Life Sciences Commons^™

Survey Of Cattle Feedlot Facilities In The High Plains Region Of The United States, J. C. Simroth, D. U. Thomson, E. F. Schwandt, S. J. Bartle, C. K. Larson, C. D. Reinhardt

Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports

Defining the appropriate dimensions and type of feeding facilities for feedlot cattle fed in outdoor pens is important because the characteristics of these facilities have a significant impact on the performance, welfare, and health of cattle housed in those facilities, as well as a considerable impact on the final cost of the project. Although multiple sources can be found in the literature that provide recommendations with regard to design of facilities to be used in outdoor feeding facilities for feedlot cattle, there are no published data that describe the dimensions and type of feeding facilities currently used by the feedlot …

Particle Size Of Dry-Rolled Corn Affects Starch Digestibility But Not Feedlot Performance, E. F. Schwandt, J. Wagner, T. Engle, S. J. Bartle, D. U. Thomson, C. D. Reinhardt

Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports

Dry-rolling corn is a common practice in feedlots located in the Midwestern and Northern Plains regions of the United States. Optimizing total digestive tract starch utilization in diets containing dry-rolled corn is essential for maximizing efficiency. However, recommendations often suggest that grain be coarsely cracked to avoid producing an excessive amount of fine material that could potentially increase the rate of fermentation, reduce rumen pH, and cause digestive disturbances.

Wet distillers byproducts may be effectively used as a protein and energy source for feedlot finishing cattle and can replace a portion of the dry-rolled corn in the diet. The average …

A Survey Of Dry Processed Corn Particle Size And Fecal Starch In Midwestern U.S. Feedlots, E. F. Schwandt, D. U. Thomson, S. J. Bartle, C. D. Reinhardt

Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports

Optimizing grain processing practices in cattle feeding operations is critical to reaching maximum feed utilization efficiency. An increased degree of grain processing has consistently shown improved dry matter and starch digestibility; however, it exists with conflicting results on improving performance in finishing cattle. These inconsistencies are likely due to diet composition, such as roughage and co-product level, that could offset the effects of reduced particle size on rate of fermentation thus reducing the risk of digestive dysfunction.

Finishing diets are commonly formulated with processed grain to increase utilization of starch and improve animal performance. Processing methods including steam-flaking, grinding, or …