Protein supplementation can usually stimulate forage intake. Molasses can be used to stretch short grass, but just like grain supplements, molasses will require that a high quality protein supplement accompany it. NPN is NOT a drought supplement. If stocking rate needs to be reduced, begin by culling the open cows, or dry spring ewes. When purchasing feed, forward contracting and bulk storage are ways to trim a few dollars.
Late summer is typically when feedstuffs are cheapest.
Reduce feeding frequency. Protein supplements may be fed as infrequently as twice, or even once per week. Inject vitamin A if it has been more than four months since there has been any green forage. By using some of the new technologies to define pasture diet quality, the guess work is removed. Knowing diet quality lets you know what type of supplementation will be necessary in order to meet the animal's nutrient requirements.