Livestock and Forages

Understanding forage quality and its importance for livestock-based systems

Mixture of cool-season forages. Credits: Liliane Silva, CUCES.

Submitted by: Liliane Silva, Clemson University Forages Specialist Forage quality is commonly defined as the nutrient concentration and digestibility of forages. It is important to emphasize that in the technical literature, forage quality is defined by forage nutritive value and intake. The nutrient concentration of forages directly impacts individual animal performance (e.g., growth, milk production), while […]

Stockpiled bermudagrass systems help to fill the forage gap

Submitted by: Liliane Silva, Forages Specialist, Clemson University Stockpiling is a management practice that defers forage availability for use later. This practice helps to decrease costs associated with feeding hay in livestock operations. In the southeast U.S., perennial grasses such as bahiagrass and bermudagrass are used to close the forage gap in early fall and extend […]

Considerations for Hay Purchases

Hay Bale in Field

Submitted by: Matthew Fischer, CUCES Agribusiness  As the 2023 hay season ends, the last cuttings are being baled and balers are being parked for the year. Loader tractors will have some rest before it’s time to start feeding out hay. When purchasing hay here are some questions to consider: How much hay do I need […]

National Farm Safety and Health Week

September 17-23, 2023No One Can Take Your Place Submitted by: Marion Barnes, County Extension Agent, Clemson University Anyone actively involved in farming can tell you about the hazards and risks encountered while providing the food, fiber and fuel this country and the world is so dependent upon. Just as consumers sometimes overlook the important role […]