Project Number: 3655-31000-018-02
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Sep 11, 2000
End Date: Jan 31, 2005

Objective:
1) To obtain and compile weather and soil information that corresponds to sites of origin of forage materials; 2) To combine these data into a database of forage quality; and 3) To assist in the interpretation and statistical analysis of the database to extract relationships between crop growing conditions and forage quality and nutritive value. Agreement is being amended to provide additional time to complete analysis of the 22-state data set, and obtain quantitative relationships between weather and forage quality. Extension of time will be used to hire replacement to conduct statistical analysis of the database.

Approach:
Daily weather information will include minimum, maximum, and average temperature; average humidity; average solar radiation/insolation; total precipitation; evapo-transpiration; and calculated variables such as growing degree days. Soil information will include a soil type classification relevant to forage production and quality; soil slope and profile; and a calculated estimate of average soil moisture. Soil and weather data will be needed for sites in WI, MI, NY, PA, CO, CA, and OR for the years 1997-2001. This information will be combined with agronomic and nutritive quality data. Data from years 1998-99 will be used to develop univariate and multivariate relationships between crop growing conditions and forage quality. Research literature will be consulted to interpret the biological significance of relationships. Statistical criteria, chemical/physical laws, and biological principles will be used to identify relevant equations for evaluation. Data from 2000-2001, and possibly 1997, will be used to evaluate these equations and relationships.

Project Team

Mertens, David Muck, Richard John Norman - Professor 608-264-5228

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001

Related National Programs

Food Animal Production (101)