Central Kentucky Hay Contest

Author: Allison Tucker

Major Program: Hay testing

Many livestock producers do not test their hay. Determining and understanding the quality of their forage is vital in ensuring that the nutritional needs of their animals are being met. Hay testing gives the producers the information needed to provide a balanced nutrition plan. Which in turn will help prevent them from over/under feeding, not meeting animals’ nutritional needs, and wasting money.The Central Kentucky Hay Contest was created with the purpose of educating about forage test an

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Central KY Hay Contest

Author: Jessica Barnes

Major Program: Hay testing

The majority of livestock producers in Harrison County do not test their hay. Determining and understanding forage quality is necessary to provide a balanced diet for the livestock being fed.  Hay testing can provide data that producers and Cooperative Extension Agents use to ensure the nutritional needs of the animal are being met.  Without hay testing, producers are under or over feeding - leading to poor allocation of resources, inadequate animal needs and wasted money.  The Ce

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Bracken County Shines at the Eastern Kentucky Hay Contest

Author: Holly Bowman

Major Program: Hay testing

Bracken County’s participation in the Eastern Kentucky Hay Contest this year was nothing short of extraordinary. With 146 samples collected from 50 producers, the contest showcased not only the quality of our local hay but also the strong community of farmers who dedicate themselves to excellence.In previous years, participation was modest, with only about 25 samples from 8 farms. But this year, as the new Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, I saw an opportunity to grow the program an

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Central KY Hay Program

Author: Tyler Miller

Major Program: Hay testing

The second annual Central Kentucky Hay Contest was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and collaboration of agricultural agents, specialists, and producers across 14 counties. A total of 236 hay samples were collected, representing the diverse efforts of local farmers to produce high-quality hay. Agricultural agents spent countless hours collecting these samples, an effort that not only provided crucial data but also strengthened relationships with farmers through valuable one-on-one

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The Importance of Making Hay Testing a Habit

Author: Brittany Brewer

Major Program: Hay testing

The second annual Central Kentucky Hay Contest was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and collaboration of agricultural agents, specialists, and producers across 14 counties. A total of 236 hay samples were collected, representing the diverse efforts of local farmers to produce high-quality hay. Agricultural agents spent countless hours collecting these samples, an effort that not only provided crucial data but also strengthened relationships with farmers through valuable one-on-one

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Horse Ration Testing and Management

Author: Gretchen Plocek

Major Program: Hay testing

Equine health issues are one of the biggest concerns to Kentucky horse owners. In the 2022 Kentucky Equine Survey, a total of $99,000,000 was spent in 2022 for Vet/Health related expenses. Of these health-related issues, Kentucky horse owners ranked Senior Equine Care, Musculoskeletal Issues, Gut/Digestive Problems, Parasites, and Laminitis as issues with most concern. Two of which (Gut/Digestive Issues and Laminitis) are caused partially by diet. One of the solutions to these issues is to under

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Collaboration in the Office

Author: Molly Jordan

Major Program: Hay testing

Bracken County’s participation in the Eastern Kentucky Hay Contest this year was extraordinary, thanks to the incredible teamwork between Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent Holly Bowman and 4-H Agent Molly Jordan. With 146 samples collected from 50 producers, the contest not only showcased the quality of local hay but also highlighted the strong community of farmers and the power of collaboration.In previous years, participation was modest, with only 25 samples from 8 farms. Holly, st

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South Central KY Hay Contest

Author: Kelsey Marcum

Major Program: Hay testing

Describe the Issue or Situation.Being a hay producer can bring a lot of challenges, such as inconsistent quality, low yields, and poor nutrient content. These issues can cause financial strain for producers who rely on hay to feed their livestock, and in some cases, forcing them to purchase more expensive feed and supplements from other sources. It was evident that the need for better management practices, quality improvement, and education surrounding hay production needed to be addressed.Descr

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Central KY Hay Contest

Author: Keenan Bishop

Major Program: Hay testing

Describe the Issue or Situation.Many producers and consumers of hay don't test their product. Many of those that buy hay don't ask for a test or know how to understand one.The second annual Central Kentucky Hay Contest was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and collaboration of agricultural agents, specialists, and producers across 14 counties. A total of 236 hay samples were collected, representing the diverse efforts of local farmers to produce high-quality hay. Agricultur

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