Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU distributes first batch of starter forages for local cattle, goat raisers

By Dhanie John Padulip

The Mariano Marcos State University Extension Directorate and the College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD) have started distributing free starter planting materials to local cattle and goat raisers interested in establishing forage plots in their communities.

The first batch of beneficiaries includes Ms. Iluminada Guerrero Badua of Brgy. Pacifico, Marcos, and Edz Antonio, of Brgy. Ab-abut, Piddig, both graduates of MMSU’s School-on-the-Air (SOA) program. They each received improved forage grass varieties, such as dwarf napier, pakchong, setaria, guinea, and mulato.

As pioneer recipients endorsed by their local government units, Badua and Antonio are expected to establish farmer-managed demonstration plots in their respective communities, where fellow cattle and goat raisers can learn about improved forage production and eventually obtain planting materials through farmer-to-farmer sharing.

CAFSD Asst. Prof. Sean Vidad led the distribution. He leads the project titled "Establishment of Improved Forage and Pasture Demonstration Plots to Support Continuing Education of Ruminant Keepers"

The project ultimately aims to help address feed shortages experienced by cattle and goat raisers, particularly during prolonged dry periods in Ilocos Norte by promoting the production of high-yielding forage grasses that can provide a more reliable source of feed for livestock.

Compared with commonly available weeds and dry rice straw, improved forage grasses can provide greater amounts of fresh feed and offer nutritional benefits that can support livestock growth, milk production, and overall health. Some varieties are also suited to changing weather conditions, helping farmers maintain feed sources during drought and other challenging conditions.

Through the initiative, MMSU seeks to promote community-based learning and farmer-to-farmer extension, pursuant to its commitment of Comprehensive Community Service under the SUCCEED Agenda.