By Philip Kaatz
Michigan is home to a diverse agriculture community and forage crops are integrated into many of these different types of operations. While the weather is one factor producers cannot control, there are other factors where producers can make decisions that will have a high impact on profitability.
Selecting and using improved forage varieties for better yield per acre is recommended by
Michigan State University Extension. Many forage producers are faced with competition with other crops for limited agricultural acreage, and so optimizing forage production yield and efficiency per acre is critical for long-term economic viability. To assist producers in selecting well-adapted and productive forage varieties, the
2018 Michigan Forage Variety Test Report is now available at the
MSU Forage Connection website.
The
Michigan Forage Variety Test Report includes 2018 yield trials for alfalfa, annual grasses and perennial forage grasses conducted at East Lansing, Chatham and Lake City, Michigan. The long-term yield averages for alfalfa, annual and perennial forage grasses and red clover varieties can also be found dating back to 2006. Fall dormancy ratings, winter survival index and disease resistance ratings for alfalfa cultivars and planting recommendations for perennial grasses are included to guide hay and livestock producers.