The average quality of hay produced in Whitley County most years is quite poor.  Weak stands and bad timing of harvest are two of the major contributing factors to this reduced quality.  A farmer and his son who noticed this problem came in and asked what they could do to improve their hay quality.  After much discussion they decided to get back to basics and stop just throwing 19-19-19 on their fields and hoping for the best.  Soil tests were done and amendments were made accordingly.  After finishing their first cutting this season they are seeing a significant difference.  They cut 3-4 weeks earlier than last season and have a much higher yield.  They are doing quality samples on the hay to better know how to determine rations for their beef cattle.  One made the comment "We're not their yet, but we're learning".