By Jamie Martin
The weeks following calving are critical for cow performance. A cow must recover from birth, produce milk, and restart her reproductive cycle. These tasks require higher levels of nutrients. Energy demand rises by nearly one third, and protein requirements almost double.
Feeding low quality forage during this stage can reduce milk production and slow calf growth. It may also delay rebreeding, affecting the next calving season. Weather conditions such as cold or wet spells increase stress and raise feed requirements even more. Therefore, producers should reserve their highest quality hay or silage for this period.
Late winter pastures, crop residues, and cornstalks are usually weathered and low in nutrients. These feeds cannot meet post calving requirements. The total diet should provide 10% to 12% crude protein and 60% to 65% TDN. If base forage is weak, supplements should be added carefully to meet the gap without causing waste.
Forage testing is a valuable management tool. By knowing protein and energy levels, farmers can design cost effective rations that meet cow needs. Balanced nutrition leads to stronger calves, timely rebreeding, and improved herd productivity.
At the same time, landowners who recently purchased farmland may explore IRS Section 180. This provision allows certain soil improvement expenses, such as fertilizer and lime, to be treated as deductible costs. In some cases, excess soil fertility present at the time of purchase may qualify.
The deduction usually must be claimed in the year of purchase, though amended returns may be possible within three years. Previous renters cannot deduct nutrients already expensed. Soil testing near the time of purchase strengthens documentation. Farmers should work closely with tax professionals to confirm eligibility. Sound feeding and smart financial planning together build long term farm success.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-diane-kuhl
Categories: National