Strategic Resource Management for Forage — Livestock Systems in Drought

Abstract

Utilizing available forage resources in cattle operations is essential for overall feeding objectives when drought periods have affected hay crops and forage availability in pastures. In the Southeastern US, winters are normally mild, but hay is still the main forage source to feed cattle from November to March. In Tennessee, most livestock operations will feed hay for 80 days or more in the winter but also from 20 to 70 days during the fall. Thus, there is a need to have enough hay to supply from 100 to 150 days (averaging 130 days) (Griffth et al., 2019). Knowing how much it costs to feed cattle with hay and supplements, a longer grazing season will reduce variable feeding costs and improve whole-operation profitability. Consequently, during and after a drought period, the decision-making process requires yet more attention to management practices in a forage-based system.