Blog Archives - Page 11 of 16 - Western Packaging

30 Jun 2019
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Why We Need To Teach Our Kids About Agriculture

I will never forget when one of the neighborhood kids came around to my backyard patio while I was tending to my container garden. He was a sweet kid but what came out of his mouth next made me question so much of what young people are learning these days. As I picked my tomatoes to bring them in for our lunch he exclaimed, “EWWW!”

I asked why he was so disgusted by my vine-ripened tomatoes and his answer was, “that’s gross you’re supposed to get your tomatoes from the store.” This my friends is one of the reasons why Western Packaging thinks it is extremely important that we teach our kids about agriculture.

Exposure To The Unknown

Most American kids are not exposed to the world of farming, many come from urban or suburban areas of the country and it is not necessarily any fault of their own. Unless we share our knowledge they will continue to think that tomatoes are grown at the grocery store.

Although grocery stores are great ways for farmers to share their product with the world we are doing the next generation a disservice if this is what we pass down. From about toddler age children can begin to learn about where their food comes from. Whether it is planting a bean, reading books, or taking a field trip to the farm, children can learn to not only appreciate their food but the hands that labored to bring it to their tables.

Children Genuinely Want To Know

Children are so inquisitive and they love to learn new facts and they love to share those facts with others. Children also like taking charge, so when they get the opportunity to take charge you have them hooked.

You can offer kids these opportunities by teaching them where their food comes from and gifting them the power to grow their own on a smaller scale. Giving them the knowledge and the tools to contribute to their families at a young age no matter how small the contribution is huge to them.

In today’s world of technology and information, kids have a lot at their fingertips and I believe they truly do want to make a difference in the world. Working with communities, especially those unfamiliar with farming towns are worth investing in and creating initiatives. These would not only create more informed citizens but possible future farmers.

Future Farmers and Influencers

If your only view of farming is Old McDonald than you are probably not going to choose that as a career. That is why with exposure and education our kids can make informed decisions about what they want to do with their lives. Farming is more than a man with a duck, a cow, and a nice pair of overalls and the kids need to know that.

Farming is not only a great career but it is rewarding and one that is on the decline. We need our young people to use new and advanced techniques combined with the ones of old to continue these traditions.

A degree in agriculture not only allows you to work in farming but in food production, plant genetics, animal nutrition, and so much more. Caring about farming also means caring enough about the next generation no matter how far removed they are from your community to pass down the information.

Call Us For More Information

Western Packaging is passionate about the agricultural business and that is why we offer all the materials you need to keep your business up and running. Give us a call today!

15 Jun 2019
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Tips For Small Start-Up Farms

Starting a new farm for profit is an exciting venture but it is a big deal and not something that should be jumped into half hazard. Western Packaging is all about supporting small start-up farms and we know that you can’t do it without the support of your local farmers and community. We have a few tips we believe are very important if you are looking into starting a small farm.

Plant Multiple Crops

Diversity is key when you are trying to turn a profit in agriculture. If all you sell is tomatoes the likelihood of success and profit is little to none. Being able to offer something else if one crop fails is necessary for the survival of a small farm. Consider integrating animals into your farm to help maintain vegetable crops and bring in additional income.

Turkey’s and other foul eat bugs that are harmful to vegetables and cut back on pesticides or other natural insecticides. Other animals are commonly used as natural groundskeepers and their waste used as fertilizer and so on.

Skip The Middle Man

Selling to grocery stores and other places that are going to get a cut of your profits is not the way to go for small farmers. Building a loyal customer base is your main goal in the beginning of your venture. Loyal customers are usually very receptive to new products you offer later down the line.

When you sell directly to your customers you can sell for retail instead of wholesale profiting immensely. Let’s just say you sell 10,000 heads of cabbage a year and you earn just one dollar more at retail that is an extra $10,000 in your pocket.

Lease Over Purchase

Starting a new farm is overwhelming and an enormous amount of work. Banks are not as quick to hand over money when you have had no proof of stability. So whether you are still building credit or you are just new to farming leasing land is a good way to build credit and a reputation that will stand up to any disputes in the future.

If you share land with an existing farm there is a good chance that you can share certain farming tools and save money in that way as well. In time, as your profits increase and your success is proven you can purchase your own land with less resistance.

Have A Reasonable Plan About Your Profits

I am sure you have heard the saying, “If you fail to plan, plan to fail” well it is the truth! Creating a business plan is a vital part of any successful business, especially an agricultural business. You will need to make sure you have a reasonable idea of how long it will take to pay for your supplies, overhead, possible the farm hands, and turn a profit.

You will want to not only just make enough to pay your bills and support your family but money for the extras like vacations and fun things for the farm. If you have kids, factor in savings accounts, emergency funds, and college educations. With careful planning, you can expect to spend five to ten years getting to this point.

Call Us For Your Agricultural Needs

Western Packaging is happy to help supply you with the supplies necessary to run your small farming business. We carry a range of supplies from packaging to machinery and are here to help you with all your start-up needs. Give us a call to find out more about how we can get your farm up and running.

01 May 2019
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Signs You Need To Replace Your Packaging Equipment

Packaging equipment lasts for a long time and it is easy to put it in the back of our minds and completely forget about maintenance, upkeep, or the possibility of it needing replacement. Western Packaging is here to help you decide when it is the right time to hang it up and replace your packaging equipment.

Maintenance Is Key

No matter how amazing your machine is, no matter how high-tech, no matter how much you paid for the machine of all machines it needs regular maintenance. If you want a long-lasting and reliable piece of equipment to go the extra mile than making sure you stay up to date on regular maintenance is key.

You will cut down on unexpected repairs and your equipment will work for you the way you need it to. This is a great way to improve your packaging process. In the end, this is your first line of defense, but if you have done this and you still experience problems it is probably time to move on.

Frequent Mechanical Issues

Like with most mechanical equipment or appliances that are aging or nearing the end of their lifespan, they start to break down. It is one thing if you have an issue and are able to troubleshoot your way through it but if it is happening more often than not it is probably time to replace your machine.

Make sure that you are getting your equipment maintenanced regularly so that you get the most out of your machine. Take note of any complaints your clients have. At times they are noticing your machines mistakes before you are.

Obsolete Parts and Mechanisms

A great example of the concept of this is our smartphones. Some of us like to keep our phones until they have seen their last days, I mean why fix something when it still works right? Well, the creators of our devices know this and as technology advances, it eventually forces you to buy an updated device.

The same is true for your packaging equipment, whether it is the parts that become obsolete or built-in software. Once you can longer find the parts to repair an otherwise smooth running machine you will have to replace it. Stay ahead of the game and make sure you are aware of the availability of the parts for your machine.

Slower Rate of Production

As your machine ages, production speeds tend to slow down. It is a good idea to keep a detailed record of your production times. You will start to notice backups and bottlenecking and this can result in damaged goods or no production at all.

In the end, this all affects your profits and it is very important something like this is fixed or the machine is replaced as soon as possible. If it is not, losses will be significant and seriously affect your production.

This Changes With Business Production

As your business grows so the demands on a machine or equipment. This does one of two things, it can overwork your current machine or force you to buy a new one that can keep up. If your business is growing you should consider new equipment to keep up with the demands.

Many times new equipment is not only faster but it also has more options and better functionality than some of the older machines. If you are downsizing in any way you can also consider a new machine to save space and energy.

We Can Help You

Western Packaging has a full line of packaging equipment and supplies. If you would like more information about Wulftec wrapping machines or equipment our team can help to answer your questions. Contact us today! We are ready to help you with all of your packaging needs.

15 Apr 2019
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What You Need To Know About Reusable Packaging

With the popularity of green living, the reduction of waste, and reusing all the materials we can it is no surprise there are new initiatives to cut back on packaging waste. Before you jump on the bandwagon it is a good idea to have all the details so you can make the best decision for your company. A new program is now being tested to see how reusable packaging will work out for many large companies and we think it deserves a second look.

The Latest In Reusable Packaging

Launched by The World Economic Forum in Switzerland, the new Loop program began at the beginning of the year in January of 2019. They describe their program as “the milkman reimagined” and if you are still confused we will explain. Back in the day, the milkman would go door to door dropping off fresh milk in glass containers, at the end of the week the milkman would pick up the empty glasses and replace them.

The Loop program runs off the same principle of one in one out. Large companies have already started returning used packaging do be cleaned, refilled with fresh product, and then resold to the public. The idea is an old one reinvented and is a good idea for many, but is it right for you?

How Can You Benefit From It?

The benefits of reusable packaging are pretty obvious but just in case you didn’t realize it, our landfills are beyond full. Unfortunately, it is a real crisis and between our waterways and landfills, we are drowning in plastic bags and toxic waste. Reusing packaging significantly reduces and could eliminate any further waste you contribute.

Reusable packaging could save you money a well. It would take some number crunching but it is very likely you could shave a bit off your bottom line.

What Are Its Disadvantages?

Although there is a possibility this could save you money the same is true for the opposite. Business owner’s concerns come from the price of high-quality recyclable plastics and the fact that prices are bound to be much higher. This is essentially the main concern when it comes to reusable plastics.

It seems as though it is really not marketed to your average middle American business but rather to major cities like New York, Toronto, or Paris. With that being said, in the grand scheme of working toward a healthier environment, the program is a step in the right direction. There are alternatives if this is not economical for your company.

Flexible Packaging, Another Option

For those of you who feel like reusable packaging is just not in your future, there are other options. Flexible packaging is described as any packaging, liner, or overwrap that can change shape based on what it contains. Although it is not reusable, flexible packaging is still one of the more environmentally friendly packaging options.

It is cheaper, it looks good, preserves freshness, its convenient, and it is more cost-effective. Flexible packaging used less energy when produced, reducing carbon emissions and lowering initial waste. In the end, it is up to you to do the numbers and choose what is best for your business not only the environment.

Call Us For Packaging Solutions

Western Packaging has a solution for all of your packaging needs and much more. We offer our customers a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials for packaging along with many other products used for business and agriculture. Give our team a call, we would love to answer all of your questions and be your number one packaging supplier.

22 Mar 2019
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How Should You Utilize Your Pallet Load Properly

Are you looking for tips on how to pack a pallet? Loading a pallet at times is a bit like playing a game of Tetris and that is why we would like to give you a few tips about how to properly pack your load. Western Packaging is known for its packaging expertise no matter the size of your shipments. With a bit of creativity and forethought, you can properly utilize your pallet loads more efficiently.

1. Choose The Right Size Pallet

Choosing the right size pallet is the first step in properly utilizing your pallet load. Whether your pallet is wood or plastic it is important to create a proper foundation. Pallets can be customizable but your standard pallet will be around 48 by 42 inches.

Your best bet is to choose a pallet the size of your load or whatever your packaging. If you are packing different items it is going to be harder to do this. Your goal is to create a uniform cube but in a case like this, you will have to customize your pallet and be a bit more creative. After reading over this blog post you will know how to stack a pallet safely.

2. Pallet Stacking Patterns

Depending on the load you are packing you may or may not have to get pretty crafty. Some companies are packing the same loads day in and day out and fit right into that cubical goal we talked about. Think paper supply company, this would probably be the easiest load to pack involving absolutely no forethought.

If you have different sized boxes you need to pack you will need to position them more creatively, starting with the heaviest on the bottom. Make sure to pack your boxes without space between items and packed as tightly as possible. You will have to pay close attention to these oddly shaped packages as to not puncture your shrink-wrap.

3. Stretch Film Matters

Choosing the right stretch film ensures that your product will stay secure and undamaged. It is important to choose a quality stretch film suited for the job. Our team can help you choose what is right for your specific job. The machines used to wrap your pallet loads are very important to the quality of your load.

Pallet wrapping machines should run at different speeds, double wrap, pre-stretch, and various other options. Choose pallet wrap machines that you can customize to suit the varying needs of your business. This is especially important if your company packages items that are different shapes, sizes, and weights.

4. Pallet Packaging Extras

Consider other packaging supplies that will enhance the appearance or quality of your load. Labeling the outside with handheld printers not only identifies the contents of the pallet but it can also be a nice way to advertise your brand.

In some cases, you may need top sheets and other items to protect your pallets. The end goal is to be efficient, professional, and minimize losses.

5. First Impressions Matter

Remember that when you are packaging anything whether they are pallets or bags of grain that first impression matter. The appearance of your packaging says a lot about you, your employees, and your business. Be aware of punctures in shrink-wrap, uniform wrapping, and packing.

If done wrong these things will not only give a negative appearance but can actually be a danger to yourself and your customers. Remember a firm foundation, creativity, and quality will create the perfect pallet load you’re looking for.

Call Our Team Today

With our tips on how to pack a pallet, you should be ready to go! Western Packaging is your one-stop-shop for agricultural packaging and much more. If you need supplies to help pack and maximize your pallet loads we can help you. We have a great team waiting to answer all your questions, give us a call today!

18 Mar 2019
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The Benefits of Silage Wrap

If you have ever wondered whether silage wrapping was the way to go or not Western Packaging can give you a few suggestions on the matter. Providing the best and most nutrient-dense food for your animals is the main concern for most people. Saving money is just as important and we can help you do both with a silage wrapper.

What Is The Difference Between Silage and Haylage?

Silage vs haylage has been an ongoing conversation for decades with farmers. Silage is a fermented food, used for sheep, cows, and other cud-chewing animals and comes from grass, maize, cereals, sorghum, and other crops. Silage is sometimes named after the forage it is made from, for example, oat silage is sometimes called oatlage. Initially, the vegetation is stored in a silo in a huge pile, compressed to remove as much oxygen as possible, and then covered with plastic.

It takes ten days to weeks for the fermentation process to complete. Considering a haylage wrapper or a silage wrapper doesn’t have to be complicated because haylage and silage are very similar. The main difference is that haylage is drier than silage. Both haylage and silage need to be stored in plastic bags to keep them from losing dry matter.

How Does Baled Silage Benefit You?

Not everyone needs baled silage but for those thinking about it, there are huge silage benefits. Silage bale wrap can be ideal if you have smaller fields or overflow fields that are not equipped for piles, wrapping your silage allows you flexibility and convenience. If your pastures are full of hills and not easily accessible to silage-making equipment, this method is beneficial.

Almost any forage is good for making silage but be careful with forage that is older or tough as it can poke through the silage wrapper. This creates a way for oxygen to then be allowed in and you will lose dry matter and nutrient-rich silage.

Why Do I Need Silage Wrap

Silage needs to be wrapped when transporting to keep out the air and preserve the silage. One of the most important things when trying to preserve your silage is keeping the oxygen out, this is the primary benefit to wrapping your silage. Silage is better for cows than other types of fodder because it is easier to digest.

Wrapping hay for silage keeps out oxygen, the lack of oxygen breaks down the lactic bacteria, saving the animals digestive system a step. Wrapping your silage will not only help your animals but it will also save you up to a third of your product. That is a huge deal when it comes to your bottom line and makes it the best bale wrapper.

Choosing A Silage Wrap

When shopping around for a silage wrap look for a wrap that will hold up for a complete season, otherwise you will not only spend more money but you will have more waste. You will want to make sure that it adheres to itself well enough to create an airtight seal. Remember, the goal of wrapping your bales is to keep out the oxygen for a premium silage fodder.

A silage wrapper that reflects the heat is necessary so that your bales do not get too hot and lose nutrient value or spoil. Western Packaging carries Sunfilm brand silage wrap and is well-known for its durability and quality. We would be happy to give you more information about the wraps we carry and the machinery necessary to wrap your bales.

Give Us A Call Today

Western Packaging would love to help you choose the silage wrap that works for you. We carry many products to suit your packaging needs, big or small. If you have any questions or would like help choosing products that make your business better give us a call today!

01 Mar 2019
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Storing Your Packaging Materials: The How’s and Why’s

When it comes to storing your packaging materials for your business it really is not as simple as throwing your cardboard boxes up against the wall. You could definitely do that but we here at Western Packaging don’t recommend it. We want to make sure that no matter the size of your business you have the tools to make the right choices on packaging storage for you and your supplies.

Environmental Conditions That Will Affect Your Packaging

Believe it or not, there are many outside factors that affect a product’s packaging. The types of packaging, sizing, thickness, and storage conditions are all examples of variables that can affect the life and quality of protection that packaging provides. Sometimes these things can be minor but it is important to know so you can make the best choice for your supplies. Temperature changes are a big factor when it comes to most types of storage materials, whether they be paper or plastic.

Humidity can cause cardboard and paper bags to retain moisture increasing their fragility. Extreme temperatures can affect plastic and paper materials causing them to melt or become rigid. Dust is messy and can cause tape not to stick properly and stretch film not to work as well as it should.

Best Practices For Storing Cardboard and Paper Packaging

When storing paper packaging, whether cardboard or paper bags, you are going to want to keep it off the ground. This will help to keep it safe from pests, dirt, and foot traffic. This can also reduce dust buildup and water damage from water dripping or leaking onto floors. If possible store boxes inside one or more central boxes to reduce exposure to dirt and dust. The same can be done for bags.

Store in a climate-controlled area if possible to keep paper from becoming moist and tearing or breaking down. The packaging your goods come in is also the first impression many people get of your business. It’s important to make their first thoughts and opinions on your company the best they can be. The last thing you want to do is offer your product in sub-par packaging.

Storing Stretch Film

Whenever you purchase your stretch film make sure to pay close attention to the manufacturer’s storage instructions. We supply stretch film and are happy to help assist you with any questions you may have. Storing it in its original packaging is always an option so as to reduce exposure to the elements.

Typically you should store stretch film in temperatures ranging between 30-77 degrees Fahrenheit. It is very important that you pay special attention to your stretch film during the summer months. Make sure to store it in the coolest part of your building, on the bottom rack of shelves or pallets.

Be careful not to refrigerate it or your stretch film will no longer stretch like it’s supposed to. Shipping anything with stretch film in the early morning will help to prevent any pre-shrinkage that you are trying to avoid.

How Do I Know If My Stretch Film Is Damaged

Cardboard and paper sacks are easy to identify when compromised but shrink film not so much. You will have to check beyond its appearance and inspect it a little further. If you pick up rolls and they are sticking together, this can be a sign of too much heat exposure and they are probably damaged.

Bagging between layers is another bad sign and typical of rolls exposed to too much heat. If you see this happening do not use them, they could cause issues with your machine. Storage in dry, temperature regulated areas is best for paper and cardboard packaging.

We Would Love To Hear From You

Our team would love to help provide your business with packaging materials that fit your individual requirements. Western Packaging offers an array of supplies to help you store, label, and assist with all your packaging storage needs. Give our team a call today, we would be happy to help you out.

18 Feb 2019
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Top Reasons Why Your Company Should Reduce Packaging Waste

It is no secret that our culture is moving in a more environmentally safe direction. Our team at Western Packaging want to make sure we are really doing our part when it comes to reducing our packaging waste. Reducing waste can not only help the environment but it can also save you money in the long run.

Waste is absolutely unavoidable, but it is what you do with that waste that really counts. We are going to look at a few ways you can prevent waste and make do with what you have.

Minimalistic Approach To Packaging Materials

We understand that packaging is a big deal, it is the first thing your customers see, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be over the top. Sleek, streamlined packaging can not only save resources but it can draw the eye and look very modern and professional. Consider the goods that you are packaging when finding the perfect fit for them.

When you choose a package that better suits the size and shape of what you are storing you not only prevent packaging waste but you also save energy. The less packaging a manufacturer provides the less energy they use, in turn saving on fuels that can cause big problems for our environment.

Waste Management Tutorials

When was the last time you sat your staff down and had training on waste management, recycling or the reuse of materials? If the answer is never then you need to get started on that this week. As a matter of a fact, you could even get a small team together to brainstorm different ideas to reuse packaging and materials that you currently have.

Basic recycling practices are not always a given and need to be taught to each employee if you want to get maximum results. Many items can go into the recycling bin but some could be used around the company. Maybe an area of the office needs storage, there’s no need to buy anything from the store or use a new box, just reuse.

Start With An Energy Efficient Product

If you currently do not use packing made from energy efficient or recyclable materials it’s okay. You don’t want to go and throw out everything just because, but you may want to rethink what your next order will be. Do some research to see where and how your packaging supplies are being made.

Are they made in a factory with good energy practices or are they unaware of the impact that they are putting out into the environment? These days you can find many packaging products that are made from 100 percent recyclable materials and if not 100 percent, any percentage is better than none. Over the years new technology has made it where even plastics can be repurposed and used again.

Around Your Business

You can also reduce waste around the office and every little bit adds up and makes a big difference. If you are providing food for the office buy loose products like fruits and vegetables instead of loads of prepackaged snacks. When you’re shopping for the company, use reusable bags.

Always buy in bulk, there’s almost always less packaging. Choose brands with less packaging and always keep small recycling bins around for easy access. It will increase the likelihood that people use them.

Give Us A Call Today

If you need help finding the best packaging supplies that will help to reduce your waste consumption Western Packaging can help you. We are well versed in all things packaging and are here to help you with all your needs. Give us a call today, we look forward to hearing from you.

01 Feb 2019
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How To Best Store Your Dry Goods

Storing your dry goods is a completely different ball game than storing other types of perishables. Every business wants to offer their customers the freshest product and keep their business profitable. The team at Western Packaging are pros when it comes to storing most anything especially when it comes to how to best store your dry goods.

Temperature Is Key

The temperature at which you store your dry goods is tremendously important. It is probably one of the most important things to abide by. Dry goods should be stored between fifty and seventy degrees Fahrenheit.

Can you believe that for every 18-degree increase the shelf life reduces by half? That is a huge reduction in shelf life and exactly the reason temperature should be carefully monitored. Storing your dry goods in cooler temperatures helps to reduce respiratory activity, the breaking down of enzymes in the food, and internal water loss.

Environmental Conditions

Keeping the storeroom cool is number one but there are some other factors you are going to want to consider. Dry goods are best stored in a dry and well-ventilated area, with little humidity, no higher than 15 percent. Consider a dehumidifier or an air conditioning unit during the most humid times of the year.

Store your goods 18 inches away from the walls and at least 6 inches off the floor. Sunlight is responsible for oxidation which breaks down many of the nutrients in food. You are going to want to avoid storerooms with a lot of natural light or make sure to use a blackout curtain or tint to cover the windows.

Keep Records and Rotate Good

Keeping proper records of your dry goods is an important part of their optimal storage. Both “use by” dates and “sell by” dates should be properly recorded. Spotting spoilage with your dry goods is a lot more difficult than with fresh food.

First in first out, commonly referred to as “FIFO” should always be the way your dry goods move to and from the storeroom. This will allow you to offer the best product possible and protect your bottom line.

Packaging

Packaging is our specialty for sure and we have many ideas and options for you to choose from if you are in search of something reliable. Packaging that resists moisture is a must and will work well in with an airconditioned room or dehumidifier. There are many factors you want to keep in mind when choosing the right packaging.

Bulk bags are popular for storing grain and have the option to sew in handles to make for easier transporting. Multi-walled paper bags are good for storing grain and pet food and come in different styles to suit your needs.

Woven poly bags are another good option as well, these along with all the other bags listed can be printed on to label the product and record “use by” and “sell by” dates.

Protect your Goods From Critters

To protect your storeroom from vermin you will need to make sure that all cracks and crevices are sealed, that all entry and exit points to the room are kept closed and made pest proof. If you have set traps or bait, check them regularly and immediately removed when insects or rodents have been captured.

Call Us Today

The team at Western Packaging has a solution for any and all your dry goods packaging. If you have questions or need solutions for any of your packaging needs we would like to hear from you. Give us a call today and we will be happy to help.

16 Jan 2019
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5 Tips For Storing Hay In The Winter

Winter is upon us and it is vital that you protect your investment and start of the year right. Whether you get snow or not winter is typically a wet time of year across parts of the United States. Western Packaging wants to help you protect your assets, here are some storage ideas for storing hay for winter.

1. Promote Proper Bale Density

Proper bale density is an important part of protecting your hay, even more so when there is the possibility for moisture loss. Loosely packed hay can retain moisture that can penetrate the hay allowing microbes to use the oxygen to break down the hay’s nutrients. If this happens excessive losses are to be expected.

A simple way to check your bales density is to press your palm up against the bale. If you can press the bale in by more than a half an inch, the bale is too loose and you should expect losses. You can prevent losses in these specific bales by storing them inside.

2. Store Your Hay Indoors

Storing hay for winter indoors is always the best option, being that you can better control its climate and environment. You will preserve color and quality and reduce your DM (dry matter) losses significantly. It is not necessary to have something with four walls for bale storage, even a structure with a roof alone will help to prevent moisture build-up and losses.

3. Top Covers

Top covers are a great way to reduce losses. Being that indoor storage is usually not an option for most, top covers rate well for promoting high-quality winter hay storage. Many farmers choose to keep their round bales outside and open to the elements.

The main issue with this is that exposure to the elements can reduce the hay’s digestibility. To prevent this use a tarp, plastic wrap, or canvas cover to prevent DM losses.

4. Elevate The Hay On An Incline To Reduce Moisture

Storing your hay allows for better drainage while elevating your hay is important to promote proper air circulation around the hay bales. Storing your hay directly on the ground can account for up to half of your DM losses, you can store it on pallets to be off the ground. This is especially true in the winter when the ground is moist and the sun is not as warm to keep the ground and the hay dry.

When storing your hay up off the ground there are a few cost-effective ways that may work for you. You may be able to find people giving away old pallets, tires, bricks, railroad ties, and even old fence post. Get creative and keep your hay off the ground.

5. Leave Space For Bales To Breath

Adequate circulation is a must when storing your hay in the winter. You want to make sure that you leave the right amount of space between the bales to deter excess moisture. It is not recommended that you stack your hay bales unless you cover them or store them inside. covered.

When you do, make sure that there are at least 2 feet from the top of the structure and the surface of the hay. Knowing how to store your bales outside will help keep from errors being made. You should place them north to south, end to end, making sure to keep around 3 to 4 feet of space between each row for proper air circulation. This will help prevent your winter DM losses.

We Want To Hear From You

The team at Western Packaging wants to hear from you. If you are in need of winter storage solutions for your hay give us a call today. We look forward to hearing from you!