By Justin Brackenrich and Leanna Duppstadt
Farmers, livestock producers, and forage professionals from across the region will gather on February 25, 2026, for the Pennsylvania Forage Conference, presented by the Pennsylvania Forage and Grassland Council (PFGC), for a full-day educational event focused on improving forage production, grazing systems, and feed efficiency. The conference will be held at the Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, from 7:30 to 3:00. The conference will feature a diverse lineup of speakers covering practical, research-based strategies for pasture management, hay production, silage systems, and livestock nutrition.
The morning program begins with Janet McNally of Tamarack Lamb & Wool, who will present on the benefits and challenges of mob stock grazing. Drawing from decades of hands-on experience grazing sheep and cattle, McNally will discuss how intensive grazing systems can lead to fewer parasites, improved soil fertility, and greater drought resilience.
Next, John Russell of J.D. Russell Hay & Straw, Inc. will lead a session on maximizing forage efficiency through equipment choices that improve hay quality. Russell will examine how mower widths, conditioner rolls, tedders, rakes, and baling systems influence drying time, leaf retention, labor efficiency, and profitability.
Late morning programming will feature Dr. Megan Smith, Global Silage Technical Project Manager with Lallemand Animal Nutrition. Her presentation will provide a comprehensive overview of silage production, from crop selection and fermentation to storage options such as tower, bunker, and bag silos, with a focus on producing consistent, high-quality feed for beef and dairy operations.
Source : psu.edu