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15 Nov 2021
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Who Can Benefit From Using An EBS Handjet Printer?

Do you run a shipping company? Maybe, you have a business that does a lot of printing on the go. An EBS handjet printer can make this process a lot more simple for you. No more running back and forth to the printer. You can just use the handjet and print directly onto the surface of the item. 

What Is An EBS Handjet Printer?

EBS handjet printers are beneficial and easy to use for many different companies. The ease of being able to hold them in your hand makes the employees’ job much easier. It is literally an inkjet printer in your hand at all times. 

Instead of printing out on a piece of paper, it directly prints onto the product itself. This makes it more economically friendly. They can easily be programmed for what you need them to print and use on the spot. 

What Are They Used For?

These devices are widely used in many different scenarios. The markings on the outside of boxes and printing on pipes are two of the most commonly known uses. They can also be used to print graphics and symbols, not just lettering. 

By using one of these devices, companies can save themselves a lot of time and energy. It can also free up some much-needed space in your office, unlike bulky printers. Some of the other benefits that they have are:

  • Gives You Variety
  • Easy To Use
  • Prints In A Variety Of Colors
  • Easy Changing Of Ink Cartridges
  • Can Print Barcodes
  • Minimal Maintenance Needs
  • Weather Resistant Ink
  • And So Much More

What Surfaces Can EBS Handjet Printers Print On?

Almost any surface can be printed on with an EBS handjet printer. No need to worry about the type of ink you need or the printer. The EBS handjet printer can do the job for you. Some of the many surfaces that it can print on are:

  • Metal Pipes
  • Shrink Wrap
  • Corrugated Boxes
  • Concrete
  • Textile
  • Foam
  • Wood
  • Rubber
  • Poly Woven Bags
  • Glass
  • Plastic
  • And So Much More

An EBS handjet printer can print up to 200,000 characters before needing to be refilled. It is equipped with 100,000 characters to choose from and can be wirelessly paired. The ink used is one of the most durable ones available. 

Who Uses EBS HAndjet Printers?

Anyone can benefit from using these machines. Some of the many ways that you see one of these devices being used are:

  • Printing expiration dates on the outside of boxes
  • Warning Symbols On Concrete 
  • Printing Company Logos On Surfaces
  • Labeling Warning Symbols or Signs
  • And More

If your company prints on concrete, metal, or cardboard, you can benefit from an EBS handjet printer. There is a touch screen on it to easily set it to what you need. Making it to where there isn’t a need for a computer and printer is all in one small handheld device.

How Much Do EBS Handjet Printers Cost?

The cost of an EBS handjet is going to depend on a few different things. To get an exact cost, it is best to speak with the manufacturer or retail company directly. This will allow you to not get any confusion on the cost of the device. 

On average, you can expect to pay $5,000 for one. Which may sound like a lot upfront, but in the long run could save you money on printing supplies. 

For More Information Contact Western Packaging

Western Packaging can help you with your EBS handjet needs. If you need someone who can answer questions for you, give us a call. We would love to help you out. With our team’s knowledge and expertise, we can certainly get you what you’re needing. 

07 Nov 2021
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What Is A Silage Wrap?

Silage wrap is used in the agricultural industry to wrap hay. Silage is the grass that farmers collect and save to feed their animals in the winter months or sell as feed. The silage wrap holds the grass and other green fodder in an airtight position to stay fresh. Western Packaging is a wonderful company that can help you with all of your silage wrap needs.

What Is Silage Wrap Made Out Of?

Linear Low-Density Polyethylene is what silage wrap is made out of—also referred to as LLDPE. Many people are looking for eco-friendly and recyclable products when it comes to their businesses. It is always a great thing to look for ways to produce less waste.

When it comes to plastics and different materials, they all have their own set of guidelines. Various plastics do not want to be mixed in the melting process. The good thing is that the makeup of silage wrap plastic is able to be recycled over and over again.

What Is The Purpose of Silage Wrap?

One of the most important facts to keep in mind when it comes to silage is to have a product that repels heat. Silage that is in a wrap that absorbs heat and moisture will result in molded and ruined silage. The nutrients will be reduced,nutrient-dense silage. That is why the process that you use is so important. A tight seal will also leave you with the results you want. The whole goal is to keep out any and all oxygen.

Who Is Silage Fed To?

For the most part, farmers will harvest their own silage. It is not easy to move around and the risks of losing it are much higher when moved. Many farmers like to keep some on hand incase of emergencies. You never know when a flood, fire, drought, or something else may happen and you need the silage. 

Some of the animals that silage is fed to are:

  • Cattle 
  • Sheep
  • Pigs 
  • Goats
  • Horses

What Is The Difference Between Silage and Hay?

Although it is often mistaken by many people, silage and hay are not the same thing. Silage has been preserved over a period of time and turned into a “mush”. The hay is more tasty and nutrient dense for the animals. Silage is easier to get your hands on in the cold, winter months. 

Hay is made of a variety of herbaceous plants. They are cut and dried to roll into bales to feed to animals and help keep them warm. There is a wide variety of animals that you feed hays to, such as large farm animals, all the way down to guinea pigs and rabbits.

How Do You Make Silage?

Silage is something that you want to preserve when production is at a high. In the summer months, when you are harvesting all of the crops, that is when you want to put some of it in silage wraps. That way you have it set aside for the winter or another time that you need it. 

This is a short explanation of what the process looks like when making silage. 

  • Harvest Your Forage
  • Wilt The Forage By 30%
  • At Ensiling You Want To Add A Fermentable Substrate
  • Just Before Ensiling You Need To Chop Everything Up
  • Compact The Forage As Tight As You Can
  • Seal Tightly

Contact Western Packaging Today

It would be our pleasure to help you with your silage packaging needs. Call today to talk with a representative of Western Packaging. Our business is located in Oregan, and we work in many of the communities. We can give you any information that you are needing and answer those questions you have. Don’t hesitate any longer, call now. 

28 Sep 2021
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Benefits Of Using Hay Sleeves

Keeping your horses and cows fed throughout the winter months can be tricky. You need to store up enough feed to last through the cold months but may not have the space to do so. Hay Sleeves from Western Packaging keep your forage protected from the elements without taking up space in your barn. 

What is a Hay Sleeve?

After harvesting your hay, you need a place to store it. Building a bigger barn or shed to store all the fodder you need is a considerable expense. You can safely leave your forage outside and protect its health and longevity with a hay sleeve. These breathable covers safeguard your bottom line and keep your livestock fed all winter. 

Why Use Hay Sleeves?

Once you have put in the hard work of harvesting your grass, the last thing you want is for it to go to waste. When moving bales from where they are produced to storage areas and feeding areas, some product is lost. Hay is also lost when kept uncovered or not stored properly. Using hay sleeves makes your fodder last longer. 

Sunny, cool, and dry conditions are best for storing fodder. Humidity, heat, and rain lead to the growth of bacteria and disease, deeming your fodder unsafe to feed livestock. Hay sleeves protect your forage from harsh climate conditions. 

When adequately protected, the fodder will stay fresh for a more extended period of time. Leaving hay out in the open will make it susceptible to rot and vermin. The best solution is to use breathable hay sleeves to ensure that moisture and rodents don’t have a chance of getting in. Breathable hay sleeves will leave you with the least amount of waste possible.

Hay Sleeves for Every Need

Whether you are baling ryegrass, timothy, alfalfa, or wheat, hay sleeves will help you store it safely for longer. We understand that when you roll grass, your bale sizes may vary depending on what you need them for or where you plan to store them. Our hay sleeves are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to meet your specific need. Whether you have a four-foot-wide rectangular bale or an eight-foot-wide round bale, Western Packaging hay sleeves have got you covered. 

Are Hay Sleeves Expensive?

While not as cheap as traditional twine used for baling, hay sleeves are affordable. Unlike twine, they decrease the amount of waste you will experience. Hay sleeves are efficient and effective in protecting your product and your wallet. Hay sleeves may cost more upfront than other products that claim to protect fodder, but they save you money in the long run with their unique ability to reduce loss. 

Hay Sleeves Save You Money

Your hay is destroyed when it is not stored correctly away from the elements. When exposed to excess moisture or too much sun, you lose fodder to:

  • Mold
  • Mildew
  • Rot
  • UV deterioration
  • Infestations

Lost hay results in lost money and hurts your bottom line. As you already know, losing hay is an additional cost when you have to find a way to dispose of it. Western Packaging’s breathable hay sleeves save you money and protect your bottom line. 

As a farmer, we know protecting the environment is essential to you. Our hay sleeves protect your hay and the environment. They are eco-friendly as they can be reused and recycled.

Contact Us Today to Order Your Hay Sleeves

Western Packaging hay sleeves help you cut down on overall cost and help you save hay. Our hay bale sleeves are made with material that is breathable and does not sweat. Hay sleeves can be custom-sized and printed with your desired label. Contact us to order your hay bale sleeve from Western Packaging today.

31 Aug 2021
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Why Even A Small Company Would Benefit From An EBS Printer

In today’s culture, businesses must keep up with the newest technology in order to stay relevant with their consumers. Every business can benefit from the use of an EBS printer for labeling and creating barcodes. This handy little tool has a variety of uses and will make life and labeling a lot easier.

What is an EBS Printer?

EBS printers are handheld inkjet printers that have the ability to print on many different materials. EBS printers make it possible to print directly on:

  • Plastic
  • Paper
  • Wood
  • Metal
  • Glass
  • Concrete
  • Textiles such as shirts or blankets
  • Cardboard
  • Shrinkwrap
  • Tape

You will no longer have to go through the hassle of lining up your print on a label. You can get rid of labels completely and print directly on whatever you need to. These hand jet coders replace outdated marking tools such as stencils, oil boards, spray paint, stamps, ink rollers, and markers. These handheld units can print letters, numbers, barcodes, and logos up to 2.2 inches tall. 

How Can My Company Benefit From Using an EBS Printer?

When your company implements an EBS printer, it increases efficiency, improves accuracy, and automates your labeling process. This device allows for fast, high-quality printing anywhere you may need it. The speed with which it functions will help keep costs down and save you and your employees time and hassle. You can now quickly and easily mark your products with any details you may need, such as:

  • Lot number
  • Batch number
  • Expiration date
  • Bar code
  • Company logo
  • Size or dimensions
  • Quantity

Is An EBS Printer Easy to Use?

This lightweight EBS printer is as easy to use as a label maker. You don’t have to be computer savvy to use this handheld tool. The touchscreen on the unit is user-friendly. Simply type in the information you want to print, and you’ll be on your way. 

You also have multiple colors to choose from and different ink types. You can print in red, blue, white, yellow, and black ink. However, once you use one ink color, you should not switch colors on that unit without proper cleaning. There are different ink options to choose from based on your needs. The types of ink available are:

Acetone-based Ink

  • The most common type of ink is acetone-based. 
  • Durable and water-resistant. 
  • Not meant for outdoor use and exposure to the sun’s rays. 

MEK UV Ink 

  • Can take direct exposure to sunlight on nearly any surface
  • Only available in black

Ethanol Ink

  • Food grade ink
  • Available in colors including blue, red, and brown 

How is the Battery Life of an EBS Printer?

The battery life of an EBS printer is typically long enough that you shouldn’t have to worry about your unit not running due to a low battery. You should not need to charge the unit until 16 to 20 hours of use. At this point, a charge indicator light will illuminate. Be sure only to use the provided wall charger to charge your EBS printer. The unit should be fully charged after two to three hours. 

What Type of Maintenance Does an EBS Printer Require?

You may be used to a big, clunky copy machine that is always getting jammed. These old machines require an expensive service contract to keep them working. EBS printers are easy to maintain. A daily flush with a simple cleaning solution is all that is needed to keep these printers in prime condition.

Contact Us for Your EBS Printer Needs

If you are ready to be out with the old and in with the new, call Western Packaging today to get your business started with an EBS printer. We deliver high-quality shipping materials and packaging supplies. We are in the business of packing and shipping in the most efficient way possible. 

16 Aug 2021
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What Are Bulk Bags Used For?

Bulk bags are commonly used to store dry goods. They are sturdy and strong enough to hold the load. If you are in the market for bulk bags, Western Packaging can supply you with great products. Our company is happy to help you with all of your agricultural needs. 

What Are Bulk Bags?

Bulk bags are designed to help you secure your products. The design, the loops at the top, offer a stress-free ability in loading up a trailer. They can also be stored on the shelves of your warehouse and can be used as additional storage spaces for less commonly used items. 

The bags are designed to be used one time for shipping loads. Some bulk bags are designed with a different ratio and can be used more than once. Some of the other names that people use to refer to bulk bags are:

  • FIBC’s (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers)
  • Big Bags
  • Jumbo Bags

What Can Bulk Bags Hold?

There are a large variety of substances that can be stored in bulk bags. With these bags being able to hold anywhere from 500 to 4,000 lbs, and in some cases more, they are the perfect solution to large loads. It is typically all dry goods that they are used for. 

When deciding on the bulk bag style and design you need, you need to consider what you’ll be storing in one. Everything from chemicals, pharmaceuticals to agricultural products can be stored in bulk bags. Some other examples are:

  • Sand
  • Flour
  • Ash
  • Fertilizer
  • Dry Beans
  • Plastic Granules
  • Coffee beans
  • Gravel 
  • Grain

How Are Bulk Bags Made?

FIBC bags are strong, durable, and lightweight to make the best solution to shipping your dry goods. Not only is it a more economical way to ship items, but it can also save your company money. They are not designed to be waterproof or resistant, but can be equipped with a poly liner to help deter water. 

These large shipping bags are made out of polypropylene resin. The plastic is woven together to create a strong bond. You can purchase these bags in different sizes to best fit the needs you have. 

Who Uses Bulk Bags?

Many shipping companies will use bulk bags for loading and unloading. Due to the simplicity and ease, they give to the process. Food grade companies will use the bags to ship items in bulk, along with construction companies. 

Wood and paper companies will use these strong and reliable bags to transport pieces of wood. There are specifically designed FIBC bags designed to be fireproof that can be used to transport petroleum-based products. All in all, these bags are extremely beneficial to a variety of different businesses. 

Contact Western Packaging Today

If you want to purchase bulk bags, contact Western Packaging today. We are a reputable and reliable company for you to do business with. It would be our pleasure to answer any questions or concerns that you have. If you need advice, one of our knowledgeable employees can surely help you. 

29 Jul 2021
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Who Would Benefit From An EBS Printer?

Does your business do a lot of shipping and labeling? If you find yourself doing label after label, you should consider investing in an EBS printer. It can make your business life so much easier. Western Packaging has put together this article with all the information you need to know about how EBS printers work. Plus, all the ways that your business can benefit from one of these machines. 

What Is An EBS Printer?

An EBS printer is a portable device that can be carried by hand to any location that you need. In the long run, these devices can save you money in printing supplies. You are taking out the need for the labels in general, as you can print directly onto the surfaces. 

It is a time saver for employees and allows them to get their jobs done faster. By having the device on the employee, the printer can be taken straight to the object needing a label and print onto it. The EBS printer can print numbers, letters, symbols, and logos. 

What Surfaces Can Be Printed On?

EBS printers are convenient for people who do a lot of printing. It can print directly onto almost any surface that you need it to. For example, some of the different surfaces that you can print on are:

The size of the surface doesn’t matter either, which is an advantage to having to use a stationary printer. It is a great way to cut down on packaging, as you can print logos and information directly onto the product. 

Are EBS Printers Affordable?

On average, you will spend around $3,000 or $6,000 on an EBS handjet printer. If you calculate the expenses you have in printers, paper, ink, and other supplies you need to print through the year, it can save you money. The upfront cost is high, but over time it will most likely equal out to save you money if your company does a lot of printing. 

Benefits That Your Company Can See

Companies are all in when they see ways that they can save their company money. Time is money when in the business world. So, if you are saving your employees time with helpful equipment, it saves you money. 

Companies have been using these printers for years, and they continue to be a preferred method of portable printing. Some of the other great benefits of an EBS handjet printer are:

  • It Is Ultra-Light
  • Battery Is Included
  • Boosts Productivity
  • User Friendly
  • Conservative Ink Usage
  • Over 100,000 Characters

Companies That Would Benefit From An EBS Printer

There are a variety of businesses that could see significant benefits from investing in an EBS handjet printer. These little devices are ideal for companies big and small. As long as you do enough printing to make the cost make sense for your business, it is a great tool to utilize. 

The devices are equipped to print barcodes, expiration dates, product codes, and so much more. Some examples of some of the industries that use these devices or should be using them are:

  • The Military
  • The Technology Field
  • Pharma Companies
  • Agricultural Businesses
  • Petroleum Fields
  • Industrial Companies
  • Construction Sites

Contact Western Packaging For More Information

If you are interested in investing in an EBS printer for your business, Western Packaging can help. Our staff is knowledgeable and trained to help you with all of your needs. If you need any advice or information before purchasing, feel free to contact us. It would be our pleasure to help you with anything that you need. 

30 Jun 2021
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What Should I Look For In Produce Packaging?

Do you package and sell produce? In order to preserve your produce and make the most of it, you need to have proper packaging. When you choose a packaging that is best for the needs that you have, you are going to benefit the most. Western Packaging is a wholesale packaging company that can help you with all of your packaging needs. 

What Are The Four Factors to Consider In Packaging?

There are many things to consider when choosing the right packaging for your produce. You want it to not only be economically right but also be the best option for sustainability. There are four factors that you can use to help you make the best decision, and they are:

  • Manufacturing
  • Supply Chain
  • Business
  • Brand and Marketing

Most of the time, when you purchase produce, it will be in a loose plastic package or a vacuum-sealed one. Plastic or poly bags are often less expensive than other packaging options and are sold in readymade pouches or on rolls of film. Vacuum sealed is going to preserve items longer. Where you purchase your packaging is a personal decision made by the company. You want to make sure you are making the right best decision for your company.

What Are The Three P’s In Packaging?

When you are shopping for packaging for your produce, it can be a little stressful. Not in a bad way, but you want to make the right decision. There are many things that you are thinking about and considering. The three P’s that we recommend you consider are:

Protection of your produce is very important. Product packaging is pointless if it has an exquisite design that promises customers it was built just for them but can’t get from your facility to the stores without getting damaged. You don’t want your produce to arrive damaged at the store. This would not be good for business. 

What Should Be Included In Product Packaging?

Research is important to do before you make a final decision on the packaging you choose. Look around and get some recommendations. This will help you know the pros and cons of different products. When you have made your decision, you have to make sure you can include everything you need in it. Some of the information that is provided on the packaging is:

  • Functional Benefits
  • Brand
  • Product Type
  • And More

That goes for vegetables and fruits as well. The company name and other information is oftentimes located on the packaging. The items that are not prepackaged obviously do not have this information. 

What Packaging Is Best To Use?

The type of packaging that you use highly depends on what you are packaging inside of it. Everything is going to survive and thrive better in different types of materials. Doing some research and knowing the type of material you are looking for, will be much easier to make a decision. 

There are a variety of types that you can choose from. Some of the options that you have are:

  • Glass Packaging
  • Flexible Packaging
  • Paper Packaging
  • Fiberboard Packaging
  • And More

Most Commonly Used Produce Packaging Materials 

It’s a good rule of thumb to treat your items as you would treat yourself when it comes to the materials you select to package your product. The right space for the right package significantly impacts the final result. Just as you wouldn’t want to live in a house that is either too big or too little, your product also deserves an adequately and comfortably sized area to reside as it is packaged, shipped, and eventually sold. Let’s examine some of the more commonly used food packaging materials.

Paper

Environmentally friendly but not reusable. Although they won’t keep food fresh for long, paper bags, cups, and plates are good for temporary use. Paper items should only be used once. 

Glass

It is non-reactive and suitable for safely storing leftovers because it won’t leech anything into food items. Glass containers are also safe to use in the oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Glass can be heavy, which is a drawback. It also breaks easily.

Metal

Durable, non-reactive, and recyclable are some beneficial qualities of aluminum and stainless steel. Metal, on the other hand, transfers heat and cold, thus, it might not preserve food at the proper temperature. Over time, some metals may also develop dents or begin to rust.

Plastic

Cost-effective, portable, and versatile. A variety of sizes and forms are available for plastic containers. However, some plastics are not environmentally friendly and can leach toxins into food. Find plastics with the recycling codes #2 (HDPE), #4 (LDPE), or #5 (PP) and those that are BPA-free.

Fresh produce is best packaged using clamshells, bags, and containers made of plastic, allowing visibility while shielding the product from damage and extending shelf life. To prevent the buildup of too much moisture, perforated bags also allow for airflow.

Choose The Design Carefully

The design that you choose for your packaging is very important. Even when it comes to your produce. What is seen on the outside is what tells people about your product. Overall, you will have more success with package design if you keep your target audience at the forefront of your design. Consumers will become confused and lose faith if there is a mismatch between the materials you choose or the style of your package, and the message of your brand. Some produce doesn’t come in a pre-made package, but several items do.

Some of the things that you should think about when choosing your package design are:

  • Have An Idea About What You Want Your Product To Portray
  • Make The Design Resemble Your Vision
  • Inspect The Packaging Thoroughly Before Giving Approval
  • And Much More

Staying Within Your Packaging Budget

It’s critical to consider your budget while selecting food packaging. Packaging prices can vary greatly depending on the product and type of material. Generally speaking, plastics are the most cost-effective material choice, while more environmentally friendly options like recycled materials cost a little more upfront.

For your packaging requirements, think about establishing and sticking to a budget. Obtain price quotes from many vendors to compare and identify the most competitive offers. Purchasing in bulk or using generic packaging over customized packaging may allow you to save money. Consider using simple, flexible packaging that can be utilized for various products if price is a factor. By doing this, waste and the requirement to purchase unique packaging for each item are decreased.

Contact Western Packaging For More Information

If you are in the market for produce packaging, call Western Packaging now. Our staff would be happy to help you make the best decision on packaging for your business needs. We will give you any advice or information that you are needing. Don’t hesitate to call, we look forward to hearing from you soon. 

15 Jun 2021
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What is Silage Wrap?

Silage is the makeup of hay bales and other products. Many farmers know what silage is, but understanding silage bale wrap uses can be new for many. Farmers will use silage wrap to contain the loose particles and keep them in an airtight wrap. It is a way to preserve the feed needed to feed the animals in the winter months. Western Packaging is a great company that can help you with silage wraps. 

What Is Silage Wrap Made Of?

Similar to hay sleeves, stretch film, and other products in that category are silage wraps. These wraps are made from synthetic materials to minimize exposure to harmful contaminants. Silage wraps are designed to keep your grass and clippings as fresh as possible. Over time, while stored in silage wraps, the wrapped hay bales will be the perfect fodder that you need in the winter. 

One of the best perks of using silage wrap is that it is environmentally safe to use. It is one hundred percent biodegradable. Farmers are usually happy when they can find products that are great for use and great for the environment. 

Why Should You Use Silage Wrap?

There are many great benefits that you can see from using silage wrap on your farm. Bales that are left uncovered and exposed to weather elements tend to spoil. This is why it’s so important to know what’s silage used for. Because this leads to having to toss out bales that you could have profited from. When you use silage wrap, you can keep pests and other rodents out and off of your bales. It creates a lot less waste ending up in landfills when you use silage wrap. That is because it is recyclable. 

It Saves You Money

Silage is a way to reduce costs in the winter months and still feed your stock their needed nutrients. This way, they don’t lose the necessary nutrients during the winter months. Using silage wrap will help you protect that and make sure that you can preserve it in the proper ways. 

Are Silage And Hay The Same Thing?

Silage and hay are two different components when it comes to farming. Silage is not a preferred feed compared to hay. It contains a lot more sugar and is not as palatable for animals as hay. Hay can sometimes be a hit-or-miss harvest, depending on the weather that has been had. Silage is easier to come by because the weather is not as much of an issue. Hay is rolled and stored via hay bale wrap to feed during peak months of harvest. Silage is stored for later use in the winter months. 

How Is Silage Made?

Farmers will use silage to feed their cows and other livestock in the winter months. It is important to have the silage in an area where air cannot get to it; that is where silage stretch film comes in handy. Silage is made by following these steps:

  • Gathering Grass Clippings
  • Compacting It To Keep Everything Tightly Together
  • Allowing It To Ferment
  • Storing It In A Silo, Preferably

A common complaint of silage is the smell that it has. There are many different smells that you will encounter on a farm. Silage is fermented; most items that are fermented have a very distinctive smell. The scent of silage is often referred to as sour butter. 

Contact Western Packaging Today

If you are looking for a great company to purchase silage wrap from, contact Western Packaging now. Our staff is very knowledgeable about our products and can help you make the best decision on wholesale products for your farm. Call today and talk to us about what you are looking for. We look forward to hearing from you soon. 

01 Jun 2021
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Is Agricultural Waste A Problem?

When we think of global warming and pollution, we often blame large corporations and vehicle emissions. It’s rare that we connect farming with pollution. Agricultural pollution is on the rise and accounts for 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. But to figure out how to solve the agricultural waste problem, it’s important to understand what agricultural waste is and how agricultural waste does harm the environment.

What Is Agricultural Waste?

Agricultural waste is products disposed of by small and large farms, factories, poultry, and dairy farms. These products are both unintentionally and intentionally disposed of. There are several different types and examples of agricultural waste.

  1. Green waste– this type of waste is considered to come from organic plant matter. Leaves, crop waste, and other materials that decompose. 
  2. Pesticide and feces runoff– pesticides and manure are known to leech into the soil. This not only has the potential to damage soil fertility but also other habitats, animals, and bodies of water. Throughout history, there have been many reported instances of pesticide runoff along with animal feces leaking into surrounding water supplies. 
  3. Gas emissions- Factories and farm machinery produce gas emissions that damage the atmosphere. Methane gas is also produced by the feces of animals, in particular cattle. Livestock emissions are responsible for 14 to 18% of all greenhouse gas emissions. 

How Does Agricultural Waste Impact Us Locally? 

Los Angeles, CA, is an example of how emissions affect local areas. Though most of the pollution created in this region is from high traffic, overpopulation is a classic example of pollution effects. The city has its own weather patterns that are different from surrounding areas. This is theorized to result from pollution. Agricultural trash can produce similar results. 

Not only can this type of pollution damage the quality of the air we breathe but the water we drink. Feces and chemicals are often pumped into holding ponds that have the potential to contaminate groundwater. This can affect local areas and cause numerous health issues. These holding ponds can sometimes overflow resulting in catastrophic damages. 

How Does Agricultural Waste Impact Us Globally?

Globally, we know that waste creates air pollution which damages our atmosphere. These gases from large factory farms, which are one of the direct causes of agricultural waste, release greenhouse gases known as methane, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases. The greenhouse gases trap heat in our atmosphere causing numerous damages like:

  • Global warming 
  • Low air quality
  • Respiratory complications 
  • Smog
  • Violent weather 
  • Wildfires
  • Melting polar ice caps 
  • Issues with food supply 

What Can We Do To Reduce It? 

There are many efforts we can make as individuals and collectively as a planet to address the agricultural waste problem. The leaders in the agricultural industry are required to apply certain management practices to reduce environmental damage. However, it is not enough. Here are some ways to help:

  • Recycling is one effort all of us can make to help reduce trash. By doing so, we can significantly reduce landfill waste and emissions. 
  • Write your state representatives- there is not as much regulation over agricultural garbage as one would think. Despite the numerous lawsuits and movies made, water contamination regulation needs tremendous attention. Emerging contaminants (ECs) are materials within the water supply that are difficult to measure. Hormones, antibiotics, and pharmaceuticals are examples of this. There is little to no regulation on how much of these are allowed in the water. We need to do better as a country. 
  • Supply and demand- if we as a society create a shift in the needs the supply would change. For example, if we stopped buying a certain produce or meat product in the industry, we default.

Contact Us Today 

At Western Packaging, we are continually developing products that help improve methods for farmers and contractors. We share the goal of reducing agricultural waste by developing products that save time, energy, and resources. Give us a call today!

21 May 2021
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How To Store and Ways To Use Hay

Hay is not just for horses! There are many uses for hay around your farm, yard, or even your business. Using hay is a sustainable resource and good for the environment, but many people find themselves asking what to do with hay.

The Many Uses of Hay

Surprisingly, there are many uses of hay. Not only is it a great food source for horses and other livestock, but you can use it throughout your farm. It is a great material to use in your chicken coops to help your hens’ nest. The material also helps keep the ground dry by absorbing moisture. It is easy to change out and helps keep your coops more sanitary. Here are some other hay uses that you might want to try:

  • Nesting and bedding areas for animals
  • Weed and unwanted plant smothers 
  • Path or trial lining 
  • Cover up mud patches 
  • Create walkways 
  • Flower beds 
  • Seating if it’s in bale form 
  • Cover newly planted grass seed
  • Use for Fall decorations 
  • Hayrides 

Using it in your gardens and flower beds helps replace the need for mulch. Hay helps to keep the roots of your plants and crops from drying out or being damaged by weather. In the summer months, it also helps keep the roots of your plants cool and the soil moist. It keeps the weeds at bay by smothering out many annoying plants that may try to overrun your garden. If you need to clear an area or patch of land, you might want to think about using hay to smother out and kill the plant life.

How To Use Hay Around Your Yard

Certain types of hay can germinate or spread seeds, so it’s important when using it in your gardens or flower beds that you use mulch hay so that it does not do this. If you were to utilize the kind that does seed, it would eventually grow into more grass. This would cover your garden and destroy your flower beds.

This material is a great way to line walkways, driveways, and gardens. Covering your soil with hay helps lock in moisture. This also attracts decomposing organisms like worms to your garden. It is also great to put in your compost pile. 

Best Ways To Store Hay

Hay storage is often a tricky thing as it takes up a large amount of space. You have to store it inside a dry space that won’t be exposed to moisture. It usually lasts for about three years when stored properly.

It is best to store hay bales inside a large barn or shed. Keeping it out of the elements will ensure it lasts and retains as many nutrients as possible. If you do not have a barn or shed large enough you can always store it outside on pallets under a tarp. Keeping it off the ground and fully covered from rain is crucial. Here are some creative ideas on how to store hay:

  • On raised wooden pallets
  • Underneath tarps
  • In an old airplane hanger
  • In an industrial shipping container 
  • Create an industrial-sized hammock or netting between trees
  • On top of a fence under a covering 

Contact Us Today 

Need help storing your hay? Please contact Western Packaging today! They have some amazing experts who can assist with all of your hay packaging needs. Western Packaging has some wonderful products that help you save money and conserve your supply. Anything from bulk bags, Bopp bags, stretch film, hay sleeves, and much more. 

Storing and packaging are not always easy to do. Some people lack knowledge and resources, while others have an issue with space. Getting creative with the way you use and store hay will help you make the most of your product.

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