By Scout Nelson
Persistent drought conditions and limited pasture have reduced forage supplies across many parts of Nebraska. At the same time, hay prices remain high while corn prices are below production costs. These conditions encourage many cattle producers to consider grazing standing corn as an alternative feed source during the summer, fall, and winter months.
Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension Educator, highlighted that standing corn can become an effective feeding option when producers carefully manage grazing and balance cattle nutrition. Proper planning allows producers to reduce feed costs while making better use of available crops during drought conditions.
Drought-stressed corn that is released by crop insurance may provide valuable grazing opportunities. Before turning cattle into these fields, producers should review herbicide grazing restrictions and evaluate nitrate levels. Hungry cattle should never be placed directly onto drought-stressed corn because nitrates can create health risks. Cattle usually begin by eating leaves, tops, and developing ears before moving to lower parts of the plant. Fresh water should always be available, and protein supplements may be required depending on crop maturity and livestock needs.
Healthy green standing corn also provides excellent grazing opportunities. Corn at tasseling or ear development stages contains high-quality forage and energy. Strip grazing allows producers to improve feed efficiency while reducing the risk of digestive problems as grain develops. Temporary electric fencing or virtual fence technology helps limit cattle access and improves grazing management. Preparing additional grazing sections in advance also helps prevent cattle from entering the entire field.
Standing corn remains useful after full maturity. During fall and winter, producers should continue limiting daily access to reduce grain overconsumption and improve feed use. Additional forage may still be needed to provide enough fiber for proper rumen function. Vitamin, mineral, protein supplements, and ionophores such as Rumensin® can also help balance cattle diets.
Economic decisions should compare standing corn with other available feed options while considering reduced harvesting costs, manure nutrient value, labor savings, and future forage opportunities. Water availability and fencing costs should also be included in planning.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dale-fornoff
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Corn, Hay & Forage, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Weather