Overton Veterinary Services, LLC

(308) 324-7202

 

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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:

  1. Storage facilities – pits, bunkers, silage bags. Proper storage relates to feed quality of the silage and dry matter losses from improper ensiling and storage.
  2. Equipment for feeding and mixing.
  3. 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).



75348 Road 440
Lexington, NE 68850
Phone: (308) 324-7202
Fax: (308) 324-7203