The first edition of the International Silage Conference (ISC) in 1972 – called “Silage Seminar” – was held in Edinburgh and was open exclusively to British researchers. The conference has since evolved and is now held every three years and hosted by various countries throughout the world.

A few years ago, a new forage grass appeared on the North American market called festulolium. Festulolium is the result of a cross between a fescue and a ryegrass that offers increased yield and feed value compared to the individual species.

Corn is a vital part of most rations in Canada and comes in many forms: corn silage, dry corn and high-moisture corn (including earlage or snaplage). This article will focus on high-moisture corn.

Selecting and planting high-quality alfalfa seed is a critical first step for establishing a healthy, productive stand that can last three to four years – or more. Choosing a variety that stems from high-performing genetics, is protected with a fungicide seed treatment and planted at the appropriate rate can lead to high yields and long stand life.

Corn silage is the principal forage in most Canadian lactating dairy cow rations. When corn silage inventory allows for carry-over, it is prudent to look at corn silage digestibility and nutrient content to strive for improvement for future harvests.

Ever since its first release in 1942, the purpose of Canada’s Food Guide has been to guide food selection and promote nutritional health.

Every November, the Ruminant Feed Industry Days provide learning opportunities for feed industry professionals.

When diets were balanced for individual amino acids rather than metabolizable protein, net income increased and nitrogen balance decreased, implying an overall better usage of nitrogen on the farm.