Producers Turn to Corn Grazing Strategy Amid Drought-Stricken Regions

Drought-stricken agricultural regions are facing severe feed challenges heading into fall and winter. Nebraska Extension Educator Aaron Berger warns that reduced pasture growth, poor forage production, and lower hay yields have created concern about how livestock herds will be fed during the colder months.

To combat this issue, some producers are turning to grazing cattle on standing corn and harvested corn residue. This strategy can help extend grazing opportunities while reducing overall feed costs.

A common guideline suggests that every 100 bushels of corn yield can provide approximately 25-30 grazing days for a 1,300-pound cow through residue consumption alone. However, adding controlled access to standing corn can significantly increase available feed, with total grazing days increasing by 1.5-2 times compared to residue grazing alone.

Corn has become one of the more economical energy sources available for cattle feeding, especially when forage prices remain high due to drought conditions and grain prices are near production costs.