Colder weather means it is time to start thinking about supplementation strategies for spring-calving herds. The change in forage availability and quality may require an energy or protein supplement to meet cow nutrient requirements. However, supplementation can be expensive, and thus the decision should be carefully analyzed to ensure the most cost-effective program is in place. Since supplementation is typically the biggest operational expense, yet an important part in maintaining good body condition prior to calving, here are a couple of considerations to help improve your bottom line.
1. Consider what is needed:
Determining whether forage is providing adequate nutrition to meet the cow’s nutrient requirements is the first step. Many factors can influence this dynamic (i.e., season, stage of production, intake, etc.). Even if forage supply is adequate, protein may be limited.
Start by estimating forage quality (i.e., records, observation, or sample analysis) to determine the amount of nutrients cows will obtain. Once forage analysis has been collected and cow nutrient requirements have been established, simply compare to determine if a deficiency exists.
2. Consider delivery method and frequency:
A number of options are available when designing a supplementation program. Selecting the right method and frequency of supplementation delivery is vital to employing the most cost-effective program. Hand-feeding provides a tool for gathering cows and decreases intake variability but will likely increase labor cost associated with delivery.
Interval feeding can reduce fuel expense and labor. A 30-percent-or-greater crude protein (CP) supplement can be fed as few as one to two times per week, and a 20- percent-or-less CP supplement should be fed at least every other day.
3. Consider evaluating the alternatives:
An effective program will factor in the cost of available supplements. Hand-fed supplements (i.e., cubes or cake) allow more flexibility for least-cost formulation. Consider evaluating available supplements on a cost per unit of nutrient provided.
An example cost calculation:
30 percent CP supplement at $250 per ton = (2,000 pounds x 30 percent CP = 600 pounds CP) (600 pounds CP / $250 per ton) = 42 cents per pound CP.
Cost per pound of nutrient simplifies choosing the most economical supplement. The goal of minimizing supplemental feed cost is the common link among each consideration. It is often a challenge to decide which supplementation system best fits your operation.
There are a range of solutions; pick the system that provides the targeted amount of nutrients and minimizes costs.
