By Scout Nelson
Dry weather creates many challenges for livestock producers. Water shortages, poor forage quality, nitrate buildup, and silage management all require careful planning. Taking the right steps early helps protect livestock health and reduces production losses during drought.
James Rogers, Forage Crops Production Specialist, NDSU Extension, explained that producers should focus on water supplies, forage testing, silage quality, and safe feeding practices during extended dry periods.
Providing enough clean water is one of the most important tasks during hot weather. As temperatures rise, cattle drink much more water.
A 1,300-pound non-lactating cow may drink about 12 gallons daily at 65°F, while a lactating cow in temperatures reaching the 90s may require 17 to 20 gallons each day.
Water quality should also be checked regularly. Drought can increase dissolved salts, sulfates, nitrates, and bacteria in water supplies. Testing water helps identify problems before they affect livestock health.
Dry weather also increases the risk of nitrate buildup in forage crops. Annual crops usually face a higher risk than perennial grasses.
Crops harvested for hay instead of grain may contain elevated nitrate levels, making forage testing essential before feeding livestock.
Drought-stressed corn can still produce good silage if harvested correctly. Producers should first check crop insurance requirements and pesticide harvest restrictions.
Silage moisture should remain between 65% and 70% for proper fermentation. If moisture drops too low, silage may not pack well and spoil more easily.
Testing drought-stressed corn for nitrates is equally important. Raising the cutting height to 10 to 12 inches helps reduce nitrate concentration because most nitrates remain in the lower stalk. Although this slightly lowers yield, it improves feed safety.
Using shorter chop lengths and approved microbial inoculants can improve fermentation when corn is dry. Silage should remain sealed for at least three weeks, and farmers should always stay alert for dangerous silo gas during fermentation.
Alternative forages such as canola hay, straw, kochia hay, pigeon grass, and sorghum may also be used during drought.
Photo Credit: minnesota-corn-growers-association
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Hay & Forage, Livestock, Weather