On the average 76 % of all the land in the four river counties is in crop production. Three of the four counties Ballard, Carlisle, and Fulton County have over 33 million in average crop sales. Even with those numbers we still have an average of 45 million of animal products sold in the four counties. Forage plays a vital part in our producers feed choice. In collaboration with UK Forage specialist a local cattle farm, NRCS and UK agriculture agents a forage field day was held to show case forage practices. 

With an attendance of over 150 people they set out on tours across the farm looking at different forage plantings and systems.  Booths were set up for producers to talk with professionals in fencing, seed and forage practices.  Following supper Warren Beeler addressed the group on working with the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy and the value of cattle and forage in Kentucky.  Several producers mentioned how the information they received will benefit their farm and cattle operations. 

Hereford cattle at Dogwood Farm graze a red clover-crabgrass mixture with a little johnsongrass. Species like crabgrass and johnsongrass are considered weeds in row crops but are valuable summer forages in pastures. Photo by Chris Teutsch, UK Forage Extension Specialist. 

People gathering to take Forage Tours at the farm visiting down from registration table.