By Blake Jackson
“As hay season continues, I see a lot of large round hay bales being stored outside,” says University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist Patrick Davis. If hay is not stored properly outside, farmers can see significant dry matter and quality losses. Several factors influence these losses, including hay moisture at baling, weather conditions, soil drainage, bale spacing, hay type, and baling technique.
To minimize these losses, Davis recommends several key strategies. First, he emphasizes the importance of baling hay at the correct moisture level. "Large round bales should have a moisture content below 18%," he advises. Exceeding this threshold can cause excessive heating, compromising hay quality and posing a fire risk. Additionally, creating tight, dense bales is essential to reduce sagging during storage, which can accelerate spoilage.
Proper storage location is another critical factor. Davis recommends choosing a well-drained area with ample sunlight. Elevating bales on materials like gravel, wood pallets, or poles can help maintain dryness and reduce spoilage. "Storing hay in open sunlight away from shaded areas is beneficial," he adds.
Careful bale placement is equally important. Davis suggests arranging bales in tight rows facing the prevailing wind, with at least 3 feet between rows. This configuration promotes airflow, helping to prevent spoilage.
“Hay is a major feed resource for cattle operations,” says Davis. Storage that reduces losses will promote optimum hay feeding efficiency, leading to optimum cattle operation profitability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Hay & Forage