Forage dealers in California are a little upset. They don’t understand why, in some cases, a wide margin exists on hay test results between testing labs.

It’s an issue that has hit dealers where it hurts most: their pocketbooks.

Good-quality alfalfa is the cornerstone of any dairy farm forage ration. However, alfalfa is not just for dairy or beef producers any more.

Six dollar corn. Fourteen dollar beans. Bring out the plow and disk. Tear up the hay ground, pasture and CRP. Let’s make some real money.

Once again, many beef producers are being faced with a serious summer drought that has dried up pastures across much of the region.

There are many short-term issues that must be addressed, such as nitrate toxicity, whether or not to sow any annuals this fall and marketing of some animals to reduce herd size.

Rotating alfalfa with corn can increase corn yield potential through improved soil physical properties that enhance water infiltration and root extension, a reduction in disease and pest pressure (i.e., corn rootworm) and an enhanced soil microbial community.

Reports of pasture or hay stand losses or decline seem to be on the rise. Are you wondering if you are making management mistakes or experiencing a new pest?