Versatility Of Alfalfa & Farm Tours

COMMENTARY

• Alfalfa is a key forage crop for livestock
  • Eight ingredients make up a nutrient rich forage crop
  • High protein percentage
  • Arizona’s climate allows for 8-10 cuttings per year versus the midwest limited by winter
• Nancy’s agriculture background led her to create the Farm Smart program improving food literacy among children
  • Caywood Farms established farm tours inspired by Nancy’s Farm Smart program
  • Tours include interactive elements for both adults and children

RESOURCE

• Booking a tour of Caywood Farms in Casa Grande, Arizona

Farming Misconceptions

• Fact about growing alfalfa
  • Exporting alfalfa does not equate to exporting water. Used water recharges groundwater or evaporates locally
  • Roots can grow down up to 20 feet enhancing soil nitrogen
  • Water efficiency: Requires 7-9 acre feet of water but yields 8-10 cuttings
• Facts about GMO seeds especially cotton seed
  • Drastically reduces pesticide use
  • Protects beneficial insects
  • Supports sustainable farming
•  Balancing farm management with agriculture education foster community awareness countering negative perceptions

Takeaways

COMMENTARY

• Farming blends old reliable equipment with modern technology thru self maintenance
• Half of irrigation canals are still unlined impacting water efficiency
• Laser leveling fields is a key water conservation technique
• Arizona diverse forage crops besides alfalfa includes sorghum, sudan grass and teff for premium hay

FACT

• Only 2% of the population are farmers who provide food for the other 98% highlights the importance of agriculture