Dryland Cover Crops as a Grazing Option for Beef Cattle

Authors

Alex H. Titlow, University of Nebraska–Lincoln Panhandle Research and Extension Center
Jake A. Hansen, University of Nebraska–Lincoln Panhandle Research and Extension CenterFollow
Matt K. Luebbe Luebbe, University of Nebraska–Lincoln Panhandle Research and Extension CenterFollow
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska–LincolnFollow
Karla H. Jenkins, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2014

Citation

2014 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report, UNL Extension MP99, pp. 56-58.

Comments

Copyright © 2014 University of Nebraska.

Abstract

A two-year grazing study was conducted to evaluate forage quality and utilization of cover crops (CC) in dryland cropping systems compared to crested wheatgrass pastures (CWP). The CC mixture consisted of oats, peas and turnips planted in March with a no-till drill. Both CC and CWP were grazed during the month of June. Total tract dry matter digestibility and CP were greater for CC compared to CWP while NDF and ADF of CC were less. The CC was observed to have greater forage quality over both years and may produce similar amounts of forage as crested wheatgrass pastures allowing deferred grazing on native pasture.