Growth responses were obtained in tests with yearling steers fed a low-protein roughage by making available in a saltlick, non-protein nitrogen (urea or biuret). Levels of at least 2 or 3 lbs per head per day of cottonseed meal supplement were needed to obtain comparable growth rates. Urea was also fed in a liquid supplement, using phosphoric acid to control intake, and resulted in a benefit from both the urea and the molasses. Yearling steers restricted for 3 to 4 months to a low-protein roughage diet made satisfactory gains when given a high energy ration in the feedlot.