Forage ImprovementPlan of Work

Back to Plans for the County

Monroe County CES

Title:
Forage Improvement
MAP:
Forages
Agents Involved:
Kevin Lyons
MAJOR PROGRAM 1:
Forages
MAJOR PROGRAM 2:
Soil testing
MAJOR PROGRAM 3:
Hay testing
Situation:

Forage production is a major component of most farm enterprises in Monroe Co. Hay, silage, baleage, and pasture are the most common forms of forage production for our farmers.  Forages have a major impact on our livestock producers, and that income is a major component of farm financial stability. High quality and large quantities of forages are required for maximum profitability.This need to become better producers denotes the need for additional education forage systems since feed cost is the primary input in livestock production.

Long-Term Outcomes:

More baleage being utilized resulting in higher profitability

Less noxious weeds present in hayfields and pastures 

Higher quality of dry hay produced resulting in increased profits

Savings on feed costs by utilizing hay testing

Intermediate Outcomes:

Increase the number of producers who utilize baleage

Increase the hay and pasture acres that incorporate weed management strategies

Improved hay quality by encouraging proper harvest times

Increase the number of producers who utilize hay testing


Initial Outcomes:

Increase in the knowledge of  intensive rotational grazing systems

Increase in the knowledge of the importance of utilizing soil tests

More emphasis among producers about the importance of weed control

Increased awareness of the availability of our hay probe and access to hay testing services

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Increase in producers gaining knowledge of recommended forage production and management practices

Indicator: Grain drill and sprayer rental data from Conservation District

Method: Survey

Timeline: Annually


Intermediate Outcome: Increase in hay tests being submitted

Indicator: Number received by the Extension office

Method: Records

Timeline: Annually


Long-term Outcome: Increase in the quality of forages being produced

Indicator: Improved results on sample analysis over time

Method: Review of sample results

Timeline: Annually

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Livestock producers

Project or Activity: Forage management topics at Cattlemen’s Meetings

Content or Curriculum: Grazing School topics

Inputs: Agents, Specialists, and successful producers

Date: Annually


Audience: General Agriculture

Project or Activity: Field Days

Content or Curriculum: Current forage improvement topics

Inputs: Agents, Specialists, and successful producers

Date: Summers 2018 & 2019


Audience: Forage producers and forage buyers

Project or Activity: Tri-County Hay Auction

Content or Curriculum: Various UK resources

Inputs: Kevin Lyons, Chris Schalk, Brandon Bell

Date: Annually



Success Stories

Hayfields to Hay Rings

Author: Kevin Lyons

Major Program: Forages

The ANR agents of Allen, Barren, Hart, Metcalfe, & Monroe counties (W8) joined forces to present a hands-on program concerning forages just ahead of winter feeding.   The skyrocketing cost of inputs, coupled with very poor growing conditions, prompted the W8 agents to develop the “Hayfields to Hay Rings” educational program. The program was held at the Metcalfe Co. Farmers’ Market facility.  Forty-two producers participated in sessions on optimal harvest time

Full Story

Raising Grain in Tobacco Country

Author: Kevin Lyons

Major Program: Grains

Allen, Barren, Hart, Metcalfe, & Monroe counties have traditionally been among Kentucky’s largest burley tobacco producing counties. Over the past fifteen years the amount of tobacco grown has rapidly decreased. Traditional burley farmers have switched to the production of grain, especially corn, wheat, and soybeans. Agriculture agents from Allen, Barren, Hart, Metcalfe, & Monroe counties (W8) joined efforts to provide an educational program for grain producers.  The education

Full Story

Tri-Co Hay & Straw Auction

Author: Kevin Lyons

Major Program: Forages

The Tri-County Hay & Straw Auction started as only Metcalfe, Monroe & Barren Counties. Today the cooperating counties are Allen, Barren, Hart, Metcalfe, & Monroe. The anticipated annual event is something both buyers and sellers of hay and straw have come to rely on.  Each year presents unfavorable weather conditions that result in a forage supply shortage for a number some livestock producers.  The auction system allows the hay supply and demand to accurately drive the mar

Full Story
Back to Plans for the County