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Harvesting & Storing Forages. What factors determine time to harvest forage?. Balance between quality and yield Weather conditions -rain leaches nutrients. How is forage quality determined?. Physical Appearance. Visual Appearance Color Odor (pleasant). Chemical Analysis. Protein Content
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Balance between quality and yield • Weather conditions -rain leaches nutrients
Physical Appearance • Visual Appearance • Color • Odor (pleasant)
Chemical Analysis • Protein Content • Fiber Content • Digestibility • Lignin Content
Square Bales • Round Bales • Haystack • Field Cubes
High Moisture Systems • Green Chopped • Haylage (40-60%) • Silage (60-70%)
Special ForageProcessing Systems • Stationary Cubers • Pelleting Machines
Causes of Deterioration • Harvest (late or early) • Bailing (wet / too dry) • Improper storage
Proper harvesttime, methods, and moisture content • Maintain storage facilities
Dry Hay • Weather protection • Pest protection • Adequate ventilation
Silage / Haylage • Weather protection • Pest protection • Air tight facility
Silage / Haylage • Convenient for filling, emptying, monitoring, & cleaning
Swath drying • Windrow drying • Conditioning • Chemical additives