FEED & NUTRITION

The starch content of a dairy ration, how fermentable this starch is in the rumen and the total tract starch digestibility have a huge influence on many facets of a dairy operation.

Feed cost, income-over-feed cost, feed efficiency, milk production, microbial protein production, peak milk, lactation persistency, ketosis, fatty livers, displaced abomasums, colostrum quantity, butter fat, milk protein, weight loss in fresh cows, weight gain in late-lactation cows and heifer growth are all partially influenced by the level of starch in the diet and its level of digestibility.

Most hay producers want to produce hay as profitably as possible. Establishing economic goals is the first step towards profitability. Once goals are established, farmers benefit by developing a management mindset centered on a business approach.

Severe winter cold coupled with little or no snow cover can result in poor hay and pasture stands in spring. Plants may be killed or weakened, leaving barren areas in the field or thinning of the stand, depending on the severity of winter injury.

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):