Don't forget to test your feeds this spring. Don't forget to test your feeds this spring. As spring forages are harvested it is important to check them for nutrient content. This includes protein, energy, and perhaps minerals. Nitrates are usually determined on forages during periods of drought stress.
High levels can result in toxicity and dead animals.
Plants in the sorghum family are particularly susceptible to nitrate accumulation. A fat determination would not normally be conducted on forages but might be needed on oilseeds such as cottonseeds or soybeans. Soluble protein might be beneficial when evaluating silage. High levels can be a result of wet silage that has undergone extensive fermentation. Lignin can give an indication of digestibility of plant fiber.