Alternative forage options during drought

Editor’s note: The following was written by Sara Bauder, South Dakota State University Extension forage field specialist, David Karki and Anthony Bly for the university’s website June 27.

Annual forages or summer or fall cover crops can be a helpful alternative in drought situations.

There is no “hard and fast” blanketed mix or species that can be recommended to all producers, as each grower is in a unique circumstance with a different production environment and goals, soil types and management techniques. Rather than seeking the “go-to” crop or mix of your neighbor’s choosing, ask yourself a few fundamental questions before planting an alternative option.