Growing alfalfa in rotation with corn improves yields, reduces the risk of crop loss, reduces fertilizer nitrogen and pest control inputs, spreads cropping and labor activities throughout the growing season, improves soil quality and reduces cropland vulnerability to nitrate leaching, soil erosion and nutrient runoff.

Whether mechanically harvested or grazed, most forages are managed with the goal of maximizing protein content. However, much of that sought-after protein is ultimately not used by livestock for the production of milk or meat.