Fiber continues to be a key nutrient in the dairy rations of high-producing cows. Forages are the main source of fiber that may be raised on the dairy farm. But quality can vary greatly from crop to crop and year to year.

“What do heat stress in dairy cows and ketosis have in common? Leaky gut syndrome (LGS),” Lance Baumgard, professor of animal science at Iowa State University, says.

As of late, the term “soil health” seems unavoidable. The topic has been the center of a flurry of activity resulting in partnerships, institutions, initiatives and networks. Confusion is added through conflicting, often nebulous, messages among these groups.

In many parts of North America, there can be a surplus of whole-plant corn acres left over for corn grain harvesting once the silage tonnage requirements are met.

An increasing number of dairy farmers across the country have been switching from conventional silage chopping to a newer process known as shredlage.

Recently, researchers at the department of animal and poultry science, University of the Saskatchewan, have completed a dairy milk production trial. This research is part of Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s strategic R&D programs.

In an article earlier this year (“Fiber site map: Something to hang your hat on”), I outlined the general system of the modern fiber analysis and described two main values from that analysis: neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and non-fiber carbohydrates.

Cover crops are often planted to benefit the soil, but they can also have forage value for your herd. Jim Paulson, University of Minnesota extension educator, says there are many functions of cover crops, including erosion control, water infiltration, soil health, building organic matter, nitrogen uptake, nitrogen production and mineral movement in the soil.

1. Develop a plan Develop a plan for using homegrown forages and determine whether you need to purchase other forages.