Wet fall conditions can lead to 
mouldy corn cobs and residue in
the field which can be harmful 
to grazing cattle.

Poor corn residue may need supplement

The wet fall can reduce feed quality of corn residue, create mould

In the last few years, many beef producers have taken advantage of corn residue as part of their cow herd’s overwintering feeding program. It’s a low-cost feed and for the most part, because early-gestating cows are allowed months of grazing without much trouble. Unfortunately, this wet fall has presented many challenges in feeding lower-quality corn […] Read more

Cow chewing hay

Mouldy feed is dangerous for beef cattle

Moulds that aren’t always visible can cause irreversible damage

Recently, I walked with a beef producer into a hayfield cut a few days earlier and since had been rained on a couple of times. When I lifted a swath in the middle of the field the hay was dark brown on top and still green underneath. The producer said he was going to bale […] Read more


Manitoba farmers have a look at a cover crop at Dan Shwaluk's farm near Shoal Lake.

Cover crop increases feed and profits

Producing more pasture as well as a winter feed supply

One of the biggest questions Manitoba cattle producer Dan Shwaluk had about cover crops was, “where’s the money in it?” After two years of planting cover crops on his farm he’s seen exactly where the money is — in his pocket. He’s getting more than 10 tonnes of silage feed per acre off his cover […] Read more

These sensors are part of the Harvest Tec system for measuring feed quality of hay as it is baled in the field.

Measuring cattle feed quality in the field

A new system allows for bale-by-bale feed value testing

In challenging economic times it is more important than ever to know the value of the alfalfa forage you are feeding your dairy or beef cattle. Whether you are blending alfalfa in a ration to maximize lactation, fertility and calf growth, or utilizing lesser-quality hay for dry cattle or replacements, you want to know that […] Read more


calf nursing at its mother

Time for a midwinter feed inventory

Better Bunks and Pastures: Follow these tips for a better chance at strong, healthy calves

Don’t let any recent balmy temperatures fool you. By the third week of the New Year, we should all have forgotten about climate change. Late-gestating beef cattle, a few months away from calving, are going to need more dietary energy to maintain good body condition until calving and also to keep warm. Although, most people […] Read more