Winter feeding strategy helps cattle producers
SASKATCHEWAN – Planning ahead for the winter months can ensure producers and the cattle they care for are more productive and profitable all year.
Livestock and Feed Extension Specialist Travis Peardon said fall is a good time for cattle producers to start planning for the upcoming winter.
“Taking some time to make management decisions now can have a positive effect on your bottom line,” Peardon said. “Feed inventory should be counted and analyzed for quality. This ensures the forages on hand meet nutritional requirements and there’s enough for the upcoming winter.”
Peardon said when determining quantity required mature beef cows will consume two and a quarter to two and a half per cent of their weight each day. This means a 1,400-pound cow can eat 35 pounds of forages each day.