This winter has been very difficult for our cattle (and our beef producers!)
As we entered fall 2009 it appeared we had lots of grazing available and adequate hay stocks. That has changed drastically with snow and ice covering our cornstalks and stockpiled grass, and extreme weather increasing the cows’ feed requirements.
“As we start the calving season, we need to be sure cows keep in good body condition and nutrient requirements are met,” says Joe Sellers, Iowa State University Beef Program specialist.
Some hay harvested in 2009 was low quality.
“In a typical year, almost all of our cool season grass/legume mix hay is more than adequate in crude protein, and often is high enough in energy to meet the beef cow requirements the last part of gestation,” Sellers says. “Unfortunately, this year’s hay was more variable in quality and may not meet the basic cow requirements.”
If the cow herd is not maintaining body condition, producers may need to add protein and energy supplementation. Corn co-products such as corn gluten feed and distillers grains are good sources of both protein and energy. Corn also may be added to provide needed energy. Actually testing hay for nutrient values can allow you to match supplementation to what you really need.
In addition to basic protein and energy needs, it is important to meet mineral and vitamin needs with supplements or free choice minerals. Be sure to monitor mineral consumption to ensure critical micro-minerals such as copper, zinc and selenium and needed vitamins are consumed at high enough levels.
Local producers who need help with beef cow rations can contact their local ISU Extension beef specialist. Contact Sellers at (641) 203-1270 or sellers@iastate.edu.
