A cool spring and dry weather have resulted in lower-than-expected pasture production in parts of the Plains. With summer upon us, even ample moisture now may not return pastures, especially those that are cool season dominated, to full productivity. So, what can we do to stretch a limited forage supply?
While annual forages that prefer cool temperatures like brassicas and small grains may not be an option to plant, those needing summer forage are right on time to get heat loving species like sorghums, sorghum-sudan hybrids, millets and sudangrass in the ground. These annual grasses can produce large quantities of forage for harvest. Different species lend themselves to different harvest methods, so know how you plan on feeding or grazing before you plant.
Another way to stretch pasture is through improved utilization. Under typical grazing conditions, we only plan on cattle consuming 25-30% (harvest efficiency) of a pasture’s production. Half is left for plant health while another quarter is fouled or trampled. Something as simple as a single wire electric cross fence can improve harvest efficiency to 35%. When paired with a back fence, the rest provided to previously grazed plants can aid in recovery and provide regrowth for use later in the year.
Finally, begin looking at herd records now and make a plan for destocking later on in the year if conditions continue to deteriorate.
Planning for a short forage year is not a task we want to undertake in June, but it may be needed this year. If the worst does come to pass, looking at other forage options, better utilizing pasture, and planning for destocking now will be worth the effort. — Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension
