Quantifying stocks is simple as we explain here. You can also watch our video below to measure your silage pit and read more here.

Analysing the quality is equally as important. Many feed companies will organise testing free of charge and knowing the quality is vital in formulating a feeding programme over the next few months.

Aim for 70+ DMD

Finishing cattle and weanlings require top quality silage and if silage DMD is not 70+, it may mean supplementing with more ration this winter. Knowing this at the start instead of two months into the feeding period could reduce the time to slaughter and reduce overall feeding costs. Kieran Mailey debates the merits of going down the ad-lib feeding route if silage quality is poor here. With rations at the lower price end this could be a very good move for some farms with poor quality silage.

Is your silage quality up to the job?

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Beef management: Measure your silage quality and quantity ahead of the winter

With the winter feeding period fast approaching, it's time to take stock of what you have in the yard in terms of quantity and quality.