News — Forage Testing

Nitrate Poisoning: What Livestock Producers Need to Know Submitted by: Gilbert Barrett   As we move through the growing season, livestock producers acrossNortheast Georgia and the Southeast should remain aware of the risk of nitratepoisoning in both grazed and harvested forages. While nitrate accumulation is oftenassociated with drought-stressed crops, several common forage species can developdangerous nitrate levels under a variety of growing conditions. Forages Most Commonly Associated with Nitrate AccumulationSeveral warm-season annual grasses are particularly prone to accumulating nitrates,including:SorghumSudangrassSorghum-Sudangrass HybridsJohnsongrassPearl MilletCrabgrassHowever, producers should not overlook perennial forages. Under certain conditions,nitrate levels can also become elevated in:Tall FescueBermudagrassAnnual RyegrassSmall Grains such as...

Precautions to Take Before Grazing and Cutting Johnson Grass Hay in the Fall Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) is a highly productive forage, often used for hay and grazing. However, it requires careful management in the fall due to potential toxicity risks that can endanger livestock. To ensure safety and maximize the forage value, here are essential precautions to follow before grazing or cutting Johnson grass hay in the fall. Beware of Prussic Acid (Cyanide) Poisoning Johnson grass contains compounds that can release prussic acid (hydrocyanic acid) under certain conditions. This toxin can be lethal to livestock, especially after events such...