When starting to feed cows with hay, it is hard to gauge how much protein and energy they are getting.
Correct sampling techniques, followed by lab tests of forage quality, are necessary for cattle producers who want to get the most value from their hay and profit from their animals.
Before sampling, the most important and difficult step can be grouping the hay. Ideally, each sample should include only bales that were produced under nearly identical conditions.
The place to start is to distinguish different types of hay, such as alfalfa, cane or meadow hay. Since each cutting of hay is different from another cuttings, cutting is another separation factor. The origin of hay also is a distinguishing factor. No two fields or meadows are ever exactly the same, especially if they were cut more than two days apart. Rain damage also can make a difference. It is very likely hay made without rain damage will be different from hay with rain damage.
After making all these separations, which could result in quite a few groups of similar bales, it is time to sample. From each group, gather 12 to 20 cores from different bales or stacks and combine them into one sample. Be sure to use a good hay probe that can penetrate into at least
one foot of the bale.
Finally, send these samples to a certified lab for tests of protein, energy content and any other nutrients of interest. This information will allow you to feed your cattle as profitably as possible.
Dave Varner is an Extension Educator with the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension office in Dodge County. Dave may be contacted at 727-2775, 1206 West 23rd Street in Fremont, or at dvarner1@unl.edu
