The past few days have been dark, gloomy, and rainy in Clinton County, and although we have had some rain, the rain couldn’t be considered timely. Crops are ready to harvest, so now rain only adds issues like increased fungus in the grain, and muddy conditions for farm equipment.
Although it is too late for the crops to benefit from rain, it is not too late for cool season perennial pastures, which make up most of the pasture in southern Ohio. Cool season perennial pastures are primarily fescue in this region, orchard grass, Kentucky bluegrass, and timothy also fall into this category. As we move into fall and temperatures take a dive, this will encourage cool season grasses to have another growth opportunity, recovering from the hottest portion of summer. With the rain we are getting right now, moisture is provided for these cool season grasses to continue to grow in October and some of November. This is beneficial for livestock producers who want to stockpile winter forages for the cattle, sheep, or goats. This rain will also help alfalfa stands with overwintering as they are also given an opportunity to grow and fortify before the winter months ahead.
For producers who were not able to get enough hay from their ground this summer, this winter could come with high hay prices that make it difficult to make a profit. It is encouraging however that cattle prices remain high throughout the United States, this may act as a buffer for some cattle producers that have spring calves to market. For many livestock producers it would be meaningful and cost-effective to look at alternative feeds for their animals. For information on Considering by-products and alternative feedstuffs beyond hay visit our Ohio BEEF Cattle Letter at : Considering By-products and Alternative Feedstuff beyond hay for ruminants | Ohio BEEF Cattle Letter (osu.edu).
For livestock owners who need to buy hay and need assistance with finding a seller please visit the new Ohio Department of Agriculture “Ohio Hay Directory”: Ohio Hay Directory (office.com).
These times can be incredibly stressful for Ohio farmers. If you are a farmer who needs assistance with mental health during this difficult time, please visit the OSU Extension Rural and Farm Stress website at: Rural and Farm Stress | OSU Extension for resources to help you. You can also call my office at 937-382-0901 and I am here to help you as well.
