Addressing Feed Shortages with Innovative Crop Development

In a strategic move to bolster domestic feed production, particularly during the crucial summer months, agricultural scientists are pioneering new breeds of domestic pool feed designed for stable cultivation in rice fields. This initiative aims to address potential feed shortages and enhance the efficiency of livestock farming through strategic crop development and on-site distribution strategies.

Strategic Crop Integration: A Government-Backed Initiative

The development of these novel feed varieties is intrinsically linked to a broader governmental strategy focused on expanding domestic pool feed production. This coordinated approach seeks to optimize land use and resource allocation, ensuring a consistent and reliable feed supply for the livestock sector. The Rural Development administration is at the forefront of this effort, spearheading research and development to create high-yield, resilient feed options.

Introducing ‘Joon’: An Early-Harvest solution

Among the groundbreaking new varieties is Joon, an early-harvest breed characterized by its short growth cycle and robust resistance to lodging (falling over). This makes it an ideal emergency feed source when primary crops fail due to adverse weather conditions or when rapid production is essential. With a dry pool yield of approximately 8.4 tons per hectare,Joon promises to increase farmer profitability by an estimated ₩120,000 compared to traditional food crops.

‘Daon’: Maximizing Yield with a Rich Purple Variety

Another standout variety is Daon, a high-yielding, purple-hued breed (multipolar Isaac) that demonstrates exceptional productivity.Boasting an impressive yield of 16.9 tons per hectare, Daon significantly outperforms traditional Jeju species, perhaps boosting farmer income by over ₩140,000 per hectare. The unique color and high yield make Daon a promising addition to the feed crop landscape.

The Versatility of Rice Paddy Feed

These new feed varieties offer a meaningful advantage: they thrive even in the humid conditions of rice paddies.The harvested feed can be utilized as hay or silage, providing versatile options for livestock nutrition. This adaptability positions them as highly efficient crops for summer feed production, addressing a critical need in the agricultural sector.

Future Plans: From Exhibition to Distribution

Currently, the Rural Development Administration is conducting demonstration cultivation projects to rigorously assess the productivity and cultivation stability of these new varieties. Looking ahead to 2026, plans are in place to collaborate with private seed companies to establish a robust seed production and farm supply system, ensuring widespread access to these innovative feed crops.

Expert Viewpoint

we will expand the variety and choice of the variety of summer feed crops.

Lee Sang-hoon,Manager of the national Livestock Science and livestock Science Fee Production System