High nitrate feed can be dangerous to animals, especially ruminate animals, if not properly managed. In short, high nitrate feeds during the process of converting nitrates to ammonia can actually prevent the animal's blood from carrying sufficient oxygen. In turn, the animal will die. However, if the forages or feedstuff are properly managed as they are fed to animals, many can be consumed without causing any serious harm. Different laboratories use different methods for reporting nitrate values in feed, so it is important that a person understand how to interpret these values and their potential effect to the livestock.
Many labs have an interpretation chart or instructions on how to properly utilize the forage.
Ron O'Hanlon is the president of Crop Quest Agronomic Services of Dodge City, Kansas. By Dennis Berglund Crop consulting has earned its place on most modern and professional farms. By Ron O'Hanlon Moisture content is more important for soybeans than any other row crop on the High Plains. Any organization can benefit from reminders of business goals and improving management techniques. A crop consultant's work doesn't end with the harvest.