As last year’s forage inventories slowly decline, many producers are starting to turn their attention to the upcoming crop. With less feed in bunkers, bags and silos, it becomes easier to evaluate storage structures and address maintenance needs before the next harvest fills them again.
Liz Gartman, regional crops educator with UW–Madison Extension, says this spring is an ideal time for producers to inspect silage structures and make improvements that protect next season’s forage. Producers invest heavily in growing and harvesting high-quality forage, but that effort can be lost if storage systems don’t maintain the right conditions.
“All this hard work can be negated by using silage structures that fail to preserve the crop or allow for spoilage or additional contamination,” Gartman explains.
Oxygen is the Biggest Threat
Regardless of how silage is stored, keeping oxygen out is the biggest piece of preserving feed quality.
“Oxygen is the enemy of quality silage,” Gartman says. “When air infiltrates silage, it can lead to heating, mold growth and secondary fermentation that reduce feed value and increase shrink.”
Many producers focus on the plastic covering used to seal silage, but oxygen infiltration can occur in several other ways. Cracks in bunker walls, leaking silo doors or holes in silage bags can all introduce air into the silage mass.
Before refilling any storage structure, Gartman recommends removing all remaining feed and cleaning the storage area thoroughly. Spoiled or moldy feed left behind can contaminate the next crop. In addition, acids produced during fermentation can damage concrete and metal over time, contributing to deterioration in silage structures.
Each system has its own maintenance needs, which is why spring is the best time to inspect closely, take note of problem areas and plan repairs for summer so everything is ready before the next silage harvest.
Inspect Bunkers Before Filling
Bunker silos are a common storage method because they offer flexibility and relatively low construction costs, but they require regular attention to maintain an airtight seal.
Gartman notes that oxygen can move through concrete walls and floors, especially when cracks develop from freeze-thaw cycles, heavy equipment traffic or normal wear.
Now is a good time to inspect for cracks in walls, joints and floors and complete repairs or sealing work as needed, while also planning ahead so issues can be addressed before the next silage harvest. Drainage should also be checked to ensure seepage moves away from the pile rather than collecting at the base.
Some producers line bunker floors or walls with plastic to improve the oxygen barrier, but care is needed during filling and feedout to avoid damaging those barriers, which can quickly lead to spoilage.
Bags and Piles Need the Right Location
Silage bags and piles offer flexibility for many operations, but their placement and management play a major role in maintaining feed quality.
Bags located in high-traffic areas, poorly drained sites or areas accessible to wildlife are more likely to experience damage or contamination. Mud around bags can also increase the risk of soil entering the feed during filling and feedout.
If muddy conditions are common, consider moving bags to a firm base such as concrete or packed limestone screenings. Leveling ruts and improving drainage around storage areas can also reduce problems.
Regularly checking bags and piles for plastic damage should be standard practice. Any holes caused by birds, rodents or weather should be repaired quickly to keep oxygen out and protect silage quality.
Silos Require Routine Checks
Upright silos are no longer as common on many dairies, but they still require a different set of maintenance checks.
Gartman encourages producers to identify areas where spoilage regularly occurs, as those locations may signal air leaks or structural problems. Walls should be inspected for cracks, while damaged doors should be repaired or replaced to ensure a tight seal.
Other areas to review include:
- Roofs and seals that may allow water or air infiltration
- Ladders, cages and chutes that may need repair
- Unloaders, cables and pulleys that show signs of wear
- Safety guards on moving equipment
Because many silos have been in service for decades, periodic professional inspections can help identify structural concerns before they become major issues.
Safety Remains a Top Priority
Working around silage structures carries risks, particularly when entering silos or working near silage faces. Gartman stresses the importance of following proper safety procedures when performing inspections or repairs.
For upright silos, producers should follow OSHA confined space entry protocols. Workers should use a harness connected to a lifeline, wear appropriate personal protective equipment and ensure equipment is locked out so it cannot be accidentally started.
Additional safety reminders include:
- Wearing high-visibility clothing when working around flat storage structures
- Avoiding the silage face and maintaining a safe distance to prevent avalanche risks
- Working in pairs so someone can call for help if needed
“Always keep safety top of mind when you are inspecting and repairing silage structures,” Gartman says.
Small Repairs Can Protect Valuable Feed
On many dairies, maintenance tasks can easily get pushed aside by more immediate priorities. But silage storage plays a critical role in protecting one of the farm’s most valuable feed resources.
Taking time to inspect bunkers, silos and bags can help reduce feed shrink and preserve forage quality. When storage systems are well maintained, they do a better job protecting the investment made in every crop.
