By Rick Hirsch/County Extension Agent
Hay storage losses vary greatly depending upon several factors, but storage technique is of utmost importance. The loss of dry hay stored inside a barn is usually of little concern. However, even for barn stored hay, losses rise sharply as moisture levels increase above 20 percent and losses from round bales stored outside under adverse conditions can be much larger. During storage, hay can be subject to dry matter losses as well as losses of forage quality. So, it is important to have the proper storage space for hay. Barns similar to these Dutch Barns could be a step in the right direction when it comes to having sustainable storage options.
If hay is to be stored outside, it is desirable to locate the storage site close to the feeding area because bales become more difficult to handle as they weather. It is easier to move them a greater distance when they are new and tightly wrapped.
Well-drained upland storage sites are best. Bottom areas should generally be avoided as they tend to be heavier soils. Also, many bottom areas are prone to flooding, which is detrimental to hay and may limit vehicle access during rainy periods. Hay/soil contact should be avoided if at all possible, but if hay must touch the soil, a sandy well-drained area is greatly preferable to a heavy soil and/or poorly drained site.
Once the storage site has been located, attention should be given to bale placement and orientation. Except when multiple-bale covers are used, large round bales should be stored in rows with sides not touching so as to avoid creating a moisture-holding area between sides. However, the flat ends of bales should be firmly butted against one another.
This conserves space and may help protect the bottoms of bales (other than the one on the upper side of the slope) from water flowing down the slope. Properly done, this protects the ends almost as well as if they were part of one continuous bale.
If possible, rows should run north and south so as to allow maximum exposure of the rounded sides to the sun. this increases drying of the rounded surface of bales during the day. At least 3 feet should be left between bale rows to ensure sunlight penetration and allow good air circulation.
If direct hay/soil contact cannot be avoided, taking steps to minimize the amount of water reaching the bales, and the length of time they stay wet, will at least help. A gently sloping site (preferably with a southern exposure to maximize solar drying) will allow water to quickly drain away from the hay. Bales should be oriented up and down the slope so that they will not create a dam for surface water and placed near the tip of the slope to minimize the amount of water flowing around the hay.