IMPROVING FARMERS’ LIVELIHOOD THROUGH NUTRITION
Since opening our first local mill in 1988, we have served farmers in the midwest by manufacturing animal feed they can count on at reasonable prices and offering individually tailored support. It continues to be our mission to guide your farm’s success.
Discuss your feed, nutrition, and forage solution needs with our experts to find the best options at the most affordable price point.
STAR BLEND’S PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
THE MIDWEST’S LOCAL FEED MILL
For nearly four decades, Star Blends has worked to provide the midwest with quality animal feed from our mills in Sparta and Chippewa Falls, WI. Started as Bangor Farm Supply in Bangor, WI., we have expanded over the years to create the highest quality feed for dairy and beef cattle, sheep, goats and poultry. Collaboration between clients, their nutritionists and our own team of feed experts, we create the best possible feed for each unique farm at the lowest price points available.
BLOG AND RESOURCES
First Cutting Hay: How It Impacts Dairy Rations
Traditionally, first-cut hay produces the highest yield, making first-cut alfalfa one of the most economically important forage harvests of the year. However, that also means there’s a greater risk of quality loss if harvest timing is delayed. Second-cut hay, while typically lower yielding, can offer excellent nutritional value for dairy cattle thanks to its higher digestibility and protein content. Both first- and second-cut hay play important roles in dairy rations, but each offers distinct strengths and challenges. Understanding how the cuts differ can help producers better balance forage quality, milk production goals, and overall dairy cattle feed efficiency. First-Cut vs. Second-Cut Hay: Fundamental Differences First-cut hay, especially alfalfa, typically produces higher tonnage than later cuttings. However, it tends to contain more fiber, lower protein levels, and reduced digestibility than second-cut hay. Second-cut hay growsRead More
Getting Ahead of Fly Season with Feed-Based Fly Control
Fiber balance can make or break your dairy ration. Learn how source, particle size, and digestibility affect rumen health, milk production, and feed efficiency.
Why Fiber Quality Deserves More Attention in Your Dairy Herd’s Diet
Fiber balance can make or break your dairy ration. Learn how source, particle size, and digestibility affect rumen health, milk production, and feed efficiency.
