The persistent dry spell is hitting the livestock industry hard. Drought conditions are causing distress to summer forages, stunting growth in pastures and hayfields. This is creating significant problems for livestock producers.
According to Gene Schmitz from the University of Missouri Extension, his region has been under the drought's grip for a year. The area is under the highest level of drought, categorized as "exceptional", which is devastating to the crops.
Farmers have started to abandon their corn crops, acknowledging the failure caused by the dry conditions. However, they are looking at alternatives such as corn silage to compensate for the reduced yield in pastures and hayfields. Other options include grain, grain by-product feeds, and crop residue.
People who raise livestock are being advised to make their feed last longer by cutting down on hay waste. Schmitz also says if it starts raining again, they should get ready for tall fescue (a type of grass) to grow in the fall. This will give the pastures a rest and a chance to recover.
In Illinois, forage shortages are a growing concern. Teresa Steckler of the University of Illinois Extension highlighted a dry spell from early June to mid-July has left pastures in a vulnerable position. She urged producers to source hay while available and focus on the recovery of their main pastures.
Beth Reynolds from Iowa State University pointed out uneven conditions in her area of central Iowa. She proposed thinking about the cost of corn silage and planting cover crops in the late summer as ways to control expenses.
Source : wisconsinagconnection