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Teaching Through Weather Extremes: Extension Education Using 2025 Ohio Forage Quality Results

Extension Education

Theodore Wiseman
Ohio State University
New Lexington

Abstract

Weather extremes in 2025 created significant forage quality challenges for Ohio livestock producers. Following a historic 2024 drought, persistent spring rainfall delayed first cutting hay across much of the state, increasing the likelihood of reduced forage quality. The goal of this Extension project was to conduct a statewide forage testing effort under these conditions and use the results to strengthen producer understanding of forage analysis and winter-feeding strategies. County Extension educators collected 180 forage samples from 29 counties, representing grass hay, mixed hay, haylage, and legume forages. Samples were analyzed by a certified forage laboratory for total digestible nutrients (TDN), crude protein (CP), fiber fractions, and related nutritional metrics. Results were compared to the requirements of a 1,200 lb spring calving beef cow. Most samples fell below the 60% TDN threshold needed to support lactation, with only nine samples meeting or exceeding this benchmark. Crude protein levels were similarly variable, indicating that many producers would require supplemental protein and energy in winter rations. The dataset served as the foundation for educational programming delivered at four regional beef meetings, a statewide Extension conference, and a national forage conference. Programming emphasized how delayed harvest affects forage quality, how to interpret laboratory forage analyses, and how to adjust rations when hay is deficient in TDN, CP, or other nutrients. Participant evaluations showed increased confidence in forage testing and ration balancing, demonstrating clear impact on producer decision making. Given strong producer engagement and ongoing weather variability, the project will continue in 2026. Annual data collection will support year to year comparisons and enhance Extension’s ability to provide timely, research based guidance for winter feeding management. Many producers noted that this was their first time submitting a forage test and expressed appreciation for receiving this information prior to winter feeding.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: Garth Ruff, Ted Wiseman, Brady Campbell, Dean Kreager, John Yost, Trevor Corboy, Jordan Penrose
  1. Ruff, G. Beef Cattle Field Specialist, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 43724
  2. Wiseman, T. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 43764
  3. Campbell, B. Small Ruminant Specialist, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 44691
  4. Kreager, D. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 43055
  5. Yost, J. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 44691
  6. Corboy, T. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 45121
  7. Penrose, J. Extension Educator, Ohio State University Extension, Ohio, 43756