Forage Crops

Abstract

Forages are a large component of agroecosystems worldwide, and contribute significantly to world food production. A wide diversity of plants are cultivated as forages, from succulent legumes (alfalfa and clovers), to cool- and warm-season perennial grasses and annual crops such as corn and oats. Forages may be harvested as hay, grazed pasture, range, greenchop, or silage. Economic and human food value of forages accrues primarily through dairy, beef, and other livestock products, producing staple foods throughout the world. Forages also provide significant ecosystem services by preventing soil erosion, purifying air and water, mitigating greenhouse gas impacts, and providing wildlife habitat.