Any given ranch, farm or field has a unique set of opportunities that are determined by climate, soils, water and topography. These are difficult, expensive or impossible to change. While soil fertility can be altered with fertilizers, even this has practical economic limits. It is generally better to use what you have to its optimum rather than attempt to alter it to something you may prefer. For example, orchardgrass should be planted on a soil that has good drainage characteristics rather than on a poorly drained soil. While an expensive drainage system would likely improve the chances of success, planting a more moisture-tolerant forage crop would likely be more practical and economically advantageous. To purchase a Livestock Quotes and Concepts Book, contact us at ukforageextension@uky.edu.