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Portable NIRS Improves On-Farm Forage Dry Matter Analysis

A study conducted by University of Wisconsin–Madison evaluated the effectiveness of portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology for on-farm forage dry matter analysis.

The research confirmed that portable NIRS systems can accurately measure dry matter content in corn silage and alfalfa silage, helping dairy farms improve ration consistency and feeding management.

Real-Time Forage Analysis Directly on the Farm

The study used the AgriNIR™ Portable Analyzer developed by Dinamica Generale to perform rapid forage dry matter measurements directly on-site.

Portable NIRS technology allows operators to:

  • Analyze forage dry matter in real time
  • Reduce laboratory waiting times
  • Increase sampling frequency
  • Improve TMR consistency
  • Adjust rations more accurately

The system requires minimal sample preparation and provides results within seconds.

Study Results Confirm Accuracy

Researchers compared portable NIRS measurements with traditional oven drying methods over an 11-week period.

The study included:

  • 94 corn silage samples
  • 20 alfalfa silage samples
  • Samples collected from bunker silos and silo bags

Results showed strong correlation between portable NIRS and laboratory oven methods:

  • R² = 0.85 for corn silage
  • R² = 0.95 for alfalfa silage

The portable analyzer accurately followed dry matter changes over time, even during significant forage variability.

Better TMR Consistency Through Frequent Analysis

One of the main advantages highlighted by the study was the ability to increase the frequency of forage dry matter analysis directly on the farm.

Frequent monitoring helps nutritionists and farm managers:

  • Maintain consistent ration dry matter
  • Reduce feeding variability
  • Improve feed efficiency
  • Support stable milk production

Portable NIRS technology makes daily forage monitoring practical and cost-effective for modern dairy operations.

A Valuable Tool for Precision Feeding

The study concluded that portable NIRS is a reliable tool for improving forage dry matter management in dairy farms.

By combining speed, portability, and accurate analysis, systems such as the AgriNIR™ Portable Analyzer help farms implement more effective precision feeding strategies while improving operational efficiency and ration consistency.

Evaluation of On-Farm Forage Dry Matter Determined by Near Infrared Spectroscopy

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