Almond hulls for dairy goats?

[Kate_29]

UC Davis did a study on the effect that feeding almond hulls had on milk production. The conclusion was that you can feed up to 33% almond hulls without affecting milk production. Have any of you had any experience feeding almond hulls to your dairy goats? I know they like them, horses do to. I am just curious because I have access to TONS of free almond hulls and want to know if its a good cheap alternative when needed. There is a man who lives near here who says he feeds about an 80% almond hull diet and that his goats are strong and healthy and great milkers.What do you think?

And sorry for all the questions, I am just new to goats and very excited!

[mygoat]

Have no experience feeding them, so I went and looked up their composition in my Small Ruminant nutrition book.

They are very low in protein - 5%, so keep that in mind. 16% crude fiber, VERY low in calcium, and moderate in energy.

It could be a good feedstuff as part of a balenced diet. Especially if you can get a lot for cheap. Just be sure to supplement protein with SBM dairy pellets, and minerals. Not very high in ash or vitamin content, so that will have to come from somewhere (loose minerals, hay) You'll also need a high Ca source for does in lactation.