1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
The objective of this cooperative research project is to expand the current database concerning herbage carbohydrate (CHO) and protein digestion and interaction with other herbage and non-herbage CHO and protein sources. The purpose of this one-year extension is to conduct a series of invitro and continuous culture experiments to evaluate digestive interactions between herbage types and between herbage and non-herbage CHO and protein sources.

1b.Approach (from AD-416)
Herbage samples previously collected and those collected as part of ongoing research efforts will be utilized during the collaborative effort. Herbage will be chemically fractionated using discipline accepted laboratory procedures by nutritive category. A series of invitro and continuous culture experiments will be conducted to ascertain digestive kinetics of said fractions, fermentation end products and rumen microbial population variability attained from herbage fermentation. Based on this information, another series of invitro and continuous culture experiments will evaluate digestive interactions between herbage types and between herbage and non-herbage CHO and protein sources.

3.Progress Report

Due to loss of laboratory technician approximately 2 years ago and inability to fill the position, it was decided to do a "No Cost Time Extension" with the SCA last year. Position was not filled until June 2011. Continuous culture fermentation runs have been completed for 2008 forage samples and all nutritive value analyses are complete. Dr. Alan Sexstone, Applied & Environmental Microbiologist has finished assessing differences in microbial fermentation populations in relation to herbage treatments. Evaluation of data is ongoing with publication of results expected within the next year. Progress has been assessed through numerous telephone calls, e-mails, and site visits. Site visits to the cooperator’s institution were conducted in March and June 2011 to assess progress and discuss future plans for the project.