Mixed hay produced in Southern Italy: nutritive value and environmental impact

The aim of this study was to characterize eight mixed forages preserved as hays produced in four agricultural and livestock farms located in four Provinces (Avellino, Benevento, Campobasso, and Potenza) of Southern Italy, different for environmental condition. Nutritive value, in vitro fermentation characteristics and kinetics, including methane production were determined. The little differences observed between sampling areas highlighted that the forage produced in Avellino area is the most interesting in terms of chemical composition, nutritive value, in vitro characteristics, and environmental impact. Data obtained allow having more information about hays produced in the study area, useful for farmers to make balanced rations, to maintain animal health and guarantee high quality of production.