Most cattlemen would not buy a bag of feed that is just labeled “Cattle Feed” with no nutrient guarantees or feeding directions.  Yet, this is essentially what is happening when you feed hay or silage without having it tested.  This is especially concerning when you consider that forage makes up 80% or more of most Kentucky cattle diets. A test of your harvested forages is critical if you want to work with a nutritionist and develop a ration that will optimize your production at the most economical cost.  Your local extension office will be glad to assist you in having your forages tested.  There are also several sources of information on forages and forage testing that you may find beneficial as noted below: 

• The University of Kentucky forage extension group has a very comprehensive listing of publications dealing with all aspects of forage production in Kentucky.  These can be found at Forage Extension Home.

• The Master Grazer program has an excellent article on forage testing that covers why and how this should be performed.  Forage Testing | Master Grazer.

• The Kentucky Department of Agriculture offers NIR Forage Testing for $10.00 per sample.  You can find more about this program at Forage Testing Program.

• There are several commercial labs that also provide forage testing for a fee.  It is recommended that you choose a lab that has been certified through the National Forage Testing Association (NFTA). Certified labs must meet the requirements of NFTA which includes accurately measuring check samples sent to them by NFTA.  The NFTA list may be found at NFTA 2021 CERTIFIED LABORATORY FACILITIES