Sage-Tips

How do you transport hay?

Safely Transporting Hay Bales

1. Step #1: Always park trailers in a safe position while hay is being loaded.
2. Step # 2: Load in sequence so the load is stable.
3. Step #3: Keep load heights within normal ranges and always account for overhead obstructions you are likely to encounter.

How do farmers collect hay?

Hay can be raked into rows as it is cut, then turned periodically to dry, particularly if a modern swather is used. Or, especially with older equipment or methods, the hay is cut and allowed to lie spread out in the field until it is dry, then raked into rows for processing into bales afterwards.

How do you lift a hay bale?

1. Stand on either end of the short side of the bale.
2. Bending your knees, crouch down and put one hand on either side of the underneath of the bale.
3. Pushing up from your thighs, not your back, stand up straight.
4. Walk in sync with each other and move the item to the wheelbarrow.
5. Stand up straight from your thighs.

What equipment do you need to farm hay?

Hay Equipment A compact tractor is the staple of every operation, but mowers, conditioners, hay rakes, balers, and sometimes hay tedders and bale wrappers are also needed.

How do you transport hay-making equipment?

Most hay-making equipment must be backed onto a trailer using your tractor. It can be tricky. Tip #1: Break down your equipment so the load isn’t oversize. Maybe take off the wheels. Yes, it’s a big hassle. But you’ll save so much on shipping, it’s worth it to pay someone to help you disassemble large pieces of farm equipment.

What is the best way to tie up a hay bale?

Bales are tied with twine, wire or nets – twine is cheapest but can also break easiest or decay more quickly, while wire and nets are more durable but costlier. After baling, it is important to store your hay properly or all your work will be wasted.

How do you store hay in a horse barn?

Choose a building on an elevated, well-drained site. Hay is highly flammable, so you don’t want it overhead if your main barn catches fire. It’s also a potential source of fire, putting your barn in jeopardy should it ignite. If you can’t store hay in a separate building, keep only small amounts in the barn at one time.

Can you raise hay on a commercial farm?

Commercial farms have little difficulty raising hay or sourcing out their needs, but smaller farmers and urban hobbyists can also grow, harvest and bale hay even on a smaller scale. Why You Want to Do Your Own Haying