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Spring
Get Your Herd Ready for Spring Pasture—Maximize Growth, Fertility & Performance in Lucas County, Iowa
Lush Spring Grass Looks Great—But Is It Enough?
As pastures in Lucas County begin greening up, it’s tempting to think your herd’s nutritional needs are covered. But early spring forage, especially fast-growing cool-season grasses like fescue and brome, don’t always deliver balanced nutrition—especially when it comes to magnesium, energy, and trace minerals.
Without the right supplementation, you could see:
- Grass Tetany in lactating cows
- Low conception rates in breeding cattle
- Unstable weight gains in calves and yearlings
- Loose manure and digestive upset in all classes of cattle
Lucas County Spring Forage Snapshot – What to Expect in 2025
Based on recent forage analysis data from central and south-central Iowa, including local extension reports:
- Crude Protein: ~18–22%
- Moisture Content: High, often 75–80%
- Magnesium: Typically below 0.12%, which is deficient for lactating cows
- High Potassium Levels can block magnesium absorption, increasing grass tetany risk
- Energy (TDN): Often lacking, especially for growing calves or lactating females
2025 Spring Weather Outlook for Lucas County
According to NOAA and Iowa State University Extension forecasts, April and May are expected to be wetter and slightly warmer than average, which can accelerate grass growth—but also exacerbate nutrient imbalances. High soil moisture and cloudy conditions can further depress magnesium levels in forage.
Don’t Let Spring Pasture Set You Back—Supplement Smart
A well-planned supplement strategy ensures your cattle don’t just survive spring turnout—they thrive. Here are the top mineral and protein options for this spring, tailored for Lucas County’s forage and herd needs.
Top Spring Supplements for Cattle in Lucas County
1. ADM Spring High Magnesium Beef Mineral
Protect Against Grass Tetany Before It Starts
Ideal for: Lactating cows, replacement heifers, and stocker cattle on lush pasture.
Key Benefits:
- High magnesium levels combat spring tetany risk
- Balanced minerals for reproduction and immunity
- Vitamins A, D & E support calf development and cow health
- Weather-resistant—perfect for unpredictable Iowa spring storms
Why Lucas County Needs This:
Fescue and brome-dominated pastures, especially on high-potassium soils, make magnesium supplementation essential. Start 2–3 weeks before turnout for best protection.
2. MasterGain® 20:4
Reproductive Success Starts with Mineral Balance
Ideal for: Cows and bulls entering the spring breeding season
Key Benefits:
- Optimal 20:4 Ca:P ratio for bone health and reproduction
- Chelated trace minerals (Cu, Zn, Se) boost conception rates and sperm quality
- Added magnesium supports fertility and reduces stress
- Vitamins A, D & E for fetal growth and immune function
Why It Works:
Cattle in a spring breeding program require higher nutrient density. Deficiencies now can mean open cows later. MasterGain® 20:4 is formulated for exactly this scenario.
3. Mintrate® 36:15 Breed Right Tub
Self-Fed Protein & Energy to Power Growth and Lactation
Ideal for: Spring-calving cows, nursing calves, and fast-growing calves
Key Benefits:
- 36% protein / 15% fat for energy-dense support
- Biuret® (slow-release nitrogen) boosts fiber digestion and forage utilization
- Bypass minerals for improved immune function and reproductive health
- Weather-resistant tub—ideal for pasture setups
Why It Matters:
Spring forage is high in moisture but often low in dry matter intake and energy. These tubs help cattle convert green grass into real performance—better milk, faster gains, and healthier calves.
Spring Grazing Is an Opportunity—If You Manage It Right
Turnout season is short, but its effects last all year. With the right supplement program, your cattle can experience:
- Fewer health issues like grass tetany or scours
- Higher pregnancy rates and fewer open cows
- Better milk production and heavier calves at weaning
- More consistent average daily gain in stockers
Final Thoughts & Important Disclaimer
Spring is a critical time for your herd—and supplementation can be the difference between meeting potential or missing targets. Use this guide to make informed decisions and take a proactive approach to herd health and productivity.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on general knowledge, AI-generated research, and publicly available data. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with a qualified animal nutritionist, veterinarian, or agronomy expert to develop a nutrition plan tailored to your farm and herd. The author does not hold a degree in animal science or agronomy. Readers are advised to conduct their own research, fact-check all product claims, and consult with professionals before making decisions. No liability is assumed for the accuracy or application of the information provided.
Stock Up Before Pasture Turnout—Your Herd Will Thank You!
The best time to plan is before your cows hit the pasture gate. Don't wait until problems show up—be ready with the right supplements and stay ahead of the game this spring.
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Boosting Cattle Performance
As summer ends and the weather cools, the protein in your pasture drops. Protein is essential because it helps the microbes in the cow’s stomach break down forage and turn it into energy. Without enough protein, cows struggle to maintain weight, produce milk, and breed successfully.
That’s where Roughage Buster comes in.It contains Biuret, a slow-release protein that provides a steady source of energy, keeping your cattle healthier and more productive. It also supplies essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health.
Need fly control? There’s an option for that, too. By adding Roughage Buster to your feeding program, you help your cattle get more out of every bite of forage—improving digestion, energy levels, and overall performance.