Silage Management
Those attending the 3rd Annual Cattleman’s College received valuable advise on silage management from silage expert Dr. Keith Bolsen.
Dr. Bolsen talked about the importance of four key management practices those being; 1. Achieving a high silage density, 2.Providing an effective seal, 3. Eliminating the negative effects of surface-spoiled silage and 4. Safety issues in managing bunker silos and drive-over piles.
1.Achieving a Higher Silage Density
Benefits of a higher silage density include “increased storage capacity of existing bunker silos (without over-filling) and decrease the height of drive-over piles (without decreasing storage capacity)”. Recent on farm surveys show that “many producers are not achieving the recommended minimum silage density of about 15 lb per ft3”.
2. Providing an Effective Seal
“The profitability of sealing bunker silos and drive-over piles with Silostop or standard plastic makes it clear that producers and their silage team should pay close attention to the details of this ‘highly troublesome’ task”.
3.Eliminating the Negative Effects of Surface-Spoiled Silage
Dr. Bolsen referenced research out of KSU in which “rumen evacuation revealed that spoiled silage severely damaged the integrity of the forage mat. The results clearly showed that surface spoilage reduced the nutritive value of corn silage-based rations more than was expected”.
4.Safety Issues in Managing Bunker Silos and Drive-Over Piles
Dr. Bolsen touched on 5 hazards and how to prevent them. Those hazards were tractor or truck roll-over, entangled in or run-over by machinery, falls, crushed by an avalanche/collapsing silage and complacency. His final thoughts on safety were “Think safety first! It is best to take steps to eliminate hazards in advance than to rely upon yourself or others to make the correct decision or execute the perfect response when a hazard is encountered. Only experienced people should be permitted to operate equipment associated with harvesting, filling, packing, sealing and feeding in a silage program. The correct sizing of bunker silos and drive-over piles can reduce the risk of an accident”.
If you would like to read more talk to your Sioux Nation representative to get a full copy of the 3rd Annual Cattleman’s College proceedings.
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