Browns Branch Acres
Feeding Protocols
Forage and Pasture
Our doe herd is rotationally grazed on four 2-3 acre fescue and red clover paddocks. Due to the size of the paddocks, grazing bouts are usually 3-6 weeks in length (or until pasture height reaches about 5-6 inches). When available, the herd is provided access to 1 acre of brushy low land (grazing bout of 1 week or less). We stockpile fescue pasture in late fall so we can graze the herd until late January.
Mineral
Does, bucks, and kids have 24/7 access to Wicks Hi Copper and Southern States 2:1 Weathershed Mineral to complement and supplement any deficiencies which may arise from our feeding program. Endophyte infected tall fescue restricts movement of metal ions into its aboveground tissues, so copper deficiency is common in fescue-fed ruminants.
Hay
We grow and harvest our own fescue and red clover hay in the form of both square and round bales. During extreme, day-long downpour events, bucks and does are provided with hay; does will brave the field in light and moderate rain conditions. Full hay feeding usually begins in late November or early December and ends in mid to late March.
Hay is tested to allow for targeted supplementation (if needed).
Feed
We feed a grain ration to pregnant and lactating does depending on hay test values and pasture quality. Since we harvest our own hay, quality tends to be fairly consistent thus allowing us to estimate a feeding ratio of 0.75-1 lb of feed per doe per day. Does are supplemented for one month before and after kidding to account for increased nutrient requirements. While grain is our current go-to supplement, we are slowly working towards an entirely forage-based feeding program and intend to supply protein blocks or pelletized legumes/grasses in the near future.