PRESS RELEASE
CONTACT: Ben J. Character, DVM
1-877-662-5838
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DROUGHT RESULTS IN NEED FOR NEW FEED OPTIONS
This summer’s drought conditions in Alabama are forcing many producers to consider alternative feed options. Hay shortages are widespread due to the lack of sufficient rain to maintain pastures. What grass was available in the spring, in many places, has already been consumed by animals grazing the premise.
“I am being asked everywhere I go if I know of any hay that is available,” says Dr. Ben Character, local veterinarian and owner of Mobile Veterinary Service*. “Many producers, and horse owners, are looking to other ways to feed their animals this winter.”
Another way animal owners are dealing with the situation is by reducing the number of animals on their premises. Even though the sale of cattle can help reduce the pressure on producers to feed this winter and in the long term will help market prices, Dr. John Anderson,Mississippi State agricultural economist, is quoted in Veterinary Practice News as saying that “in the short term, the forced sale of more cattle will hurt, especially at the local market levels.”
When asked what other options producers are considering, Dr. Character responds, “Many savvy cattle producers routinely utilize some form of winter grazing. Winter grazing this year will be extremely important in getting Alabama cattle through the winter. Last year in West Alabama, many areas had about a 5-week mini-drought right at the time that many producers had planted their grazing, resulting in poor stands. Hopefully, this year that won’t happen again.”
While many producers are accustomed to planting annual ryegrass for winter grazing, there other options available, says Dr. Character. “Using oats and wheat can complement annual rye or fescue by providing earlier grazing.” In addition to this suggestion, extension agents are encouraging producers to go ahead and begin comparing costs on byproduct feeds such as soybean hulls and corn gluten. It is likely that for some, a combination of all three – winter grazing, byproduct feeding, and culling – will be required to weather this winter.
* Because all services are provided on site, they are by appointment only. For more information, or to schedule an appointment you can contact Mobile Veterinary Service at 1-877-MOBLVET (1-877-662-5838) or through the practice website