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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
11:02
The Use of an Automated System (GreenFeed) to Monitor Enteric Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Ruminant Animals
Published on: September 7, 2015
By-product feed utilization by grazing cattle.
1Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50010, USA. dloy@iastate.edu
Summary
Supplementation is key for grazing cattle, addressing forage gaps and improving nutrition. Utilizing cost-effective by-products enhances cattle health and pasture management.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Ruminant Nutrition
- Forage Management
Background:
- Grazing cattle management relies on supplementation to overcome forage limitations.
- Seasonal deficiencies in forage growth and quality necessitate strategic nutritional interventions.
- Anti-quality factors in certain forages can negatively impact cattle health and productivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the multifaceted benefits of supplementation for grazing cattle.
- To highlight the role of supplementation in improving pasture utilization and carrying capacity.
- To identify cost-effective nutrient sources for balancing grazing cattle diets.
Main Methods:
- Review of established cattle supplementation strategies.
- Analysis of forage deficiencies and nutritional requirements.
- Evaluation of by-product feedstuffs as supplementation sources.
Main Results:
- Supplementation effectively bridges nutritional gaps caused by seasonal forage deficits.
- It extends pasture availability, especially during drought conditions.
- Locally sourced grain and food-processing by-products offer a cost-effective nutritional solution.
Conclusions:
- Supplementation is a vital practice for optimizing grazing cattle nutrition and health.
- By-product utilization presents a sustainable and economical approach to cattle feed.
- The economic viability of by-product feeds is projected to increase due to competing industries.
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