Alfalfa: The Unsung Hero of Sustainable Agriculture and Humanitarian Aid

Why Alfalfa?

If you're not a farmer, you probably haven't thought much about alfalfa. But this unassuming crop is one of the most important plants in sustainable agriculture — and it's a cornerstone of UMMA Farm's feed production program.

What Makes Alfalfa Special

Nitrogen Fixation

Alfalfa is a legume, which means it has a superpower: it pulls nitrogen from the air and fixes it into the soil through symbiotic bacteria in its roots. This naturally fertilizes the soil, reducing or eliminating the need for chemical fertilizers.

Deep Root System

Alfalfa roots can reach 20-30 feet deep, pulling water and nutrients from levels other crops can't access. This makes it drought-resistant and helps break up compacted soil layers.

Multiple Harvests

Unlike most crops that produce one harvest per season, alfalfa can be cut 3-8 times per year depending on climate. This means continuous production throughout the growing season.

Nutrient Dense

Alfalfa hay is one of the most nutritious livestock feeds available — high in protein, calcium, and vitamins. It's the preferred feed for dairy cattle, horses, and small ruminants.

The Farm Economics

Here's why alfalfa makes financial sense for a self-sustaining farm:

• Reduces feed costs: Growing your own livestock feed vs. buying it
• Improves soil: Each planting enriches the soil for future crops
• Sellable surplus: Excess hay is a valuable commodity
• Low maintenance: Once established, requires minimal input
• Perennial: A single planting produces for 4-8 years before replanting

Alfalfa at UMMA Farm

At UMMA Farm, alfalfa serves as the connection between the feed production and livestock programs:

• Alfalfa fields produce high-quality hay for the livestock program
• Livestock manure returns nutrients to the alfalfa fields
• Surplus hay is sold commercially, generating revenue
• The nitrogen fixation improves soil for adjacent crop fields

This closed-loop system — where one program feeds another — is what makes the farm self-sustaining.

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