By Scout Nelson
Following recent wildfires across Nebraska, which burned over 800,000 acres, cattle producers face limited grass and hay supplies, creating challenges in managing replacement heifers during spring and summer. Many farmers are now exploring confinement feeding as a practical solution to maintain herd development.
Dry conditions and fire damage have reduced pasture availability, prompting producers and feedlot managers to take in heifers for development. Access to grain and silage allows them to create balanced rations. Understanding the difference between replacement and finishing heifers remains essential for proper feeding and growth.
Replacement heifers require moderate growth to reach breeding weight. From weaning to breeding, they typically need to gain about 1.25 pounds per day. In contrast, finishing heifers follow high-energy diets designed for faster weight gain, often reaching about 3 pounds per day. These different goals require carefully planned feeding strategies.
Replacement heifers do not need high-energy diets. Instead, they benefit from balanced rations that support steady growth without excess fat. Corn silage provides the necessary energy, especially when hay quality is low. Distillers grains supply important protein that helps build bone and muscle.
If heifers remain in confinement during breeding, farmers may adjust diets to support slightly higher gains of 1.5 to 2.0 pounds per day. This approach helps match the growth seen on natural pasture while maintaining animal health.
Planning and early decision-making play a key role during drought conditions. Farmers must review feed availability, animal needs, and growth targets to avoid long-term losses. Proper feeding strategies help protect herd quality and ensure future productivity.
Producers who need support with ration planning can contact the UNL beef team.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-prill
Categories: Nebraska, Livestock, Weather