When Mother Nature impacts hay quantity and quality, it’s time to look for other options to maintain cattle through the winter months.
“Ranchers need to inventory their fall and winter feed supplies as soon as possible to develop economical feeding strategies,” says John B. Hall, professor and beef Extension specialist at the University of Idaho.
He recommends taking hay samples for nutrient analysis, which will prevent overfeeding hay or underfeeding cows.
Consider these suggestions as alternatives to hay.
Strategic destocking
Destocking can alleviate immediate pressure on hay supplies and provide an influx of money to reinvest in the farm, such as purchasing alternative feeds, paying down debt or investing in infrastructure improvements, says Jimmy Henning, a professor in the department of plant and soil sciences at the University of Kentucky.
“By selling off older or non-productive animals, farmers can reduce the demand on their hay supplies,” Henning says. “It’s a tough decision, but in a year like this, it can be a vital strategy for ensuring the herd’s long-term sustainability.”
The decision to destock should also be coupled with a plan to restock or try alternative enterprises such as yearlings, he suggests. Hall says it’s important to run budget analysis on the destocking option, including tax implications.
“With calf prices appearing strong the next two to three years, and replacing cows possibly costly, investigate all options,” Hall says. “While reducing cow numbers might not be the best option, the value of bred cows is high, which might create an income opportunity over feeding alternatives.”
Stockpiling forage options
As producers look for ways to stretch their hay supplies, stockpiling forage, particularly tall fescue, is a key strategy in certain regions. Tall fescue, known for its resilience during cooler months can reduce the need for supplemental hay.
“Tall fescue is an incredible resource, especially in the fall and winter months,” Henning says. “Stockpiling fescue allows producers to extend the grazing season and reduce their reliance on hay, which is particularly important when hay supplies are tight.”
Beyond stockpiling, some farmers are exploring warm-season grasses, such as native species or Bermuda grass, which can thrive during hot, dry summers. These grasses offer a sustainable solution for diversifying forage options and improving pasture resilience.
“Perennial warm-season grasses aren’t a quick fix, but they are a strategic investment for the future,” Henning explains. “A diverse pasture system can make the difference between just getting by and actually thriving.”
Alternative feeds
When hay is in short supply, alternative feeds, such as soybean hulls, can be a viable option.
“While they might not be cheap, these feeds provide the necessary roughage and energy that ruminants need,” Henning says.
Hall says corn gluten feed, distiller’s grain, wheat midds or brewers grains can replace some hay and make hay go further.
“In general, 1 lb. of these feedstuffs can replace 1.5 lb. to 1.8 lb. of hay on an energy basis,” he explains. “These alternative feeds provide additional protein, which allows for use of lower quality hay.”
Another option is using ammoniated straw, which increases the nutrient value of straw as well as breaking down fiber content.
“Ammoniated straw can replace a significant portion of the hay for dry, gestating cows,” Hall says.
Alternative grazing
Crop residues, such as wheat stubble and corn stalks, are good options for fall and early winter feed for gestating cows. Grazing crop residues requires protein supplementation to meet nutritional needs of cows,” Hall says. “Grazing hay aftermath instead of bailing a short field is another option.”
“Take time to compare feed inventories to cow nutritional needs and develop a plan to meet those needs now,” Hall says. “Be proactive to prevent costly decisions to buy feed late winter.”
