Purdue News

Dry pastures create problems for hay, livestock farmers

Farmers are finding that their grazing pastures are too dry to support their livestock, said Dave Petritz, assistant director of the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service.

"Pasture conditions are not good. The southern third of the state is the driest," he said. "If producers get an inch of rain right now and frequent rains until fall, it could turn fall pastures around. They could get another cut of hay."

The lack of feed has caused some farmers to use their winter supply. "Typically, producers have to feed their livestock stored feed to make up the difference of the pasture," Petritz said.

The dry crops create serious problems for both hay producers and livestock farmers, Petritz said. "One of the problems is the hay crop is short this year. We're using up hay that's already quite valuable," he said.

"The other problem you have is cattle production. They're not feeding the cattle as much, so they don't weigh as much. If it stays this dry, producers will be forced to sell livestock. Prices will go lower, and income will go down."

Petritz advises livestock farmers to prepare for these circumstances by following these tips:

• Make plans in advance. Don't wait until you're forced into a situation to do something.
  
• Decide early on how much hay you need.
  
• Feed other grains to your livestock.
  
• Buy hay in the summer, when the prices are cheaper.

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; e-mail, purduenews@purdue.edu

To the Purdue News and Photos Page