In the challenging winter months, optimizing feed management is crucial for beef cattle producers. Mary Drewnoski, a renowned University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension beef specialist, offers invaluable insights into reducing feed costs while ensuring optimal cow health and productivity. This guide delves deep into practical strategies to help farmers achieve sustainable and cost-effective feeding practices.

Unlocking Profitability Through Strategic Winter Feeding Practices

Understanding Nutritional Needs Across Gestation Stages

Winter feeding requirements for beef cattle vary significantly depending on their gestation stage. During mid-gestation, calves are not growing rapidly, which means the nutritional demands are lower. Farmers can capitalize on this period by adjusting feed rations accordingly. However, as cows enter late gestation, their nutritional needs increase substantially. Ensuring adequate nutrition during early lactation is equally vital; skimping here can jeopardize rebreeding success. By carefully monitoring these stages, producers can tailor their feeding plans to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.

Precision in Hay Testing and Selection

Accurate hay testing is indispensable for effective winter feeding. Not all hay varieties offer the same nutritional value, making it essential to invest in laboratory tests. For around $20, farmers can gain precise data on the crude protein and total digestible nutrients (TDN) content of their hay. Local extension offices provide guidance on proper sampling techniques and even offer hay probes for accurate collection. Selecting the right hay involves more than just choosing the cheapest option. Utilizing tools like Nebraska’s Feed Cost Cow-Q-Lator helps identify the most cost-effective choices based on nutrient density, ensuring that every dollar spent on feed delivers maximum benefit.

Leveraging Corn Stalk Grazing for Cost Savings

Grazing corn stalks represents one of the most economical methods to reduce winter feed expenses. Research spanning five years in Nebraska has shown that spring-calving cows grazing on corn stalks perform comparably with those receiving supplemental feeds during mid-gestation. The key lies in allowing cows to graze selectively, targeting the nutrient-rich leaves and husks. Baled stalks do not offer this advantage, underscoring the importance of direct grazing. Additionally, higher corn yields translate to greater carrying capacity, providing more grazing opportunities. Monitoring the availability of corn husks ensures timely rotation, maintaining optimal nutrition levels without overgrazing.

Combining Baled Stalks and Distillers’ Grains for Enhanced Rations

For producers using confinement systems or mixer wagons, combining baled corn residue with distillers’ grains creates an efficient and cost-effective ration. Distillers’ grains, rich in both energy and protein, complement low-quality forages perfectly. Limit-feeding this mixture ensures that cows receive precisely what they need without excess, leading to significant savings. Moreover, ammoniating corn stalk bales with anhydrous ammonia can elevate their protein and TDN levels, transforming them into a viable alternative to premium grass hay. This process not only enhances nutritional value but also reduces overall feed costs.

Optimizing Feed Delivery Methods

The method of feed delivery plays a critical role in minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. Ground feeding of dried distillers’ grains results in substantial losses, often reaching up to 40%. Conversely, bunk feeding keeps waste to a minimum, typically around 5%. Investing in proper feed delivery infrastructure pays off in the long run, ensuring that every bit of feed reaches the intended recipient. Efficient feeding practices contribute directly to profitability, as reducing waste translates to lower operational costs.

Finding Your Competitive Edge Through Strategic Planning

Profitability in the cow-calf business hinges on managing costs effectively. Farms that consistently rank among the most profitable share a common trait: they maintain the lowest cost per cow. Identifying unique competitive advantages allows producers to tailor their systems to available resources. Embracing innovation and being open to new methods can lead to unexpected efficiencies. Whether through innovative grazing practices or advanced feed formulations, finding the right fit for your operation can set you apart in a competitive market.