Handling and storage

• Store the bales on a level, smooth, hard surface with good access and no stones. The surface should be sufficiently firm to allow easy access to the bales in both winter and summer.
• Use the proper transporting equipment. Wrapped bales are usually carried on a fixed parallel tube type bale carrier, which is usually mounted on the back of a tractor. Do not use spikes to transport bales as airtight resealing is very difficult to achieve.

Transporting bales

• Unwilted bales should not be stacked, while wilted bales can be stored two or three high (round sides only). The method of stacking bales may have some impact on effluent production. Research has shown that the level of effluent produced is markedly higher for bales stacked three high, compared to a single stacking layer. Further reductions in effluent production were obtained by stacking bales end on in single layers.
• Cover the bales with netting and place bait to control damage by vermin and birds. It is also commonplace to paint bales in an effort to curb bird damage. However the success of this operation is questionable.
• Inspect the bales on a regular basis for damage.