When dealing with drought conditions it is helpful to remember that cattle do not require amounts of specific forages or others ingredients, but require nutrients, which can be provided from a multitude of sources.
When this column started, we encouraged our readers to forward their comments, questions and suggestions for topics. We thank-you for the communications received to date, to which we reply directly. We will occasionally share an expanded response that was inspired by a noteworthy question.
The variation in bale size, forage type and moisture content makes it hard to recommend a single procedure for processing and mixing round bales in all cases. The following are general guidelines for processing single and multiple round bales; ultimately some trial and error will
When we consider the nutritional value of corn silage, we focus primarily on its energy, or grain content. And with today’s high grain prices, this has become even more important.
For beef producers, think about winter plans early allow time to make management decisions that will affect the health, productivity and profitability of the herd over the next production cycle. The following are tips and guidelines to consider.
More mature or coarser forages tend to be bulkier and more resistant to processing and mixing than less mature, finer forages. As forages mature, plants become taller, their cells increase in size, and cell walls thicken and become more lignified.
Let’s explore the benefits of vertical TMR (Total Mixed Ration) mixers for feeding beef cows during different stages of the production cycle.
Traditional methods of feeding hay in a round bale feeder can lead to wastage of up to 30% through selection and trampling. Conservative estimates of switching to a TMR put feed savings at 10-15%.