101 Secrets: Husbandry

How to Manage Feed for High Quality
Author: Barbie Tilton

Feed quality is something that is a

partnership in the livestock industries.

Feed mills do their best to deliver the highest quality feed. The rest is up to the farm personnel to maintain that feed to the point of consumption.

Winter poses a special challenge to keep feed fresh, but with proper bin management, the effects of winter can be diminished. Be sure to place all feed off the ground when storing and in a feed bin of some sort for feeding out.

Feed should be fully used before the next load is

started. Dumping new feed on top of old is not recommended. Some types of feed lose their nutrients after a short time after being opened.

Periodically inspect the bin checking for cracks,

breakage or holes and replace or repair if needed. Be sure the bin lid seats correctly at the top in the closed position, this will keep feed fresh and keep out bugs or rodents.

Brushing, washing or air blasting any feed that is

sticking to the inside of a bin is recommended to help

prevent the propagation of mold in the bin. By doing so,

you are preventing the spread of mycotoxins and other

contaminants of feed from reaching your livestock.

              Dean & Barbie Tilton

              Someday Farm Alpacas

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