BROOKINGS, S.D. — Results of the SDSU Extension Net Wrap Survey will be shared at 10 a.m. August 21, 2018 during Dakotafest 2018 in the SDSU Extension tent (#600).
Dakotafest is held on the Schlaffman Farm in Mitchell (2300 E Spruce Street).
The presentation will be led by Taylor Grussing, SDSU Extension cow/calf field specialist. “The survey was conducted to better assist livestock producers in determining the true impact of binding materials on animal health. This presentation will focus on the results of this survey,” she explained.
Although there are many binding options available for producers to bind hay efficiently, Grussing said the majority of new balers are primarily set up with net wrap capabilities and not twine due to advantages of increased baling speed and better storage with net wrap compared to traditional twine.
“Due to the increased use of net wrap across the country, livestock producers are expressing concerns on the effects of binding material on animal health,” Grussing said.
If binding is not removed prior to feeding bales, animal consumption and possible gastrointestinal accumulation may occur which can have a negative impact on performance and health.
This first needs assessment surveyed livestock producers with the goal of evaluating producer preference for forage binding materials, feeding methods, binding removal rates and impact of binding material on livestock performance. By assessing forage binding material preferences and likelihood of removing these prior to feeding, incidence of consumption and possible accumulation might be determined.
In addition to sharing survey results, current research on alternative binding materials and best management practices of removing binding will be discussed.
The Net Wrap presentation is one of many hosted during Dakotafest in the SDSU Extension tent by SDSU Extension staff. For a complete listing visit, iGrow.org/events/Dakotafest.
— SDSU Extension
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