Though the weather may not feel like it, temps are still in the 100s with no end in sight here; the fall season is almost upon us. The soon-to-be-changing weather reminds us of the changing season. Along with a new season comes a further need for supplementation for your pasture cattle. But did you know there is a way to use hay to improve your efficiency?
During this time of year, many producers are hauling hay to their storage lots to use for winter. On top of this, they are also pricing and buying any additional hay that they may need. It seems everyone has it figured out, though they may not be aware of problems lying just below the surface.
One of the significant challenges for producers is the wide variation in hay quality due to several conditions. However, accurate hay sampling and testing can provide a clear understanding of its nutritional value, offering a promising solution to this issue and ensuring the quality of your feed.
It would be best if you did not guess at the nutritional value. Using values from previous years or a “book value” can be costly since a producer may incorrectly develop a ration using values that aren’t even present. Here are some tips to follow in order to get an accurate hay sampling.
Introducing protein tubs into your pasture is a convenient way to provide additional nutrition. Once it’s in place, you don’t need to check it daily, which is particularly beneficial for those with other commitments, such as a job in town, who can’t be on the ranch daily.
Hay bale storage, a vital aspect of cattle production, takes center stage, particularly in winter when natural forages are scarce. The staggering 4.6 million acres of hay harvested in Texas in 2023 underscore the pivotal role of hay production in sustaining livestock operations. However, when drought conditions worsen, the challenge of acquiring sufficient hay bales intensifies, making it crucial for producers to optimize their hay storage practices. This ensures the longevity and nutritional value of their hay supply, a key factor in maintaining a reliable source of supplemental nutrition for their livestock.
