Protein Tub Supplements Improve Forage Digestibility, Making Pasture and Hay Last Longer

As we near the end of summer and beginning of fall, most pasture grasses are reaching maturity, declining in protein content and increasing in fiber levels.  Depending on the stocking rate and growing conditions, a decent amount of this mature forage may be available for grazing.  However, this mature grass will need help meeting the cow's nutritional needs.  Supplementing with a low moisture, molasses-based protein block will provide the additional nutrients the rumen bacteria need to digest this high-fiber forage. 

Mature forage creates rumen fill and is slow to digest

Mature forage is lower in protein, often less than 8% crude protein.  In addition, the rumen available sugars have been converted to fiber, resulting in low protein and low energy levels in the forage.   A mature 1300 lb. cow will require around 1.8 lb. of protein.   Assuming the grass is 8% CP, the cow must consume 25 lb. of mature grass to get the 1.8 lb. of protein.  The rumen will fill up on mature forage before the cow can consume the needed 25 pounds. Protein tubs provide the needed sugars and protein to digest the forage better, allowing the cow to consume enough to meet her nutritional needs.

Low-moisture protein tubs improve digestibility and forage intake

Kansas State University published data confirming the benefit of supplementing with a beet molasses low moisture block.  The improvement in forage intake was 22%.  This higher intake was due to improved fiber (NDF) digestibility.  The addition of sugars and protein resulted in a 15% increase in volatile fatty acids (VFD), which indicates a significant improvement in rumen function. 

Adding protein tubs in the late grazing season will improve forage digestibility, allowing the cattle to graze additional days on mature forage while meeting their nutritional needs for protein and energy. The low intake ensures a lower cost per head per day compared to feeding a hand-fed grain supplement. Tubs will typically last two to three weeks before they need to be replaced, saving both time and money compared to feeding grain. 

Gaining an additional 14 to 21 days of grazing can significantly improve the cow's carry cost by delaying the need to feed hay.   In addition, that extra time may also allow for a less rushed and stressful harvest season.  At any rate, the time saved by using protein tubs is one benefit that can make your life a little easier this fall.

Nelson Tubs offers a variety of protein tubs.  The Cow Country Pro 14 tub is designed for average-quality forage. The Cow Country 25 All Natural tub and Cow Country Pro 30-15 tub are designed to be fed with lower-quality forage.  Save Time, Save Money, and Extend the grazing season with Nelson Tubs protein supplements.