There are many costs associated with farming, no matter the type of produce or livestock you farm. Farm costs can be split into two main categories, those that are fixed (overhead costs) and those that are direct (variable costs). A large part of running a farm is managing these costs and ensuring that the farm is functioning efficiently.
However, there’s a common problem that farmers face: creeping costs due to inefficient livestock feedings. It can seem like a minor issue initially, but any kind of wastage can quickly add up and lead to unnecessary impacts on your bottom line. These impacts can be felt much harder in times of economic and environmental hardship.
There are many different reasons for feed wastage, such as the weather, frequency of feedings, method of feedings, and incorrect storage. One of the best ways to ensure that you are not wasting feed because of ineffective feeding practices is to invest in a good quality hay conserver bale feeder.
We’ll go into more detail about choosing the best feeders for reducing hay wastage, but first, let’s look at the kinds of costs farmers encounter in the running of a farm.
Farming costs
The two general types of costs encountered in farming are fixed and variable costs. The specifics of these costs can change depending on many factors, such as the type of farm, location, management style, and time of year. These costs can also change over time.
That being said, let’s take a look at some of the expected costs of each:
Fixed costs
Fixed (or overhead) costs are not directly related to the level of production that a farm experiences. They are the kinds of costs that have to be paid regardless of whether anything is produced or not. This can include labour costs, land rent, government land taxes, loan repayments and other finance costs, and living expenses.
Variable costs
Variable (or direct) costs are directly related to the level of production. They can change depending on the farm practices and production level of a given time period. This includes things like feed, fertiliser, herd and shed costs, machinery, maintenance, and many other things.
The particulars of each are not certain though and should just be used as a guide for common farm costs. Every farm is different.
Farm labour for instance can be supplied by employed staff or family, who receive no cash payments. Personal costs, like household expenses, can be categorised separately from farm costs or may be included within the farm operation costs.
Hay Conserver Bale Feeders
There are plenty of feeders on the market but not all are created equal. Some designs can increase the chances of feed wastage, as they are either inefficient or not properly suited to the particular animal they are feeding.
Hay ring feeders for instance are made so that cattle stand outside the feeder and tear hay out. The problem with this design is that the cattle have free access to the hay and often let the excess fall from their mouths, which then falls to the ground, gets trampled on and soiled.
A bale feeder that is designed to reduce waste and conserve hay is the best investment for farms, particularly ones that have a sizable herd and require large amounts of feed. This is the best way to manage costs for feed and ensure that you are not wasting money.
Willie’s Manufacturing Industries make top of the line feeders that are designed to reduce feed wastage and, in turn, save farmers money in the long-run. Here are some of the features of our feeders and how they benefit you:
Designed strong: Our feeders are designed to be robust and strong and withstand the harsh Australian conditions. The design of our feeders endure less damage over time–saving you time and money.
Quality manufacturing techniques: Our feeders come equipped with a modern and user-friendly design. The team has perfected the design of feeders over time. This process means that our customers can organise user-friendly maintenance and simple adjustments to ensure the product works at its highest potential.
Safe and reliable: We understand how important workplace safety is, not only for the operators of feeders but also livestock. Our Elite bale feeders for example are built with a versatile loading system equipped with collapsible forks to ensure a high level of safety.
Conserve feed: Reducing wastage is essential to minimise your running costs so that you can remain profitable in a highly competitive industry. For that reason, our feeders are designed to minimise waste and ensure that you are getting great value for money.
If you have any questions about finding the right hay conserver bale feeder for you or require some expert advice, get in touch with our friendly team today by calling 0488 605 713 or emailing sales@wmifeeders.com.au.
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