Livestock producers looking for lower-priced winter feed may want to consider some lower quality forages and crop residues.

These materials can be used as a way to reduce the cost of winter feeding, but they must be used wisely.

The Pacific Northwest has many grains, vegetables and fruit products left over after harvest. Many can be fed to ruminates, but often need a supplement to make up for components that are missing.

The reason these alternative forages are considered low quality is because they are lower in protein content, usually lower than 7% protein. Good alfalfa hay often has 20% crude protein, while wheat straw will be about 3.5% crude protein.

These low-protein materials have a place in winter feeding when they are adequately supplemented with higher protein materials, such as oilseed meals and distiller’s grains.

When feeding low-quality feeds, such as wheat straw, we should provide a self-fed mineral supplement to make sure the livestock have enough calcium and phosphorus in their diet.

Before purchasing a crop residue for animal feed, be sure to know the pesticides used on the original crop. Some crops may contain residues that would harm the animal or disqualify its meat for human use.

All livestock feeds need to be evaluated on their nutritive content. Having that information is the only way the producer can ensure the livestock have enough of the necessary nutrients to be heathy and productive.

Mature animals are better able to thrive on low-protein materials than are younger, faster growing animals. Pregnant females, especially those in the last trimester of pregnancy, need a higher level of both protein and energy than do other animals. Your local Agricultural Extension office or large animal veterinary clinic can provide information on where to send animal feed samples for nutrient analysis.

Money spent on nutrient testing allows the livestock manager to know what their animals are receiving from their feed and which need to be supplemented. This ensures that the animals can perform as desired.

When selecting a protein supplement, figure the cost per pound of protein from that supplement. Usually, the supplements that are more convenient to handle are more expensive. There is a cost for that convenience.

Alternatively, lower cost feeds are out there and can be used successfully when priced right and appropriately supplemented. The livestock producer should have the feeds evaluated and get appropriate supplements to ensure the animals have a well-balanced diet to support the desired level of production.

Without needed supplements, the lower-cost feed can cause problems for the animals’ health and performance.