Belarus Haymaking: High-Quality Feed Ensures Healthy Livestock

Haymaking in Chechersky District: Strict Quality Standards Ensure Healthy Livestock Chechersky District, Belarus – The annual haymaking season is underway, and farmers are working diligently to meet strict quality standards for their animal feed. This year's focus is on ensuring high-quality fodder for the nearly 10,000 cows in the region. Alfalfa, rich in protein, phosphorus, calcium, and amino acids, is the preferred crop, with over half of the 1,000 hectares of perennial grasses dedicated to its cultivation. "We're using every minute of daylight to ensure the green mass doesn't over-ripen," says Sergei Minenkov, a tractor driver at the Otor agricultural enterprise. "We've checked the equipment, and we're in full swing." The process is meticulously monitored to prevent mold and ensure the health of the livestock. Yuri Batrakov, chief agronomist at Otor, explains their 24/7 operation: "We have a mechanizer working during the day and another at night." This dedication ensures timely harvesting and proper preservation of the feed. Victor Bratoshkin, First Deputy Chairman of the Chechersky District Executive Committee, emphasizes the importance of this work: "The availability of feed is crucial. It determines the quality of the milk we deliver and the income we receive." With 5,760 hectares of grasses ready for the first cut, the entire district is working together to achieve their goal of over 10 million tons of fodder by the end of June. This collaborative effort ensures a nutritious diet for the livestock and a successful agricultural season.