FEED & NUTRITION

When growing alfalfa, variety selection is only one key to maximizing yield and forage quality. Even the best seed genetics will never allow a crop to reach its full potential unless growers also take the necessary steps to identify their specific, individual needs prior to planting and establishing a successful stand.

You may be wondering why winter would be a good time to discuss a hay management program. My experience is that a key to a successful hay program is planning.

Corn silage is the predominant forage ingredient in many dairies across North America. Producers have moved to heavier corn silage diets for a variety of reasons and benefits (some perceived and some real):

If you’re like most dairy producers, you’re able to cite your herd’s average milk production, pregnancy rate or somatic cell counts without hesitation. But what about your feed efficiency? Very few producers have a good handle on feed efficiency, yet improving conversion of feed into milk is one of the ways dairy operations can survive today’s economic climate.

Water is essential for life and is the nutrient needed by all mammals in the largest quantity. Water is important for various body functions, in temperature control, and in the production of milk. Milk contains 87 per cent water.

Nutritionists are constantly faced with the challenge of delivering high-quality feed ingredients to the ration, walking a tightrope between nutritional needs and wants.