The new year signifies the perfect time to start thinking about ways to reduce costs associated with our spring-calving herds. In grazing operations, supplementation is necessary to meet production goals (i.e., biological and economic). However, feeding cows represents the largest expense for most cow-calf operations.
In the West, winter feed costs can account for 60 to 80 percent of this expense. Efficient use of forage resources and reducing supplemental feed cost is key to becoming a low-cost producer. Since winter feed cost is typically the largest operational expense, yet an important part of attaining ranch goals, here are a few considerations to help improve your bottom line.
1. Consider analyzing forage resources: Determining forage quality is the first step in designing an economical winter feeding strategy, since hay prices can be high and fed in large quantities. Consider regularly analyzing all available forage sources (i.e., range and harvested).
Even if forage supply is adequate, protein may be limited. Start by testing forage sources for protein content to determine if additional supplementation is needed. This allows you to match forage resources to cow requirements and avoid nutrition gaps or wasting costly nutrients.
2. Consider reducing forage-feeding losses: A number of options are available when designing a forage feeding system. Minimizing waste can reduce feed costs. Selecting the right frequency and method of delivery is vital to employing the most cost-effective program.
Feed supplemental forage in small amounts (i.e., daily to meet requirements) or in a feeder to reduce waste. Feed hay in dry areas and on firm ground when possible. Grinding or processing of low-quality forages can be implemented to increase intake by decreasing particle size.
3. Consider feeding a protein supplement: An effective winter feeding program will factor in meeting protein requirements of cows grazing dormant forage or eating low-quality hay. If protein is deficient (i.e., less than 8 percent), forage intake and utilization decreases.
High-protein supplements (i.e., 30 percent crude protein or more) fed one to two times per week can stimulate forage intake. Protein is often the most expensive part of a supplement, so consider evaluating options on the cost per pound of nutrient provided. This simplifies choosing the most economical supplement. The goal of efficiently utilizing forage resources is the common link among each consideration.
Overcoming the challenges associated with managing cow costs requires increased effort and planning. However, feed costs can be reduced while still improving cow herd nutrition and productivity.
