Nebraska is witnessing drought conditions, leading farmers to make tough decisions on corn harvest and its use. When thinking of either grain or silage harvest, it's essential to keep various factors in mind.
• Insurance and Chemical Labels: Always consult with your crop insurance agent before making decisions. It's also crucial to be aware of any applied chemical labels, especially when intending to use corn as livestock feed.
• Nitrate Poisoning: Drought can lead to higher nitrate accumulation in cornstalks, posing risks to livestock. If consumed in large quantities, nitrates can be harmful, causing oxygen deprivation in animals. It's beneficial to know that processes like ensiling can reduce nitrate levels by up to 50%.
• Testing for Nitrates: It's affordable and essential to test nitrate levels. Multiple field samples can provide a comprehensive view. After sampling, storing in a sealed bag and freezing is recommended.
When deciding on how to use drought-stressed corn as forage, several options are available:
• Moisture Assessment: Though the corn might appear dry, its moisture content might be high. Checking this is vital for storage and to prevent spoilage or combustion.
• Haying: If corn grain is minimal, consider baling the stover for feed. However, this doesn't reduce nitrate levels, making it important to check nitrate concentrations before feeding.
• Baleage: This involves wrapping dried forage in plastic, which can reduce nitrate levels. The moisture content should be maintained between 45-55%.
• Silage: A preferred method where the ensiling process reduces nitrate levels significantly. Ensure moisture content is 65-70% for optimal results.
• Grazing: Limit livestock field access to manage grain and nitrate intake. Using strip grazing and introducing cattle gradually to the corn can mitigate risks. If nitrates are detected in the field, start with low-nitrate areas.
• Feeding Green: This involves feeding freshly chopped corn. The lower part of the cornstalk tends to have higher nitrate concentrations, so it's crucial to chop from a higher point.
Farmers must manage drought-stressed corn with care and consider using cover crops for soil protection from wind erosion. This approach ensures soil protection, especially during sporadic rains, despite the unique situation of each farmer.
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Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Weather