Success StoryFarmers Learn Strategies for Improving Hay



Farmers Learn Strategies for Improving Hay

Author: Brian Jeffiers

Planning Unit: Johnson County CES

Major Program: Forages

Plan of Work: Livestock and Crops

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Producing quality stored forage is essential for optimum livestock nutrition. After poor hay quality was cited in a number of livestock deaths in early 2020, county extension agents in several eastern Kentucky counties banded together to offer the Master Haymaker program. The seven-session series was offered in early 2021 and provided education on topics ranging from species selection to harvesting techniques. Seven Johnson County farms participated in the series, with most joining the sessions live and the rest viewing the archived recordings later. Three of the families reported gaining new knowledge on establishment techniques, while all reported plans to make changes to their harvesting systems to capture forages at a more nutritious growth stage.






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Producing quality stored forage is essential for optimum livestock nutrition. After poor hay quality... Read More


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