How to Prevent Dusty Hay

Fodder is vital to the health of many farm animals. Hay provides nutrition during the winter to horses, cows and other animals. However, it must be kept clean and dry to maintain its nutritional value and prevent any bacteria or mold from forming in it. Mold can destroy fodder, cause fires and harm animals that eat it. Preventing dust is integral to keeping the supply usable.

Things You'll Need

  • Propionic acid
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Test the hay before cutting it to see if it is completely dry.

    • 2

      Spray propionic acid over the entire crop to prevent the fungal growth that causes dust.

    • 3

      Cut corn after two to three days of sunshine and dryness to ensure that it is completely dry.

    • 4

      Store harvested hay immediately in a dry, cool and dark area, such as a barn hayloft.

    • 5

      Check the middle of purchased bales of hay to ensure that it is dry completely through. Moisture in the middle of a bale can cause dust.

    • 6

      Store batches of hay separately, to ensure that dust in one does not spread mold to the others.