INDUSTRY NEWS

The California Alfalfa and Forage Research Foundation, formed in 2015, is pleased to announce that it has awarded its first round of research grants. In April of this year, the foundation circulated a request for research grant proposals available to researchers from any California university. Interested parties were asked to submit proposals for consideration that would support research activities that are of vital interest and direct benefit to California alfalfa and forage growers.

Ohio’s House of Representatives passed a resolution differentiating between direct dehydrated alfalfa and sun-cured alfalfa. The resolution is an effort to provide a clear distinction between chopped alfalfa and alfalfa stored as bales or stacks.

The National Alfalfa & Forage Alliance's (NAFA) U.S. Alfalfa Farmer Research Initiative, better known as the Alfalfa Checkoff, is now accepting proposals for 2018 projects. Proposals are due no later than Friday, Aug. 10, and must be capped at $50,000.

A new forage cowpea variety – Ace – blends a number of desirable characteristics into a well-rounded option for livestock, wildlife and improved soil health, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Research expert.

Forage Genetics International LLC (FGI) and Alforex Seeds LLC have been involved in litigation concerning the advertising of certain varieties of alfalfa seeds. FGI and Alforex are pleased to announce that the litigation has been resolved.

The next 12 months should be profitable for Western alfalfa and timothy producers, but uncertainty regarding trade looms. In addition to the potential impact of trade, producer profitability will largely depend on the balance of high- and low-quality hay.