Effect of Corn Stalk Grazing and Baling on Cattle Performance and Irrigation Needs

Authors

Simon van Donk, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Adam L. McGee, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Terry J. Klopfenstein Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
L. Aaron Stalker, West Central Research and Extension CenterFollow

Date of this Version

2012

Comments

Published in 2012 Beef Cattle Report (2012) p. 8-10. Copyright © 2012 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

The effects of removing corn residue by grazing and baling on continuous corn production were investigated. Initial data showed a trend toward keeping more water in the soil in the treatment with the most residue left on the field (no grazing or baling), but there was no effect of either grazing or baling on subsequent corn yield. Water conservation resulting from maintaining residue on the field may help reduce pumping costs or increase yields when water is limited. However, this benefit is likely to be outweighed by feed cost savings or grazing rental income, and good cow performance.