Trial Location: Fairview Research Farm, NW-5-82-3-W6 on RR #35, MD of Fairview
Research Coordinator: Dr. Akim Omokanye
From: Peace Country Beef & Forage Association 2015 Annual Report
An important focus by PCBFA has been reducing feed costs by examining different options for extending the grazing season in the Peace. For some years now, corn grazing using low heat unit hybrids has been a big part of PCBFA’s extension service. Producers with experience grazing standing corn to extend the cows' days on pasture have reported that this systems reduces the amount of stored feed required to feed cows in fall and even well into the winter months. Producers have reported that their total cost is well below the alternative cost of feeding stored hay to the animals in a confined area. PCBFA continues to evaluate new corn hybrids as they become available so as to provide producers with a variety of options as to what they can seed for the heat units we have in the Peace.
Methods
We carried out small plot field trial at the Fairview Research Farm (NW5-82-3W6) on RR #35, MD of Fairview in collaboration with Mackenzie Applied Research Association (MARA) based out of Fort Vermilion. Prior to seeding, soil test was carried out, we cultivated the land thereafter and we broadcast 104 lbs/ac (urea) + 19 lbs/ac (11-52-0) + 33 lbs/ac (0-0-60) with an ATV mounted spreader.
A randomized complete block design with four replications was used. Twenty three corn hybrids with different heat units varying from 2000-2775 were seeded (see Table 1) for their forage yields and feed quality. Most hybrids used have lower CHU requirements (2000-2300). Only 3 corn hybrids had CHUs>2350. Plot size was 2.25 m x 8.0 m.