With light frost scattered across the mid-state area this October, livestock producers should be aware of potential prussic acid poisoning.

Prussic acid, which is a form of cyanide, can be found in plants such as sorghums, Sudex and Johnson grass. With a frost, plant tissues rupture, and cyanide gases form. The cyanide gas can be present in dangerously high concentrations within a short time, and remain in the frosted leaves for several days.

Because cyanide is a gas, it gradually dissipates as the tissues dry. The forage is usually considered safe to feed after drying for seven-eight days. If the forage is to be harvested for hay, producers should wait 14 days after baling before feeding.

For more info on the issue contact the local extension office at 931-967-2741.