Evaluating the economic value of silage this summer in Scotland

How much is an acre of standing crop silage worth this summer? As the agricultural sector approaches another challenging winter, the value of silage as a substitute for concentrate feeds becomes a pertinent question for farmers looking to secure adequate winter feed. Martina Harrington, manager of the Teagasc Future Beef Programme, offers vital insights into the evaluation process of silage under current conditions.

Silage making involves considerable expense, factoring in mowing, baling, wrapping, and stacking, which could total around €150 per acre. Given these costs, the initial value of standing crop silage is reduced, setting a complex calculation into motion for farmers deciding on their next steps. Harrington’s analysis indicates that with a yield per acre of seven bales of 68% digestibility silage, each bale containing 220kg of dry matter, the economics of silage production are closely tied to the cost of alternative feeds.

The calculation further incorporates a 15% loss in feed value during the ensiling process, a significant factor in determining the final worth of the crop. Comparing silage to concentrate feeds priced at €320 per ton, the analysis suggests that the financial outcomes vary significantly depending on the yield and quality of the silage. For example, six bales per acre of 70% digestibility are valued at €299, subtracting the ensiling costs, bringing the net value down to €149 per acre.

As winter approaches, Teagasc advises farmers to prepare a fodder budget that includes a 20-25% surplus to address potential extended feeding periods due to poor past growth seasons and prolonged housing over winter. This strategy is underscored by the urgent recommendation to utilize every opportunity for harvesting silage, including additional cuts and utilizing surplus grass from grazing fields.

The economic evaluation extends beyond mere cost comparisons. Farmers are encouraged to consider renting additional land for silage production and possibly diversifying into forage crops like rape in anticipation of next year’s needs. Collaborative efforts, such as contract cropping agreements with tillage farmers for whole crop silage, are also highlighted as practical steps to secure necessary feed supplies while managing costs and ensuring mutual obligations are clear.

With Teagasc’s calculated insights and the continuing challenges in fodder production, farmers are positioned to make informed decisions about their silage production strategies, weighing costs against potential feed value and exploring innovative solutions to sustain their livestock through another demanding winter.