and denser the pasture is, the further off the ground the plate sits. The shaft of the meter drops through the pasture to rest on the ground.

The bottom counter records the position of the plate relative to the shaft, totaling the readings as each sample is taken. A sample counter at the top of the meter is used to record the number of samples taken in each paddock. The sample counter can be zeroed.

Usually, 30 to 50 samples are taken in each paddock, and a simple formula converts the average reading into an assessment of dry matter per hectare (or acre).