How do I adjust beef cow rations to the new feed supply?
Beef Cow Rations: In most Midwest beef cow rations, the principle nutrient needed is likely to be energy, except if the co-product is used in conjunction with cornstalks. When co-products are used to supplement hay rations it is best to compare and price the co-product on a TDN (Total Digestible Nutrient) basis. For instance, if hay is selling at $100 per ton and has 15% moisture and 55% TDN, the cost per pound of hay TDN would be $.107. On the other hand, for instance, if dried distillers grains were $80 per ton and has 10% moisture and 90% TDN, the cost per pound of DDG TDN would be $.049 per pound of TDN. Of course other considerations have to be taken into account, like storage losses, feed waste and method of feeding the different products.” 2) But what about ration consistency? Nutritional values for corn are steady, but you’re unsure about the distillers’ grains. Check the Iowa beef newsletter “Ration consistency is important for high rates of production. For feedlot cattle mana
