Use of the NRC Model for Evaluating Nutrient Balances of Grazing Beef Cattle

Authors

Greg Lardy, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Don C. Adams, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Dennis R. Brink, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

January 1998

Comments

Published in Nebraska Beef Cattle Report 1998, published by Agricultural Research Division, University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension, and Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Abstract

Research conducted at the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory evaluated the National Research Council Beef Cattle Nutrient Requirements Model. Equations describing seasonal variability in CP, IVOMD, escape protein and degradable intake protein of native Sandhills range and subirrigated meadow were developed. Estimates of TDN and protein degradability for feedstuffs commonly used by Nebraska cow-calf producers are given. The NRC Model generally predicted nutrient balances in agreement with research trials. Microbial efficiency is lower for less-digestible forages. The NRC model is useful for evaluating grazed diets when accurate estimates of protein degradability, digestibility and intake are available.