By Scout Nelson
The Alfalfa Harvest Alert Project, also known as Scissor Cut, assists growers in deciding the best timing for the first cut of alfalfa. Its purpose is to provide alerts when alfalfa reaches a level of quality and yield that meets specific farm needs. The program encourages growers to be strategic in managing their hay crop harvest alongside other farming activities.
Recent observations show rapid alfalfa growth aided by warm weather. There have been no reports of alfalfa weevil feeding or plant diseases, which is positive for forage quality. Farms aiming for high-quality forage may soon be ready to begin cutting.
The program does not attempt to predict the exact day for harvest but rather offers timely data to support decision-making. This helps growers balance harvest timing with other crop management responsibilities, ultimately aiming to improve forage outcomes.
Data from the Alfalfa Harvest Alert is available in multiple formats. A PDF version provides current information, while an online tool hosts this year’s data as well as historic records from every participating county and farm since 1997. This year, data from the University of Wisconsin Madison Extension is also included, expanding the program’s regional insights.
Growers can access this valuable information by visiting the Alfalfa Harvest Alert website. Additionally, they can sign up to receive the most recent updates via email by selecting the “Alfalfa Scissor-Cut and Harvest Alert” option during registration.
Overall, the program is an important resource that supports informed and timely alfalfa harvesting decisions, helping producers optimize forage quality and yield.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-0shut0.
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Alfalfa