This site is being renovated, so check back often to see what's new. Last update: Feb. 22, 2013

Welcome to the Forage Information Service
at Michigan State University

This web site provides a central hub of information on topics relating to forage production and grazinglands use in Michigan. Forages and grazinglands, including pasture, hay, haylage, and silage, are the third most important agronomic crop in Michigan. Michigan's forage industry generates millions of dollars and encompasses over 3.5 million acres of land. Forages and grazinglands feed dairy cattle, beef cattle, sheep, goats, equines, poultry, swine, and camelids, provide wildlife food and habitat, grow biofuel, protect water quality, and build soil.

Current Issues

• The MICHIGAN FORAGE TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE will be held MARCH 7, 2013 in East Lansing. The theme of this year's conference is "The Changing Forage Industry" and there will be lots of exciting information about how forage growers and livestock producers can capitalize on those changes. Click here for the flyer and more information.
• The 2013 Variety Test Applications and results from the 2012 Forage Variety Tests are posted on the Variety Test page.
• 2013 is going to be a busy year for forages in Michigan! Check the EVENTS page for spring programs!
• 10 tips for rejuvenating drought-stressed hayfields and pastures
• MSU Extension 2012 Drought Resources page Find tips on management of forages and pastures during drought.
  

Publications

• 2012 Michigan Forage Variety Test Report
• 2012 MSU Weed Control Guide
• Great Lakes Grazing Newsletter, February 2013

Helpful Links

• Michigan Hay Sellers List (Are you buying or selling hay? Look here.)
• MSUE Field Crops Information (Timely tips from MSU Extension on a variety of crops, including forages. Updated daily, archives available.)
• MSU Enviro-Weather (Access weather summaries, including growing degree days, from around the state.)

Get Involved

If you grow or use forages or are simply interested in the future of Michigan forage/grazing lands and the direction of MSU forage research or MSU Extension programming, become a member of the Michigan Forage Council (MFC). The MFC is the combined forces of the the Michigan Hay and Grazing Council and the Michigan Grazing Lands Conservation Initative and is an important communications link between growers and MSU. Join Now

Is there a forage-related topic you would like to see included on this webpage? Send suggestions and comments to Dr. Kim Cassida, MSU Forage Specialist.

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