K-State Research and Extension

When it comes to feeding forage bales, it is important to remember to test the hay.  Testing provides us with the knowledge of the hay’s value, quality and can help formulate rations as needed.

Producers need to remember the following tips when collecting samples.

• Sample by forage lots. Forage lots should contain no more than 100 tons of feeds, or approximately every 100-120 bales.  Lots should also take into consideration plant maturity & any risky areas from plant stress, along with similar grasses, weeds, and possible rain damage.  Every field and cutting is different, so keeping fields separate is essential.  Stack bales according.
• Sample as close to feeding as possible. Over time, quality can diminish with heating and weathering losses. Collecting as close to feeding as possible gives more accurate results of what is being consumed.  I believe it is important to take into consideration of testing earlier for possible high nitrate feeds, so arrangements can be made other feeds if necessary.
• Collect a well representative sample of the forage. Out of each lot of hay, 10-12% of the bales should be cored, randomly.  Samples should also be taken from the outer end of the bale, not the side.  Coring from the end provides more areas of the field.  The outer 12 inches of the bale can have larger damage over time. 50% of the hay in a 6 ft bale is located in the outer 12 inches.  So adjust core sampling to adjust for outer damage to bale.  Use a clean container to mix the sampled feeds and place into an air tight bag.
• Ship samples immediately to prevent any moisture loss and microbial deterioration of the sample. It also helps if samples can be arranged to arrive at the lab with as little wait time as possible, meaning earlier in the week.  Avoid letting sample sit over the weekend or holidays, either on the dash board of the truck or in the mail.

The Extension Office has a hay probe available to check out to producers to test feed.  Samples can then be mailed to the lab of your choice and billed to you all from the Extension Office.  Producers seeking further input into the quality of their feed stuff can also be referred to our Area Extension Beef Specialist for input on rations or nutritional value.