Forage Management Determines Yearlong Ration Costs Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Harvesting forage for livestock is arguably the primary focus for livestock producers during the summer months. Depending on production goals and the type of livestock, there are numerous options for selecting the most suitable forage that aligns with the nutritional goals of the herd. Over the years, crops such as alfalfa, various sorghum hybrids, perennial/annual ryegrass, and other small grain forages have been used to meet our livestock's needs. Each crop holds its own value and potential fit on a farm, depending on the tonnage and nutritional objectives. For dairy farms, the aim is to find a crop that provides protein and energy to support milk production, with alfalfa being a dependable choice. The quality of alfalfa can vary significantly between crops in terms of protein content and the energy derived by our livestock from this forage. This energy component plays a significant role in determining overall ration costs throughout the year. Implementing intensive alfalfa management programs becomes invaluable for dairy operations when they yield the desired results. Properly implementing specific management practices on alfalfa acres enhances feed value, controls feed costs, and sets production expectations for the upcoming year. Building a successful alfalfa program on any farm begins with establishing soil fertility and ensuring a proper soil pH conducive to alfalfa growth. In addition to the soil profile, implementing forage management practices such as applying fungicides, insecticides, plant growth regulators like Periscope™, and foliar nutrition products like NutriFuse™ can influence both yield and the overall feed value of the crop. By employing proper plant chemistry management approaches in conjunction with soil fertility and selecting appropriate forage hybrids, we can manipulate the fiber profile and enhance the nutritional composition of the plant, maximizing its value. We can optimize alfalfa's energy values and overall tonnage with the right hybrid and suitable plant environment. In the past, sacrificing yield and shortening the harvest interval was considered the best methods to influence alfalfa feed quality. However, recent advancements in hybrids and forage management chemistry have brought us closer to achieving both high yield and quality, saving labor and equipment costs associated with an aggressive cutting schedule. Lastly, implementing the right products for preserving and storing forage is vital in maximizing quality and yield. Fermentation shrinkage can reach levels as high as 15-20%! Given the slim economic margin in production agriculture, minimizing harvest losses during fermentation, and feed out is crucial. Using FS forage inoculants, acids, and plastic products, post-harvest can help preserve the quality achieved in the field. Our forage management practices can make the difference between profitability and losses during financially challenging years. Managing forage quality is undeniably crucial on livestock farms. Developing a sound forage management plan in collaboration with your nutritionist and agronomist will yield significant results in year-end profitability. The forage management practices we implement this summer will directly impact yearly ration costs. Consult your FS nutritionist and agronomist to explore the implementation of a robust forage management program for your farm.