August 1, 2016

“There’s still time to get your entry in for the Kansas State Fair’s Market Alfalfa Show,” says Gene Algrim, Contest Manager.

Entries for the contest must be pre-entered and the sample mailed by August 15 to the Kansas State Fair, Competitive Exhibits Department, 2000 N. Poplar, Hutchinson, 67502-5598. Please write, “Market Alfalfa Show” on the package.

“Alfalfa is a vital forage crop in the state and the contest helps to recognize and reward the importance of quality alfalfa, adds Roger Black, President of the Kansas Forage and Grassland Council. The council sponsors the judge for the Market Alfalfa Show along with providing a plaque for the winner.

All samples are analyzed by SDK in Hutchinson, KS and judged based on relative feed value, crude protein and a visual observation. Judging for this year’s contest will be done by Dr. Doohong Min, Assistant Professor, Forages, at Kansas State University.

Sampling should be done using a forage core sampler. Samples not exhibiting evidence of being collected with a forage core sampler will be disqualified. It is recommended that ten bales be sampled and mixed. For help in sampling, contact your local county extension office.