In Nebraska, February is usually the halfway point of winter. And since we’re on the back side of the season now, this is a good time to take stock of your feed resources — especially hay.

First, how is your hay stockpile looking today? An open winter can reduce hay use, but don’t assume you’re in the clear.

The goal, even in a tough year, is to avoid buying hay late in the game just to reach spring. If you’re short, make a plan now, and then ask the bigger question: how do we keep this from happening again next winter? Annual forages can provide quick yield, and if this is a repeat problem, it may be time to look at expanding grass or alfalfa acres, keeping in mind moisture and the forecast, especially on dryland.

Next, think about last year’s perennial forage yields. Did your grass or alfalfa fields perform the way you needed? If renovation is coming, the planning starts now. For example, if an old alfalfa stand needs to come out and you want that rotation “rest year” before reseeding, don’t wait until summer to decide. Even interseeding legumes into grass should be on the early-season calendar.

Maybe you don’t need a full renovation, it could be a look at fertility will boost yields. If you didn’t soil sample last fall, plan your sampling soon so plant needs match what you are providing. And don’t forget to match fertilizer timing to your dominant species; not all plants grow at the same time of year.

Finally, take a hard look at the forage budget. Do you need new equipment, and can you justify it? Or does it make more sense to buy hay, or hire custom harvesting? Costs matter, but so do labor, timing, and forage quality.

Winter gives us a chance to take stock and plan ahead. A quick check on hay inventory, last year’s yields, and the economics can make a big difference in how smoothly you hit spring.

By Ben Beckman

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