By Blake Jackson
High-quality hay plays a crucial role in livestock production, and Kentucky State University’s Hay Testing Lab in Glasgow is helping farmers evaluate forage quality quickly so they can make better feeding and management decisions.
Located at the university’s Cooperative Extension office in Barren County an area known for having Kentucky’s largest cattle inventory the facility provides accurate testing combined with expert guidance to support producers.
Since opening in May 2025, the lab has tested nearly 700 hay and forage samples submitted by more than 120 producers from 26 counties across Kentucky. The steady increase in submissions highlights the growing demand for reliable forage testing services throughout the state.
Hay and forage are central to Kentucky’s livestock sector, covering about 1.8 million acres on nearly 37,000 farms. Because forage quality directly affects animal performance and farm profitability, accurate testing helps producers make better decisions about feed management and marketing.
The testing service is offered at no cost to Kentucky farmers. Trained specialists not only analyze the samples but also help producers interpret the results so they can make practical adjustments related to rations, hay sales, fertilization, cutting schedules, and storage practices.
“Forages and hay are some of Kentucky’s most profitable agricultural commodities and occupy the largest acreage in the state," said Dr. Abbigail Hines, assistant professor of animal science. "Not to mention that with livestock production central to Kentucky agriculture, forage quality, and therefore forage quality testing, directly influences farm economics.”
The lab uses near-infrared spectroscopy technology to evaluate nutritional components such as crude protein, mineral content, and relative feed value. Testing can also detect potential problems related to nitrates or mycotoxins.
“From multiple sources, especially from area farmers and Ag professionals, we learned about the opportunity to positively impact farmers by increasing both cost-savings and profitability through hay and forage testing," said Dr. Marcus Bernard, dean of the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources. "We see this service as a bottom-line support.”
“Realizing the limited availability of services and the potential revenue loss to our farmers, we are jumping in to help them realize the full economic potential of their hay, feed, and forages with high precision analysis of these products,” said Dr. Avinash Tope, associate dean and associate professor of human nutrition and food safety.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of a hay testing lab?
It helps farmers determine the nutritional quality of hay and forage for better feeding decisions.
- How does hay testing benefit livestock producers?
It allows producers to match feed quality with animal needs and reduce unnecessary supplement costs.
- What technology is used for hay analysis?
Many labs use near-infrared spectroscopy to quickly measure nutritional components in the forage.
- When should farmers test their hay?
Testing is typically done after baling or before feeding to evaluate nutrient content.
- Can hay quality be improved after harvest?
No, but testing helps producers manage feeding strategies and future harvest practices.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Hay & Forage, Education