Re: Winter Feeding Programs
Per our discussions on 7-11-00 there is some concern on alternate cow feeding programs for this winter. The availability and price per ton for hay (alfalfa, alfalfa-grass mix, prairie hay) may get costly due to dry conditions for hay production.
Consider Corn Silage:
USDA is predicting a 10 billion bus. corn crop! Corn, and hence corn silage, are most likely going to have low prices this fall and winter. If corn is worth $1.25 - $1.80 per bushel this fall and yields are 150 bus/acre, that equates to $187.50 - $270 per acre from the crop. Plus, maybe another $40 per acre from stover.
If corn silage could be harvested at 16 tons per acre at a total value (all inputs) of $18/ton, this is a $288 per acre value to the crop. Contracting with a producer or producing your own seems very realistic under this price scenario. Feeding corn silage plus a secondary forage (stover, oat hay, prairie hay, etc.) and balancing the diet can be a very economical alternative.
Example rations illustrate daily feed costs as low as $0.59 per cow per day.
The “Corn Silage Management Checklist” is available upon request for some basic information on proper corn silage harvesting. Other factors to consider:
- Storage facilities – pits, bunkers, silage bags. Proper storage relates to feed quality of the silage and dry matter losses from improper ensiling and storage.
- Equipment for feeding and mixing.
- Bunk space vs. ground feeding.
How much corn silage is needed?
A simple rule is 100 ton for 100 cows for 100 days (for a max. of 20 lbs per day; more is required for 20-25 lbs per day and include overage for wastage).
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