Some distillers grains are excellent feed supplements, while others are often not worth the hassle. To understand the differences, it is important to know where and how the distillers grains were produced and the terminology the industry typically uses to describe each source.

The only way to truly know the nutrient content of hay is to submit a sample to a forage testing lab and have it analyzed. This information can assist you in making feeding decisions for various stages of production and potentially marketing your hay at a greater price.

Hay represents a major component of most winter feeding programs for cow-calf producers. To develop a successful, cost-effective supplementation program, it is critical to test hay.

Fifty years ago in Australia, soon after subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) became a popular forage there, farmers and scientists observed a dramatic decline in the fertility of ewes grazing subclover pastures

Hay testing is always valuable, but it is especially helpful when using crop residues and developing diets to stretch limited hay supplies. Before sending a sample in for analysis, it is always good to visit with a nutritionist to see what labs they recommend and what tests would be most appropriate for the sample being analyzed.