The long running saga about hay analysis and safe nitrate levels for alpacas looked like it was over...but the local extension agent in southern oregon, Shelby Filley looks like she is going to have the final word.
Here for your information are the web references she very kindly sent through and their conclusions with regard to Nitrates NO3 in ruminants. NONE of these apply specifically to alpacas.
Nitrate Ion (NO3-) Levels in Forage
Penn State 4400 ppm or less is safe. 4500 - 7500 gradually introduce feed, feed concentrates, dilute to .40%
Nebraska potential toxic amounts when feed is over 9,300 ppm
Oregon State University 4400 ppm or less is safe, 4500 to 8800 Generally safe when fed in balanced ration. Caution: dilute in half for pregnant animals...
North Dakota State Univ. 6500 or lower is safe, 6500 to 20,000 Caution,
...
WBRC
4400 or lower is safe, 4400 to 6600 caution.
There is a great deal of conflicting information on this topic and it would be of great benefit to the whole alpaca community if one of the big name universities decided to take this on and come up with some firm conclusions and recommendations. Any takers?
By Adrian Stewart
