Livestock feed testing becomes more critical as drought persists, and farmers should know the quality of their feed.
That's the opinion of Utah State University Extension Agency official Clyde Hurst in Sevier County, who announces a testing program will be conducted beginning at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12, at the Venice Feed Yard in Venice."Limited irrigation water has also limited alfalfa production, which means prices are not going to come down much and availability will be a concern," Hurst said. He also predicted there will be limited forage production on non-irrigated fall and winter pastures and ranges.
"It is expensive to waste nutrients by feeding more of one than is needed," the agent said. "It is also expensive to feed a ration that is short on required nutrients."
Hurst said the only sure way to know the quality of feed is by testing. The Sept. 12 testing will continue until noon or longer if there is sufficient volume to extend the time. Fees of $8 for grains, $10 for hay and $15 for wet forages will be charged.