September 11, 2007

Cornstalks ideal for beef cattle

Corn stalk residues can be an ideal feed supplement for beef cows particularly combined with co-products, according to Dan Faulkner from the University of Illinois (U of I).

However, according to U of I agronomist Emerson Nafziger, who also studies feasibility of corn stalks into feed, affirmed that more studies are necessary to know if removing more residue can lead to increased yields. But Faulkner assures that using corn residue as cattle feed is bargain as one acre can supply can supply a cow for two months.

Removing the stalks translates to about US$30 per tonne, but he noted that that cost is based on custom harvest rates. Producers who harvest their own save considerably more and those with backyard fields can optimise the nutrient-rich material virtually free by grazing it.

While the benefits of leaving some corn residue are many, Faulkner and Emerson both stress that whether the fields are harvested or grazed, not all will be removed. Cattle will quit grazing when the material becomes excessively dry, even if you try to bale it, Faulkner said.