Livestock in Michigan depend on a diet of hay and grains, especially in winter.

Michigan farmers in 2000 harvested 1.3 million acres of hay, 75,000 acres of oats, and 19,000 acres of barley for feed. Total value of these three crops was more than $278 million.

Different crops require different nutrients to grow. Different crops also add a variety of nutrients to the soil. To allow for more efficient use of natural resources, and to maintain healthy, productive soils, farmers rotate the crops they plant from year to year in each field.

For more information about Michigan hay and small grains, contact:

Michigan Hay and Grazing Council