Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives
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Forages
History
Manitoba livestock producers have been using forage (native hay and pasture) to feed their livestock since homesteading in the province began. The first production of tame or cultivated hay was in 1908.
Alfalfa Hay, Manitoba’s oldest crop and is sometimes referred to as the “Queen of Forages”. It was described as early as 490 B.C. by Roman writers. Alfalfa is a perennial (comes up every year) and is one of the most palatable and nutritious feeds. Prized as a primary component in feed it is used for horses, beef cattle, dairy cows, sheep and goats.
Importance
As cattle numbers increased in the 1920’s so did the production of forages until today when there are over 2 million acres of forage.
Uses
About 75% of Manitoba’s hay is used for beef production and remainder goes into various dairy quality hays.
Exports
Alfalfa is sold in bales, compacted bales or it can be processed into pellets or meal. Manitoba exports alfalfa to a number of countries including the U.S., the U.K. and Japan.
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