Alfalfa

Sallaska Farms began raising alfalfa in 1984 and has grown to presently harvest 260 acres -- 125 acres being first year, while the remaining acres are three years old. Most of these acres are located on bottom land in Washita County of western Oklahoma.

Orel and Jeanne take pride in their land and their crops. The alfalfa seed planted is only of the top quality, certified seed. Annual spraying is conducted to control weeds and grasses, while insecticide is applied as needed. Because the fertility of the land is so important for a productive, healthy crop, soil testing is done periodically, followed with the needed fertilizers to maximize growth of their alfalfa.

Sallaska Farms harvests the alfalfa themselves by using top of the line John Deere and Hesston equipment. The alfalfa is harvested at the appropriate time to insure the final package has the most possible quality. The final product is 4'x4'x8' bales, also known as large squares. The case moisture is at an adequate amount to insure the best quality possible. After harvest the crop is stored in covered barns.

Sallaska Farms has been selected from an elite group for their superior quality hay with awards from the State Fair of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Hay and Seed Association. In 1987 Sallaska Farms won first prize for having the highest protein hay at the Oklahoma State Fair. Overall Grand Champion was awarded in 1991 at the Oklahoma Hay and Seed Association hay show.