Feeding maize silage in winter: Setting the herd up for success
As I write this article, we have just had our first frost in the Waikato, a change in weather signalling that winter is upon us.
About 17.5ha of maize is planted on the farm and around 350 tonnes of maize harvested and stored in a bunker as feed for 330 Friesian cross cows.
He came across an article on GeoSmart Eco Silage covers and decided to attend an environment field day where the product was being exhibited. He liked what he saw and started using GeoSmart Eco Silage covers in March last year.
He told Dairy News that the covers have reduced the wastage from 10% to 3% by just preventing holes that let water and air in.
“They are much easier to cover the stack with,” he says.
“We don’t need to put tyres all over the stack: you do not need as much labour to put the covers on.
“By investing in GeoSmart silage covers we have ensured that every bit of maize silage is utilised and of good quality. We have less wastage, the covers are easy to use and good for the environment as they are reusable for many years.”
“By investing in GeoSmart silage covers we have ensured that every bit of maize silage is utilised and of good quality. We have less wastage, the covers are easy to use and good for the environment as they are reusable for many years.”
Muggeridge is building a new silage bunker and will be using GeoSmart Silage covers.
Also a Tatua shareholder and director, Muggeridge owns 141ha (135ha eff) that produces around 137,000 kgMS. It is run by contract milkers.
The farm also grows 11ha of chicory, used to feed cows from late December until May 1.
Robust, Durable
GeoSmart silage covers are reusable, robust, durable and environment friendly.
GeoSmart is 1mm thick making it highly puncture resistant. It has a factory backed 10-year UV degradation warranty meaning it will last for longer, reducing plastic going into landfill.
Very low oxygen permeability of Geosmart EPDM ensures excellent quality silage with less spoilage.
