Winter forage is NOT harvested cover crop. A cover crop is a cheap seed that is tossed out and if it turns green is considered a success. Winter forage is selected for high yield and winterhardiness; deliberately planted on time with a drill and fall fertilized for maximum yield potential. The difference between the two in the spring is huge. The other difference is that with the higher level of management, the winter forage gives soil and environmental benefits equal to cover crops on steroids. The benefits are far above a simple “cover crop”.