Our research group has submitted a paper to the ARPAS journal, The Professional Animal Scientist, which is scheduled to be published in the August 2016 issue. This has been a major project, and we are excited to share the results with the industry. The results and conclusions challenge some of the standards we have come to accept as “real.” The TDN, RFV, RFQ, and in vitro disappearance all have major flaws when trying to predict alfalfa hay quality. This likely means that many of our procedures for ranking of ingredients do not have strong relationships to animal performance. 

During our chapter’s spring business meeting, a conversation was started on further challenges to what we really need for nutrient analysis and requirements. The chapter agreed that some of us should look into developing a Discover Conference idea. Carl Old, Marit Arana, and myself are involved from CA. We have gotten some feedback from Mary Beth Hall and Rick Grant as well as from Larry Miller, the Discover Conference series director. During the JAM in Salt Lake City this July we are going to hold a preliminary discussion meeting to determine the direction for, and development of, a Discover Conference on the future of nutrient determinations and requirements, with focus likely on fiber. 

We also need to mention (again) chapter activities for the rest of the year. The Bang-for-your-Buck trap shoot is August 25 from 4 to 8:30 pm. The CA Continuing Education Conference is set for October 26–27. Check our website for details http://arpasca.net/news.

Submitted June 9, 2016.