Pasture and Forage Minute

Is twine or net wrap good feed? Obviously not, but it can cause health problems if animals eat too much of it. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

It’s that time of year again. Time when we need to start preparing for taxes. Most people probably know that farmers and ranchers’ last day to file taxes is March 1st. So it’s important to make sure we have everything together. Shannon Sand, Nebraska Ag Economics Extension Educator.

Choosing the right protein may help bring the cost of feed down and more accurately meet the needs of our cattle. In some rations, alfalfa might be that choice. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

As we approach winter and colder temperatures, determining the current fertility of pastures and alfalfa fields through soil sampling is a critical step towards optimizing production next year. Sampling now, before the ground freezes can help with planning this winter and give time to develop a fertility plan if soil tests show fertilizer is needed. Samantha Daniel, Nebraska Extension Crops and Water Educator.

Hay is expensive and many long hours go into harvesting, storing, and feeding it. Don’t waste up to a third of it by using poor feeding practices. Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

As winter approaches, corn residue offers a practical, low-cost grazing option for livestock. However, many landowners worry that it might hurt crop yield or soil health. Is that true? Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Eastern red cedar trees are a significant and expanding problem across many pasture and rangeland acres in Nebraska. When fire is planned and controlled properly, it can be a very useful tool to control these unwanted plants. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

With winter near, now is the time to set up hay yards for easy access if you haven’t already done so. While sorting by lots and quality is important, keep in mind how we store can also impact spoilage. Are you storing hay so losses are at a minimum? Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Forage Systems Educator.

Fall rain and snow are good for wheat and next year’s crops, but it does have its drawbacks. One challenge is its impact on corn stalk feed quality. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.

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 rates can be somewhat higher compared to the summer. Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range and Forage Systems Specialist.