Forage Production

The High Plains are a subregion of the Great Plains and occupy parts of eight states, including Wyoming, South Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

As another season of forage production draws near, manufacturers of hay production and handling equipment roll out the latest in technology and design for efficiency and productivity.

It seems that in the last decade many cattle farmers have steadily increased the intensity of cattle moves, some moving multiple times each day. While moving cattle more frequently is generally beneficial to pasture growth as well as increased utilization, it also comes with a cost.

In 2016, National Alfalfa and Forage Alliance created the U.S. Alfalfa Farmer Research Initiative (aka alfalfa checkoff program), whereby participating seed companies voluntarily assessed $1 per bag of alfalfa seed to support public research. We asked some of the seed companies who are participating in the alfalfa checkoff program to tell us why they decided to participate and what reaction they’ve had from producers. Here’s what they said.

Higher-quality alfalfa and grass varieties have the potential to significantly increase milk production and increase the proportion of homegrown feeds in rations. Increased fiber digestibility is the most important quality improvement.

Preconditioning can increase the value of weaned calves as a result of improved growth and overall health. During the preconditioning phase, forages are typically used as part of the base diet and development program for growing calves during a 45- to 60-day period.