In Kentucky we often have wet and muddy winter conditions, and for livestock producers that are feeding hay during the winter months this can cause issues with livestock health, soil health and can be hard on producers and their equipment. Typical hay feeding in Kentucky consists of setting out rolls of hay every few days in the pasture fields were the livestock are fenced in and it requires the producers to drive through the wet muddy conditions compacting the soil and creating condensed areas of a muddy mess. There are many methods of feeding hay and the University of Kentucky is at the forefront of providing producers with new methods and information that will help them become better livestock producers. 

In response to the need for new methods and techniques of feeding hay I worked with a local Monroe County cattle producer and Dr. Greg Halich with the University of Kentucky to host a Bale Grazing Field Day at the producer’s farm. This producer has been working with Dr. Halich on this research trial for two years. Bale grazing is a winter-feeding strategy where large round hay bales are placed in a pasture or field and livestock are allowed to graze directly from them, rather than being fed hay in a confined area. In Kentucky, this method is increasingly used by cattle producers to reduce labor, equipment use, and environmental impact. Bale grazing returns nutrients directly to the soil through manure, urine, and leftover hay, enhancing soil fertility and organic matter without mechanical input. It reduces the need for fuel, machinery, and labor since bales are pre-positioned and livestock are moved using electric fencing rather than feeding daily. Once bales are set out, daily feeding chores are minimized, saving time and effort, especially in winter. Since feeding doesn't require daily tractor use, wear and tear on equipment and fuel consumption are significantly lower. This field day consisted of walking the farm showing participants the equipment and tools needed and how bale grazing can enhance their feeding system while maintaining good soil and livestock health. Dr. Greg Halich and the producer gave a short presentation, and the group had a very insightful discussion. 

The target audience was livestock producers that were interested in learning about new methods and techniques for feeding hay to their animals. There were 23 participants who attended this program and everyone enjoyed the program.  

100% of the participants communicated that they enjoyed this program and multiple participants stated that they would be changing their hay feeding program. One producer said, “I’ve never seen this before, but it seems like a great idea, I will give it a try this winter”.