Using Alternative Feeds Safely And Effectively
ARKANSAS - Weather patterns in recent years have forced livestock producers to consider alternatives for their winter-feeding programs because of short hay supplies and depleted pastures.
26 September 2007
2 minute read
“The use of alternative feeds in crisis situations is nothing new, but, in some cases, the types of alternative feeds currently available are new,”
Gerald Alexander, Hempstead County agent-staff chair with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
“The use of alternative feeds in crisis situations is nothing new, but, in some cases, the types of alternative feeds currently available are new,” said Gerald Alexander, Hempstead County agent-staff chair with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
Because there are so many variables attached to using by-product feeds effectively, a meeting to discuss their use in animal rations is planned for Oct. 11 at the Southwest Research and Extension Center near Hope, Ark. The meeting will begin about 6 p.m. with a meal followed by the program.
“This meeting is for all levels of expertise in feeding by-product feeds,” Alexander said, “particularly those who are considering using by-product feeds for the first time. People who have been using by-product feeds for some time may also discover new information that will help them improve their use of by-product feeds in their feeding programs.”
The main reason livestock producers resort to using alternative feed sources is usually an economic issue, according to Alexander. They want to feed their cattle at the least possible cost while still maintaining production. When the more commonly used feedstuffs rise in price, alternative feed sources become more attractive.
Alternative feeds are also called by-product feeds because they originate from the production and manufacturing of grains and other agricultural products.
