Frequently Asked Questions about Grazing Corn Residue Fields with Excessive Downed Corn
Putting cows out on corn fields with a lot of corn is a recipe for acidosis (grain overload), abortion, and possibly death, if their rumen bacteria are not properly prepared. Cattle that become acidotic for even a short time can have reduced performance long term due to damage to the rumen wall. Therefore, taking the time to avoid acidosis is very important.
How do I know how much corn is in the field?
Spanish:“Know Your Numbers, Know Your Options” for Better Informed Decisions
Making decisions for your farm and ranch can be stressful. However, having good financial records can help make the decision making process easier.
Spanish:“Who do you want to work for you?”
Employee and family business working relationships are often one of the greatest challenges for those working in agricultural operations. Frequently those in leadership or management positions have had little or no training related to guiding and communicating with those they work with. This lack of education can also impact recruiting and hiring of people to fit into available positions.
Spanish:Understanding the Value of Grass in Nebraska
Nebraska has one of the highest summer pasture rental rates for cow-calf pairs or stocker/yearlings of anywhere in the United States. On a price per pair per month or price per head basis, Nebraska rental rates are at the top when compared to neighboring states and the nation. While prices have moderated after the rapid run up that occurred after 2014 and 2015, they are still historically quite strong. Nebraska Extension annually publishes the results of a survey titled “Nebraska Farm Real Estate Report” that documents reported pasture rental rates. This report can b
Spanish:Tips to Improve Cow Performance While Consuming Low-quality Forages
Low-quality range pasture and cold wet winter left cows in thinner than normal condition coming into spring this year. The challenges of last summer and winter may have resulted in lower than average pregnancy rates in replacement heifers and young cows this fall, which may be due to the impact the cold and snow had on body condition. Much of the precipitation patterns through the winter continued into the spring and summer creating a challenging 2019 haying season. Widespread heavy rainfall across much of Nebraska made the haying season challenging, and in some areas, nearly impossible.
Spanish:What to do with Wet Hay
With the wet weather this year, putting up quality hay and keeping it protected from the elements has been a challenge. While some weathering of bales is to be expected, those that were put up a bit wet, have been sitting in water, or were otherwise saturated need some special considerations.
Spanish:The Science Behind 50-degree Soil and Nitrogen Application
This article was originally published on the “Manure Scoop” by Dan Andersen on September 11, 2015 and has been modified and published here with his permission.
Spanish:Manure Rules not just for Large CAFOs
Have you ever been overwhelmed by the amount of manure regulations in Nebraska? Or anywhere? Let’s make it a little easier to digest.
The good news is that Nebraska regulations related to manure do not change very often. In fact, the current regulations have been in effect since October 2011. So everyone can better follow the rules, let’s break it down into something that is a little easier to follow.
Take Home Message:The ultimate purpose of all manure regulations is to keep water free from contamination. Spanish: