Legume and Grass Silage 15 



poultry. One operator feeds it to all classes of animals and is very en- 

 thusiastic as to its value. Some long-time experiments are needed, however, 

 before the phosphoric acid method of preserving silage can be recommended 

 as unreservedly as the molasses method. 



The results of this survey do not indicate that phosphoric acid is a 

 more expensive preservative than molasses. It is certainly easier to handle. 

 When properly used there is no more spoilage and the silage seems as 

 palatable to cattle and gives as good production results. However, there 

 are some possible adverse points that should be mentioned. The danger 

 from fluorine contamination is not fully cleared yet. Expert opinion in gen- 

 eral says there is no danger. However, it is desirable that long-time con- 

 tinuous feeding trials be made on phosphoric acid silage. 



The effect of a high level of phosphorous feeding over a long period may 

 produce results that are not now known. 



Therefore, farmers thinking about adopting this method of preserving 

 silage made from legumes and grasses with phosphoric acid must adopt the 

 method with their eyes open and with the full knowledge that the method 

 is new and needs study. 



Conclusion 



From the 380 operators reporting on this questionnaire, 75 per cent 

 said they would put up grass or legume silage for regular winter feeding, 

 either to replace corn silage, hay, or part of both. Sixty-eight per cent 

 planned to use it to supplement pasture. Only six per cent of the operators 

 said that they did not plan to put up grass or legume silage in the future. 



