How Whole Cottonseed Changed the Game for 3 Cattle Producers
• Posted in Articles
Can one single cattle feed ingredient make a difference? According to Brent Wilhelm, Tyler Batchelder and Dan Natzke, the answer is “yes!”
We had the pleasure of learning about their firsthand experience feeding whole cottonseed and discussing the benefits they have witnessed on their operations. Here’s how this singular feed ingredient has made a lasting impact on their lives and livelihoods.
Image courtesy of Brent Wilhelm
Whole Cottonseed for Commercial Cattle Feeding Contests
Brent Wilhelm grew up observing his dad’s success with feeding cattle whole cottonseed, so you might say his preference was inherited. He has carried on the legacy with his own children and primarily attributes their success at commercial cattle feeding competitions to this unique feedstuff.
“My kids compete in commercial cattle feeding contests where they feed a pen of three or four steers to finish for harvest. Unlike most of their competitors these past three years, they always fed a mixture that included whole cottonseed.”
With this ingredient in the mix, the Wilhelm kids swept the competition with their carcass beef grades. Wilhelm confirmed, “Almost all the cattle the kids fed were graded Prime and Yield Grade 2, if not better.
“One of our steers was a belted Galloway, which are not well-marbled cattle, but even that steer graded Choice,” Wilhelm explained. “We fed the Galloway just to see if the whole cottonseed made a difference, and it did.”
Upon seeing their outstanding results, Wilhelm shared, “Parents ask me, ‘What is the secret?’ but the only thing we are doing differently is feeding whole cottonseed. I passionately believe the oil [in whole cottonseed] provides a different form of fat and the hull is just the right amount of protein.”
Pictured: Tyler Batchelder, MS, PAS, EDGE Dairy Consulting
Whole Cottonseed for a Healthy Herd
Whether he’s home with his herd or paying a visit to one of the countless dairies that rely on his nutrition and management expertise, Tyler Batchelder is invested in the care and keeping of cattle. That’s why he values the reliability and nutritional benefits of whole cottonseed.
“Many dairies have experienced significant improvements in the health and productivity of cattle thanks to the advanced energy density, quality protein, fiber and palatability of cottonseed,” Batchelder says.
However, he acknowledges that changes in commodity prices and supply chains can impact how and when the feed ingredient is available. Batchelder’s advice? “Keep an eye on cottonseed market trends, availability and price fluctuations that might impact your decision-making.”
Pictured: Dan Natzke, Wayside Dairy
Whole Cottonseed for Dairy Production and Profitability
“If you were to feed one ingredient, [whole cottonseed] would be the perfect ingredient,” claims Brown County, Wisconsin dairyman and commodity broker Dan Natzke. “It’s high in protein, high in fiber, high in energy and highly digestible.”
Wayside Dairy has been feeding whole cottonseed for over 40 years. At this point, the feed ingredient is critical to their profitability.
To maintain Wayside Dairy’s use of this now non-negotiable feed ingredient, Natzke says the moisture of cottonseed before storage is a critical factor. “Work with a broker or supplier who knows the quality and where the cottonseed comes from,” he advises.
Gain Access to Great Whole Cottonseed Benefits
Whether you are seeking good grades, a strong source of protein, productivity and profitability or general herd health, keeping up to date with the whole cottonseed market is simple with the Cottonseed Marketplace.
Want to connect with the qualified sellers that serve your area? Visit WholeCottonseed.com/Cottonseed-Marketplace.
