Integrating Livestock and Cover Crops for Profit in Nebraska

How much is the grazing from cover crops worth? Mary Drewnoski, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Beef Systems Specialist, and Nebraska farmer Lane Meyer will discuss on-farm research results of grazing cover crops. Data will be presented on dry matter digestibility (energy) and crude protein content of different cover crop forages, average daily gains of growing calves, the amount of grazing cover crops provide, and the economics.

• Mary Drewnoski, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Beef Systems Specialist, is a part of an interdisciplinary team evaluating Economical Systems for Integrated Crop and Livestock Production in Nebraska. Her current research and extension program is focused on the utilization of crop residues and cover crop forage for backgrounding calves and feeding beef cows.
• Lane Meyer started the Meyer Cattle Company in Johnson, Nebraska, in 2010. The farm’s mission is to use knowledge and experience to breed high quality, well-balanced cattle for commercial cattlemen. Lane and his family have been integrating cover crops into their cattle operation for ten years.