Relative feed value (RFV)

Developed primarily for use with legume or legume/grass forages, RFV combines digestibility and intake estimates into one number for an easy and effective way to identify and market quality hay. RFV is expressed as a percent compared to full bloom alfalfa at 100 percent RFV. RFV above 130 are considered good dairy quality hay. The higher the value the better, RFV in the range of 150 is desirable. RFV is calculated by: RFV% = DDM (%) x DMI (% of body weight)/ 1.29. [Source: USDA National Plant Materials Manual]