I recently purchased 100 acres between Elgin and Taylor Texas (Williamson county). I have 45 acres under the EQUIP program (rest left for wildlife and range) but have not determined the best grass to plant once cleared. The soil is a mix of sandy loam, red clay, and black land (transition land). I plan to run a cow/calf operation primarily. Haven't had much luck getting advice from NRCS or Extension office. I don't expect to make much $ from it but don't want to go broke maintaining the forage either. I understand the basic differences and tradeoffs of Coastal, Tifton 85, and native grasses through research.

Natives require less fertilizer but carry fewer heads. I don't know how much fertilizer typically costs per acre either. Tifton 85 out produces Coastal but costs more to sprigg. I am unclear if it requires more fertilizer or if it is harder to maintain than Coastal. Coastal is tried and true. So what should I consider. Don't want to find myself having to let the Tifton go later because it is economically infeasible to keep up, but I really want to plant it to run more cattle. Of course, adding in the revenues brought in from the cattle sales on each grass has me confused. Advice?