Sierra Testing Service uses the Near-Infrared Reflectance (NIR) Spectroscopy to analyze forage samples. The NIR analysis is a nondestructive analytical technique that uses the optical characteristics of a sample to measure major constituents in compounds. Research at the USDA experiment station in Beltsville, Maryland resulted in the development of a machine that scans a finely ground sample. The machine with the use of a computer correlates the measurements with the chemical compositions done in a laboratory. The machine is calibrated to the different hays and grains in a specific region. When calibrated properly, the NIR analysis will provide high speed analysis with high repeatability.

Sierra Testing Service has been a member of the National Hay Testing Association since 1987. We are now a part of The National Forage Testing Association, and received the NFTA Proficient Laboratory for 2010. We have participated in trials with the University of California Extension Service and the University of Nevada Extension Service. Sierra Testing Service was rated the number one lab in a repeatability study completed by the University of Nevada Extension Service. We are currently members of the California Alfalfa and Forage Association, California Hay Testing Consortium and a Associate member of the High Mountain Hay Growers Association. We strive to support groups that have goals of helping the industry in marketing and research.