Forages & Pastures

2025 Regional Crop and Pest Management Update locations and dates announced

Published on October 29, 2024
Register now for one of six in-person Crop and Pest Management Updates scheduled across Michigan this winter.
Pricing standing corn silage

Published on August 23, 2024
How to find a starting point for negotiations between buyer and seller.
Making the most of low hay yields

Published on August 7, 2023
In need of more hay? Protect what you have first.
Dealing with drought-stressed forages

Published on July 6, 2023
Do you have a plan for your drought-stressed forage fields?
Thrips, aphids and mites: Piercing-sucking pests that thrive in dry weather

Published on July 5, 2023
Due to the warm, dry nature of this summer, concerns of insect problems are on the horizon for field crops.
Managing your hay needs in a drought year

Published on June 30, 2023
Dry conditions present concerns of a smaller hay supply and higher prices.
Pricing standing forage

Published on June 27, 2023
How to determine forage prices - finding a starting point for short-term sales.
Drought resources for Michigan farmers

Published on June 15, 2023
A look at options for managing drought in the short and long term.
Managing perennial pastures to withstand drought

Published on June 24, 2021
Plan ahead to ensure grazing lasts as long as possible.
Forage Management & Supply in a Drought

The MSU Extension Field Crops Virtual Breakfast on June 17, 2021, focuses on forage management and supply in a drought, presented by Kim Cassida, MSU forage specialist.
Fall and winter drought could cause challenges in crops

Published on April 22, 2021
Below normal precipitation during the fall and winter has resulted in a decline in groundwater levels. Producers need to prepare for potential challenges, especially if they irrigate crops.
Feed management: Drought stressed corn silage

Published on October 3, 2018
Choppers are out on multiple fields across Michigan, but what adjustment are needed when chopping and feeding drought stressed corn?
Make a plan for drought-stressed corn silage in 2018

Published on August 28, 2018
Hot, dry weather conditions can damage corn and have the potential for toxic levels of nitrates in corn silage.
Hay supplies tighter than earlier reports due to 2012 summer drought

Published on January 16, 2013
Latest USDA reports show ending hay stocks are significantly lower in Michigan.
Corn stalks provide alternative forage for beef and dairy farms

Published on October 5, 2012
Having enough feed and forage for cattle farms this winter may include some feed alternatives like corn stover/stalks.
Fall management tips for drought-stressed hay fields

Published on September 13, 2012
We can’t control Mother Nature, but can manage the drought-stressed hay fields and pastures to minimize further damage for the coming years.
Alternative feed for cattle to help ease the drought shortage

Published on August 24, 2012
A program that focused on corn stalks as an alternative feed source helps crop producers put a value on the corn stover that cattle farms may need.
Understanding the drought through the Evaporative Stress Index

Published on August 9, 2012
A look at the Evaporative Stress Index explains patterns of water availability and moisture stress across large areas.
Feeding round bales to horses during drought

Published on July 31, 2012
Michigan horse owners should consider feeding round bales this winter if there is a hay shortage due to drought.
Feeding different cuttings or species of hay to horses during drought

Published on July 31, 2012
Michigan horse owners may need to consider feeding different types of hay this winter and early spring.