Media Contact: Julie Christensen, U of M Extension, (612) 626-4077, reuve007@umn.edu

Flood-damaged feeds, forages pose risks for livestock

ST. PAUL, Minn. (8/24/2007)-- The recent catastrophic rain event has created potential problems for livestock producers. There are both excess rain effects and flooding effects, according to University of Minnesota Extension dairy educator Jim Paulson.

Paulson says excess rain effects are similar whether it is one inch or 10 inches, but the effects are more extreme with greater rain amounts.

Stored feed must be checked for moisture. Hay that is stored outside is the most vulnerable to heating and molding, and some may need to be discarded. Paulson also recommends checking stored grain for wet spots and heating. Ear corn in cribs can also get wet from rain and should be checked.

Feeding moldy feeds of any type is risky and can be unhealthy to animals. Work with your nutritionist to evaluate your feeds and consider adding a toxin binder to the feed.

Flooded fields pose new problems. There is very little research on harvesting silt-contaminated forages as silage or hay. Silt-contaminated forages are at greater risk of poor fermentation, clostridial fermentation and excessive ash levels. Clostridial fermentation may contain deadly Botulism toxins.

Forage crops that were totally submerged should not be used for feed but rather chopped back onto the field. Silt contamination may also lead to greater risk of molds and mycotoxin contamination prior to harvest and also Listeria bacteria may be present. As a result, Paulson suggests livestock producers consider the following steps:

• Assess crops soon for extent of flood damage and silt deposits.
• Consider harvesting as dry hay for forages or grain for corn rather than silage.
• If harvesting corn for silage, cut above the silt line, use a good innoculant and follow other silage guidelines.
• Test the silage and forages before feeding for nutritive value, ash and molds.
• Work with your nutritionist. Check feed inventories and plan ahead.

Source: Jim Paulson, Extension dairy educator.

URL: http:// www.extension.umn.edu/extensionnews/2005/2007risksforlivestock.html  This page was updated Aug. 24, 2007 .
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