Perceptions of crop consultants and producers on grazing corn residue in Nebraska

Authors

Jordan L. Cox, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kristen M. Ulmer, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Manir Rakkar Rakkar, University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Lisa Franzen-Castle, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Humberto Blanco-Canqui, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Mary Drewnoski, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Jim C. MacDonald, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Richard J. Rasby, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2017

Citation

2017 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. University of Nebraska Extension MP104. Lincoln, NE.

Comments

© 2016 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

A survey was conducted to explore factors influencing corn residue grazing recommendations by crop consultants and producer practices in Nebraska. Approximately 80% of consultants recommended grazing corn residue, while 63% of producers allowed grazing. Of producers who did not graze, about 50% cited concerns related to soil compaction, inconvenience (lack of water, fencing, and land/equipment damage), and lack of access to livestock. Producers who allowed and consultants who recommended grazing were more likely to perceive that grazing residue increased subsequent grain yields. Most consultants (56.0%) and producers (43.8%) reported making decisions in regards to grazing based on their own observation. Findings from this survey can be used to design extension education and research involving the impacts of grazing corn residue on subsequent grain yield and soil attributes. Extension could also be a conduit linking cattle owners with crop producers that reported not having access to livestock for grazing.