Dry conditions are still affecting forage production throughout the state of South Dakota. Dealing with drought conditions when feeding dairy and beef cattle can bring serious challenges to production including a short or unavailable hay supply in Western areas of the state.
Beginning this week, we are going to see corn being chopped for silage. Here are some tips and guidelines that will help producers get the best out of this crop. Corn for silage should be harvested between 60-70% moisture, which is ideal for optimum fermentation and a rapid drop in pH to preserve the feed value of the crop.