News — Grazing

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...

Feeding and Managing the Spring Lamb by Jeff Kaufman, Ph.D., PAS Lambing can happen in different seasons, but spring lambing falls around Easter and can add some additional excitement to the official ending of winter. When born in the spring, lambs thrive due to the mild temperatures and the fast-growing quality pastures. Similarly, the lambs are also growing fast, so their nutrition needs to focus on their growth and also their health. That fast growth means they have a high requirement for energy and protein in their diet, and a well-managed pasture with other diet considerations for these lambs is important for...

Farmers Exchange is proud to offer NovaGraz, Corteva’s newest herbicide designed for effective broadleaf weed control without lingering soil residual activity. NovaGraz is perfect for farmers and ranchers who need flexibility in their pasture management, featuring a short plant-back interval—just 14 days for forage grasses and 30 days for forage legumes—so you can quickly return to productive grazing. Plus, with a 90-day crop rotation window, it’s an excellent choice for areas where extended residual control isn’t desired. Whether you're managing pastures or native plantings, NovaGraz delivers powerful weed control while maintaining the flexibility you need. Visit White County Farmers Exchange today to learn more!   https://www.corteva.us/products-and-solutions/pasture-management/novagraz.html

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...