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Wrapping high-moisture alfalfa hay: Opportunities and issues

March 4, 2014

Steve Fransen and W. T. W. Woodward

Western hay growers have earned the reputation of producing high-quality grass and alfalfa hay. These growers export millions of tons of “dry” hay within the region, across the U.S. and to worldwide ports.

The protein-fiber connection in forages

January 9, 2014

Bruce Anderson

Most winter-feeding programs for dry cows rely on relatively less expensive, lower quality forages like corn stalks, prairie hay and winter range. These forages have low amounts of crude protein.

Seed selection: Don’t roll the dice, research varieties first

December 31, 2013

R. Mark Sulc

I am often bewildered by all the brands, bells and whistles available for just about anything I set out to buy these days. Perhaps you feel that way about buying forage seed. How do you determine the best species and varieties for your farm?

Keeping the family informed: Estate and succession planning

December 31, 2013

Gary Hoff

To have a successful transition between the generations, it is important that everyone involved is aware of your plan. While some heirs may think the plan is inequitable, it is better if they discuss with you rather than taking it out on the other heirs after your death.

How big data will transform cattle and forage production

December 31, 2013

James C. Langcuster

Dr. Frank Owsley recalls a visit years ago with a friend and livestock producer who was practicing data management long before the term “big data” rated so much as blip on the cultural radar – for that matter, long before any grower could enter data into a computer via the convenience of a keyboard.

Are you ready for the unexpected?

December 31, 2013

Craig Thomas

Every farm business faces a host of risks from weather, disease, markets and ever-changing ag policy. However, there are five major risks every farm transition plan should consider and develop contingencies to address.

You mean I have to work with these people?

December 31, 2013

David W. W. Jones

Recently, I was asked to discuss what I thought was a major issue facing agricultural leaders. I was quick to respond with, “Personality differences.”

Nutrient cocktail in grazing annuals

December 31, 2013

Melissa Miller

Variety is said to be the spice of life, and Wayne Rasmussen, an experienced rancher from Plainview, Nebraska, certainly agrees that variety is beneficial when it comes to grazing annuals.

Is a turning point for alfalfa on the horizon?

December 12, 2013

Robin Newell

You’ve probably read that alfalfa is the nation’s fourth-largest crop. But did you know that total U.S. alfalfa acreage has been in decline for the past decade? The National Ag Statistics Service (NASS) reports 2012 harvested alfalfa at just more than 20 million acres, a 22 percent decline from a decade prior.

Finding accurate information on the Internet

November 28, 2013

Faith Cullens

We’ve all heard the joke, “If it’s on the Internet it must be true.” In reality, anyone can create a website and put information on the Internet, whether it’s true or not. Often, entities that are selling a product will only list information that supports their products. It is important as consumers that we seek out balanced, factual information.