WINTER IS HERE , ARE YOU READY ?
How and what cattle are fed changes throughout the year based on the type of operation , animal stage of development and weather conditions , among other factors . Winter is one of the more challenging times when producers must pay close attention to their herds to make sure nutritional requirements are being met . Proper nutritional management during environmental stress is not only important for the health of the cow , but also for the profitability and performance of her future calf . During a recent Cattlemen ’ s Webinar Series event , industry experts shared their insights into best practices for winter feeding .
According to University of Arkansas Beef Cattle Specialist , Maggie Justice , PhD , there are four simple steps to developing a winter feeding plan : determine animals ’ nutrient requirements , evaluate availability and quality of forage base , match forage to animal needs , and determine supplement needs . The plan will look different based on the operation and location as producers in the South can rely on year-round forage production , while those further north focus on grazing crop residue .
“ We know that colder weather increases animal needs , and we as producers must recognize those changes and be available to adjust feeding to maintain a healthy body condition score ,” Justice said .
Karla Wilke , PhD , range management and cow-calf specialist with the University of Nebraska reminds producers in the Northern Great Plains that while cows can root down and dig through snow when it is not crusted over , animals need to have access to the feed available .
“ Producers can ’ t assume the way they fed last year will work again this year ,” Wilke said . “ Every year is going to be different , so it is important to plan ahead , watch for changes and adapt as necessary .”
A critical part of developing a plan is understanding animal weights , not only individuals but also a herd average . In addition , determining body condition scores ( BCS ) can aid with feeding decisions , although evaluating BCS in the winter can be deceiving with fuzzier coats hiding actual condition . Wilke recommends evaluating body condition scores before calving , during the summer and after weaning .
Pregnancy rate is impacted by body condition , and it is important for cows to be at a BCS of 5 or 6 for higher conception rates . Condition also impacts the level of immunoglobulin present in the vital colostrum calves receive after birth .
“ Thinner cows don ’ t produce as high-quality colostrum , and they will often give birth to smaller and weaker calves ,” Wilke said . “ Calves from thinner cows face more obstacles to overcome early on .”
Providing enough energy and crude protein are essential especially during times of environmental stress , but vitamins and minerals are also important for immunity and reproduction and may need to be supplemented prior to breeding and during colostrum development .
A forage test is a tool that can help determine nutrition levels in forage and eliminate guesswork , can help match forage and feed supply to animal nutrient requirements , aid in the design of a supplemental feeding program and evaluate forage production . Justice emphasizes the importance of forage testing and how a small investment can result in big returns .
“ Don ’ t guess on hay . You need to match forage to the feed supply and animal needs , and an $ 18 forage test can go a long way in helping you ,” Justice said . “ You may find that you don ’ t need to supplement as much as you think , which saves money .”
While caring for cows during the winter is vital , it is important to not forget about the needs of herd bulls , an often-forgotten investment . Wilke reminds producers to install windbreaks , provide bedding to prevent testicular frost bite , and offer feed that meets nutritional needs and maintains a healthy body condition score .
Ultimately , feeding cattle is dynamic and unique to each operation , but there are a few tips applicable to all producers . Hay shortage can be an issue , so it is important to have a plan ; knowing the quality of forage is invaluable and testing is worth every penny ; know the operation ’ s goals and build the nutrition program around those ; and utilize resources available such as county extension agents and the USDA National Resources Conservation Service .
Sound planning can help producers navigate the rigors of winter feeding , creating a greater opportunity for healthy and profitable calves come spring . For more information , scan the QR code to watch the Cattlemen ’ s Webinar Series recording .
20 NATIONAL CATTLEMEN www . NCBA . org