Can I grow all the feed needed for my cattle?
Yes, if you balance your cattle numbers with the land area you have for growing pasture and hay. This may average 2 to 3 acres per cow - calf unit, but can vary with the land type, forage species, fertility, animal requirements, and other environmental conditions. By using both warm and cool forages for grazing and hay, a balance can be reached with time. Rotational grazing could increase carrying capacity and forage utilization.
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RAYMOND, Miss. -- A large group of agricultural producers and industry professionals met with Mississippi State University personnel during the 2025 Central Mississippi Producer Advisory Council meeting Feb. 18 in Raymond at the Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center. The annual forum provides clients, MSU administrators, researchers, specialists and Extension agents an opportunity to meet in small commodity groups to discuss the research and educational needs of producers in the region.
This summer has not just felt hot and dry; close to half the state is in moderate to severe drought, and temperatures have been mostly in the 90s through all of August.
Mike Brown is the state climatologist and Mississippi State University professor of meteorology. He said much of the northern two-thirds of the state has been fluctuating between drought and being OK.
A Mississippi State University Extension Service forage specialist recently received a national award for his high-quality work and effective program development.
