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Drought forcing Illinois cattle producers to feed more harvested forages

An extension beef specialist with the University of Illinois says the ongoing drought has had a significant impact on the state’s pastures.

Travis Meteer says the early growing season brought good hay yields for most, but…

“We’re limited in terms of stockpile, forage, and grass this year because of the limited moisture.”  He says, “We will be feeding more harvested feeds.”

He tells Brownfield that many producers are chopping corn for silage, while others are utilizing corn stalks.

“Where we do have water, there’s no better way to save about a dollar, or $1.50, per head per day by just grazing some corn stalks,” he says.

He says ensuring adequate nutrition for cows is especially important this time of year.

“Be diligent about testing those feeds. Be diligent about making sure that they’re supplemented appropriately.”  He says, “The last thing we want is to have cows with limited forage availability and limited feed, to take body condition score off going into calving season.”

Meteer says the drought has also made it a challenge to ensure herds have access to fresh water, and many producers have turned to hauling water as usual sources dry up or stagnate.

AUDIO: Travis Meteer – University of Illinois Extension