Nitrate Poisoning Due To Drought-Stressed Forage Crops
Some forage plants can accumulate excess nitrogen when they’re stressed by drought or other factors. If animals consume too much nitrogen from forage or water, nitrogen poisoning can occur. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as “Oat Hay Poisoning”. Oats and other grain-hay crops have a tendency toward nitrate accumulation, as do many weeds, including Pig Weed, Lambs Quarter, and thistles. It’s recommended that you test for nitrate levels in grain or weedy hay grown under drought conditions.
Nitrate Poisoning-Related Document Links
- Nitrate Poisoning: When to Be Concerned – Washington State University Extension
- Nitrate Toxicity of Montana Forages – Montana State Extension
- Nitrate Poisoning – Colorado State Extension
Quick-Testing Available from Stevens County Extension
Qualitative Forage Testing is available free of charge for hay growers in Stevens County. This is a quick test that shows if your hay is of concern and should be tested by a qualified lab.
Contact WSU Extension to schedule a quick test, at (509) 684-2588
More Information about the Nitrate Testing program used by WSU Stevens County Extension (from MSU Extension)