Haylage proves an effcient fodder option

摘要

In recent years, large square-baled haylage has become a very saleable fodder commodity. It has a lower moisture content (higher dry matter percentage) than bulk chopped silage, but is more convenient to transport. The production of haylage in Australia has been on the increase in recent years, ever since machines producing large, square-baled silage became established in the industry. According to fodder conservation and pasture specialist Frank Mickan from DPI Victoria, haylage refers to forage baled in the 45-60 per cent range for Dry Matter (DM). "This is the target range for experienced operators in Australia, as they have found the material will still be moist enough to ferment and therefore ensile," Frank said. "With its lower moisture content (and therefore weight) than silage, and convenient shape, haylage is efficient to transport and so is becoming an increasingly popular commodity."