Weather extremes force Kentucky producers to rethink hay management and livestock strategy

Livestock producers across Kentucky are facing challenges of low-quality hay and lower yields this year due to weather extremes. A spring marked by heavy rains, followed by a dry and unyielding summer, has left many producers with a stemmy and possibly rain-damaged first cutting. Along with almost no regrowth due to drought, many producers are now raising concerns about maintaining their livestock through the upcoming winter.