Stored forages to be discussed at workshop

LENA, Ill. — Livestock managers and owners are invited to join University of Illinois Extension for the Storing Forages: Balancing Cost and Performance workshop on Thursday, Sept. 19.

U of I Extension livestock specialist Teresa Steckler will be the featured speaker. The workshop will be held at the Lena Community Center, 497 Lions Drive, Lena, starting at 6:30 p.m.

“Managing feed expenses represents much of the difference between high- and low-profit livestock operations,” Steckler said, citing hay, baleage and silage. “Stored forages represent most of the cost and variability within the feed expense for most livestock operations.”

During the workshop, livestock managers will learn about the opportunities to reduce or control these costs while maintaining or improving livestock performance.

Topics will include:

• Reducing field and handling losses.

• Reducing volume and quality loss in stored hay.

• Comparing round bales, square bales and baleage.

• Comparing loss from different feeding systems.

• Quality vs. animal nutrition needs.

“Anyone raising cattle, sheep, goats, horses, or other species should consider attending this workshop,” said Jay Solomon, U of I Extension natural resources, environment and energy educator serving Jo Daviess, Stephenson and Winnebago counties.

“Whether purchasing or on-farm harvested forages, considerations on the initial quality, baling system, wrap or tying system, storage system and feeding system can all impact final utilization losses and total feed cost. A variety of current research results will be presented to help livestock owners make informed decisions.”

Register for the workshop at 815-235-4125 or go.illinois.edu/jsw.

The registration fee is $5. The registration deadline is Sept. 17.