The maximum amount of distillers grains in a diet should not exceed one-third of the ration on a dry matter basis. So 50 percent distillers in the ration on a dry matter basis is more than what I would use. Sulfur content can be variable, and you need to get an analysis from the plant to get an idea on the amount of sulfur to avoid the problems that high sulfur can cause. Get a good mix and all calves have equal access to the ration, there should not be a problem. Feedlot managers will add thiamine to counteract high sulfur, especially in diets that have distillers grains and grain. Distillers grains will be 10 to 12 percent fat, and I recommend when developing diets not to exceed 5 to 6 percent fat in the diet. At the level mentioned above you will not exceed 5 percent fat in the total diet. Distiller grains are high in phosphorus, and you will need to supplement calcium to avoid water belly. There is a byproduct supplement mix that works well in these diets. Alfalfa alone would not be the feed of choice for me to use with distillers grains. Not that alfalfa is not a good quality feed, but in this situation, if that is the only forage source, the quality is too high. The diet will be high in protein, more than what will be needed, and calves will constantly have loose stools. If you are using dried distillers grains and forage, the ration will be on the dry side. If you could handle and feed wet distillers grains, this would add some moisture to the diet. Distillers grains is an excellent feed. Our studies indicated that it is 1.25 times the energy value of corn even in high forage diets. The high energy content is due to the high fat content. Take care of the items mentioned above and work cattle up slowly on the new diets. The feedlot industry has included distillers at 15 to 20 percent of the diet on a dry matter basis.

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