Location: Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research
Title: Implications of climate predictions on forage production in the western statesAuthor
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Submitted to: Alfalfa National Symposium Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings Publication Acceptance Date: 11/1/2019 Publication Date: 11/19/2020 Citation: Rotz, C.A. 2020. Implications of climate predictions on forage production in the western states. Alfalfa National Symposium Proceedings. 1-6. Interpretive Summary: No Interpretive Summary is required for this Proceeding. JLB. Technical Abstract: Historical records show that average annual temperatures are increasing in the western states with relatively minor changes in precipitation. Changes are primarily driven by increasing carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere due to the burning of fossil fuels. Models that predict future climate trends indicate that ambient temperatures will continue to increase in this region with small increases in precipitation, primarily in the winter months. These changes are predicted to increase alfalfa yields from 10 to 30% across the western states as long as adequate water is available to maintain this production. Management changes such as earlier harvests and additional cuttings will be needed to adjust to the changing climate. The greatest threat to long-term sustainability of alfalfa production in the region is availability of water for irrigation. Other environmental impacts of producing alfalfa in this region are small, but steps can still be taken to reduce the impact for current and future generations. |
