Alternative Forages for Small Ruminants

By: Dr. Ed Bonnette, Ph.D., Companion Animal Nutritionist

“Forage shortages” has been a common term used by animal producers in many parts of the country as the result of the drought this year.

One option that is commonly overlooked, especially for sheep, goats and other ruminants is corn stocks and other crop residue left over after harvesting. Ruminant animals in early to mid gestation periods can use this readily available form of forage with a little extra nutrient fortification and a few management skills.

A typical acre of corn residue can yield up to 60 animal unit grazing days (i.e. 60 days of grazing for a 1000 pound animal). A typical animal will first eat the grain left by the combine (one report suggest that the average combine loses 3 bushels to the acre), then move on to the husk and leaves and then finally go after the cobs and stalks.

Several management practices can be used to help extend how much of the residue is used by animals. Placing an electric fence around the entire field will allow the animals to consume all the forage but it will also result in the largest amount of cover left on the field from tramping. A moveable electric fence will allow more control to how much area the animals can travel, which may be advantageous if there were spots of excess field losses. If using a fence is not feasible, the residue can be baled. This should be done as quickly as possible after harvesting but only when the moisture is under 30%. Place the bales in a well-drained area, with the butt end towards the prevailing wind and hopefully in a place where they will not need to be moved for feeding.

Before placing sheep into a cornfield, they should receive a vaccination (and 10 –14 day boosters) for overeating. Also, fill the animals on hay before letting into the field. This will prevent them from initially eating too much. If there is quite a bit of corn loss in the field, it is a good idea to limit the sheep to an hour or two a day for a while to allow them to adjust to the corn.

In the first 2/3 of gestation, a source of salt, water and a source of vitamins, minerals and protein like Crystalyx® brand Sheep-lyx™ or CSG-20™ (cow-sheep-goat) is all that is needed. A source of medium to low quality, long stem hay (not moldy or dusty) will also help with increased feed efficiency. Towards the last 1/3 of gestation, the amount and quality of the ration must be increased as this is the time of fastest growth for a fetus.

So with a little management, some electric wire and a barrel of Crystalyx, you can have healthy mothers and help develop strong fetuses while stalking up on forages.

From an article by Glen Arnold @ The Ohio State University Extension Service

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