August 28, 2008

When the UNL Soil Plant Analytical Lab (SPAL) was closed in July, forage testing, as well as grain and soil testing, was discontinued. We realize this has caused concern among Nebraska forage growers who regularly tested and used the results as a management tool.

Fortunately, there are many private labs in our region with much experience testing forage samples. Many are certified by the National Forage Testing Association. While I realize this is going to require producers (and researchers) to make some adjustments, the value of testing will outweigh the inconvenience.

To find another certified lab, on the Internet go to the National Forage Testing Association's Web site at www.foragetesting.org and click on "certified labs."

Bruce Anderson
Extension Forage Specialist