Harvest is here and most producers are itching to move cows to corn stalks! Having access to corn stalks is a great opportunity to provide a relatively inexpensive feed for your herd. Before you turn out on stalks, there are many questions to consider. What should I feed them before turnout? What do I do if there is a lot of corn on the ground? What protein supplementation will I provide? CPM is here to help answer your questions!
Before turnout, we recommend making sure your cows are full on dry hay, then turning them out midday. In fields with a lot of corn on the ground, you can acclimate your cows by feeding grain 3-4 days prior to prepare them for the corn they will indulge on. We also highly recommend putting out free choice Sodium Bicarbonate. This is a very cost-effective way to buffer the rumen against the high pH levels your herd may experience. As for protein supplementation, there are a variety of options. You can utilize DDG cubes, different forms of distiller grains, or protein tubs. Protein supplementation is a crucial part of grazing stalks and amounts may need to be adjusted depending on your herd.
Utilizing corn stalks is a very effective forage source but to be successful, must be done correctly to meet the cow’s needs. Please reach out to one of our Livestock Advisors for more information and for any questions you may have! We are here to help your operation have a successful corn stalk grazing experience!
The fall weather has been beautiful and Janessa Smola has been out grabbing samples with her customers, letting them enjoy using the hay probe! Don’t forget to get feed samples taken of your feed sources so you can maximize your efficiency and profitability!
Allison Bishop also grabbed this shot of the Waverly store display for the calf-weaning season!
Are you ready to transition into the cooler months ahead? Still, have questions about nutrition and what and how much to feed? We can help! Our trained and expert Nutrition advisors are here to help set you on the right course for your operation – big or small!
Travis recently viewed Kelly Kreifels’s cow-calf pairs.
“They look fantastic! With the size of these calves, you’d think the females are getting sucked down, but they look as in good a shape as the calves!”
FAQ CORNER
Q: What options do I have for getting feed?
A: We are able to bag your feed or deliver your feed in bulk (1 ton minimum). You can pick up your bagged feed from either Central Plains Milling or from a Frontier Coop location.
We employ a diversified package of techniques to master the art of feed manufacturing from minerals to complete feeds. We provide an in-depth record system and feed sampling to back up our process and quality control points.
Fair season has been in full swing in Nebraska! We’ve had the privilege of being part of so many awesome memories and fun times. Congratulations to all the winners and participants! We also want to thank all of our amazing customers and the dedication you give to your operations – BIG and small! We appreciate the opportunity to serve you. Below are just a few fun highlights from around the state!
Q: What kind of roughage/hay should be fed to horses?
A: It is advisable to provide clean, weed-free, and dust-free hay to horses. Alfalfa can be fed for extra protein, and forages that offer higher protein and calcium content are also beneficial.
We employ a diversified package of techniques to master the art of feed manufacturing from minerals to complete feeds. We provide an in-depth record system and feed sampling to back up our process and quality control points.
Exploring the Future of Agriculture Leadership and Livestock Innovation: Nutrition Summer Series
Welcome to the Central Plains Milling and Frontier Nutrition Summer Series! In this exciting journey, we invite you to join us as we delve into the heart of modern agriculture, exploring cutting-edge advancements in feed, livestock, and agribusiness. The future of agriculture is here, and we’re proud to present our interns who are shaping the next generation of Ag leadership.
Unveiling Opportunities in Feed and Livestock Business
As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for high-quality protein sources is on the rise. The feed and livestock industry stands at the forefront of meeting this demand, while also exploring sustainable and economically viable protein options. The Nutrition Summer Series takes you behind the scenes to discover the latest innovations in feed and livestock management, providing insights into the dynamic world of agriculture.
Stop 1: Miller Feed Lot – A Hub of Versatility
Our journey begins at the Miller Feed Lot, located south of Tecumseh. Steve Miller, accompanied by his partner Marie, proudly introduces us to their state-of-the-art facility. This impressive building, completed in February, represents the epitome of versatility and adaptability. With a myriad of possibilities, this facility stands ready to meet the ever-changing demands of the market.
Steve, a longtime customer of Frontier’s and a familiar face in Travis’ network, has collaborated closely with Travis to formulate ideal rations for his feedlot calves. The Miller Feed Lot is a testament to the harmonious partnership between innovation and tradition, as Steve explains how this building is perfectly tailored to cater to market needs. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind the Miller Feed Lot’s success and witness the seamless integration of technology and agriculture.
Stop 2: Stone Point Cattle Company – Elevating Genetics
Our next destination is the Stone Point Cattle Company. Here, we dive into the world of high-quality genetics that define the future of cattle farming. Colton, our host at Stone Point, guides us through their impressive collection of cattle, which includes the renowned Dixie Valley Angus from Monte California. This stop showcases the dedication to breeding and nurturing exceptional livestock with superior genetics, contributing to the overall improvement of the industry.
Culmination: A Day of Discovery
Our Nutrition Summer Series culminates in an inspiring day of exploration, education, and excitement. The tour takes us through the diverse landscape of agriculture, from versatile facilities like the Miller Feed Lot to the genetic mastery of Stone Point Cattle Company. Along the way, we meet passionate individuals who are not only shaping the future but also sharing their knowledge with the next generation of agricultural leaders.
As we wrap up this inaugural Nutrition Summer Series, we invite you to stay tuned for more upcoming installments. The journey is far from over, and the possibilities within the world of agriculture are limitless. Join us as we continue to uncover innovations, celebrate accomplishments, and ignite a passion for agribusiness leadership.
Intrigued? Don’t miss out on our video tour, where you’ll witness firsthand the remarkable stories and innovations that drive the Nutrition Summer Series. Stay connected with us for updates, insights, and a front-row seat to the future of agriculture.
Together, let’s cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future through the power of knowledge, collaboration, and pioneering spirit.
We employ a diversified package of techniques to master the art of feed manufacturing from minerals to complete feeds. We provide an in-depth record system and feed sampling to back up our process and quality control points.
Written by Alison Bishop, Retail Nutrition Advisor
Fly season is here! Did you know that just a few adult flies can quickly populate to 4,000 or more, per animal? What are you using for fly control on your animals? There are plenty of options and it’s all about what works best for your animals and your operation.
Have you considered feeding fly control through your feed or minerals? We have options for this treatment route. A very effective product for cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs is the Purina High-Octane Fly Control Supplement with Clarify. You always want to start 30 days before the last frost in the spring and 30 days after the first frost in the fall for optimal results. This supplement works by passing through the animal’s digestive system, out into the manure where fly eggs are laid and so feeding recommendations by body weight and species are recommended.
For cattle, considering insecticides, fly ear tags, pour-on’s or using loose mineral or mineral tubes in feed, are other options for help with fly control. When using loose minerals in feed, 4 oz per cow is the recommended amount. It’s important to watch the mineral intake on a regular basis and use a feeder for every 15-20 head of cow, with a water source nearby. Specific products we offer are Wind and Rain Storm All Season 7.5 Complete Altosid Fly Control Beef Cattle Mineral Feed, CPM6000, and Kent Framework 365 Mineral ADF AFC. Additionally, we offer tub form Wind & Rain AS 4 Tub Altosid and Purina EquiTub® Horse Supplement with Fly Control.
Enjoy the summer and help your animals do the same by controlling the flies! Need more information or still have questions? Reach out today and contact one of our Livestock Advisors.
Allison talks more about how and why she makes certain recommendations for her customers in this video.
WELCOME TO OUR SUMMER INTERN
CPM would like to introduce Cameron Johnston from Columbus, Nebraska! This summer he will be the Livestock Nutrition Advisor intern at Central Plains Milling and will spend most of his time between the Columbus and Howells locations.
Cameron is a senior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, finishing his bachelor’s degree in Applied Science with a minor in the Nebraska Beef Industry Scholars program. If you see Cameron around this summer, tell him hi!
HAVE CHICKS?
Do you have chicks, ducklings, or other recently hatched poultry? We offer the Chick Starter Medicated, which is 22.11% crude protein. You’ll want to feed this ration to your growing chicks from day 1 to 21 days old.
We employ a diversified package of techniques to master the art of feed manufacturing from minerals to complete feeds. We provide an in-depth record system and feed sampling to back up our process and quality control points.
Fly season is here! Did you know that just a few adult flies can quickly populate to 4,000+ per animal? What are you using for fly control? Fortunately there are many options available now and it’s all about what works best for your operation.
Have you considered feeding fly control through your feed or minerals? An effective product for cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs is the Purina High-Octane Fly Control Supplement with Clarify. You want to start the treatment 30 days before the last frost in the spring and 30 days after the first frost in the fall for optimal results. This supplement works by passing through the animal’s digestive system, out into the manure where fly eggs are laid, so feeding recommendations by body weight and species are recommended.
Additional treatment options for cattle include insecticides, fly ear tags, pour-on’s or using loose mineral or mineral tubes in feed. When using loose mineral in feed, 4 oz per cow is the recommended amount. It’s important to watch the mineral intake on a regular basis and use a feeder for every 15-20 head of cow, with a water source nearby. Specific products we offer are Wind and Rain Storm All Season 7.5 Complete Altosid Fly Control Beef Cattle Mineral Feed, CPM6000, and Kent Framework 365 Mineral ADF AFC. Additionally, we offer tub-form Wind & Rain AS 4 Tub Altosid and Purina EquiTub® Horse Supplement with Fly Control.
Enjoy the summer and help your animals do the same by controlling the flies! Need more information or still have questions? Reach out today or contact one of our Livestock Nutrition Advisors.
When embarking on the journey of raising chickens, one of the initial considerations is their choosing the right chicken feed. Selecting the appropriate feed, whether medicated or non-medicated, can significantly impact the health, growth, and productivity of your birds. Central Plains Milling offers a range of high-quality chicken feeds that cater to various stages of poultry development. In this article, we’ll explore their product line and discuss the benefits of medicated and non-medicated feeds for different purposes.
Multi-Purpose Poultry Supplement: Central Plains Milling provides a Multi-Purpose Poultry Supplement with 27% crude protein, suitable for all types of poultry and game birds. This non-medicated feed contains essential vitamins, minerals, and calcium necessary for optimal growth and health.
Chick Starter Medicated: For growing chicks aged 1 to 21 days, the Chick Starter Medicated feed is an excellent choice. With 22.11% crude protein, this feed supports healthy development during this crucial stage. The medication helps prevent coccidiosis and effectively eliminates parasites while ensuring continued growth.
CPM Layer Feed: The CPM Layer Feed, boasting 17.5% crude protein, is a highly recommended option for laying hens. This complete feed is suitable as the sole ration for hens over 18 weeks old. Enriched with vitamin D and manganese, it promotes stronger eggshells and overall hen well-being. Switching to this feed resulted in improved egg quality, consistent size, and harder shells for our hens compared to other brands.
Benefits of Central Plains Milling Feed
By choosing Central Plains Milling feed, you can expect the following advantages:
Enhanced Molting Stage
The 17.5% protein content in the CPM Layer Feed aids hens during the molting stage, promoting faster recovery and reduced duration. Chickens showed increased appetite and efficient feed consumption, leading to healthier, more resilient hens.
Consistent Egg Size and Quality
The CPM Layer Feed resulted in a steady production of solid, well-formed eggs. The improved nutritional profile of the feed contributed to better egg quality, meeting consumers’ expectations consistently.
Competitive Pricing
Central Plains Milling offers its high-quality feed at a price point that is both competitive and comparable to other commonly available feeds in the market. Quality need not come at an exorbitant cost.
Medicated vs. Non-Medicated Feed
The decision to use medicated or non-medicated feed depends on various factors. If starting birds on medication feed, it is advisable to continue until switching to a layer feed. Medicated feed helps prevent coccidiosis and effectively eliminates parasites, supporting the birds’ overall growth and health.
Conclusion on Choosing the Right Chicken Feed
Selecting the right chicken feed is crucial for the health, growth, and productivity of your flock. Central Plains Milling offers a range of high-quality options, including the Multi-Purpose Poultry Supplement, Chick Starter Medicated, and CPM Layer Feed. These feeds provide essential nutrients, minerals, and proteins required for different stages of poultry development. Whether choosing medicated or non-medicated feed, Central Plains Milling ensures that your chickens receive the optimal nutrition they need for thriving and producing quality eggs.
Springtime finds all of us working more outside and enjoying the weather. Everyone on our team at CPM is busy manufacturing for spring calving season with the anticipation of summer pasture and beef creep season. CPM is enthusiastic about our producers. We manufacture and advise for large livestock operations and for small livestock operations.
Let’s talk about small operations. Whether you are raising chickens in your backyard or feeding out your own pork or beef, CPM has solutions for your feed needs. Our philosophy is to keep nutrition simple and locally produced. All of our Poultry, Swine, Goat, Sheep, and Beef feeds are made in Nebraska with Nebraska ingredients. We take the time to evaluate each ingredient that goes into your feed ensuring that it is safe for your livestock and nutritionally required. Our company does not believe in…
Springtime is here! The grass gets greener, and producers are excited to get their cows out on pasture, but as a producer, did you properly prepare your cows for that lush green grass? Death from grass tetany can occur very rapidly. Luckily, there is an inexpensive “insurance policy” to help prevent it. Magnesium!
Grass tetany occurs when magnesium becomes deficient in the cow. The grass is high in potassium, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus. When a cow starts consuming lush grass, high in these nutrients, it interferes with magnesium absorption. Lactating cows also require an increased amount of magnesium. These factors during the spring, increase the risk for grass tetany in your herd…
Springtime is here! The grass gets greener, and producers are excited to get their cows out on pasture, but as a producer, did you properly prepare your cows for that lush green grass? Death from grass tetany can occur very rapidly. Luckily, there is an inexpensive “insurance policy” to help prevent it. Magnesium!
Grass Tetany Causes
Grass tetany occurs when magnesium becomes deficient in the cow. Grass is high in potassium, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus. When a cow starts consuming that lush grass, high in these nutrients, it interferes with magnesium absorption. Lactating cows also require an increased amount of magnesium. These factors during the spring, increase the risk for grass tetany in your herd.
How to Prevent?
Prevention starts with feeding a high magnesium mineral or mixing magnesium by hand into your mineral for three weeks before turnout and then continued until grass matures (usually about three weeks after turnout). The University of Nebraska-Lincoln recommends feeding about 10 to 20 grams of magnesium per day.
Prevention is the best method to manage grass tetany. Contact your CPM nutrition advisor for more information and to get set up with magnesium before you send your herd to those green, lush pastures.
