Abstract
Forage Intake and Wastage by Ewes in Pea/Hay Barley Swath Grazing and Bale Feeding Systems
Highlights
Winter feeding costs are some of the highest inputs associated with livestock production [1]
Forage DMI (P ≥ 0.13), ewe ADG (P ≥ 0.40), and forage percent wastage (P > 0.28) did not differ for swathed versus baled pea/hay barley forage during either year. These results suggest that a swathed feeding system can function as a viable alternative to a traditional baled feeding system for pea/hay barley forage in commercial sheep operations
As more of the burden of harvest is transferred to livestock, swath grazing reduces labor, time, and costs associated with baled forages
Summary
Winter feeding costs are some of the highest inputs associated with livestock production [1]. Costs of traditional baled feeding systems include harvesting and baling hay, maintaining machinery, moving, stacking, and feeding bales, and removing wastage and manure [2]. To reduce winter feed and production costs, feeding strategies can be employed to extend the standard grazing season [3]. As more of the burden of harvest is transferred to livestock, swath grazing reduces labor, time, and costs associated with baled forages. The quality of forage tends to be lower in swaths compared to bales because exposure to precipitation and other environmental conditions can degrade its nutritive value [2,3]. Swathed forage may still be a viable feeding alternative for livestock operations if lower costs offset nutritive limitations [5]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
