Silostop Agri can help advise on ensiling and feeding forage from clamps. We have worldwide experience using oxygen barrier technology silage sheets. Resulting in reducing DM loss and spoilage, whilst using less plastic.
What is the objective?
To produce high-quality silage for animals and anaerobic digestion plants to operate efficiently, with the minimum dry matter loss.
What is DM loss?
DM loss starts in the field and then the clamp.
Average clamp loss is around 25% (AHDB quote)
In layman’s terms: for every 4 loads going into the clamp only 3 loads are used.
Dry Matter is essentially sugars and protein.
5% DM loss = 5% drop in D Value
This can mean a huge drop in milk production or a less efficient AD plant operating
How can we help?
Cutting grass to capture the most sunlight – after lunchtime.
Spread and wilt as soon as possible.
Aim to pick up around 30% DM.
Use a proven silage additive to help speed up fermentation reducing DM loss.
Manage chop length.
22% DM 8-10cm
22-28% DM 8cm
28-32% DM 2.5-5cm
32% DM 2.5cm
Don’t consolidate forage at an angle greater than 20 degrees – the steeper the incline of fill the more likely the clamp can slip. Modern machines are more heavy and powerful and could do more harm than good.
Have a consistent density consolidation from start to finish.
Do not overfill the clamp as the sides will be not compacted properly = more loss/waste.
Keep the surface as even as possible to avoid any air pockets, which could turn to waste.
Sheeting the clamp
Use wall sheets with min 0.5m overlap at the bottom and at least 1m at the top.
Fold the top of the wall sheet inwards.
Roll an O2 barrier sheet over the top, letting it suck down onto the clap to form a good seal.
Silostop Oxygen barrier sheets are proven to reduce oxygen transmission.
Then place a Secure Cover or UV Cover to protect the plastic sheet form the elements and bird/vermin attacks.
Finally, make sure the clamp has double gravel bags around the shoulders to form a good fermentation seal. Evenly weigh the top surface with tyre walls, rubber mats or gravel bags. An illustration is below.
