Forage Analysis Procedures

Historical Development of Forage Quality Testing Proficiency

In 1976, a task force composed of the American Forage and Grassland Council (AFGC) and university and federal research and extension personnel developed a forage evaluation system based on chemical analyses that closely approached actual feeding trials in determining feeding value of hay. Using these analyses, the task force developed proposed hay standards, including five grades and one sample grade for all legumes and grasses. Included in the standards was a relative feed value rating for ranking the various grades of both legumes and grasses. The proposed standards were submitted to the USDA Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) by the AFGC. Due to mixed industry support in 1979, these proposed standards were not adopted by the FGIS.

In 1980, a group of western scientists and, later in 1982, a national group met and a U.S. hay quality steering committee was established. This group included research, extension, and commercial interests. In 1983, the group accepted a common set of analyses which included acid detergent fiber (ADF) used for estimated digestible dry matter and crude protein (CP).

In 1984, the National Alfalfa Hay Testing Association was formed as a joint effort among the American Forage and Grassland Council, the National Hay Association, and commercial forage testing laboratories to improve the repeatability and accuracy of forage testing among laboratories. This effort began with the sending of check samples and reporting of results relative to other laboratories, first for information and eventually for laboratory certification of acid detergent fiber and crude protein analysis. Dry matter was added for laboratory certification in 1992. Neutral detergent fiber results are being reported for information and will be certified at some time in the future.

The organizational name was changed to National Forage Testing Association (NFTA) in 1990 to reflect a broader range of forage types. The association sponsored national forage testing workshops for laboratory personnel in 1991 and 1992. A proceedings from each is available from the National Forage Testing Association.

Interested forage quality testing laboratories may contact the Secretary of the NFTA at the address on the front cover to participate in the check sample program. For a fee, four check samples of alfalfa will be sent at quarterly intervals and results (for DM, CP, ADF, and NDF) reported relative to median results of other participating laboratories. Laboratories will be certified based on accuracy of DM, CP and ADF determinations. Corn silage check samples are also available. Survey information will also be available on frequency of procedures used nationally.

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