– David Lalman, Austin Sexten, Gant Mourer, Casey McMurphy and Chelsea Dobbs; Oklahoma State University
This year’s (2011) historical drought has forced cattle producers in the Southern Great Plains to liquidate cattle or withstand record high purchased and harvested feed prices. Additionally, where the typical winter hay feeding season lasts for 90 to 120 days, many cow/calf operations that have chosen to retain part or all of the cow herd will be forced to feed for 200 days or more. Like never before, this is the winter feeding season to consider methods to improve efficiency of harvested forage use. Fortunately, a few relatively simple concepts are available that could make a dramatic impact. In fact, when combined, these strategies could cut the need for hay by at least one third!
Limiting hay intake: Feed yards and backgrounding operations have taken advantage of improved Continue reading Hay Feeding Cost CAN be Substantially Reduced