Forage

Corn silage — Silage is the most widely preferred method of utilizing drought-stressed corn, as the ensiling process reduces nitrate levels by as much as one-half to one-third; however, proper technique is critical and testing before feeding is recommended. (Photo by Kristen Ulmer)

Drought-stressed Corn: A Feed Opportunity

August 18, 2023

When grain harvest of drought-stressed corn won’t be a viable option, it can be utilized in several other ways with careful management and care in feeding.

Pasture in drought — Though pastures that have had some precipitation are coming back, resist the temptation of grazing them hard this fall, as these plants need to build back reserves before winter.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Managing Drought-stressed Brome, Alfalfa Seeding

August 17, 2023

Insights on managing drought-stressed brome pastures this fall, planting windows and weed control for fall-seeded alfalfa, and registration information about upcoming field days.

Drought-stressed soybean field — Drought-stressed soybeans with few to no pods present. Depending on economics to harvest, using drought-stressed soybeans for forage may be an option. (Photo by Jenny Rees)

Soybeans for Forage

August 17, 2023

Brown soybean plants that were evaluated by crop insurance at 2-4 bu/ac can be grazed if a grower doesn’t wish to harvest them. They’re just low quality.

Corn field — Having the experience and facilities to put up silage is one of many important considerations for producers faced with forage shortage concerns this year. (UNL Beef photo)

Is That Corn Crop Worth More as Silage or Grain?

August 16, 2023

When evaluating whether to harvest a field for silage or grain, there are several factors to consider. Both methods of harvest have advantages and disadvantages depending upon an operation’s goals and objectives.

Cattle in pasture — Attendees of this year's pasture walk will have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with extension educators to address their forage production questions and concerns.

Summer Annual Forage Pasture Walk on Aug. 23

August 11, 2023

During this year's pasture walk at ENREEC, participants will learn about warm-season annual productivity, annual forage fertility management, prussic acid and nitrate concerns, and more.

Hay stack — Uncertain forecasts make harvest decisions difficult for hay producers, but it's important to keep in mind that the more hay is worked, the more leaf shatter occurs and the lower quality we end up with — especially for alfalfa.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Kernel Processing for Silage, Hay Harvest and Storage Considerations

August 9, 2023

Nebraska Extension Educator Ben Beckman reviews methods of kernel processing for quality corn silage, reducing hay loss during storage and adjusting for adverse weather during hay harvest.

Corn silage harvesting — Target silage storage moisture content should be 65%-70% moisture, as drier silage can overheat and spoil, and higher moisture content may cause loss of nutrients.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Corn Silage Harvest and Storage, Rejuvenating Thin Alfalfa

August 3, 2023

Extension educators share recommendations on strategies for silage harvest and storage, and ways to improve thinning alfalfa fields to delay the need for a complete reseeding.

Cattle in pasture during storm — As replanting severely hailed corn or soybeans fields are likely not good options at this point in the growing season, producers may want to consider planting forage by first contacting their insurance company to discuss options.

Pasture and Forage Minute: Forage Considerations for Hail, High Temperatures

July 26, 2023

Extension educators review warm- and cool-season grass production during periods of extreme heat, preparing for corn silage harvest and forage options for corn and soybean fields with severe hail damage.

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