Aerobically unstable corn silage is a common challenge for dairy and beef operations throughout the U.S. Mold and yeast are field-borne organisms that are transferred to the storage facility during the harvesting process.

Alfalfa silage is a significant feed source in many high-producing dairy diets. Every dairy producer understands the importance of harvesting and storing high-quality alfalfa silage. However, this is one of the most challenging forages to ensile consistently.

Growing and storing forage is something people have been doing since the beginning of agriculture. Many practices and beliefs have been passed from one generation to the next, leading to common misconceptions in the industry.

Forage producers know they must pay attention to details when focusing on forage quality. Both old and new tools can be utilized by forage quality consultants and feed nutritionists to help their clients improve forage best management practices (BMP’s). Following are some of the most common, useful tools.