Tall Fescue, a cool season perennial grass, is the most predominant forage in the U.S. covering over 36 million acres.  It is extremely prevalent because it possesses desirable characteristics including tolerance to drought, flooding, heavy grazing pressure and a long growing season.  However, tall fescue can have a negative effect on livestock.  A fungal endophyte that grows in the plant is responsible for producing ergot alkaloids, that proves to be toxic to livestock causing tall fescue toxicosis.  Symptoms include a rough hair coat, reduced weight gain, fertility issues and elevated body temperature.  

Over the last 10 years novel or friendly endophyte varieties have come onto the market.  These varieties result in significantly higher weight gains, without the harmful effects of Ky. 31 Tall Fescue. However, novel endophyte tall fescue varieties are significantly more expensive than the popular Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue.  Farmers have been reluctant to plant them because of costs.  The Anderson County Extension Office worked with Buddy Smith on Sept 9, 2016 to establish a 25 acrte demonstration field of Texoma Max Q 2.  Yeilds of dry matter  removed as hay have been measured as well as total days grazed.  Our office along with the NRCS held a joint field day to discuss methods of establishment and management strategies to protect the stand from over grazing.  Averaqge daily gains are approaching 2 lb of gain per head per day.  Almost double the gain of Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue.  Elected officials were all invited.  Present were the County Judge Executive for Anderson County, The Mayor of Lawrenceburg, City Commissioners, As well as our State Representative and State Senator.