Forage quality analyses and interpretation

The minimum analyses needed to determine the quality or nutritive composition of forages are DM, CP, ADF, NDF, Ca, and P. The accuracy of these and other analyses are affected by the sampling and analysis methods. Improper sampling is probably one of the largest but most overlooked sources of variation in analysis. Analysis methods must be both accurate and precise. New techniques like NIRS can be just as accurate and have better precision than conventional chemistry methods if correctly calibrated. Finally, understanding variations associated with the analysis and discerning sources of the variation as to errors in analysis, sampling, or natural variation caused by environmental growing conditions, plant species, or harvest practices is the biggest challenge for nutritionists. Forages cannot be fully and efficiently utilized in the diets of dairy cattle until their composition is accurately determined and interpreted for animal performance.