Cattle producers deal with their share of weed issues that can reduce the production of hay and forage stands.

Foxtail barley is a weed that can be a big issue for cattle producers.

One of Saskatchewan's Regional Forage Specialists Nadia Mori says foxtail barley is one weed that needs to be monitored closely as it can cause a key challenge for livestock.

"It is quite palatable before it goes to seed, but once it goes to seed, it can cause trouble for the livestock. If they consume it, they can get lumpy jaw and abscesses. That's also the reason why it should never be put in hay because the seed head just breaks into pieces and then they can get stuck very easily in the animal's mouth when they are trying to eat it."

Before it goes to seed, she says, "it is very nutritious, so if you can graze it early and graze very heavy, that might be an option. Mowing it would always be an option, just to prevent further seed production. If you do mow, you want to make sure you do it within ten days of seed heading and no later, because after that, the seeds will be viable and they can spread."

Mori says as a result that can lead to a loss in the animal's production adding there are a number of control methods for producers to consider when it comes to dealing with the plant.

She says chemical products like Glyphosate and Assure are also effective, but overall the best long-term approach is to have a competitive forage stand with species that are salt tolerant and can out-compete foxtail barley.