Over the past two decades, Canada’s barley acreage has been steadily decreasing, losing nearly 155,000 acres annually. In contrast, both wheat and corn have experienced significant growth, with wheat increasing by 440,000 acres annually and corn by 300,000 acres annually. This shift in crop preferences has had a profound impact on Western Canadian cattle feeders, who are now seeking alternative grain sources.
Traditionally, cattle feeders in Central Canada and the United States have relied on corn as a primary feed source for their livestock. As a result, there is a wealth of scientific and practical knowledge available to support its use. However, the same cannot be said for wheat. While it is a widely grown crop, there is relatively less information and experience when it comes to feeding wheat to cattle.
One of the main concerns with feeding wheat is its higher starch content, which increases the risk of digestive upsets such as acidosis. This poses a challenge for nutritionists and cattle feeders, who need to carefully manage the inclusion of wheat in the animals’ diet to avoid any adverse effects. Additionally, there are differences in protein content and seed hardness between red wheat (bread) varieties and white wheat (pastry) varieties. These variations can impact how the grains are processed and their nutritional value for different types of cattle.
To address these challenges and provide valuable insights, a team of researchers from AAFC Lethbridge, led by Dr. Tim McAllister, embarked on a study. Their goal was to gather scientific data and practical knowledge about feeding wheat to cattle. By conducting comprehensive research, they aimed to bridge the gap in understanding and provide cattle feeders with the necessary information to make informed decisions.
The study conducted by Dr. McAllister and his team explored various aspects of feeding wheat to cattle, including its impact on animal health, digestion, and overall performance. Through rigorous experimentation and analysis, they were able to uncover valuable insights that shed light on the best practices for incorporating wheat into cattle feed.
The findings of this study have significant implications for Western Canadian cattle feeders. With the shrinking supply of barley, the need for alternative grain sources has become paramount. Wheat, with its increasing acreage and availability, presents a viable option. However, without a solid understanding of its nutritional value and potential risks, cattle feeders may hesitate to embrace it as a primary feed source.
By providing scientific evidence and practical recommendations, Dr. McAllister’s research equips cattle feeders with the knowledge they need to confidently incorporate wheat into their feeding programs. This not only ensures a stable supply of feed for their livestock but also opens up new opportunities for farmers and the agricultural industry as a whole.
As Canada’s barley acreage continues to decline, it is crucial for the agricultural community to explore and adopt alternative grain sources. The research conducted by Dr. McAllister and his team serves as a valuable resource, paving the way for the successful integration of wheat into cattle feed. With this newfound understanding, Western Canadian cattle feeders can navigate the changing landscape of crop preferences and secure a prosperous future for their industry.
