Ditch hay can be an alternative feed source for producers facing feed shortages. SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources program director Alvaro Garcia says ditch hay is a readily available forage that can be very useful and will allow producers to stretch their hay supplies.

He says harvesting at the optimum times in August will allow producers to get the most out of the ditch hay.

Garcia says when farmers are harvesting hay in ditches they need to be cautious to prevent tractor roll overs.

Garcia also advises checking the ditch before harvesting for any debris such as glass bottles, aluminum cans or plastic.