Pasture evaluation checklists for fall and beyond
Ohio State University Extension specialist Emma Matcham provides seasonal pasture evaluation checklists for fall, winter and spring. Learn how soil sampling, weed scouting, and stem density checks can help repair pastures and set up your farm for healthy spring growth.
To cut or not to cut: Weighing the risks of making a late hay...
Facing a delayed hay harvest? Ohio State University Extension educator Allen Gahler weighs the risks of late-season alfalfa cutting, offers advice on making balage over dry hay, and outlines crucial moisture monitoring steps to prevent spontaneous combustion and hay fires.
Fall soil testing: Optimize field nutrients and fertilizer plans
Fall is an ideal time to conduct soil testing for fields and pastures. Checking soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels helps boost crop yields, prevent livestock health issues like grass tetany, and maintain proper fertilizer application records under Ohio law.
Why you should evaluate stored forages after flooding
Recent heavy rainfall and flooding across Ohio have created serious risks for stored forages like hay and silage. Ohio State University Extension educator Dean Kreager explains the dangers of mold, toxins, and heating in water-saturated bales, and shares tips for evaluating and disposing of damaged livestock feed.
Pasture management after storms
Heavy summer storms and flooding can quickly ruin pastures and endanger livestock. Ohio State University Extension Educator Sandra D. Trushel shares key steps for storm recovery, including removing stock from saturated soils, clearing hazardous debris, preventing foot rot, and testing pasture recovery.
Get back to the basics when restoring weed-infested hay fields
Struggling with heavily weed-infested hay fields? Ohio State Extension educator John Yost breaks down the essential basics for successful field restoration—from soil testing and seed-to-soil contact to working backward from frost dates to build a realistic reseeding timeline.
Stock density vs. stocking rate: What’s the difference?
What is the difference between stock density and stocking rate? Ohio State University Extension Educator Josh Winters breaks down these essential grazing management concepts, explains how to calculate animal units, and shows how a grazing stick helps measure dry matter for optimal pasture output.
Could a GPS collar replace a roll of wire? Exploring remote grazing technologies
Remote grazing technologies like virtual fencing and GPS livestock tracking offer potential labor savings and better pasture management. Learn the key benefits, costs, and connectivity challenges producers must consider before adopting precision livestock tools on their farm from Ohio State Extension's Heather Neikirk.
3 strategies to overcome summer grazing challenges
Struggling with weeds, overgrazing or the midsummer pasture slump? Sandra Trushel of Ohio State University Extension outlines how to use flexible rotational grazing to break selective grazing cycles, fight weeds, and protect your grass through dry July and August weather.
Shade and water: A cow’s best friends
High summer temperatures and heat indexes over 100 degrees put livestock at risk. Ohio State University Extension Educator Catelyn Turner shares practical tips on utilizing shade and managing water sources to reduce cattle heat stress, protect weight gains, and maintain reproductive health.
