SDSU Extension Specialist on Forage Challenges

WNAX (Sioux City IA): The cold and wet spring with record flooding in some parts of South Dakota has created some challenges for those trying to plant alfalfa and even get the first cutting completed. SDSU Extension Dairy Field Specialist Tracey Erickson says many producers were two weeks behind with their planting and then had to deal with wet fields and insects.

She says many livestock producers are concerned there will be a shortage of silage this year.

Erickson says while most producers should have enough forage to get through the summer, the main concern is having enough winter feed on hand.

Erickson says those that were able to get alfalfa planted this spring and then cut had enough moisture that they were able to get good tonnage.