Forage Sampling and Nutritional Balance Analyzer (NUTBAL)
Forage Sampling and Nutritional Balance Analyzer (NUTBAL) are useful tools in determining a pasture’s nutritional status. NUTBAL is a fecal sampling protocol used to determine if animals are acquiring their daily needs through grazing alone, or if additional supplementation is needed.
Forage Sampling Resources:
Forage Sampling can be done by a few different protocols. The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension staff developed a helpful video to help demonstrate the best techniques for collecting forage samples that replicate livestock forage selection: https://youtu.be/O6MVUcKSeik
Other forage sampling resources:
Feed and Water Testing Laboratories
NUTBAL Resources:
- NUTBAL is a decision support system which models crude protein and net energy status of cattle, sheep, and goats. For more information see: https://blackland.tamu.edu/models/nutbal/
Forage Sampling and NUTBAL are part of the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) enhancement – E528A (Maintaining quantity and quality of forage for animal health and productivity).
Consultant Addendum fact sheet (developed for SD NRCS by SDSU Extension)