Plan now for forage shortages

After the long wet winter and late spring many farmers are behind with field work while those who graze their stock have also had to delay turnout.

“It’s vital to measure what is in the field and what you have left in the clamp to pre-empt any shortfalls,” said ForFarmers Technical Manager Richard Greasley. “As well as diminishing supplies now, the signs are that this year’s first cut silages may not yield the quality or quantity we want, which will of course impact forage stocks going into next winter.

“It’s important that farmers are aware that they have options if they are facing shortages. Our forage team can advise on the best alternative crops to suit your farm and help to fill anticipated gaps,” he explained.

“Moist feeds are also a fantastic option to extend forage stocks now and in later months. ForFarmers offers SelcoPlus, AmyPlus and MashPro 30 grains which are available now and offer good value if clamped now with first cut silages.”

All three are made from co-products, have a fresh aroma, are highly palatable and work well as part of a partial or total mixed ration.

SelcoPlus is a co-product from a Yorkshire-based manufacturer that produces sweeteners and syrups. The product includes wheat syrup, wheat feed and a bespoke acid preservative.

“It has dry matter content of 46% so a little goes a long way and it can be ensiled or stacked on farm,” said Richard. “It’s a great source of starch, sugars, protein and net energy.”

Similarly, AmyPlus contains co-products from cereal processing, brewing and distilling. It is high in energy and good quality protein. Meanwhile, MashPro 30 is nutritionally similar to Brewers Grains, but substantially higher in crude protein and slightly higher dry matter. It also has a finer texture as the malted barley is ground rather than left whole prior to the brewing process.

As with all feeding stuffs, these products should be introduced gradually over a seven-to-14-day period.

“Above all we want farmers to know that we can help address these potential shortages,” concluded Richard. “For further information or advice on the best option for your situation contact your ForFarmers account manager.”