By Blake Jackson
Livestock producers in southwestern Missouri will have an opportunity to sharpen their hay production skills at a regional hay school scheduled for April 22 in Mount Vernon.
The event is organized by the University of Missouri Extension in Lawrence County, in partnership with FCS Financial, MFA Bulk Fertilizer Plant in Mount Vernon, and Nixa Hardware & Seed Co.
The full-day, noncredit program is designed for producers who already own hay equipment or rely on custom hay harvesting services.
According to Tim Schnakenberg, an agronomy field specialist with MU Extension, the course will provide practical guidance on all aspects of hay and round bale silage production.
“There is a lot at stake when making hay and many things to consider to make it worth the effort and to be profitable,” Schnakenberg said.
“Attending a hay school is an important management tool to insure that you will get the most out of your land, time, fertilizer expense and hay equipment during the 2026 season.”
Participants will explore key topics such as the economics of hay production, forage selection, quality testing, soil fertility, silage management, storage methods, feeding strategies to reduce losses, and meeting cattle nutritional requirements.
The program will run from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at the MU Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center in Mount Vernon. Preregistration is required by April 20, and space is limited.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Hay & Forage, Education