Released April 29, 2011
NEOSHO, Mo. - Jodie Pennington, small ruminant educator with Lincoln University Extension, says evaluating forage conditions and inventory is an important spring job for all goat and sheep producers.
"You have to take a look at and consider both the quality and the quantity of forage available and determine the intake of our goats and sheep," said Pennington.
It is also important to graze fescue pastures early but wait until they are at least three to four inches tall.
"If pastures are very short in the spring, consider feeding hay for an extra two weeks so that the grass is growing well before grazing," said Pennington.
When it comes to managing forage for goats and sheep, Pennington has some other timely tips as warm weather begins.
- Fertilize according to soil test recommendations.
- Clip pastures to keep the grass in the vegetative stage of growth so that fiber content is acceptable and intake of forage is maximized.
- Discontinue supplemental feeding to does when pasture is good or economics dictate. Monitor body condition of animals to determine when supplemental feeding is needed.
- Monitor growth of pastures and stage of development of plants so that quality of forage is good for either pasture or hay when excess forage is available.
- If annual millet or sorghum-sudan grass hybrids are available, graze all lactating does or ewes on best forage.
- Watch for signs of drought and plan cutting of forage for hay or replanting of annuals for extra forage as needed.
- Feed on high spots when wet and in areas of good footing.
- Rotate pastures at least every month if possible to minimize exposure to internal parasites
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University of Missouri, http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/swnews/queries/showall.idc?story_num=5719
Source: Jodie A. Pennington, (417) 455-9500
Writer: David Burton, 417-881-8909, burtond@missouri.edu
