Testing forage, grain or feed can evaluate nutrient composition, determine potential animal performance and determine potential value. Testing allows for matching of each feedstuff to the stage of production and class of animal, therefore supplying feed or forage in the most efficient manner.

How much is needed?
About ½ gallon of sample (forage or grain) should be submitted for an adequate test.

Hay – Obtain samples from about 10 percent of the bales in each lot of hay. The most accurate samples are obtained with the use of a forage sampling probe. For square bales, take one core from one end of each bale sampled. For round bales, take a sample from each side of the bale. If grab samples are taken, be sure to obtain a representative sample. A list of hay probe distributors is provided in our Forage Probe Listing.

Silage or haylage – If haylage is in round bales, follow the same procedures as those for round-baled hay. If haylage or silage is chopped, then obtain 2 to 3 gallons of material from 10 to 15 locations within the silo. For upright silos, run the unloader and collect one sample per minute for several minutes. In both situations, mix all the collected material together, then fill an airtight sample bag with this mixture. Be sure to seal bag to ensure correct moisture determination.

Grain or farm-mixed feed – Obtain several small samples from different areas of the bin or storage area. Combine into one composite sample. Noble's contract lab does not analyze commercially prepared feeds.

Fresh Clippings – In a haying situation, standing forage should be cut at a height equal to the height setting on the swather from several areas throughout the pasture unit for a good representative sample. In a grazing situation, take a "hand-plucked" sample by trying to select parts of the plants the grazing animal is or will be consuming. Package all fresh samples in a sealed plastic bag to ensure correct moisture determination.

How do I read the results?
Directions on how to read your forage/feed analysis results are contained in Understanding and Interpreting Noble Foundation Forage Tests.

Mailing Information

1. Write the sample name and crop ID on bag. This is important for identification during the laboratory process, especially when more than one sample is submitted. Testing takes about seven to 10 working days from the time we receive your shipment.

2. Be sure the name, address and sample ID on the Forage Sample Information Sheet correspond to information on the bag.

3. Do not send cash or check. Forage testing is free to Noble cooperators. For those who are not cooperators, Noble does not charge for its services, but our contract laboratory Ward Lab in Kearney, Neb., charges for testing analysis. Ward Lab testing cost information is located in the Forage Sample Information Sheet.

Mail samples and information sheet to:   Ag Testing   Noble Foundation   2510 Sam Noble Pkwy   Ardmore, OK 73401