Perennial Grass Establishment in Existing Alfalfa

1997 Annual Report for FW97-032

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1997: $1,825.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/1999
Matching Non-Federal Funds: $4,675.00
Region: Western
State: Colorado
Principal Investigator:

Perennial Grass Establishment in Existing Alfalfa

Summary

This project plans to show that using management-intensive grazing can help preserve dairying in the face of escalating feed costs and waste management problems. Establishing the necessary mixed pastures is difficult in an arid climate, but by interseeding grasses into existing alfalfa fields, advantage can be taken of the soil structure and high biological activity that has been developed, promoting a strong nutrient cycle and economic forage yields under careful grazing management. Spring drilling and fall broadcasting of grass seed into existing alfalfa will be tested.