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Polycropping demonstration at the Brookdale Site

 

Project Details

  • Project Lead: Pam Iwanchysko (Manitoba Agriculture)

  • Years: 2016-2017

  • Project Status: Complete

  • Funding & In-Kind Support: Union Forage, Imperial Seeds, Northstar Seeds, Growing Forward II

  • Location: Brookdale Farm

  • Scope: Case Study

  • Keywords: Annual Forages, Intercropping, Extended Grazing

Approach

This project investigated new forage mixtures to address forage agronomy, forage yield, forage quality, animal performance, and profitability.

Key Findings

Polycrops were demonstrated to be a good forage source in the fall. Overall yield added a substantial number of grazing days to extend the grazing season. Crude protein and energy were high, similar to a second cut alfalfa. Using polycrops for extended grazing saves money compared to confined feeding.

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