Visit the seminar center at World Ag Expo on Feb. 14 to see these forage seminars. 10 to 10:30 a.m. Hay Situation and Outlook in Western States New records were established in the hay and dairy industries in California and other Western states in 2011 – some positive and some not-so-positive for hay growers.Record-high alfalfa and other-hay prices and strong profitability were great news for hay growers.

The record-low pounds of alfalfa hay fed per head per day to dairy cows at some central California dairies was not a positive development for hay growers.Other dairies in the West reduced pounds of alfalfa hay in dairy cow rations as well. What impact will this have on hay supplies and the alfalfa hay market in the West in 2012?

10:45 to 11:45 a.m.
Panel Discussion: Innovations in Forage Harvesting

Agricultural equipment inventors and representatives of manufacturing companies will share what’s new in harvesting technologies to improve forage productivity.

1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Panel Discussion: Making the Most of High-Quality Forages

Hear first-hand why many dairy operations are placing more emphasis on high-quality forages, including highly digestible corn silage. A consulting nutritionist, dairy owner and farm manager will share how they grow, store and feed high-quality forages in order to achieve optimum milk production and reduce ration costs.

You’ll get practical management tips on how to incorporate more high-quality forages into your dairy operation.

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2:45 to 3:15 p.m.
Pricing Corn Silage in Today’s Volatile Market
As dairy producers strive to replace more expensive concentrates with high-quality corn silage, the pricing structure of corn for silage may need to consider factors other than tonnage.Whether you are buying, selling or growing your own corn silage, you’ll gain insights on its value as a quality feed for dairy cows and how to gain an edge in today’s market. PD

Click here to learn more about Progressive Dairyman’s nine dairy-specific seminars at World Ag Expo.