Silage covers should be used at all times from initial packing through the final feedout. Uncovered silage material risks degradation from moisture loss, exposure to air, and associated spoilage throughout the production, storage, and feeding stages.
Excessive moisture loss leads to loose packing at the outset, inefficient fermentation, and lowered digestibility in the final product. Exposure to air can lead to production of toxins during fermentation, lowered nutrient content, and problems with mold or other spoilage factors at feedout. Any of these factors can result in significant costs by affecting the health, production, and development of livestock and the necessity of purchasing replacement feed.
