Success StoryJessamine County Producers Participate in Forage Stand Evaluation and Renovation Workshop



Jessamine County Producers Participate in Forage Stand Evaluation and Renovation Workshop

Author: Steven Musen

Planning Unit: Jessamine County CES

Major Program: Forages

Plan of Work: Sustainable and Profitable Agriculture

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

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.

Fall of 2022, with low rainfall and less that desirable forage growing conditions has put much of Jessamine County’s pasture and hay land in a stressed condition. As Jessamine County forage producers develop strategies to renovate damaged forage stands, Dr. Ray Smith, U.K. Forage Extension Specialist, led a Forage Stand Evaluation and Renovation workshop. Participants walked a near-by pasture, followed by a classroom session on pasture/hay land renovation strategies and were presented information on soil fertility, weed control, harvesting at the correct stage of maturity, reducing loss, forage testing and economic considerations. Participants indicated that they plan to use the strategies learned to evaluate and renovate their pasture lands and hay fields.

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.






Stories by Steven Musen


2023 UK Beef Bash a "Vision of the Future"

about 3 months ago by Steven Musen

Beef Bash 2023 was held Thursday, September 21st at the C. Oran Little Research Center The theme of ... Read More


Jessamine County Farm to Table Dinner Contunues to Highlight Local Food Systems

about 3 months ago by Steven Musen

The recognition of the benefits of locally grown foods in terms of superior flavor, food safety and ... Read More


Stories by Jessamine County CES


4-H Teen Summit Middle School Conference

4-H Teen Summit Middle School Conference

about 6 months ago by Catherine Weaver

Middle school is a crucial period for youth development, marked by significant physical, cognitive, ... Read More


2023 UK Beef Bash a "Vision of the Future"

about 3 months ago by Steven Musen

Beef Bash 2023 was held Thursday, September 21st at the C. Oran Little Research Center The theme of ... Read More