STORAGE LOSSES IN ROUND HAY BALES

Abstract

Storage of compact and soft-centred round bales in an exposed position without protection from the weather resulted in total dry matter losses, including inedible waste, of 16 to 27%. Negligible losses occurred in bales stored in a haybarn. Siting bales in the lee of a shelterbelt generally halved losses but was not as effective as covering bales with polythene caps. Elevating bales off the ground by the use of posts failed to substantially reduce storage losses.