Educational Benefits Derived from a Quality Forage Contest

Innovative educational programs have been successful in promoting the production of high‐quality alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) in several states. In 1988, 1989, and 1990, personnel from South Dakota State University were involved in a project known as the Forage Bowl , a contest in which producers competed for prizes awarded on the basis of forage quality. Growers were required to complete an entry form, pay a $20 entry fee, and submit a sample of forage. Samples having a relative feed value greater than 151 qualified the entrant for the final round of competition. In the final round, entrants submitted bales that were sampled and judged on relative feed value, crude protein concentrations, and visual/smell characteristics. Twenty‐five, 28, and 20 entries were received in 1988, 1989, 1990, respectively. Finalist samples were placed on display at a statewide meeting and this was an effective educational tool, because samples with the best visual appearance did not always have the highest forage quality. This project was successful in focusing attention on the production of high‐quality alfalfa in the state and recognizing the producers of this forage.