A farmer reported corn during seed fill period that was flooded entirely. The farmer intended to harvest the corn as cattle feed. Don Sorrell, Campbell County ANR Extension Agent, and I visited several bottom fields where mud covered corn plants from the soil to the tassels. We identified areas of the fields where corn was more damaged than others. We worked with the grower to develop a strategy to monitor the crop and identify what areas of the field might be safe to harvest. We quickly identified areas of the field that were no longer safe for livestock consumption. We recommended that corn in those areas of the field to be destroyed. 

Don worked with Tod and Nancy Kloentrup (the farmers) to have samples sent Alltech twice: once after the flood and again in January before they made a decision to feed the 3 to 4 acres of ear corn they harvested from a high point in the first field we examined. Both test showed levels of toxins that were a feeding concern.  Nancy worked with Alltech and UK to get information on if the corn could or could not be fed. They purchased a feed additive from Alltech that was recommended to reduce the possibilities of sickness from feeding the corn. In the end they were able to feed the corn at 5 pounds per day to the dry pregnant cows. Cows came out of winter in very good body condition with no health issues.  

Because of our work they got their questions answered and specific directions in harvesting, storing and testing any corn that was harvested. They considered this a success as they were able to take what looked like a 100% loss and got some level of production (15- 20%)  from the fields.  Nancy said we reduced their fear of the unknown and allow them to feel good about feeding the corn.

Outcomes:  At the time of our visit the farmers had no idea if the corn had any salvage value for silage or ear corn.  They didn’t even know the questions to ask or what dangers might exist (mostly toxins) if their flooded corn was harvested and fed.  Don and I gave them guidance in having the corn tested prior to harvesting and feeding. We provided the grower with a strategy to monitor and harvest the corn. We helped the grower identify corn that was not safe for animal consumption and prevented the death of cattle from eating such damaged corn. 

Our efforts allowed 30 registered Angus cows who were spring calving (thus pregnant during winter feeding of corn.) Those cows and resulting calves are worth more than $60,000.