Extension Notes: Carter County Extension Service to offer free hay sampling

By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

Forage sampling and analysis is the best way to determine the nutritional content and quality of hay. As part of the 2022 East Kentucky Annual Hay Contest, free hay/haylage sampling is available through the Carter County Agriculture & Natural Resources program in conjunction with UK Ag Extension Forages specialists. 

The deadline to request testing is September 19.  Ration balancing will also be available for beef, equine and goat enterprises at no charge.  Information from your hay analysis can reduce feed costs, increase animal performance, and provide information to improve forage stands.

If you are interested in submitting hay/haylage samples for testing – either for personal use and/or the contest – please contact the office at 606-474-6686 or Rebecca.k@uky.edu to schedule an appointment. 

Educational programs of the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

Upcoming Events:

• The Grayson Farmer’s Market is open on Saturdays from 9:00 AM until sell out. The market is located in the shed behind the Extension Office. The Olive Hill Farmer’s Market is open on Saturdays and Wednesdays at 8:00 AM and Mondays at 3:00 PM until sell out each day. The Olive Hill market is located in the Save-a-Lot parking lot. 
• Do you have blue ribbon produce in your garden? Show it off at the Carter County Fair Exhibit Hall. Entries will be taken on Sunday, August 7^th from 2:30-5:00. For a list of categories visit www.cartercountyfair.org. The Carter County Fair will be August 7-13 and the Exhibit Hall will be open nightly from 5:30-8:00. 
• The Carter County Extension Council will meet on Tuesday, August 9^th at 10:00 AM. The Extension District Board will meet following the conclusion of the Extension Council meeting.