Production Challenges in Forage Systems: Needs Assessment in Northeast California
ISSN 2158-9429
Volume 18, Issue 1 - June 2025
Editor: Linda Chalker-Scott
Abstract
A thorough understanding of the local farming challenges and needs is critical for the success of agricultural extension services. A survey was conducted to identify the key challenges and demands of irrigated forage systems of the Pit River watershed (PRW) of California. The survey was disseminated through local workshops and digital platforms in the spring of 2024, gathering a total of 102 responses from various stakeholders, predominantly farmers and ranchers. Production cost (73%) and irrigation management (53%) were highlighted as the primary areas of concern by respondents. Soil management and knowledge related to irrigation emerged as priorities for most forage producers to continue sustainable crop production. Such findings underscore the significance of targeted interventions to enhance agricultural resilience and productivity in Northeast California, acknowledging the diverse needs across California's agricultural regions. Overall, these survey results underscore the need for (a) local needs assessment and (b) increasing the extension personnel to address the efficient water and soil management in forages while reducing the input costs in forage production areas in the US.
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