THE DOLLARS AND SENSE IN SILAGE BAGGING IMPROVED FEED MANAGEMENT INVOLVES MUCH MORE THAN HOW TO STORE IT
F or ranchers, cow-calf and cattle feedlot operators, feed costs represent the largest expense for livestock oper- ations, often accounting for more than 50 percent of total operating costs. Bagging silage has emerged as an effec- tive strategy to reduce feed waste, but its benefits extend far beyond basic preservation. When integrated into the broader feed management system, silage bagging can significantly lower operating costs across multiple areas. Bagging silage allows for improved fermentation, better nutrient retention and extended shelf life compared to tra- ditional storage methods such as bunkers or pits. While the initial investment in bagging equipment may seem high, pro- ducers who evaluate the long-term savings – from reduced feed loss to improved herd health – often find the financial return compelling. This approach shifts the discussion from equipment cost to operational efficiency and profitability, offering a clearer path toward sustainable feed management. Reducing Silage Loss Saves Ranchers $4,500 to $45,000 per Year One of the main disadvantages of storing silage using tradi- tional methods like piles, pits and bunkers is the considerable risk of spoilage and loss, which can amount to as much as 30 percent. This combined loss is often referred to as “shrink.” A key advantage of properly bagged silage is the smaller feedout face, which reduces daily exposure to air, thereby minimizing spoilage. This design ensures that silage is con- sumed more quickly, preserving its freshness and maintaining its nutritional value. Even at a conservative 15 percent, the savings derived from reducing shrink are substantial. Let’s take a simple example: » If a producer’s feed is worth $72 per ton at harvest, » And they are putting up 10,000 tons of feed, » A 15 percent reduction in loss means they are saving 1,500 tons of feed. » At $72 per ton, that translates to a savings of $108,000. More Retained Nutrients = Less Feed Needed The higher quality silage produced in bags further reduces feed costs by providing greater nutrient density. Limiting oxygen exposure reduces the risk of yeast and mold growth. These contaminants consume essential carbohydrates and proteins, leading to nutrient losses, lower digestibility and potential mycotoxin production that can harm livestock health. “The feed is more nutritious because we are not losing nu- trients to those spoilage microorganisms, and we are not in-
troducing contaminants into an animal that we are asking to grow rapidly and efficiently,” explains Keith A. Bryan, Ph.D., technical service manager, silage and dairy, North America, for global biosolutions company Novonesis. Longer Feed Life Beef cattle naturally choose the highest-quality feed available, just as they would do in a pasture. Keeping feed fresh in the bunk is essential for reducing waste and improving efficiency. In long bunks, uneaten feed sits, molds and requires frequent cleaning, leading to unnecessary waste. Bagged feed stays fresh and consistent much longer, making it more appeal- ing and reducing discarded feed. This extended feed life translates to cost savings since more of the feed is consumed rather than thrown away. Improved Herd Health Properly stored and well-preserved silage maintains higher nutrient density, particularly in terms of energy, protein and digestibility, all of which contribute to better overall herd health. Although assigning a dollar value to a healthier herd is more challenging than calculating feed savings, producers who have transitioned to bagging frequently report noticeable reduc- High-quality silage plays a key role in improving reproduc- tive efficiency in calf-cow operations. In these operations, timely breed-back is essential for profitability. Bagged silage mitigates reproductive inefficiency by preserv- ing nutrients and preventing mold growth, which reduces exposure to mycotoxins – a leading cause of reproductive failure. Operators have reported faster breed-back and higher conception success rates after switching to bagging, further boosting productivity and profitability. Add Up the Savings Silage bagging presents a compelling financial advantage for beef and calf-cow operations. Operators can save tens of thousands of dollars annually while maintaining higher nutrient retention, extending feed life and improving herd health. These benefits contribute to a more sustainable, financially resilient operation. For more information, call (800) 837-7288 or visit versacorporation.com. tions in veterinary expenses and treatment costs. Improved Breed-Back, Conception, Reproduction
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