Georgia Forages

GeorgiaForages.com Forage Update - Summer 2013

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 23:41:00 +0000

A periodic email sent to forage producers and industry professionals.

Dr. Dennis Hancock, Forage Extension Specialist, University of Georgia

Here are some HOT TOPICS and happenings on www.GeorgiaForages.com:

- New Look for GeorgiaForages.com Updates
- Latest! – Georgia Forage News
- Upcoming! – Georgia Grazing School (and Deep South Stocker Conference)
- My Latest Trip
- Potential Trip to New Zealand and Australia
- Now Open! – 2013 Southeastern Hay Contest
- Now Open! – 2013 Georgia Forages Photo Contest
- Upcoming! – Meeting Dates to Circle on Your Calendar

New Look for GeorgiaForages.com Updates

The last GF Update was sent via MailChimp, an online email blast service. I received a lot of positive feedback on the new format. I hope it makes the emails I send easier to read and navigate. If your email system doesn’t allow html emails, you can still click the link to view this email in plain text.

Latest! – Georgia Forage News

University of Georgia Extension has some of the best Extension Agents in the U.S.! Some of the best examples can be found on our Forage Extension Team. They have co-written a newsletter series entitled Georgia Forage News. The latest edition (their second) addresses three major topics: 1) the bermudagrass stem maggot, 2) forage testing, and 3) harvest timing for corn silage. This is an outstanding newsletter! See: http://bit.ly/125doAy.

Upcoming! – Georgia Grazing School (and Deep South Stocker Conference)

The Georgia Grazing School returns! Last year, we were unable to make the Grazing School work because of variety of logistic and funding issues. This year, WE ARE BACK!!! and better than ever! In fact, this year, we have an extra-special treat.

Georgia splits hosting duties for the Deep South Stocker Conference with Mississippi and Alabama. This year, it is Georgia’s turn and we are planning on holding the 2013 Grazing School (August 7-8) in conjunction with the Deep South Stocker Conference (August 8-9)! This allows us to keep our costs low, do more hands-on programs, AND bring in some additional experts from around the country. Some examples include: 1) more extensive field exercises with sizing and allotting pasture for break-feeding; 2) a tour of UGA’s new Forage Garden, a display of the many and varied forages that can be grown in Georgia; 3) the latest developments in the world of fencing, waterers, and pesticides; 4) a detailed fencing demonstration; 5) a look inside respiratory disease with a close-up examination of the effect it can have on lung and respiratory capacity; and 6) stockmanship and stewardship demonstrations by Curt Pate, one of the world’s leading trainers in safe and effective cattle handling. I just can’t tell you how excited I am to see this program come together!

For those who haven’t had a chance to attend one of our Grazing Schools… You REALLY NEED TO COME! The Georgia Grazing School is a two-day workshop that focuses on the benefits of management-intensive grazing. Training will take place in both classroom and field settings. We cover the system comprehensively, approaching from an understanding of soil fertility, forage crop selection/establishment, utilizing and optimizing plant growth, how to match animal nutrient needs with forage quality provided, and how the grazing system design can have an effect on all these elements.

The program costs $150 and includes lunches and breaks on each day, a nice dinner at the end of the program, a grazing school handbook, and a forage and weed ID handbook. For more information about this program, check out the Grazing School’s webpage here: http://bit.ly/125fxMw. Registration will be available online within the next few days, and I’ll send a separate announcement about that in the coming days.

My Latest Trip

If you are really a lover of forage management and are really into pasture-based livestock systems, then you’ll appreciate the enormity of my most recent trip… a trip to New Zealand! New Zealand is a small island nation in the South Pacific whose economy is extremely dependent upon their ability to efficiently and cost-effectively raise livestock on pasture. And they’ve gotten extremely good at it. In fact, they provide a lot of the most common pasture-based livestock technologies that we use today, including everything from electric fencing to animal genetics!

To tell you why I was in New Zealand recently, I need to give you a bit of backstory. Over the past 3 years, I have been cultivating several relationships with New Zealand agribusiness and trade authorities. Georgia has developed quite a reputation throughout the world (and especially in New Zealand) as a real “hot-spot” for growth in pasture-based livestock systems in general and dairying in particular. My networking has primarily been with the NZ Agribusiness Centre (a consortium of a diverse set of kiwi agribusiness) and NZ Trade & Enterprise (somewhat analogous to our U.S. Commerce Department).

My relationship with them has matured into a potential economic development opportunity for Georgia. Back in early May, I teamed up with Georgia’s Center for Innovation for Agribusiness and organized a program in Augusta and Waynesboro that highlights the opportunities for pasture-based livestock systems in Georgia and the Southeast. We connected the CEOs or representatives of approximately 9 major NZ companies with Georgia’s Department of Economic Development and the local development authorities in that region. These companies have already decided to expand their business into North, Central, and South America and are currently deciding on whether to locate those jobs in Georgia or in one other state. Our goal is to get those jobs here! Only time will tell if our “sales pitch” was effective, but pasture-based livestock production in Georgia and the SE U.S. was definitely of key interest to them when I made my recent return trip to NZ. I think we made an overwhelming case to support these jobs coming to Georgia! I’m anxious to see it come to fruition.

Potential Trip to New Zealand and Australia

A few months back, I mentioned my desire to take a group of producers and ag industry service providers on a trip to New Zealand in September. While in New Zealand earlier this month, I had the great opportunity to begin to finalize an AgriTour there.

We are still working out the details, but the plan is to arrive in Auckland, NZ on Monday September 9^th and tour Auckland, Hamilton and the Waikato Region (the center of the major pasture-based livestock industries in NZ), Rotorua (a site of several interesting items of agritourism interest and one of the major cultural centers of New Zealand’s indigenous peoples, the Maori), and a few other tourist attractions. The AgriTour will conclude on Saturday, September 14^th.

More details on this trip, the cost, and travel information will be forthcoming in a couple more weeks (hopefully). Until then, go make sure your passport is current or if you don’t have one, begin the process of getting one. This AgriTour will be an incredible adventure. Trust me… you are going to want to be on this trip!

Now Open! - 2013 Southeastern Hay Contest

Just a reminder!!! Enter your hay or baleage samples into the 2013 Southeastern Hay Contest and compete with other Southeastern producers for the title of Best in Class! For more information about the contest, including a link to the rules and entry form, visit: http://bit.ly/WBJlza.

Now Open! - 2013 Georgia Forages Photo Contest

Just a reminder!!! Enter your forage photos into the 2013 Georgia Forages Photo Contest (see: http://bit.ly/WBJyCu.) The purpose of the contest is to recognize, through photography, the multi-faceted uses of forages in Georgia. This contest is open to anyone who would like to share their photos with the Georgia Forages community. There is no entry fee for participating in this contest. Entrants can submit color digital photo files to Dr. Dennis Hancock, UGA Forage Extension Specialist by merely emailing the entry to Dr. Hancock. The entry form used last year is NOT needed. However, Dr. Hancock will follow up with you after receiving the photo to confirm entry and obtain any further information.

Entries will be placed into one of six categories. The photo categories include:

a. Harvested Forages

b. Grazing

c. Education

d. Wildlife and Conservation

e. Troubleshooting (e.g., nutrient deficiencies, diseases, etc.)

f. Open

Entries must be received by October 1^st. Winners will be selected by the UGA Forage Extension Agent Team and will be announced on October 15^th, at the beginning of the Sunbelt Ag Expo. Certificates will be awarded for the best photos. The top 3 photos in each category will be enlarged and displayed at the Sunbelt Ag Expo at the “Ask the Expert” booth in the Livestock Pavilion. Photo entries will also be posted to a website for public viewing. Entrants do not have to attend the Expo to participate in the Photo Contest.

Credit will be given to the photographer and the photographer will retain all rights to their entry (i.e., for sale, duplication, or use other than publicly displaying the entry for the purposes of the contest).

Upcoming! – Meeting Dates to Circle on Your Calendar

There are several meetings coming up in the next few weeks and months that I want to make sure you have on your calendar. Here are the dates/times, meeting name, and location. For more, see: http://bit.ly/ZoXnVI.

Sunbelt Ag Expo Field Day

Jul. 11, 7:15 a.m - Lunch | Sunbelt Agricultural Expo | Moultrie, GA

Hay Day (hay equipment demonstration day)

Aug. 6 | Lamar Co.

Georgia Grazing School

August 7-8 | Watkinsville, GA

Deep South Stocker Conference

Aug. 8-9 | Watkinsville, GA

22nd International Grassland Congress

Sep. 15-19, 2013 | Sydney, Australia

SE Hay Contest

Oct. 15-17, 2013 | in Conjunction with the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo | Moultrie, GA

Sunbelt Agricultural Expo's: Forage-Based Livestock Management Seminars, and “Ask the Expert” Booths

Oct. 15-17, 2013 | Moultrie, GA

If you have a forage-related question, check out our website at www.georgiaforages.com, talk with your county Extension Agent by dialing 1-800-ASK-UGA1, or send an email to me at dhancock@uga.edu.

Regards,

Dennis W. Hancock, PhD
Forage Extension Specialist

Bermudagrass Stem Maggot

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 23:39:00 +0000

Don W. Clark Jr. - Grady County ANR Agent

There is a relatively new pest that has had a major impact on Bermudagrass hay production in South Georgia and North Florida. The Bermuda grass stem maggot, native to Southeast Asia was found in Tift, Pierce, and Jeff Davis counties in 2010. I found it in Grady County in 2011, it was also found in many South Georgia and North Florida Counties in 2011 and 2012 as well.

If your Bermuda grass hay field looks like it has been damaged by frost in the middle of the growing season, you are probably experiencing damage from this insect.

The larval (maggot) stage of the BSM is what is causing the damage. This maggot is inside the stem when the damage is done. The adult fly lays its eggs on the Bermuda grass pseudostme (folded leaf blades). Upon hatching, the larva works its way toward a node, where the leaf blade emerges from the stem. As the larva develops, it feeds on the node. This feeding results in the browning of the last one to three leaf blades.

In 2011 and 2012 I consulted with Dr. Dennis Hancock and Dr. Will Hudson for the purpose of setting up a test in an effort to find a control strategy. Some observations we made were that BSM was much more common on small stem varieties like Alicia than large stem varieties like Tifton 85 and Coastcross. Also we needed to control the adult fly because the maggot would be difficult to control protected by the stem. I set up several tests in 2011 and 2012 in an effort to find an acceptable control strategy. We used low rates of several pyrethroid’s and three different spray schedules.

My three growers used different spray schedules as follows:

A. Treated behind the baler (3 days after cutting) and again 7 days later.

B. Treated 7 days after cutting and again 7 days later.

C. Treated 5 days after cutting and again 10 days later.

All three of my hay producer’s experienced similar control.

Dr. Hancock, Dr. Hudson, and two graduate students are also continuing to work on control strategies for this pest. Hopefully we will have more information on control of this pest very soon. For more information check out this factsheet: Biology and Management of Bermudagrass Stem Maggot.

Forage Testing

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 23:36:00 +0000

Clay Talton - Elbert County ANR Agent

In the county extension office we are continuously asked questions about testing forage for nutrients. Most producers are asking me “how much does it cost” and “what’s the benefit.” A forage test is a vital part to any livestock operation. Forage for livestock plays a vital role in daily nutrition and without an understanding of the nutrients being provided it is impossible to know if an operation is feeding their animals to meet their daily nutritional needs. Daily intake of animals changes with age and nutritional needs change with age and stage of production. With that being said, a forage test is critical to ensuring a lot of hay is fed correctly with or without supplementation based on the report.

So how do I take a forage sample? Well the first step is easy…call your County Extension Agent! Your County Agent can provide you with information on proper testing methods for the forage you want to test and let you know what it cost. Also, they can help you determine what test you need depending on nutrients you are concerned with. In order to have an accurate forage test it is imperative to get a representative sample. The method of sampling can vary with types of forage. Most commonly, we are sampling baled hay from round or square bales. When sampling hay, use a core sampler. The most common types of core samplers are the Penn State Forage probe that attaches to the end of a drill or hand brace and the Colorado Hay Probe. Take 10 to 20 core samples from each hay lot then composite and mix for analysis. Small rectangular bales should be sampled by coring from the end. Large hay bales should be sampled from the front or back (not the sides) in order to get a cross section of the rolled hay. If sampling baleage, be sure to tape over the hole from where core was taken. Drop your sample by your local extension office and be sure to give them all of the information regarding the specie of livestock you are feeding.

So what’s next? Well, you should receive your report from your local extension office detailing the results of the hay you tested. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your County Agent about how to feed the hay and to get help in determining if the hay will meet the current nutritional needs of your animals. Also, they can help you to determine what, if any, supplementation is needed.

Interpreting a forage report can be somewhat overwhelming for a first time forage tester. Most producers are concerned with relative forage quality (RFQ), crude protein (CP), total digestible nutrients (TDN), Dry Matter (DM) and nitrates. RFQ is an index for ranking forages based on a comprehensive analysis. It is calculated from CP, Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF), fat, ash and NDF digestibility. RFQ is based on a scoring system where the higher the RFQ, the better the quality. This value is a single, easy to interpret number that improves producer understanding of forage’s quality and helps in establishing a fair market value for the product. See the following extension publication, Using Relative Forage Quality to Categorize Hay, to learn more about RFQ. Crude protein is the total protein in the sample including true protein and non-protein nitrogen. Protein is required on a daily basis for maintenance, lactation, growth and reproduction. Total digestible nutrients is the sum of the digestible fiber, protein, lipid, and carbohydrate components of a feedstuff or diet. TDN is directly related to digestible energy and is often calculated based on ADF. Nitrates can become a problem when fed in high amounts. Nitrate accumulator plants include sorghum, sorghum sudangrass, sudangrass, weeds and small grain forages. Table 1 shows the values that are represented on a forage test and when to use caution if those values reach a high value.

Table 1.

Forage Nitrate

(ppm dry forage) Guidance

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Safe to feed with adequate feed and water

4,500 - 6,500 Safe under most conditions but, if feeding pregnant animals, restrict to one-half (1/2) of the ration

6,500 - 9,000 Limit to one-half (1/2) of the ration

9,000 - 15,000 Limit to one-third (1/3) of the ration

15,000 - 18,000 Limit to one-quarter (1/4) of the ration

>18,000 Potentially lethal, very risky, dilute carefully

Drought, frost, fertilization and manure application practices are factors that can lead to high nitrate levels. When nitrate is converted to nitrite, it impedes the uptake of oxygen by the blood resulting in death due to lack of oxygen. Blood becomes brownish in color and exterior membranes may become bluish in color. Dry matter is the moisture-free content of the sample. Because moisture dilutes the concentration of nutrients it is important to always balance and evaluate rations on a dry-matter basis.

Once you have determined how to feed your hay, don’t forget that the nutrient needs of livestock are constantly changing based on age and stage of production. Be sure to test every lot of hay you bale or buy and to adjust any additional supplementation being used as an animal’s stage of production changes. If you have high quality hay that is providing an excess of nutrients for the stage of growth or production of your animal, be sure to save it and use lower quality hay that will meet their needs. The little amount of money required to test a lot of hay can save you hundreds in the long run.

Harvest Timing Critical to Corn Silage

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 23:33:00 +0000

Carole H. Knight – Bulloch County ANR Agent

Corn silage is a high-quality forage crop that is used on many dairy farms and on some beef cattle farms in Georgia. Its popularity is due to the high yield of a very digestible, high-energy crop, and the ease of adapting it to mechanized harvesting and feeding. The object of silage making is to preserve the harvested crop by anaerobic (without oxygen) fermentation. This process uses bacteria to convert soluble carbohydrates into acetic and lactic acid, which “pickles” the crop. To produce high-quality corn silage, it is important to do a good job in harvesting and preserving the crop.

Corn silage that has been produced properly should have a green/yellowish color and a light, pleasant, slightly vinegar odor. If it is dark brown, or has another odor such as fruity, burnt or a rancid smell, improper fermentation or excessive heating may have occurred. Understanding the fermentation process may help explain some of the problems that can arise in silage production.

The fermentation process

When a corn plant is chopped and put into some sort of storage facility, the cells of the corn plant are still alive. The respiration of these plant cells and the microorganisms in the silage produce carbon dioxide and heat. This is called aerobic respiration, because oxygen is used. As the carbon dioxide level increases and the oxygen level decreases, this respiration will decrease and stop, and anaerobic (without oxygen) fermentation begins. In this process, desirable bacteria use the soluble carbohydrates in the cells to produce primarily lactic acid. Lactic acid causes a drop in the pH. Fermentation will occur until enough lactic acid is produced to drop the pH to approximately 4.2, at which point all bacterial action stops. This usually occurs within three weeks after the silo, trench or bunker is filled. If low levels of lactic acid have been formed, then butyric acid, a foul-smelling acid, is produced and the silage spoils.

Harvest at the correct stage

Proper timing of harvest is one of the most critical factors that will influence the quality of the corn silage produced. The stage of maturity of the corn will influence the quality of the corn silage because of the amount of nutrients in the plants as well as the amount of moisture present. As a corn plant matures, the plant begins to dry down, and the moisture content in the plant drops. If the moisture content is too high when the silage is cut, there can be seepage. This seepage contains high concentrations of soluble nutrients, which are lost. The seepage can cause considerable damage to upright silos. Another problem with chopping silage with too much moisture is that a larger amount of lactic acid is needed to reduce the pH. This results in a longer period of time before the silage becomes fermented, producing a lower quality silage. In the opposite situation, if the plant does not contain enough moisture, then it will not pack well in the silo, more oxygen will be present and it will take longer to get through the aerobic phase into the anaerobic phase of fermentation. Nutrients will be used for respiration during the aerobic phase, the temperature of the silage will increase and possibly burn. This also results in a lower quality silage. The proper moisture content of corn chopped for silage is Squeeze the chopped forage tightly into a ball for 20 to 30 seconds, and then release quickly. Forage chopped into 3/8 to 1/2-inch pieces should be used. The condition of the ball and the approximate moisture levels are found in the following table.

between 60 and 70 percent. In bunker and trench silos, where packing is a problem, the upper side of this range is recommended. If the silage is going into an upright silo, packing is generally not a problem, so the lower end of this range will work satisfactorily. The kernel milk line can be used to help estimate moisture. The milk line proceeds from the top to the bottom of the kernel as the plant matures. Generally, when the milk line is 1/2 to 2/3 down the kernel, the moisture will be in the 60 to 70 percent range. The approximate moisture level of chopped silage can be determined by means of a “grab test”.

Condition of the forage ball Approximate moisture content

Ball holds its shape and there is considerable free juice over 75 percent

Ball holds its shape but there is very little free juice 70 to 75 percent

Ball falls apart slowly and there is no free juice 60 to 70 percent

Ball falls apart rapidly below 60 percent

Successful corn silage production starts with corn variety selection and a good crop, but harvesting at the correct time can help insure that it is a quality feedstuff.

Archived Notebook – Cattlemen’s Forage Conference

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:20:00 +0000

We had another great Cattlemen’s Forage Conference, which was held on April 3rd and 4^th in Perry. We had around 85 folks in attendance, despite some nasty weather (including some rather cool temps inside the arena, too!). This was up about 15% over last year’s numbers!

In case you missed it or you are looking for the additional material promised in the notebook, you can access the handouts and additional resources here: http://bit.ly/XK5O2E.

BIG THANK YOU TO OUR PLOT HARVESTER SPONSORS!

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:19:00 +0000

Last time I sent out an Update, we put out a plea for help. The forage plot harvester that we use was in need of replacement and we had found an alternative that is capable of harvesting our research plots on level ground AND the rougher terrain of our hayfields and pastures at another university. The only problem was we were a little short. It was for sale for $40,000 and we could only piece together $35,000.

My plea didn't fall on deaf ears. We had several folks, including producers, companies, scientists, livestock foundations, and commodity commissions who stepped up. We are sincerely thankful and incredibly grateful to these benefactors. Their contributions for the greater good have made all the difference. I have created webpage that is dedicated to them as a small token of our thanks. Read more…

Field Days Next Week

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:18:00 +0000

We have several field days scheduled for next week in NE Georgia, including two on the same day! Don’t worry if you live in some other part of Georgia. We’ll be around to you soon!

First up, we have the Broad River Beef Cattle & Forage Field Day on Wednesday, April 17 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Moore Cattle Company just outside of Washington, GA. An agenda, directions, and more info are available here: http://bit.ly/ZoW494.

On the same day, the Georgia Mountain Beef Cattle Field Day will start at 8:30 a.m. and run to 3 p.m. This field day will be at the Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center in Blairsville, GA. An agenda and more information on this field day are available here: http://bit.ly/ZoWbSi.

Then, on Friday (Apr. 19), we will hold the Northeast Area Spring Forage Update. This field day will start at 10 a.m. and run to 1 p.m. This meeting is coordinated by the Franklin County Extension office and will be held at the Franklin County Recreation Department in Carnesville, GA. Pre-registration is required for this program, so please call 706-384-2843 to RSVP. An agenda, address for the venue, and more information on this field day are available here: http://bit.ly/ZoWpsw.

Upcoming! – Corn Silage and Conserved Forage Field Day

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:18:00 +0000

Another major field day to put on your calendar (this time in S. Georgia) is the UGA/UF Corn Silage and Conserved Forage Field Day. This field day will occur on June 20 at UGA’s Tifton Campus Conference Center, just off I-75 at Exit 64. A flyer for this field day is available here: http://bit.ly/ZoWWL8. More info on this program will be coming soon.

Now Open! - 2013 Southeastern Hay Contest

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:17:00 +0000

Now Open! - 2013 Georgia Forages Photo Contest

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:16:00 +0000

Entries will be placed into one of six categories. The photo categories include:

a. Harvested Forages

b. Grazing

c. Education

d. Wildlife and Conservation

e. Troubleshooting (e.g., nutrient deficiencies, diseases, etc.)

f. Open

Upcoming! – Meeting Dates to Circle on Your Calendar

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:15:00 +0000

Broad River Beef Cattle & Forage Field Day

Apr. 17, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Moore Cattle Company – Washington, GA

Georgia Mountain Beef Cattle Field Day

Apr. 17 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center Blairsville, GA

Northeast Area Spring Forage Update

Apr. 19, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Franklin County Recreation Department, Carnesville, GA

American Forage and Grassland Council's National Tour

May 22-24, 2013 | Graves Mountain Lodge · Syria, VA

Corn Silage and Conserved Forage Field Day

Jun. 20 (8 a.m. – 2 p.m.) | UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center

Sunbelt Ag Expo Field Day

Jul. 11, 7:15 a.m - Lunch | Sunbelt Agricultural Expo | Moultrie, GA

Hay Day (hay equipment demonstration day)

Aug. 6 (Tentative) | Lamar Co.

Georgia Grazing School

August 7-8 | Watkinsville, GA

Deep South Stocker Conference

Aug. 8-9 | Watkinsville, GA

22nd International Grassland Congress

Sep. 15-19, 2013 | Sydney, Australia

SE Hay Contest

Oct. 15-17, 2013 | in Conjunction with the Sunbelt Agricultural Expo | Moultrie, GA

Sunbelt Agricultural Expo's: Forage-Based Livestock Management Seminars, and “Ask the Expert” Booths

Oct. 15-17, 2013 | Moultrie, GA

Getting the most out of your forage herbicide programs!

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 21:20:00 +0000

County agents often get questions about herbicide control programs in forages. Not only are herbicides expensive but your time and application costs are expensive also. Let’s discuss some things that will hopefully make your herbicide applications more effective.

Weed Identification! Proper weed identification is the first step when it comes to controlling weeds with herbicides. Your local Extension agent has the resources to help you if weed identification is an issue. Cattle producers need look at their hayfields and pastures when checking on their livestock. When you are checking livestock and scouting, make notes on locations of poisonous plants, weeds, and other things that are out of the ordinary. Properly identifying problem weeds will make effective herbicide selection much easier.

Thistle is a common pasture weed. Make sure you properly identify weeds to select the most effective herbicide.

Herbicide Selection and Rate! Once the target weed is identified then we can select the correct herbicide and apply it at the correct rate. Keep in mind if you apply at a lower than the recommended rate then you probably will not get the control you need, thus cost you more herbicide and application costs. If you apply above the recommended rate, then you have increased herbicide cost when compared to applying at the correct rate.

Sprayer Calibration! It is incredible how many producers do not calibrate sprayers. Sprayer calibration can be intimidating but if you follow the 128^th method it can be very easy. First divide 43,560 by 128. This will give you 340.3 sq. ft. Three hundred and forty square feet is 128th of an acre. The second step is to measure the distance between your nozzles on your sprayer in feet. Once you figure out the nozzle distance in feet then divide 340.3 by the distance of your nozzle spacing. The result is your calibration distance in feet. When you know your calibration distance, then mark the distance with something easy to see - such as flags or buckets. Once the distance is marked, then have someone drive the sprayer and time the amount of time it takes to drive the distance. Do this step a couple of times and try to simulate the same field conditions that you are applying the pesticide. Remember do not put a pesticide in the tank during the calibration process especially when you catch the water at the end. Once you know the calibration time, then turn the sprayer on at the same pressure and rpm as you would when you apply the pesticide but remain still so you can catch the liquid with a container. Once you catch the water, measure the amount caught in ounces. When you use the 128^th method the ounces of liquid caught equals gallons per acre. When you calibrate your sprayer check all nozzles, hoses, and screens for wear and tear.

Weed Sizes! A smaller weed is easier to kill than a large weed. Look on your herbicide label for proper weed sizes and timings for your particular pest you are trying to control.

Other Thoughts on weed control! The first thing producers need to do is to read the herbicide label. It is a source of all kinds of information such as herbicide rates, water volumes needed during application and weed sizes. The label is the law. Sprayer cleanout is important especially if you use your sprayer for applying pesticides to row crops and vegetables after using with pasture herbicides. The herbicide label will have the cleanout information. Pay attention to herbicide rotation restrictions especially if you want to use clovers in your forage program. Also, if you have clovers in your forage program then that will limit your herbicide options. Make sure you are keeping good pesticide records. If you have any questions about herbicides contact your local county Extension agent. You can also following this link to more information on weed management http://www.caes.uga.edu/commodities/fieldcrops/forages/pestmgmt.html.

Jeremy M. Kichler

UGA Cooperative Extension – Macon County CEC

Preparing to Sprig Bermudagrass

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 21:17:00 +0000

The extended periods of hot, dry weather that most Georgians have experienced over the past few summers has taken a toll on many of the permanent forage grasses. This is especially true of cool season grasses like fescue and orchardgrass in North Georgia. Many of these producers with declining forage stands are considering establishing bermudagrass.

If you are considering establishing bermudagrass, you have probably realized there are several options. Certain varieties can be established by seeding, others by using clippings (tops) and some with vegetative sprigs. Vegetative sprigs can be used in both prepared soil and no-till situations. For more information on bermudagrass varieties grown in Georgia, refer to “Selecting a Forage Bermudagrass Variety”

Proper preparation is the key to good bermudagrass establishment.

This article will focus on getting your field ready to sprig bermudagrass into prepared soil. Establishing a field in bermudagrass is a long-term commitment so you need to be sure the site is well prepared before putting out the first sprig.

As with most all agronomic crops, a good place to start is determining soil fertility needs by soil testing. While you are waiting to get the soil test results back, you can destroy any existing vegetation by spraying the area with a non-selective herbicide. One very troublesome weed that is often found in these sites is common bermudagrass. Common bermudagrass is virtually impossible to remove once the field is established and should be controlled prior to sprigging. Keep in mind that common bermudagrass must be green and actively growing for the non-selective herbicide to be effective.

Once your soil test results are back and you have burned-down existing vegetation with a herbicide, you are ready to apply the recommended lime and/or soil nutrients. Of the three major plant nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), adequate potassium levels are critical to maintain a healthy bermudagrass stand. Any needed nutrients (and lime if required) can be spread at this point so it will be incorporated into the soil root zone during the tillage process.

As mentioned earlier, bermudagrass is a long term crop and proper tillage prior to sprigging can help relieve soil compaction issues and smooth the soil surface. Deep plowing and disking will get the soil well prepared and allow for any leveling/smoothing of the soil surface that may be needed. Once the soil is prepared it should be packed to ensure consistent planting depths. If this tillage is completed a month prior to sprigging, it will give weeds a chance to germinate and a non-selective herbicide can be used again to eliminate all vegetative growth. Hopefully, during this post-tillage time period you will receive enough rainfall to get adequate soil moisture that is needed for sprigging.

If you take the time to control weeds, adjust soil nutrients/pH level, get the soil well prepared, and obtain good soil moisture, you will greatly increase the success rate of your new bermuda field. Once you have completed all these steps you are ready to call the sprigging contractor. Go to

http://www.caes.uga.edu/commodities/fieldcrops/forages/newinfo/BermudagrassSpriggersinGeorgia.pdf on the Georgia Forages web page for a list of spriggers in Georgia.

Norman Edwards

UGA Cooperative Extension - Walker County CEC

Importance of Potassium (K)

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 21:14:00 +0000

Potassium is an essential element in plants and is considered one of the three macronutrients, along with nitrogen and phosphorus. The amount of K is reported in almost all routine soil samples. Unfortunately, with price increases, it has gone from being the least expensive to the most expensive of the three macronutrients. Ignoring the importance of potassium fertilization and not maintaining adequate soil levels can lead to forage losses and ultimate stand decline.

Potassium is essential for producing economical yields and maintaining persistence in our forages. The role of potassium is extremely important. Potassium regulates the enzymatic processes that are necessary for growth. It helps regulate water use. Potassium assists with the plants ability to withstand extreme temperatures, drought and pests. Therefore it affects plant vigor, disease resistance, forage quality, and winter survival. According to Dr. Dennis Hancock, UGA Extension Forage Specialist, poor K fertility is one of the top 10 causes for stand loss. (View all top 10 causes in this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EADtbQsbAg.)

Soil type and environmental conditions have an effect on the amount of potassium available for plant use. Availability is highest under warm, moist conditions in soils that are well aerated with a neutral or slightly acidic pH. Soils that are too wet can reduce potassium uptake. In addition, soils with a high clay make-up can have reduced potassium availability; as well as very sandy soils where leaching can be an issue.

Symptoms of potassium deficiency include yellowing of the lower leaves and, in severe cases, leaf-tip dieback. Once symptoms are present, the plant's ability to withstand stress conditions, such as high heat, drought and pests, is diminished. A bermudagrass stand may be very old b efore it begins to exhibit severe stand thinning as a result of K deficiency. However, some varieties are more prone to K deficiency problems than others. For example, “Alicia” is very susceptible to leafspot diseases when K deficiency occurs.

Leafspot disease can be a result of K deficiency.

The amount of potassium needed is dependent upon the level of management. For instance, there is a high demand for potassium in a hayed bermudagrass field compared to one that is grazed. This is due to the amount of potassium removed in the hay. Each ton of bermudagrass hay will often contain the equivalent of more than 40 lbs. of K fertilizer (K₂O). High-producing bermudagrass hayfields may yield well over 10 tons per acre. As a result of this high rate of nutrient removal, K deficiencies occur frequently. Potassium amounts should be applied in relation to your yield goals.

Research has shown that stands can recover if given adequate K supplementation. Soil tests should be taken and potassium fertilization recommendations adhered to. It is important to split K applications across two or more application times to prevent excess K uptake. For more information refer the UGA publication - “Soil and Fertilizer Management Considerations for Forage Systems in Georgia”.

Carole Knight

UGA Cooperative Extension – Bulloch County Ag Agent

The Use of Poultry Litter in Forages

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 21:12:00 +0000

The use of poultry litter as a source of fertilizer in our pastures and hayfields has been around for a long time. We have always known that it was good to green up a grass and also cause our neighbors to hold their noses when we applied it, but with the rising cost of conventional fertilizer we are looking more and more at it. Poultry litter has many of the same nutrients as a complete fertilizer. Typically litter runs about a 3-3-2 (N-P-K). So in a ton of litter you could expect 60 lbs. of N, 60 lbs. of P and 40 lbs. of K. But this can vary depending on type of birds, what they were fed, number of flocks grown between cleanouts, feed efficiency, and how the litter is stored and handled. Litter also has some liming effect in that the feed that the birds are fed contains calcium carbonate. This is equal to about 1/10 the strength of most agricultural limestone. So the use of poultry litter can help maintain soil pH.

The use of poultry litter can be beneficial and economical if proper management is used

Poultry litter is an organic source of nutrients so all are not 100% available at application time. We generally assume that the efficiency (or plant available nutrients) is 60% for N, 80% for P and 80% for K when compared to commercial fertilizers. Nitrogen is found in litter in both organic and inorganic (ammonium and nitrate) forms. The inorganic nitrogen can be immediately used by plants. Organic nitrogen is not available to plants until it is converted to ammonium or nitrate by microorganisms in the soil. Incorporation of the litter is best to cut down on volatilization of nitrogen but, in pastures and hay fields this is not feasible, so rain or irrigations helps with this. Since grasses normally require three or four times more nitrogen than phosphorus, and poultry litter contains almost equal amounts of both, using poultry litter to meet the nitrogen needs of the forage will cause an over-application of phosphorus. Phosphorus can quickly accumulate to high levels with over-application. Phosphorus buildup is slower on hayfields where hay is being removed, than in pastures where it is returned to the soil in manure and urine. High phosphorus levels in the soil have been directly linked to water quality problems; consequently, use poultry litter carefully to supply the nutrient needs of the forage without creating environmental problems. Poultry litter is also a valuable source of potassium. Nearly 100 percent of the potassium in poultry litter will be available during the growing season when it is applied. Poultry litter is also a source of secondary nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulfur as well as micronutrients such as copper and zinc. Studies have shown increased levels of copper, manganese, and zinc in the soils where poultry litter has been used for four to five years. However, similar to phosphorus, copper and zinc can have detrimental effects if over-applied. Application rates of 2 to 6 tons per acre are recommended depending on if grass is used for hay or pasture. Many times producers will say they see more weeds with use of litter. The litter is changing the soil dynamics to allow weed seed to germinate not bringing more weed seed in to pasture. Before applying poultry litter, make sure that you have taken a soil test and have the litter analyzed to make sure you are applying the nutrients needed efficiently. More information can be found on the Georgia Forages website at www.georgiaforages.com and in publication “Poultry Litter Application on Pastures and Hayfields”.

Written by:
Ray Hicks

UGA Cooperative Extension - Screven County CEC

Harvesting Drought Stressed Corn for Forage

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:31:00 +0000

When faced with a severe and sustained drought, dryland corn may not produce enough grain to warrant harvest. Producers often ask what the options are for harvesting the drought stressed corn for forage. This video discusses the options for harvesting drought stunted corn and ways to reduce the risk of nitrate poisoning (georgiaforages031.mp4). This video is also available on YouTube in HD. (Posted 6-10-11)

K Deficiency in Bermudagrass Hayfields

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:29:00 +0000

Though this webpage is primarily for videos, this is second of two new segments recorded for the "On The Farm" radio program which airs weekdays between 6:40 and 6:50 am on WVOH 93.5FM in Hazlehurt and WDMG 97.9FM in Douglas and at 6:58 am on WULS 103.7FM in Douglas. This program is coordinated by Eddie McGriff, Coffee County Extension Coordinator. This segment is on the problems we have had with potassium (K) deficiency in bermudagrass hayfields (georgiaforages030.mp3). (Posted 6-10-11)

The Risks and Potential Dangers of Nitrate and Prussic Acid Poisoning

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:26:00 +0000

Though this webpage is primarily for videos, this is one of two new segments recorded for the "On The Farm" radio program which airs weekdays between 6:40 and 6:50 am on WVOH 93.5FM in Hazlehurt and WDMG 97.9FM in Douglas and at 6:58 am on WULS 103.7FM in Douglas. This program is coordinated by Eddie McGriff, Coffee County Extension Coordinator. This segment is on the risks and potential dangers of nitrate and prussic acid poisoning (georgiaforages029.mp3). This is a timely issue, given the current severity of the drought throughout most of Georgia. (Posted 6-10-11)

Forage Producer Forum

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:28:00 +0000

The last local producer to present at the March 23, 2010 meeting of the Piedmont Forage and Grassland Council was Tom Trantham of Happy Cow Creamery. Tom is another innovative producer. Tom's dairy institutes a program he calls "The Twelve Aprils" system. This system is one where through continuous plantings he is able to provide very high quality forage year- round. (georgiaforages027.mov)

Forage Producer Forum

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:21:00 +0000

In addition to the two nationally renowned researchers at the March 23, 2010 meeting of the Piedmont Forage and Grassland Council, we had the pleasure of hearing from two local producers who have been implementing excellent grazing management strategies. One of the two is Joe Davis who resides in Westminister, South Carolina. Joe is probably one of the most innovative forage producers in the beef cattle industry in the Southeast. He presented information on his farm and his grazing management strategies. (georgiaforages026.mov)

"Building and Maintaining Soil Fertility in Times of High Input Costs"

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:11:00 +0000

The second presentation from the March 23, 2010 meeting of the Piedmont Forage and Grassland Council is from another nationally renowned researcher, Dr. Chris Teutsch. Dr. Teutsch conducts his research on forage and grassland management at Virginia Tech University. His presentation provides details on maintaining and, when necessary, building soil fertility to optimize forage productivity (georgiaforages025.mov)

"Opportunities with Improved Forage Varieties"

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:46:00 +0000

This is one of four presentations from the Piedmont Forage and Grassland Council which met on March 23, 2010 in Pendleton, South Carolina. It was a very informative session that highlighted some successful production and grazing strategies. Dr. Joe Bouton is a nationally renowned researcher in the forage and grassland management field. His presentation highlights some of the major advances in forage breeding and discusses some of the newest forage varieties on the market. (georgiaforages024.mov)

2009-10 Hay and Forage Outlook

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 01:11:00 +0000

This lecture was given on 7 Dec. 2009 at the Georgia Farm Bureau's Annual Meeting. This presentation covers national and state inventories of beef and dairy cattle and horses; trends in forage quality in Georgia; and an opportunity to expand the commercial hay market in Georgia by focusing on Relative Forage Quality (RFQ)-based grades. (georgiaforages023.mov)

Bermudagrass Management for Improved Production and Stand Maintenance - Part III

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:59:00 +0000

This is the third and final part of this presentation on the management practices recommended for bermudagrass. This presentation covers fertilization needs for stand maintenance in bermudagrass and the effect that harvesting methods, extended grazing, and late winter/early spring burning has on bermudagrass yields and persistence. This presentation also highlights some of the latest research on the subject at the University of Georgia and the USDA-ARS station in Tifton. (georgiaforages022.mov)

Bermudagrass Management for Improved Production and Stand Maintenance - Part II

georgiaforages@gmail.com (Dennis W. Hancock, PhD., Extension Forage Agronomist) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 00:41:00 +0000

This is the second in a three-part presentation that provides a rather broad coverage of the management practices recommended for bermudagrass. This presentation covers bermudagrass fertilization for high yields and discusses issues with nitrate (NO3) accumulation in bermudagrass. This presentation also highlights some of the latest research on the subject at the University of Georgia and the USDA-ARS station in Tifton. (georgiaforages021.mov)