Drought-Stricken Farmers Turn to Unconventional Feed Option: Grazing Standing Corn

In regions affected by drought, Nebraska farmers are exploring an unconventional method to feed their cattle: grazing standing corn. Pasture and hay are scarce due to the dry conditions, while corn prices are below production costs. This has prompted consideration of utilizing drought-stressed corn as a feed option.

When considering grazing drought-stressed corn, it's essential to check herbicide labels for any restrictions. Nitrates can be a concern, and cattle should not be turned out hungry. They will self-adapt by eating the developing ears and tops first, then acclimate to eating higher nitrate areas lower in the plant.

Protein is higher when grazing corn in its vegetative stage than as it matures. Depending on the maturity of the corn and cattle's needs, protein supplementation may be necessary. Strip grazing standing corn can provide a competitively priced feed option compared to buying hay or other feeds, including equipment and labor costs.

When grazing mature standing corn in the fall and winter, limiting daily access will help utilize grain efficiently and reduce acidosis risk. The amount of area allocated daily depends on estimated corn yield and cattle nutrient needs. For example, 100 dry cows would require 0.15 acres per day to meet a target of 13 pounds of grain consumption.