HAY OR OTHER FEEDS?

“Cattle do not have a ‘hay’ requirement, they have a nutrient requirement”, according to Dr. John Johns, UK Beef Specialist. As ruminants, certainly our cattle can utilize hay (dry stored forage) during periods of time when forages are not available out in the pasture. But, as Johns advises, other feedstuffs besides hay can be used to meet most of the nutrient requirements.

Our short hay supplies are a big concern to Henry County farmers right now. Prices for hay, both good or bad hay, will probably set new highs this year. Other, more concentrated feedstuffs may seem higher per pound or ton, yet may yield the appropriate protein and energy for cattle at roughly the same or only slightly more cost. Farmers may be able to stretch hay supplies by limit feeding the hay, with commodity feeds used to fill in the gaps. To do this, we need to know the nutrient analysis of the forage hay, so farmers are encouraged to get a hay analysis. The KDA has a great service for hay testing, whereby they will come to the farm and collect the sample and send the results for only $10 per sample. You may reach them at 1-800-248-4628.

Other strategies which may help get through this year of short hay supplies include: Stockpiling Grasses for Winter Grazing; Strategic Winter Feeding; Pregnancy Checking and Culling; and Early Weaning. More Information about these concepts may be obtained by contacting the Henry County Extension Office at 845-2811.

7/18/07