Utilizing Straws in Dairy Farming

Introduction

Straws, particularly from cereal crops, play a significant role in dairy farming. They serve as a cost-effective source of roughage, especially during periods when high-quality forage is scarce. This article discusses the types of straws used, their nutritional value, and effective feeding strategies for dairy cows.

Understanding Straws as Feed

What Are Straws?

Straws are the dried stalks of cereal crops after the grain has been harvested. Common types include:

Wheat Straw
Barley Straw
Oat Straw
Triticale Straw

These straws are often used due to their availability and low cost.

Nutritional Value of Straws

Straw is generally low in energy and protein. It contains high levels of fiber but lacks essential nutrients needed for optimal milk production. The nutritional profile includes:

Low digestibility
High lignin content
Limited fermentable carbohydrates

According to research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, straw diets can lead to decreased milk production, with reductions of up to 3 to 4 kg per day when dairy cows are fed low-quality straw diets 1.

Benefits of Using Straws in Dairy Diets

Economic Advantages

Straw is an economical feed option, especially during winter months when other feed resources may be limited or expensive. Feeding straw can help maintain body condition while reducing overall feed costs.

Increasing Rumen Fill

Including straw in the diet increases rumen fill. This can be beneficial for dry and transition cows, as it helps regulate feed intake and maintain digestive health.

Extending Forage Inventory

Using straw allows farmers to extend their forage inventory. This is particularly useful during periods of drought or when high-quality forage is not available.

Feeding Strategies for Straws

Total Mixed Ration (TMR)

Incorporating straw into a Total Mixed Ration (TMR) is one effective strategy. TMR allows for a balanced diet that includes:

High-quality forages
Concentrates
Supplements

Straw can be included at rates of 6 to 12 pounds per cow per day, depending on availability and cost 2.

Gradual Introduction

When introducing straw into the diet, it should be done gradually. This helps prevent digestive upset and allows cows to adjust to the new feed source.

Supplementation Needs

Since straw alone does not meet the energy and protein requirements of lactating cows, it must be supplemented with higher quality feedstuffs. Good options include:

Cereal Grains: Such as corn or barley.
Protein Meals: Like soybean meal or canola meal.

These supplements help ensure that dairy cows receive adequate nutrition while utilizing straw effectively 3.

Challenges with Straw Utilization

Low Palatability

One challenge with feeding straw is its low palatability. Cows may refuse to eat it if not properly mixed with more appealing feeds. To improve intake:

Chop straw into smaller pieces.
Mix it thoroughly into TMR.

Digestibility Issues

The digestibility of straw is often low due to its high lignin content. Research indicates that diets high in straw result in lower nutrient digestibility compared to diets rich in alfalfa hay or corn silage 4.

Seasonal Considerations

During colder months, feeding straw can help maintain body heat due to fermentation processes in the rumen. However, it should not replace higher quality feeds during lactation periods when nutritional demands are highest 5.

Best Practices for Feeding Straws

Monitoring Intake

Regularly monitor cow intake to ensure they consume adequate nutrients without relying excessively on straw. Adjust rations based on individual cow needs and overall herd performance.

Avoiding Sorting Behavior

To prevent cows from sorting through their feed and avoiding less palatable ingredients like straw, mix it well with other components in TMR. This encourages a more balanced diet.

Feeding Schedule Adjustments

Consider alternating feeding schedules where good quality forages are fed on certain days, followed by straw on others. This approach ensures that all animals receive both high-quality and lower-quality roughages without compromising nutrition 6.

Conclusion

Straw can be a valuable addition to dairy cow diets when used appropriately. By understanding its limitations and benefits, farmers can enhance milk production while managing costs effectively. Proper supplementation and feeding strategies are crucial for maximizing the nutritional value of straws in dairy farming.

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