CARRINGTON, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – With a mild winter so far, livestock producers have been able to take advantage of extended fall grazing.

Dr. Karl Hoppe is the Area Extension Specialist for Livestock Systems at the North Dakota State University Carrington Research Extension Center.

Hoppe says this has been good for producers, saving on feed costs, exercise for cows, and spreading manure. He added the longer the extended grazing continues, the issue of crop protein comes in.

Hoppe says the concern that cows are getting the right nutrients should become a focus for producers.

He pointed out that adding supplements to the cows feed will be important for ensuring they’re receiving the right proteins for growth.

With less than normal snow, Hoppe says some producers may consider winter grazing. He says one workaround for grazing is utilizing swath grazing.

Hoppe says this also brings concerns of damage to soils and crops when cattle are out walking on them. He says different research has found it’s not as big of a problem as many would think.

For more information, you can contact Karl Hoppe at 701-652-2951 or email Karl.Hoppe@ndsu.edu

Listen to a full interview with Dr. Karl Hoppe and the Foster County Soil Conservation District below: