Determining the water content of forage crops after harvest is a critical step in ensuring the quality and safety of the stored product. An accurate assessment of this characteristic allows producers to manage the risk of spoilage and nutrient loss during storage. Improperly dried material can be susceptible to microbial growth, leading to reduced palatability and potential health hazards for livestock.
Appropriate management of forage moisture offers several advantages. It minimizes the likelihood of spontaneous combustion, prevents mold formation that diminishes nutritional value, and preserves the dry matter content. Historically, farmers relied on tactile methods to gauge dryness. Modern techniques employ electronic meters and laboratory analysis, providing more precise and reliable measurements.
