High-Stakes Harvest: Corn Silage Producers Balance Quality, Quantity
Corn silage harvest is in full swing in many High Plains states, with August being the peak month for collection. Gail Carpenter, an Iowa State University assistant professor of Extension and outreach who studies animal nutrition, notes that corn silage is a staple feed source for dairy and beef producers due to its high fiber content.
The corn silage provides physically effective fiber, scratch factor, and digestible fiber for energy, making it an essential component in dairy rations. Carpenter emphasizes the importance of attention to detail during harvest to prevent spoilage and ensure high-quality feed.
She recommends storing the silage in bunk and covering it as soon as possible, especially in dry weather conditions. The particle size should be shorter than 4 inches, which is the width of a cow's muzzle, to allow for efficient packing and minimize mold growth.