Comparison of nutrients and cost-income from two alfalfa harvesting methods (hay or silage)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Candidate

2 Professor at university of Zanjan

3 Associate Professor

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate consumption inputs, production costs, nutrient composition and performance in production of alfalfa hay and alfalfa silage. Therefore, data on alfalfa hay production were collected from 75 farms in Zanjan province, using a face to face questionnaire in the year 2012. A systematic random sampling method was used. Then, two farms managed by silage harvesting system and all data were recorded. Data on 75 farms for alfalfa silage production estimated based on data obtained. The benefit-cost ratios from alfalfa hay and alfalfa silage productions were to be 1.20 and 1.44, respectively. Total cost of production was calculated as 5874.83 and 4899.26 Rials per Kg for alfalfa hay and alfalfa silage, respectively. The crude protein yield of alfalfa hay and alfalfa silage productions were calculated as 955.42 and 1338.73 Kg ha-1, respectively. Cost of energy types (NEL3X, NEL4X) for alfalfa hay was higher than alfalfa silage. The results indicated alfalfa silage production was more profitable.
 

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 January 2014
  • Revise Date: 20 August 2014
  • Accept Date: 20 August 2014

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