Much of Jessamine County contains rolling topography which is best suited to the production of livestock and forages.  With 62,414 acres in pastureland and 29,012 acres in forage production (69.3% of total cropland), Jessamine County has the potential of supporting more than the current 20,500 total head of cattle (beef and dairy) with improved pasture efficiency through more careful management and intensive grazing. Growing Forages for livestock grazing and hay production is one of Jessamine County’s most important agronomic enterprises. The Bluegrass Region, with its deep, fertile soils and gently rolling hillsides, is uniquely suited to producing some of the fastest racehorses and most productive livestock operations in the world. Late Summer/early Fall is an important time for forage producers to consider management options and will enhance their forage production and increase profitability.

In May 2022, the Jessamine County Extension Office hosted an in-person Summer Hay Production Update Field Day, hosted at Charles and Judy Miller’s beef cattle farm and attended 17 producers. Dr. Jimmy Henning, University of Kentucky Extension Forage Specialist, presenting presented information on soil fertility, weed control, harvesting at the correct stage of maturity, baling considerations including moisture content and preservatives, reducing loss, forage testing and economic considerations. The interactive lecture was followed by a pasture walk in which participants had the opportunity to learn forage and weed identification, pasture rotation strategies, and nutrient management.

In addition to this in-person training, Jessamine County forage producers have had opportunities to participate in numerous training opportunities including the Annual Kentucky Alfalfa and Stored Forage Conference, a Novel Tall Fescue Renovation Workshop, and the Pastures Please! Equine forage field day.