When it comes to dairying, making informed decisions is an everyday necessity. Recently, the focus has shifted toward feed production and management, which is crucial, especially given the current conditions in the upper Midwest. With tight grain storage and relatively low corn prices, many dairy producers are contemplating the strategic move of chopping additional acreage of corn.
The Value of Corn Silage Reserves
Mike Hutjens, professor emeritus at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, highlights the advantages of increasing corn silage storage. He suggests with corn silage valued around $40 per ton, stockpiling for 2026 could prove advantageous. According to Hutjens, ensuring an ample reserve of 2025 corn silage through December 2026 not only facilitates prolonged fermentation but also enhances starch digestibility. However, he emphasizes the necessity to calculate the required amount based on potential forage level adjustments and possible farm expansions.
“You must have enough harvested and stored to allow feeding 2025 corn silage through December 2026 allowing extended fermentation to improve starch digestibility,” he says, noting it can take three to four months. “Larger inventory depends on the value of the corn silage compared to 2026 (not known) versus not feeding it for a year; you have your funds tied up in feed in storage (banker concerns). Be sure to calculate the amount needed based on ration changes (higher levels reaching 70% to 80% corn silage as the forage level in the ration) and possible expansion.”
Innovative Techniques in Forage Harvesting
Echoing this sentiment, Brian Vaassen, Midwest regional business manager for Standard Dairy Consultants, notes the challenges some areas face in harvesting forage. With the opportunity presented by lower corn prices, some producers are expanding their inventory by employing a technique known as high-chop. This method involves harvesting corn plants at an elevated point on the stalk, reportedly resulting in remarkable tonnage per acre. By leaving the lower part of the plant in the field, the silage boasts a higher starch concentration and improved digestibility.
“We are hearing reports of great tonnage per acre,” he says. “I also know of one dairy that goes back and chops the stalks for dry cows and heifer feed.”
Overcoming Crop Health Challenges
Current concerns also revolve around the health of corn crops, adversely impacted by diseases such as southern corn rust and tar spot. These issues can hinder photosynthesis and overall plant health, reducing yield and nutrient quality. Hutjens notes that while these diseases might not directly affect cow performance, they can negatively impact the quality, quantity and fermentation of the feed.
A striking illustration of these crop challenges is captured in a video by Iowa farmer Dan Striegel. The footage shows him harvesting corn blanketed by an orangish-red cloud of southern rust, a testament to the prevailing issues in Keokuk County. Striegel’s experience is a vivid reminder of the importance of vigilant monitoring and adaptive management approaches in farming.
Strategic Planning for the Future
Closer to home, my husband, Scott Bohnert, owner of Bohnert Jerseys in East Moline, Illinois, recently shared his insights when finishing chopping corn silage at the home dairy in late August. With a sudden temperature drop from nearly 100°F to 70°F, moisture levels in his silage decreased from 71% to 66% in just a week. While he reports good grain yields, the crop’s health is a constant concern due to ongoing changes and disease prevalence.
In light of these challenges, Bohnert advises those in the cattle feeding business to consider harvesting additional feed.
“There is surplus of hay on inventory in my area that doesn’t have a lot of value right now, but putting up extra relatively cheap feed is a good idea,” he says.
Navigating these complexities demands strategic planning and proactive management. Engaging with nutritionists and industry experts, alongside staying informed and adaptable, will be crucial in ensuring productivity and sustainability for years to come.
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