Limit Feeding For Livestock Is A Good Option in Drought-Stricken Areas (11-10-05)

With some areas experiencing drought conditions this past summer, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) would like to note that limit feeding corn is a cost efficient way to meet an animal’s daily energy need and extend the available hay supply.

The addition of corn or dried distillers grains can save farmers money and extend the on-farm hay supplies for livestock throughout the winter and reduce costly hay purchases.

“In dry conditions, a high-energy ration is a good way to stretch along the hay supply,” said Bill Chase, a Wolsey, S.D., farmer and chair of NCGA’s Production and Stewardship Action Team (PSAT). “Certainly with current price of corn, it’s an effective way to build a good ration at a reasonable cost.”

The drought has reduced normal hay supplies in some states. Chase said he mixes about a 70 percent hay/30 percent corn ration for his livestock.

Chase said western South Dakota had experienced extended drought conditions during recent years. Livestock farmers in Illinois and Missouri experienced significant drought this summer and may be able to use the practice as well.

“That ration provides a cow a good, high-energy diet,” Chase said.

Max Starbuck, NCGA director of livestock and economic analysis, said, “Limit feeding is a fairly common practice in areas hit by drought. It provides livestock a daily ration that is packed with energy and comes at a cheaper price. It’s certainly a good option for producers to have.”

To learn more about limit feeding, please click here.