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ARS Home » Northeast Area » University Park, Pennsylvania » Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #200508
Title: Survey of Total Mixed Ration Use on Pasture-based Dairy Farms in Pennsylvania and New York

Author
item Soder, Kathy
item MULLER, L - PENN STATE UNIV

Submitted to: Professional Animal Scientist
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/20/2007
Publication Date: 5/21/2007
Citation: Soder, K.J., Muller, L.D. 2007. Case Study: Use of Partial Total Mixed Rations on Pasture-Based Dairy Farms in Pennsylvania and New York. Professional Animal Scientist. 23:300-307.

Interpretive Summary: Feeding dairy cows on pasture challenges nutritionists and producers due to fluctuating pasture quality and availability and less control of intake. Increasing numbers of producers have expressed interest in using a total mixed ration (TMR) with their grazing dairy cows to maintain or improve milk production through greater control of nutrient intake, yet still utilizing pasture. A survey was conducted to collect information on the use of a TMR on thirteen pasture-based dairy farms in New York and Pennsylvania to monitor TMR ingredient and nutrient content and summarize what and how decisions are being made in relation to TMR formulation throughout the grazing season. The results from this study indicate that flexibility is key in utilizing a TMR on pasture-based dairy farm operations- that is, being able to react to rapidly changing forage conditions. Basic principles of nutrition still apply- closely monitor intake, forage to concentrate ratios, and milk production. Feed analyses are also recommended to further improve the ration to more completely meet nutrient requirements.

Technical Abstract: A survey was conducted to collect information on the use of a TMR on thirteen pasture-based dairy farms in New York and Pennsylvania with the objectives of monitoring TMR ingredient and nutrient content and summarizing what and how decisions are being made in relation to TMR formulation throughout the grazing season. In general, pasture replaced haylage/silage in the TMR diet on a 1:1 basis, and protein level was often decreased in the TMR due to high pasture protein levels. Very few farms forage tested their pastures, even though forage testing of stored forages was common. Amount of TMR fed was frequently adjusted on most farms based on bulk tank readings, changing pasture availability, and TMR refusal rates. Flexibility is key in utilizing a TMR on pasture-based operations to respond to changing pasture quality and quantity and to formulate least-cost rations. The basic principles of nutrition still apply- monitor dry matter intake, forage to concentrate ratios, and milk production.