The best alternative forage to plant depends on the area in which you are located, contact your county agent for more information. Many producers have tried to dilute out the effects of fescue by overseeding with clover and feeding grain. Mares only produce the antibody rich colostrum during the first 24-48 hours after foaling. Foals need to get at least 1 liter or 24 ounces of colostrum within 6-12 hours after birth. It takes 2-4 months for the foal to begin to make its own antibodies.
Time is critical.
However, they are only accurate 18-24 hours after birth. To guard against FPT collect colostrum from mares that have normal births and adequate colostrum. Six to eight ounces of colostrum can be collected from a mare and frozen in locking plastic bags. When the colostrum is needed it should be defrosted slowly in a warm water bath. Do not use microwave ovens to defrost colostrum, they destroy important antibodies.