South Dakota cattlemen cautioned about high nitrates

South Dakota cattlemen cautioned about high nitrates

High nitrate levels have been found in South Dakota forages. South Dakota State University Extension Cow/Calf Field Specialist Robin Salverson tells Brownfield Ag News livestock producers should get forages tested for nitrates before feeding. Most at risk, said Salverson, are pregnant cows.

“The first thing we typically think about is abortions,” said Salverson, “but in addition to that, if [nitrate intake is] too high we can actually see death.”

Cattle that have gotten too much nitrate typically show difficulty breathing, she said.

Continue reading South Dakota cattlemen cautioned about high nitrates at Brownfield Ag News.