Last year’s fermentation clues can make this year’s silage more predictable and more productive.

When silage analyses show atypical acid profiles or pH behavior, the assumption is often that fermentation failed. In most cases, fermentation occurred, but microbial activity was redirected by moisture, substrate availability or oxygen dynamics.

Hay test results provide critical insight into forage quality, but numbers alone don’t capture the full picture.

After years of drought, Nebraska hay producers faced a new challenge in 2025: too much rain. This high-moisture hay raises new questions about winter feeding strategies.

Residual mycotoxin load isn’t limited to drought years or visible mold – it’s a systemic risk that persists across geographies and seasons.

One of the most critical factors that drives a robust silage fermentation is the moisture content of the forage.

Making strategic decisions around moisture content, weather conditions and equipment performance not only helps protect forage value and animal performance but also supports better outcomes across the entire operation.

Staying ahead of seasonal challenges with a proactive feeding program can significantly minimize silage spoilage risks and maximize herd performance and efficiency. By adopting a clean feed approach – through managing the ensiling and feeding of silage, implementing hygienic on-farm practices and ensuring the right nutrition – producers provide their herd with the best opportunity for a high-quality clean feed source and the ability to efficiently produce high-quality milk.

The calendar never lies. While it may feel like New Year’s celebrations have scarcely fizzled, the calf crop is on the ground, the winter feed supply is dwindling, and patches of green grass are beckoning.