LARGE ROUND BALE HAY STORAGE IN KENTUCKY
Extension Education
Tom Mills
Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resourses
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Extension
MOUNT VERNON
Abstract
\r\n Hay is the largest expense for Kentucky livestock herds. On average cows are fed 120+ days. Depending on storage method, five to eight 4’x5’ large round bales are required to winter each mature cow. Extension Specialist note that 4” and 6” circumference around the standard 4’x5’ hay bale equals 25% and 36% respectively. Weather damage to unprotected hay stored outdoors generally runs in the 25 to 33% range. Extension demonstrations on hay storage started with commercial hay tarps constructed of heavy weight UV resistant material. Hay tarps allow livestock producers to uncover hay on a weekly basis securing the tarp on remaining hay, which allows for continued protection from rain and snow. Hay Storage demonstrations prompted Agriculture Leadership to utilize Agriculture Development funds for permanent Hay Storage Structures. A 50/50 Cost Share has helped farmers construct a 32’x64’x14’ pole barn averaging $7500 thier cost. Hay savings will pay for their cost in less than 4 years on a building which has a life of 25 years. During 2010 the 100th Hay Barn was constructed. This program has reached 1/3 of total livestock farms, but represents over ½ of total cattle. Farmers seeing the benefits of indoor storage have converted tobacco barns as well as constructed hay barns outside the cost share program. This means nearly 75% of cattle are reached. Indoor storage reduces winter feeding needs by 3 large bales per cow or $75 per head. Indoor storage provides farmers with options to utilize savings by selling excess hay or decreasing acres devoted to hay production.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Mills Tom
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Tom, M. Extensinon Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Rockcastle Co., Kentucky, 40456