Effect of Stocking Rate on Animal Performance and Diet Quality While Grazing Cornstalks

Authors

Jennifer A. Gigax, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Crystal D. Buckner, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
L. Aaron Stalker Stalker, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Terry Klopfenstein, Universitiy of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Simon J. van Donk, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2011

Comments

Published in 2011 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Published by the Agricultural Research Division, University of Nebraska Extension, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Copyright © 2011 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Four treatments were used to evaluate levels of corn residue removal on nutrient quality and cattle performance over time. Treatments included no removal of residue, stocking rates of one or two animal unit months/acre (AUM/acre), or baling. Residue samples were taken before and after grazing from all treatment paddocks to determine residue amounts, and were analyzed for OM, CP, NDF, and in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD). Cattle weights and BCS scores were recorded prior to and at the conclusion of the trial. Cattle consumed husk and leaf material first, followed by cobs at a lesser rate. Husk and leaf material had greater digestibility and CP than stem or cob material. A decrease in cattle performance was observed in the 2 AUM/acre treatment group.