Alternative Feed Sources Guide
A guide to alternative feed sources such as crop residues, byproducts and cover crops. Producers use it to consider options when usual feeds are scarce or costly.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideFeed & NutritionFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Define the feed gap to fill
- List possible alternative feeds
- Check availability near you
- Ask for a lab analysis of each
- Review safety and species fit
- Compare cost per unit of nutrient
- Plan storage and handling
- Introduce changes gradually
- Record animal response
How to use this guide
Read the steps once through before you start, then keep the page nearby while you work. Use the notes lines to add what your own setup needs.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and National Agricultural Library.
For more in this area, see the beef cattle guides. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Exclusive: Russell Feed Store’s Magic Fertilizer, and farming farm stories.