How to Reduce Forage Waste in Autumn and Winter

As temperatures drop and weather patterns shift, autumn and winter bring new challenges for livestock farmers—especially when it comes to forage storage and usage. Poorly stored or mismanaged forage can lead to spoilage, mold, and significant financial loss. So how can farmers reduce forage waste and keep animals well-fed during the colder seasons? Here are a few practical strategies:

1. Focus on Moisture Control & Insulation
Autumn and winter often come with large temperature swings between day and night, causing condensation. This moisture can seep into forage and lead to spoilage. Store forage in dry, elevated, and well-ventilated areas. Using pallets or bricks to lift bales off the ground helps prevent ground moisture from affecting them.

2. Choose the Right Film, Twine, or Netwrap
Low temperatures and strong winds can damage poor-quality wrapping materials. In colder seasons, it's crucial to use durable, cold-resistant silage film or twine that won’t crack or tear easily. Ensure the wrapping is tight and well-sealed to keep out air and prevent oxidation.

3. Feed Smart: Use Only What You Need
Taking out too much forage at once may lead to unnecessary waste. When exposed to air, the leftover feed can warm up, ferment, or grow mold. A "small batch, high-frequency" feeding strategy works best—take only what your livestock will consume within a short window.

4. Inspect Regularly
Make it a habit to check your forage storage weekly, especially the top and edges of bales or silage pits. Look for signs of tearing, water leaks, or rodent activity. Any small issue—like a torn film or open corner—should be patched immediately to prevent bigger losses.

5. Invest in Quality Consumables
Low-quality consumables might save a few dollars upfront but often result in higher waste and equipment wear. Using stronger baler twine, netwrap, or multi-layer silage film ensures your forage is better protected and lasts longer. In the long run, this can mean more usable feed and better livestock health.

Forage isn’t just grass—it’s value, nutrition, and months of hard work. Treat it like a true asset. By improving how you store and handle your feed this autumn and winter, you can make a real difference to your farm’s efficiency and bottom line.

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