By Blake Jackson
A day-long educational session on hay production and purchasing is being organized to support farmers and livestock producers. This event aims to help those involved in hay production improve quality and efficiency, while also guiding livestock owners in making informed purchasing decisions.
“With the increased costs of producing and buying hay, the frequent damage from armyworms, and the damage to forage stands from several years of drought, this is the perfect time to consider how to dial in your hay-making to produce a good-quality product,” said Elizabeth Picking, MU Extension livestock specialist. “If exclusively buying hay, livestock producers should also learn what to look out for to get the best product for their investment.”
With rising hay production costs, pest issues like armyworms, and drought-related forage damage, optimizing hay-making is more important than ever. Experts will discuss best practices for managing soil fertility, selecting quality forage, pest control, and efficient harvesting techniques for hay and round bale silage.
Livestock nutrition and hay quality assessment will be key topics, helping farmers understand hay tests and feeding strategies to maximize efficiency. Additionally, insights into the economic aspects of hay purchasing and production will be shared, addressing ways to manage costs effectively.
The workshop is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at a local extension center. A registration fee of $10 is required, and interested participants must sign up in advance. For more details or to register, contact the local extension office. This event provides a valuable opportunity for farmers to enhance their hay management strategies for improved profitability and sustainability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Missouri, Business