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This item has been supplied by a forage marketer and has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hay & Forage Grower.The California Alfalfa and Forage Research Foundation (Foundation), formed in 2015, is pleased to announce that it has awarded its first round of research grants. In April of this year, the Foundation circulated a request for research grant proposals available to researchers from any California university. Interested parties were asked to submit proposals for consideration that would support research activities that are of vital interest and direct benefit to California alfalfa and forage growers. The California Alfalfa and Forage Association is a 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation funded by voluntary contributions by California alfalfa growers and related industries to advance scientific research in alfalfa and forage crops. Nine proposals were received and reviewed by the Foundation board of directors. After careful consideration, the board chose to select three projects that focus on weed management.“After looking at the proposals, it made sense to us to focus on one area – weeds – which was a determining factor in our reluctant decision not to fund equally deserving projects focusing on other areas.We do not intend to have a “theme” every year, but we will always favor proposals that address issues that growers face statewide,” said Philip Bowles, Bowles Farming and Foundation Chairman. Selected projects: EVALUATION OF WEED MANAGEMENT IN CONVENTIONAL SEEDLING ALFALFA submitted by Mariano Galla, UCCE Agronomy & Weed Science, Butte and Tehama Counties EVALUATION OF WEED MANAGEMENT IN ESTABLISHED ALFALFA submitted by Thomas Getts, UCCE Weed Ecology and Cropping Systems Advisor - Lassen, Modoc, Plumas and Sierra Counties REDUCING WEED PRESSURE DURING STAND ESTABLISHMENT USING PRE-PLANT WEED GERMINATION FOLLOWED BY MECHANICAL OR CHEMICAL CONTROL submitted by Sarah Light, UCCE Agronomy Advisor, Sutter, Yuba and Colusa Counties “The Foundation Board is extremely grateful to growers and other entities for their generous support of the Foundation since its inception.Although our goal is to reach a financial threshold where we can fund more projects in greater amounts, the board felt it was important to begin funding a few small projects at this early stage to demonstrate our commitment to support this important research”, said Jane Townsend, Executive Director of the Foundation. “As our funds grow, we look forward to supporting more projects of the many researchers whose work will directly benefit alfalfa and forage growers in the state.” About California Alfalfa and Forage Research Foundation: In September of 2015, the California Alfalfa & Forage Association formed the California Alfalfa & Forage Research Foundation (CAFRF) as a non-profit 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation.While various companies and public agencies may fund important research, they often do not reflect the interests of farmers or address their needs. The California Alfalfa and Forage Research Foundation is a foundation run BY and FOR alfalfa and forage growers, with a grower board. Donations to the California Alfalfa and Research Foundation are tax deductible. For more information on the Foundation, please visit their website: www.alfalfafoundation.org.
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