[YorkshireLass]

Does it exist?


I'm starting to delve into the possibility of improving sustainability, thinking wrap recycling etc, but is there an option for big bale silage/haylage that has lower environmental impact but still functions well? There may be leeway on cost.


I realise I'm talking about massive quantities of single-use plastic, though 

[bj_cardiff]

Solway recycling make all sorts of things from the plastic. Google them

[stufe35]

Eliminate the wrap by building a silage pit.  Sheet which covers it can be reused.

[landroverroy]

Eliminate the wrap by building a silage pit.  Sheet which covers it can be reused.

But maybe not so convenient when you are already kitted out with round baler and bale spike and have nowhere suitable to build a sileage pit; nor a forage harvester or sileage trailer with which to harvest the grass.   

[YorkshireLass]

Eliminate the wrap by building a silage pit.  Sheet which covers it can be reused.

I don't think we've a suitable space, but it's true I hadn't added that to the possibilities.

[stufe35]

It is miles cheaper to make silage that way...and Miles greener....obviously there are considerations  which may make it practical for you or not as have been mentioned above.

A farmer friend of mine recently made the switch, and I think he said the silage pit paid for itself in terms of saved net wrap and plastic costs alone in 3 years....but pretty sure he got a grant towards building the pit too.

I'll ask and get some ball park numbers next time I see him.