Corn-Residue Grazing May Fill Energy Gap Amid Drought

Corn-residue grazing could be an energy source for farmers this year due to severe drought conditions impacting the Midwest. Corn harvest is approaching quickly, and dry conditions and heat may start traditional harvesting sooner than usual.

With forage production on rangeland and pasture significantly reduced, hay yields in many places are only one-third to one-half of the long-term average, and in some areas even less. This means that many cow-calf producers will have limited fall and winter grazing available, as well as a shortage of hay.

Aaron Berger from the University of Nebraska notes that corn residue grazing, especially on irrigated pivots, is likely to be in high demand. However, he also warns that demand will exceed supply in many locations.