Assessing the Value of Grazed Corn Residue for Crop and Cattle Producers

Daren Redfearn, Jay Parsons, Mary Drewnoski, Marty Schmer, Rob Mitchell, James MacDonald, Jaymelynn Farney, Alexander Smart

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

Core Ideas: Grazed corn residue is a cost-efficient forage resource. Current value of grazed corn residue is $95 M returned to the crop sector in NE, SD, KS, and ND. Gross value for grazed corn residue is $191 M for the beef cattle sector in NE, SD, KS, and ND. Opportunities exist to increase use of corn residue grazing. Transportation costs and animal care arrangements are complicating factors. Integrated crop–livestock systems have included grazing perennial grasses during the spring and summer and corn (Zea mays L.) residues during the winter. Our objectives were to identify opportunities for expanded corn residue use through grazing and provide an economic assessment for value-added grazing. We estimated the economic value to the crop sector through grazing leased corn residue at over $95 million for Nebraska, South Dakota, Kansas, and North Dakota under current management. Additionally, gross economic value to the livestock sector in these states was estimated at greater than $191 million. Advantages for increased grazing use of corn residue include managing residue quantity in high-yielding environments, providing a source of supplemental revenue, and expanding integrated crop–livestock systems using a simple, but cost-efficient practice.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1-5
Number of pages5
JournalAgricultural and Environmental Letters
Volume4
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2019
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Agronomy and Crop Science
  • Soil Science
  • Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

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