Winter grazing management can have an impact on your future forage production. The intensity of your grazing animals determines what state they will be in. Also, grazing during the winter may be limited depending on what forages you have available.
Feeding during the winter is one of the most significant expenses for a livestock producer. Supplements have always been a little pricey, especially with low crop production. With the intense drought we have experienced across most of the country, hay has also become expensive, if you can find any.
However, with careful planning, grazing during this time is not only possible but can also be cost-effective. Strategies like stockpiling forages for winter use can help you manage your costs. And what about in the spring? You can take proactive steps during this time to ensure that you have healthy grasses come the next growing season.
Nutrition significantly affects your herd’s health during the cold winter months. Producers should plan ahead for their fall and winter forages to meet this need. There are many factors to consider when figuring out how much hay will be needed.
Nutrition is essential year-round. Everything hinges on the cow’s nutritional needs being met, from putting on weight for the market to reentering the reproduction cycle. However, meeting these demands can be complicated.
Drought can be devastating. Forages stop producing, making it difficult for ranchers to make food. Drought can make things seem bleak.
