Forage harvest and storage

Predict forage yield

Stem and plant density as predictors of forage yield — Stem and plant density measurements can help determine establishment success, yield potential after winter injury, and when to terminate the stand. The study reported in this article looks at the potential of using these measurements to predict forage yield.

Maximize forage quality

Find strategies to predict yield, maximize forage quality and avoid storage losses in Minnesota.

Harvesting alfalfa

• Seeding year harvest management for alfalfa
• Using growing degree days (GDD) to plan early-season alfalfa harvests
• Hay rake type impacts ash content in hay
• How does tedding affect alfalfa silage production?

Assessing alfalfa quality in the field

• How to estimate alfalfa quality in the field using PEAQ
• Alfalfa scissors cut sampling procedure
• In-field assessments: Current tools and future directions

Alfalfa scissors cut and harvest alert results

Current and historical data for this program is available. Data includes every county and farm that has participated in the Alfalfa Scissor Cut and Harvest Alert Program since 1977.

Maintaining hay quality

• Measuring alfalfa forage quality
• Wrapping hay
• Preserving the value of dry stored hay

Alternative uses and forages

• New uses for alfalfa: Aquafeeds
• Pricing and using alternative forages

Pastures and grazing

• Plants poisonous to livestock
• Pasture rental and lease agreements
• Plan your forage supply for summer grazing
• Research: Cover crops for grazing systems