Project Number: 1902-21000-006-01
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Sep 30, 2001
End Date: Sep 29, 2006

Objective:
The objective of this research is to test the hypothesis that highly complex mixtures of forage species are more productive and have higher forage quality than monocultures or simple (2 species) mixtures.

Approach:
Thirteen forage mixtures, varying in species and functional group diversity, will be planted in replicated field plots at The Pennsylvania State University Haller Beef Research farm. The mixtures will contain 2, 3, 6, or 9 species of grasses, legumes, and forbs. Monocultures of each species will be established also. Field plots will be replicated four times. Plots will be grazed at 28to 35-day intervals during April to October for three grazing seasons. At each grazing, forage yield, quality, and species composition of each mixture will be measured. Season distribution of dry matter yield and seasonal changes in botanical composition will be compared among the mixtures.

Project Team

Sanderson, Matt Marvin Hall - Professor (814)863-0947

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002

Related National Programs

Rangeland, Pasture, and Forages (205)