Utilizing cornstalks in beef cow diets

Stored winter forages are a hot commodity for the cow herd, leaving many cattlemen considering harvesting more cornstalk bales for feed than normal. Get more out of this low-quality, cost effective forage resource by following good management practices during harvest, storage and when feeding.
 
Bale within four weeks of harvest to capture the highest potential quality. Due to an increased ratio of stalks to husk and leaves, the feed value of baled cornstalks is lower than if grazed. Although mowing and raking tend to make baling easier, this increases the amount of dirt and ash content…