Victor L. Martin, Agronomy, Kansas State University, South Central Experiment Field, 10702 S. Dean Road, Hutchinson, KS 67501 and William F. Heer, 10620 S Dean Rd., Kansas State University, Kansas State University, South Central Experiment Field, Hutchinson, KS 67501-7823.
Beef production is the largest segment of the agricultural economy in Kansas. Before finishing at feed yards cattle are typically pastured on annual and/or perennial forages and supplemented as needed by a variety of hay feed stocks and grain. While cattle prices have increased so have costs associated with beef production. Grain demand for ethanol production has dramatically increased grain prices. Drought and demand have significantly increased hay costs, particularly for alfalfa. And producers are seeking ways to decrease grain at finishing controlling costs. Fall through spring pasture is typically hard red winter wheat, however, forage production has been variable due to drought and seed stocks are tight. Wheat forage production also declines rapidly after mid-March. Livestock producers need options for annual pasture production that are economical and maximize beef production. For the last three years, this study has examined winter and spring cereals for their potential forage production in southern Kansas. The study is located at the South Central Experiment Field, Kansas State University, Hutchinson Kansas. Winter cereal species include hard red winter wheat, winter triticale, winter barley, and annual rye. Spring cereal plantings include spring oats, spring wheat, spring triticale, winter triticale, and hard red winter wheat. Studies were in an RCBD with four replications. Varieties were selected to represent a diverse sample of traditional and newer releases. Fertility was applied according to current K-State recommendations for forage production. Seeding rate was two bushels per acre using a plot drill under conventional tillage. Plots were monitored for standard plant growth parameters and harvested at average milk stage with a Carter flail forage harvester. Results indicate that these nontraditional forages provide an excellent source of forage and could extend the traditional grazing season by 45 to 60 days.
