Extension
It Starts With Us
Forage Improvement
Forages
Kevin Lyons
Forages
Soil testing
Hay testing
Integrated Pest Management
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. The need to increase efficiency in forage production indicates the importance of continued education outreach. Feed costs are the primary expenses 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: Octoner - March 2024
Audience: General Agriculture
Project or Activity: Field Days
Content or Curriculum: Current forage improvement topics
Inputs: Agents, Specialists, and successful producers
Date: Summer 2023 & 2024
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 in January
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
