Alfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage Systems

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) is soliciting applications for the Alfalfa Seed and Alfalfa Forage Systems (ASAFS) program. The program aims to support the development of improved alfalfa seed and forage production systems, practices, and supporting technologies. The ASAFS program will focus on five main areas: increasing alfalfa forage and seed yields and forage quality, improving alfalfa forage and seed harvest and storage systems, developing methods to estimate alfalfa forage yield and quality, exploring new uses for alfalfa, and developing improved insect, disease, and weed management strategies. Key aspects of the program include: * Integrated projects that include research and extension objectives * Regional coordination and national coordination of ASAFS projects * Matching contributions on a dollar-for-dollar basis for all Federal funds awarded * Applications limited to new applications and resubmitted applications * Evaluation criteria including conceptual adequacy, design, appropriate use of a regional, interdisciplinary, and industry-engaged approach, outreach plan, probability of success, and appropriateness of budget.