After a tough, dry year in 2009, many forage growers are finally getting moisture, says Grant Lastiwka, grazing/forage/beef specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development.
"Moisture for hay and pasture stands that were well-managed means 'compensatory' growth, and producers will be happy with how quick these pastures can recover. But pasture and hay stands that are low on nutrients or pastures that have been overgrazed will be slow to recover.
"For these pastures and hay stands, producers are advised to take an inventory of the situation and know what they are working with before deciding to let the stand rest and recover, fertilize, or cut losses and renovate them."
Pastures should be checked to determine if there are still productive grasses present, enough legumes still growing but lacking in vigour, or if weeds are the problem or only a symptom of a bigger problem.
"With hay stands, species and vigour are telltale signs," says Lastiwka. "If there are still two to three legumes per square foot, fertility makes good sense. If less than two legume plants and fine grasses are coming in, then taking the stand out of hay may be best."
Doing a pasture assessment will help producers make sound decisions.
The Alberta Tame Pasture Scorecard is an excellent tool that can be used to tell you if a stand still has potential to be rejuvenated or if it is time to cut losses.
Cathie Erichsen-Arychuk and Grant Lastiwka designed the scorecard to inform and be very user friendly. It allows producers to simply pinpoint the weak areas and explains the problems/solutions for greater understanding.
Alberta Agriculture has also produced another excellent new information resource for forages, the second version of the Alberta Forage Manual.
This manual is a culmination of decades of experience, with several other forage and pest specialists collaborating to help bring this two-year project to completion.
"The decades of experience and dedication to forages of these specialists have been invaluable to helping shape the forage industry in Alberta," says Lastiwka.
"This publication is a must have if you want information on forage species, establishment, hay, silage, fertility, rejuvenation, pasture management, forage pests and diseases.
The Alberta Forage Manual ($30 plus GST) and the Alberta Tame Pasture Scorecard can be ordered by calling toll-free 310-FARM (3276) or can be ordered online by visiting Alberta Agriculture's website at www.agriculture.alberta.ca/publications.