Abstract:In order to explore the effects of storage method and time on alfalfa hay quality,the first cut and baled alfalfa in Suzhou District of Jiuquan City of GanSu province was used as materials.The variations of nutritional index ware investigated after 0,30,60,90,150,210,270 and 360 days of storage by three storage methods including storage shed store,open areas store with or without tarp cover.Results showed that within one year of storage,the content of crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) of alfalfa hay reduced,while the content of crude ash,neutral detergent fiber (NDF),and acid detergent fiber (ADF) increased significantly,and RFV value decreased remarkably,therefore,alfalfa hay quality declined.Among three storage methods,open area store caused greatest nutrient loss;during 360 days of storage,its CP loss was one time higher than that of storage shed store,crude ash increased 17%,ADF and NDF increased 34.40% and 27.70% respectively,while RFV reduced 33.15%,leading to the poorest hay quality.Thus,in Hexi area,alfalfa hay should be stored in storage shed within 5 months to keep quality.