Storing hay outside and exposed can cause large losses due to spoilage, often up to 61%. While precipitation usually takes the blame for spoiled hay, the bales also wick moisture up from the ground. Storing hay under a roof will minimize spoilage. Typical storage losses under a roof are 2%–10%. While an initial capital expense, […]
The storage and handling of livestock feeds in the ensiled form has several advantages. These, however, can only be fully realized if producers select the type of storage structure (silo) most suited to their farm situation. It is important to think of each part of the feed handling picture, from field to feed bunk, as […]
Stage of maturity at harvest is the most important factor in determining the nutritional quality of a forage crop. Grasses lose nutritional quality faster than legumes. Mixed stands should be harvested when the grass is ready. If the alfalfa is maturing later than the grass, waiting on the alfalfa to reach the ideal growth stage […]