Corn Silage Harvest for Cattle Feed

Farming & chopping corn silage for cattle feed off of irrigated pivots in southwest Kansas.
Growing crops in southwest Kansas is both challenging and rewarding. Here are some aspects we have to consider when growing feed for our cattle in this region of the United States:
Climate: Southwest Kansas typically experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Precipitation can be scarce, and droughts are not uncommon. Which is why we rely on irrigation to supplement rainfall for crop growth.
Soil: The soil in area of the U.S. varies, but we deal with mostly sandy soil. We promote soil health through techniques, such as no-till practices, natural fertilizer from our own herd, and planting cover crop for protect the soil from erosion. These and other practices are important for optimizing crop growth.
Crop Selection: In southwest Kansas we grow crops that are well-suited to the climate and soil conditions. Common crops include wheat, corn, sorghum, soybeans, and cotton. Drought-resistant varieties are highly used to mitigate the risk of crop failure during dry periods.
Irrigation: Due to limited rainfall, irrigation is crucial for successful crop production in southwest Kansas. We have center pivot systems that provide crops with the necessary moisture for growth. (This is why you can see from the drone shots that our fields are circles and not square.) Managing water efficiently is essential to minimize water usage and optimize crop yield.
#harvest #cattle #farming #agriculture #food
‪@ruralphotographer‬ - Photography, Design, & Editing