Again in 2026, OSU Extension is offering a forage testing program with the goal of providing timely education for winter supplementation and if enough samples are submitted, creating a county hay quality summary.

So far in 2026, making quality forage continues to be a struggle given warm and wet weather. Forage analysis results from last year’s testing program highlighted the lack of nutrients in most of the first cutting hay that was submitted. Those 2025 results further demonstrated the value of forage testing during the summer in order to develop a plan for supplementation if needed.

Dry hay or baleage samples are due to your local OSU Extension office by July 30, 2026.

The first sample analysis will cost $15, with subsequent samples costing $20. Near Infrared (NIR) Analysis will be completed. Producers will get values for Dry Matter Content, Total Digestible Nutrients, Crude Protein, ADF, NDF, Ash, Fat, C, P, K.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1) Samples must be collected using a forage sample probe- available to borrow from the Ohio State Extension Office here in Medina. 

2) Proper sampling steps can be viewed in this YouTube Video.  You want to take 15-20 bore samples and mix them in a clean bucket. Turn out the bucket onto a clean table or tarp and take a representative WEDGE of the full bucket.  

3) Dry hay should be placed in a paper bag. Label your sample.

4) Wet wrapped hay/baleage should be in a plastic zip bag and placed in the freezer. 

5) Samples are due to the extension office by July 30th, 2026.

6) Sample should include your name along with THIS SAMPLE FORM. Hard copies available in the office as well.