Many publications are available through the extension service outlining ration formulation. In addition, computer programs make ration formulation much easier than hand calculations.
Most extension offices and feed suppliers have ration balancing software. Before a ration can be developed the producer needs to provide the following information:
-- types of feed available,
-- the class and size of livestock to be fed, and
-- weight gain goals.
The extension office can balance a ration showing how much of which feed is needed to accomplish the producer’s goal.
Standard book values for the different feeds can be used for this process, but it is better if the producer samples his own feeds and sends them in for analysis. A hay probe is available at most extension offices for producer use.
