Recently, I have received some questions about nitrates in livestock forages. Rain after extended dry periods in pastures and hay fields have been fertilized can increase forage nitrate levels. Nitrate levels above 4,500 ppm in dry forage can be dangerous to cattle and other livestock. Therefore, it is important to have all forages tested to ensure they are safe to feed. Forage nitrate levels can be tested through the University of Georgia’s Agricultural and Environmental Services Lab for a small fee.
Click below for more information on nitrate toxicity and information about feeding forages with increased nitrate levels.
https://site.extension.uga.edu/turnerab/files/2019/09/Nitrate-Toxicity.pdf