Livestock feeding in spring is often the easiest time of year. Most pastures are beginning to green again after the winter, and grazing animals look forward to the fresh new tastes of spring. Nutritional needs vary from new young offspring, lactating mothers, and adult animals, and this must be taken into account
when planning livestock feeding in spring.
Spring weather can sometimes bring drenching rains that can at times cause excessive runoff on pasture lands. At other times, a lack of rain can cause early droughts and reduce the growth of important pasture grasses. Planting specifically for early spring growth that can withstand either very wet or very dry conditions can be important in some climates. Planning pasture lands with good drainage and necessary irrigation systems can also alleviate some potential weather related problems with livestock feeding in spring. The most practical advice, though, is to always have a plan for how to feed your livestock, regardless of the weather and growing conditions. Maintaining an extra supply of winter feed can help deal with unexpected setbacks with the growth of spring pastures.
Since most livestock give birth in the early spring, this is an important feeding time for both mothers and babies. It is important to note the nutritional needs of any young animals that you will have in the spring, and prepare for them accordingly. Likewise, lactating females have different nutritional needs than non-lactating females. In general, this means their diets will need to include requiring more protein and calcium, but these needs vary by 
species. If you have young offspring that are being separated from their mothers for some reason, you will not only need milk replacements but also a feeding method.
As spring weather begins to warm and pastures begin to green, be sure to rotate your herd through several feeding areas. Concentrating the livestock on one main feeding area too early in spring can deplete the pasture before it has had an opportunity to fully establish its new growth. This can have detrimental effects to livestock feeding later in the season.
When planning for livestock feeding in spring, be sure to take all possibilities into consideration. Some years, the weather will cooperate fully and your livestock will enjoy the fresh new greenery. Others, the abundance or shortage or rain can wreak early havoc on your plans for livestock feeding in spring.
