Forage crops in the Upper Colorado River Basin face mounting stress from aridification and shifting runoff. Evapotranspiration modeling and in‑field sensor measurements are helping producers adapt forage systems to limited water supplies.

Exploring sainfoin and other forage options, researchers are weighing nutrition, adaptability and bloat risk.

Sainfoin presents a compelling alternative for forage producers seeking to thicken old alfalfa stands or diversify their forage systems.

Legumes are always beneficial in a pasture because they generally contain more protein and minerals than grasses and add nitrogen to the soil, but some commonly used legumes – alfalfa and some clovers – carry risk for bloat.