In Montana, the best feed for cattle generally depends on factors like the cattle’s age, purpose (beef or dairy), and the season. However, here are some commonly recommended feed options that suit Montana’s climate and agricultural resources:

1. Grass and Hay

• • Alfalfa Hay: Rich in protein and energy, alfalfa hay is widely available in Montana and provides essential nutrients for cattle.
  • Mixed Grass Hay: Often more affordable than pure alfalfa, mixed grass hay provides fiber and energy without excess protein, making it a good option for maintenance diets.
  • Native Grasses: Montana has vast rangelands with native grasses like bluebunch wheatgrass and needlegrass, which are excellent for grazing.

2. Silage

• • Corn Silage: Popular in Montana, corn silage provides high energy content and helps cattle maintain weight, especially during winter.
  • Barley Silage: Suitable for the region, barley silage offers good energy levels and can be a great supplement to hay and grain.

3. Grain Supplements

• • Barley and Oats: These grains are commonly grown in Montana and provide a good source of energy. Barley is particularly beneficial for beef cattle as a finishing feed.
  • Corn: Though less commonly grown in Montana, corn can be an excellent high-energy feed for cattle, especially in finishing rations.

4. Protein Supplements

• • A variety of protein supplements are available and can be recommended for your specific use by Lakeland Feed & Supply staff. Choose from a variety of protein tubs for your herd.

5. Minerals and Vitamins

• • Montana-Specific Mineral Mixes: Montana soils can be deficient in certain minerals, so it’s crucial to provide a mineral mix tailored to the region’s deficiencies, typically rich in calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

For optimal results, a combination of forage, silage, and grain supplements with appropriate mineral and vitamin supplementation will ensure that cattle are well-nourished throughout the year in Montana’s diverse climate.

Choosing the right mineral supplements for livestock involves understanding the specific needs of your animals, the nutrient content of their primary diet, and any particular deficiencies in your region. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you select the most appropriate mineral supplements for your livestock:

1. Identify Nutritional Requirements

• • Species and Life Stage: Different livestock species (cattle, sheep, goats, etc.) have varying mineral needs. Additionally, animals at different life stages—such as growth, lactation, or maintenance—will require different nutrient levels.
  • Purpose of the Livestock: Determine whether your livestock is being raised for milk production, meat, breeding, or maintenance. For example, dairy cattle have higher calcium requirements than beef cattle, especially during lactation.

2. Analyze Forage and Feed Content

• • Conduct a Forage Analysis: Test your hay, silage, or pasture grasses for mineral content. This will help identify existing nutrients and any potential deficiencies.
  • Evaluate Grain and Feed Content: If you’re providing grain or commercial feed, check the feed label for mineral content. This will help determine what additional minerals might be necessary.

3. Consider Regional Soil and Forage Deficiencies

• • Understand Local Deficiencies: Different regions have distinct soil compositions that affect mineral content in forage. For instance, many areas in Montana are known to have selenium and copper deficiencies.
  • Adjust for Seasonal Variations: Mineral requirements can fluctuate throughout the year. For example, during winter when animals are not grazing, you may need to supplement certain minerals more heavily.

4. Select a Mineral Supplement Formulation

• • Complete Mineral Mixes: These are typically formulated to cover all essential minerals and are a good all-around option for general supplementation.
  • Targeted Supplementation: If you know your herd is deficient in specific minerals, you might choose targeted products, such as a selenium or copper supplement, rather than a full-spectrum mix.
  • Salt vs. Salt-Free: Salt can encourage consumption, but in some cases, salt-free mixes are preferred if livestock already have access to adequate salt blocks.

5. Decide on Delivery Method

• • Free-Choice Mineral Blocks: Easy to provide and allow animals to consume minerals as needed, although intake may vary between animals.
  • Loose Minerals: Provide in a trough or mineral feeder, giving livestock access to a measured amount, which can be more controlled than mineral blocks.
  • In-Feed Supplements: Useful for precise dosing, especially in confined operations, where minerals can be mixed directly with feed rations.

6. Monitor and Adjust Intake

• • Observe Animal Health: Watch for signs of mineral deficiencies or toxicities, such as poor coat condition, lameness, or decreased production.
  • Adjust Based on Consumption: If livestock are not consuming enough minerals, consider adjusting their access or switching to a different formulation or delivery method.

7. Consult a Veterinarian or Livestock Nutritionist

• • Professional Guidance: A veterinarian or animal nutritionist can offer insights based on blood tests, forage analyses, and animal health status. They can help you choose the right product and make adjustments as needed.

By taking these steps, you can select a mineral supplement that supports the overall health, productivity, and performance of your livestock while minimizing the risk of deficiencies or toxicities.

211 N Montana Street
Dillon MT, 59725

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

406-683-5197

110 Mill Street
Hamilton MT, 59840

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

406-363-2334

High-altitude farming poses unique challenges due to cooler temperatures, shorter growing seasons, and sometimes less fertile soils. Selecting the right fertilizer is essential to optimize crop growth in these conditions. Here are some factors to consider and types of fertilizers that work well for high-altitude farming:

1. Soil Testing and Analysis

• • Conduct a Soil Test: This is crucial to understand the nutrient profile of your soil. It will help you identify any deficiencies in nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and other essential micronutrients like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.
  • Assess pH Levels: High-altitude soils can sometimes be more acidic. Testing pH levels will help determine if you need a lime application to correct acidity before applying fertilizers.

2. Choosing the Right Fertilizer Type

• • Balanced N-P-K Fertilizers: A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) can be effective if your soil test indicates a need for all three primary nutrients.
  • High-Phosphorus Fertilizers: Phosphorus is crucial for root development, which can be particularly important at higher altitudes where root growth may be slower due to cooler temperatures. A fertilizer higher in phosphorus (e.g., 10-20-10) can support better root establishment.
  • Nitrogen-Rich Fertilizers: If your soil is deficient in nitrogen, a nitrogen-heavy option like ammonium nitrate (34-0-0) or urea (46-0-0) can boost growth. However, use these cautiously, as too much nitrogen can lead to rapid growth that is less resilient to cold.

3. Organic Fertilizers

• • Compost and Manure: These are excellent for high-altitude farming as they improve soil structure, enhance microbial activity, and provide a slow-release source of nutrients. Manure also adds organic matter, which can help improve water retention and insulation for roots.
  • Bone Meal: High in phosphorus and calcium, bone meal is beneficial for root growth and is especially useful in acidic soils, as it also helps to raise pH levels.
  • Blood Meal: This is a quick-release nitrogen source and can be useful in early growth stages. However, it should be applied carefully to avoid nitrogen burn.

4. Micronutrient and Soil Conditioners

• • Seaweed Extracts and Kelp: These are rich in trace minerals and help improve plant stress tolerance, which can be beneficial at high altitudes where conditions can be harsher.
  • Lime or Gypsum: Lime is ideal if you need to increase soil pH, while gypsum can provide calcium without affecting pH. Both help with soil structure and nutrient availability.

5. Application Timing and Methods

• • Pre-Planting: Incorporate organic matter like compost and slow-release fertilizers into the soil before planting to ensure nutrients are available throughout the growing season.
  • Top-Dressing: This can be beneficial with nitrogen-based fertilizers during the growing season to support continuous growth.
  • Foliar Feeding: Applying liquid fertilizers directly to leaves can be effective at high altitudes, as it allows nutrients to bypass soil uptake, which can be slower in cooler temperatures.

6. Consider Weather Conditions and Frost Risk

• • Quick-Release Fertilizers: These can be helpful in short growing seasons, as they provide nutrients immediately. However, they should be timed to avoid frost periods, as plants under fertilization stress can be more susceptible to frost damage.
  • Slow-Release Options for Longevity: For areas with unpredictable weather, slow-release fertilizers can be advantageous as they continue to feed crops steadily without overstimulating growth.

For high-altitude farming, using a combination of organic amendments, balanced fertilizers, and attention to soil health will contribute to a robust and resilient crop yield that can withstand the unique challenges of these environments.

Improving livestock nutrition with local feed suppliers involves collaboration and strategic planning to ensure that your livestock receives the nutrients they need, tailored to the resources available in your area. Here’s how to optimize livestock nutrition by working effectively with local feed suppliers:

1. Understand Your Livestock’s Nutritional Needs

• • Identify Requirements by Species and Life Stage: Nutritional needs vary by livestock species (e.g., cattle, sheep, goats) and their life stages—such as growth, lactation, and maintenance.
  • Consider Production Goals: Determine whether your livestock is raised for meat, milk, breeding, or wool production, as each purpose has different nutritional priorities.

2. Engage with Local Feed Suppliers for Customized Solutions

• • Discuss Your Specific Needs: Explain your livestock goals and current diet to your feed supplier. They can help you develop a feed plan that meets those specific needs, using locally sourced ingredients.
  • Request Feed Analysis: Ask suppliers for a breakdown of the nutritional content of their feeds, including protein, energy, fiber, and mineral levels. This will help ensure the feed aligns with your livestock’s dietary requirements.
  • Inquire About Locally Sourced Ingredients: Local ingredients such as alfalfa hay, barley, or canola meal are often fresher and more affordable, and may have specific benefits for animals in your region’s climate.

3. Utilize Seasonal and Locally Available Forages

• • Optimize Forage Varieties: Work with suppliers to identify the best forage options grown in your area, such as alfalfa, clover, or native grasses, which are well-suited to local soil and climate conditions.
  • Plan for Seasonal Availability: Many regions have seasonal variations in forage quality. Discuss with suppliers to plan for additional supplementation during off-seasons when forage may be less nutritious.

4. Focus on Mineral and Vitamin Supplementation

• • Address Regional Deficiencies: Consult with your feed supplier to determine if local soils are deficient in certain minerals (e.g., selenium or copper), which may necessitate specific supplementation.
  • Offer Balanced Mineral Supplements: Consider loose minerals or mineral blocks that provide balanced supplementation based on local forage and feed mineral profiles, which your supplier can help you select.

5. Leverage Feed Supplier Knowledge for Cost-Effective Nutrition

• • Consider Bulk Purchases for Savings: Ask suppliers about bulk buying options for frequently used feed components, which can reduce costs over time.
  • Evaluate Custom Blends: Many suppliers offer custom feed blends tailored to your livestock’s needs. These blends can often be more economical and nutritionally balanced than standard commercial feeds.

6. Test and Adjust Based on Animal Performance

• • Monitor Animal Health and Productivity: Regularly observe your livestock’s health, weight, and productivity to assess if the current diet meets their needs. Look for signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses, such as poor coat condition or reduced milk production.
  • Adjust Diets as Needed: Work with your supplier to make dietary adjustments based on observed results and any changes in forage quality or livestock requirements.

7. Stay Updated on Supplier Offerings and Innovations

• • Attend Local Workshops or Seminars: Suppliers often host events or workshops on livestock nutrition and feed options. Attending these can help you stay informed about new products, techniques, and trends.
  • Inquire About New Products or Alternatives: Regularly communicate with suppliers about new feed options or alternative ingredients, such as organic or non-GMO feeds, that may benefit your livestock or align with your goals.

By working closely with local feed suppliers, you can develop a cost-effective, nutrient-dense diet tailored to your livestock’s specific needs and regional conditions. This partnership not only benefits your livestock’s health and productivity but also supports local agriculture and sustainability.

Wildlife mineral blocks offer several benefits for wild animals and the overall ecosystem. These blocks provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in natural forage, attract wildlife to specific areas, and support the health and well-being of various species. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Improved Wildlife Nutrition

• • Essential Minerals and Vitamins: Wildlife mineral blocks supply minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and trace elements like zinc, manganese, and selenium, which are essential for bone health, reproduction, and immune function.
  • Seasonal Nutritional Support: In periods when natural forage is low in nutrients, such as late winter or early spring, mineral blocks help fill the nutritional gaps, particularly for animals like deer, elk, and moose.

2. Enhanced Antler and Horn Development

• • Deer and Elk: Mineral blocks are particularly beneficial for deer and elk during antler growth seasons, as they provide calcium and phosphorus, which are crucial for antler development.
  • Long-Term Growth Benefits: Regular access to mineral blocks can lead to larger, healthier antlers and horns over time, as animals have continuous access to nutrients that support their growth.

3. Attracting and Observing Wildlife

• • Wildlife Viewing: Mineral blocks can be used to attract wildlife to certain areas, making it easier for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers to observe and monitor animal behavior.
  • Game Management: Hunters and land managers often use mineral blocks as part of game management strategies to encourage wildlife to frequent specific locations, which can aid in population surveys and controlled hunting practices.

4. Promoting Healthier Reproduction Rates

• • Supporting Gestation and Lactation: Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and selenium are vital for reproductive health, supporting healthy pregnancies and strong offspring.
  • Increased Offspring Survival: Nutrient-rich mineral blocks can contribute to better birth weights and overall health of young animals, enhancing their chances of survival, especially during challenging seasons.

5. Supporting Ecosystem Health

• • Preventing Nutrient Deficiencies: Mineral blocks can help prevent deficiencies in the wildlife population, which can have cascading effects on the ecosystem. Healthier animals are better able to forage, reproduce, and maintain balance within their habitats.
  • Encouraging Sustainable Grazing Patterns: By placing mineral blocks strategically, land managers can guide grazing patterns and help reduce overgrazing in sensitive areas, promoting sustainable land use.

6. Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness

• • Easy to Use: Mineral blocks are simple to deploy and require minimal maintenance. They can be placed in specific locations to ensure animals have access without the need for continuous monitoring.
  • Cost-Effective Supplementation: Compared to other forms of wildlife feed or supplements, mineral blocks are generally more affordable and long-lasting, making them a practical option for ongoing wildlife support.

7. Preventing Disease and Boosting Immunity

• • Improved Disease Resistance: Minerals like zinc and selenium play key roles in immune function, helping animals resist diseases and recover more quickly if they fall ill.
  • Enhanced Overall Health: Regular access to minerals helps wildlife maintain optimal health, which is especially important in regions with mineral-deficient soils or where natural forage may lack variety.

Using wildlife mineral blocks can help foster a healthier, more balanced wildlife population, benefiting both individual animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. Properly used, they offer a sustainable and effective way to support wildlife health and manage animal populations.