Silage analysis conducted by North West feed company, HST Feeds, is showing significantly lower results than the more positive national picture reported in figures released last week.

HST Feeds has analysed first cut silage results from throughout its trading area, which includes Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Derbyshire and Lancashire. Results are down from this time last year, and HST Feeds are warning that this could have major implications for rations this autumn and winter.

Results show that:

• On average silage is wetter than at the same stage last season, with an average Dry Matter of 27.2 per cent versus 32.4 per cent last year.
• Both D value and ME are down. D value is around 8 per cent worse than last year at 64 D, and the average ME is down to 10.4 ME.
• Neutral-detergent fibre has increased by around 15 per cent to 51.7 per cent.
• Crude protein average has fallen by around 4 per cent to 13.4 per cent.
• Mineral analysis is showing high potassium content and therefore a higher DCAB, most likely a result of late slurry applications.

However, it isn’t all bad news. Silage fermentation is good, with average pH levels of 4.0 and average lactic acid of 64, which means that in most cases silage will be stable and palatable.

According to HST Feeds’ technical manager, Sion Richards, these results could have a big impact for North West dairy farmers this autumn and winter, "Silage containing more fibre and less energy will need to include more starch and sugars, as well as more rumen protein to help aid fibre digestion," said Sion. "The lower energy content will mean either less milk is going to be produced, or more feed will be required to produce the same level of milk."

Sion also warned that the high DCAB and potassium content could result in increased risk of milk fevers and problems around calving.

"Of course, averages hide a range of results," summarised Sion. "But with more first cut silages testing at 9 ME than in the 11 ME range, this will make a difficult winter for milk production."

"My advice to dairy farmers is to get each silage cut tested by an FAR feed advisor or registered nutritionist, and to start making plans for the winter that incorporate feeds with more fizz."