This post first appeared on Missouri River Red Angus' Facebook page and is reprinted with permission.
Why do ranchers hay? Isn't that related to farming?
Honestly, it's a great question and a question many consumers may wonder if there is generational disconnect from farming and ranching in their families OR if they've never experienced the ranching lifestyle.
Below is a list of reasons why ranchers may be out in those fields:
High Quality Forage:
Haying enables ranchers to harvest and preserve high-quality forage, such as alfalfa, clover, and grasses, at their peak nutritional value. This ensures that livestock are fed with nutrient-rich feed throughout the year, leading to healthier animals and potentially increased production levels.
Reduced Dependency on Weather:
Ranchers often face uncertainties related to weather conditions--ESPECIALLY in good ol' North Dakota. 😅 Haying allows ranchers to store hay as a reserve, providing a stable source of feed during adverse weather, droughts, or harsh winters (what, we never get any of those, ha!) when grazing may not be sufficient.
Year-Round Feed:
By efficiently storing hay, ranchers can maintain a consistent and balanced diet for their livestock all year round. This not only supports animal health but can also lead to better reproduction rates and enhanced overall performance.
Cost-Effective:
Haying can prove to be a cost-effective method of feeding livestock, especially when compared to purchasing commercial feed alternatives. It offers a sustainable way to utilize excess vegetation, reducing waste and optimizing resources.
Flexibility in Land Management:
With haying, ranchers have the flexibility to manage their pastures more efficiently. They can rotate grazing areas, allow for regrowth, and maintain the health of their land while ensuring the well-being of their livestock.
So next time you see a rancher out in the hay fields, they're more than likely creating some high-quality feed that they can utilize year round, all while helping manage land and promote livestock wellness! 🐂
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Whitney Wold is the District 8 representative on the NDFB Promotion and Education Committee. She and her husband Blake run a fourth generation cow/calf operation called Missouri River Red Angus.