Smart technology drives forage quality at EuroTier 2026

Forage production takes center stage at EuroTier 2026, scheduled for November 10-13, 2026, in Hanover, Germany.

Organized under the guiding theme "Intelligence in Animal Farming," the event will feature a dedicated DLG Spotlight on Forage Production alongside the newly launched Forage Days on November 12 and 13 marking a significant expansion in programming for ruminant nutrition professionals, forage specialists and equipment manufacturers worldwide.

Forage quality directly determines the profitability and productivity of ruminant herds. Despite this, measurable losses continue to occur at every stage of the forage chain from field to feedbunk. Bridging that gap is the central mission of EuroTier 2026's forage programming.

High-performing dairy and beef operations depend on a steady supply of consistent, nutrient-dense forage. Research consistently demonstrates that premium forage quality reduces reliance on purchased concentrate feeds, lowers input costs and improves overall feed efficiency outcomes that directly affect a farm's bottom line.

Achieving stable forage quality calls for well-coordinated machinery and tight process management at each production stage: harvesting, preservation, storage and daily feeding. Fast, low-loss operations -- such as completing ensiling within 24 hours and ensuring rapid drying during haymaking are critical benchmarks that leading producers are working toward.

Modern sensors, compaction monitoring and airtight covering systems are enabling a new generation of precision forage management. Properly adjusted equipment minimizes contamination risk and fermentation inconsistencies, while low-emission manure application and verified silage additives support both forage hygiene and storage stability.

At the feedout stage, clean face management, appropriate daily advance rates and fresh-feed protocols prevent reheating and aerobic spoilage factors that can quietly erode the nutritional value of even well-made silages.

The curated DLG Spotlight on Forage Production will bring together exhibitors from across the equipment, technology and agronomy sectors to demonstrate how digital and smart-farming tools can optimize forage quality at every stage of the production chain from initial cutting through to ensiling. The dedicated DLG Expert Stage Ruminants will complement this showcase with targeted content on needs-based feeding strategies for dairy and beef operations.

The new Forage Days on November 12 and 13 extend the programming to offer deeper technical engagement, providing attendees access to expert-led discussions, live equipment demonstrations and direct networking with forage specialists from across the industry.