Category Archives: Hay Clippings Blog

Many agricultural economists believe that finding ways to minimize the amount of hay fed to cow-calf enterprise is one of many keys to profitability. In the past 50 years, hay production has steadily increased while the cow inventory has stayed … Continue reading →

Deciphering a Hay Test: Moisture by Ben Beckman Getting hay tested for nutrient quality is critical to make sure you get the most out of the feedstuffs you possess. One having your hay tested, the next step is deciphering the … Continue reading →

Now that harvest is complete, it may not be odd to see cattle turned out on fields. Crop fields can provide cattle with essential nutrients but must be managed correctly by avoiding acidosis and nitrate toxicity. Experts believe it is … Continue reading →

During the winter it can be hard to decide what to feed cattle. Producers have a wide variety of forage and feed sources to choose from, with unique costs and benefits for each. With dry conditions in the western U.S. … Continue reading →

As winter soon begins, many cow-calf producers will shift cows from the pasture to feeding stored bales. Knowing how much hay cattle need is based on several factors, but the most important factor is the quality of hay. Knowing forage … Continue reading →

By Brad Schick How did alfalfa fields fare this year? Drought, fall armyworms, and now fertilizer prices will affect what management decisions are made. This makes soil sampling this fall even more important. The fertility of our soils is essential to … Continue reading →

By Jerry Volesky Grazing stockpiled winter range or pastures has several benefits.  It is much less costly compared to feeding hay.   On native range, there is little risk of damage to the grasses because they are dormant and winter stocking … Continue reading →

The award-winning Hoard’s Dairyman webinar series takes place the second Monday of each month at 12:00 p.m., central time. Hosted by the energetic Mike Hutjens of the University of Illinois, each short, one-hour webinar will include nationally-known and carefully selected … Continue reading →

Hay markets remain steady for alfalfa and grass hay along with trades remained fairly steady as well. Producers believe prices will not change significantly until cooler weather arrives. Warmer weather and soil moisture has allowed for many to finish putting … Continue reading →