By Alice McFarlane

Winter feeding strategy helps cattle producers

Sep 10, 2020 | 5:03 PM

SASKATCHEWAN – Planning ahead for the winter months can ensure producers and the cattle they care for are more productive and profitable all year.

Livestock and Feed Extension Specialist Travis Peardon said fall is a good time for cattle producers to start planning for the upcoming winter.

“Taking some time to make management decisions now can have a positive effect on your bottom line,” Peardon said. “Feed inventory should be counted and analyzed for quality. This ensures the forages on hand meet nutritional requirements and there’s enough for the upcoming winter.”

Peardon said when determining quantity required mature beef cows will consume two and a quarter to two and a half per cent of their weight each day. This means a 1,400-pound cow can eat 35 pounds of forages each day.

“Don’t forget to account for waste and also extra feed during cold stretches,” he said.

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Quality is just as important as quantity for winter feeding.

Peardon said feed testing is often overlooked by cattle producers but it is an important first step in planning for the winter-feeding season.

“Knowing the quality of available feed is necessary to meet nutritional requirements that will ensure cattle come through the winter in good condition and are ready to breed the following summer,” he said.

Feed testing will identify which feeds should be used before and during calving and can also identify if additional high-quality sources of energy and protein will have to be purchased. If a supplement is required, finding it early can save time, money, and stress.

Protein requirements of mature beef cattle range from seven per cent in the fall to nine per cent in calving, according to Peardon. Total digestible nutrients or energy levels range from 55 per cent after weening and go up to 65 per cent in calving.

If green feed is used in your ration, Peardon said producers should conduct a test for nitrates.

“Nitrates can accumulate in years when the plants are faced with drought stress, early frost or hail damage. Feed is considered safe if contains less than a half per cent of the nitrates on a dry matter basis,” he said.

Peardon added when levels exceed the threshold it is important to work with a nutritionist to dilute feeds to get nitrates to safe levels.

The timing of weaning is another consideration for producers. A lack of moisture in the second half of the summer put many pastures in less than ideal conditions.

Weaning calves early will significantly reduce the nutrient requirements of the mother cow as she will no longer be putting energy into lactation. This will allow her to maintain or increase body condition before winter.

Peardon said a small amount of time and financial investment now can save money in the long run.

“Whether this means using feed resources more efficiently or reducing stress on your pastures, you will bring cows through the winter in better condition,” he said.

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alice.mcfarlane@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @AliceMcF