Extension
It Starts With Us
Forage Improvement
Forages
Kevin Lyons
Forages
Soil testing
Hay testing
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
