In the Southeast U.S.A., most livestock production systems are cow-calf operations and rely on perennial forages to feed their herds. Developing replacement heifers is an important part of an operation as producers need proper animals to grow their herd or simply replace older cows. There are many strategies that can be used to develop a forage-based replacement heifer program, however adequately selecting a program that fits the operation is vital to ensure the success of the operation.
Managing cool season forages for replacement heifers needs to be planned out well before planting. There are multiple considerations to be made such as wich forages to plant, planting window, weed control and grazing management practices. Forages such as rye, ryegrass, triticale, wheat, clovers and hairy vetch can be planted from October through November to provide a nutritious diet to animals while perennial forages are dormant. Planting window will depend on whether cool-season forages will be planted on a clear seedbed or overseeded into a perennial grass stand. If the latter, then it is essential to wait until the perennial grasses goes dormant prior to no-till drilling seeds. There are multiple forage species that can be used and selecting adapted species and varieties is essential, therefore, consult your local extension agent for help.
Adding forage legumes into cool season mixture adds forage quality to the animal’s diet, while promoting biological nitrogen fixation. Close attention is required to understand the past herbicide use history of the field prior to sowing legumes. Also, using legume-grass mixtures reduces the options for herbicides to be used so it is necessary to make sure to understand what are the best options that will not compromise the growth and production of legumes
Grazing management will be important and requires a proper understanding of stubble height and regrowth interval required for the forage being utilized. Using rotational grazing management is recommended as it helps to conduct proper forage removal and utilization, while supporting the plant regrowth and production throughout the season. Proper grazing management will support reduction of feeding off-farm supplement such as hay and grain.
Developing productive, economical and environmentally friendly replacement heifer programs is crucial. Planting cool-season forages supports providing proper forage quality and production, reducing feeding cost, and nutrient cycling, including the addition of nitrogen back to the soil when legumes are used.
Written by
Katie Seavey
