Forage Analysis Interpretation Guide
A guide to reading a forage analysis report from a lab. Producers use it to understand each section and turn the results into feeding decisions.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideFeed & NutritionFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Confirm lot, date and sample ID
- Check the basis (as fed or dry matter)
- Review moisture and dry matter
- Look at protein and fiber results
- Read energy estimates and how they were found
- Note minerals and any flagged items
- Compare results to animal needs
- Discuss rations with your nutritionist
How to use this guide
Pin it up in the shop or barn. The numbered steps are a short reminder, and the notes lines are for details specific to your operation.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and National Agricultural Library.
For more in this area, see the cow-calf and ranch know-how. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Dairy One Forage Lab Rates Hay “Adequate”; Farmer Rates Its Price “Catastrophic”, and farming farm stories.