Damp Hay

[2/B or not 2/B]

We purchased some alfalfa hay from a local grower and are considering purchasing some more. Today my bf stopped by and picked up a bale as a sample. When he opened it, he found damp spots inside and noticed the warmth. I immediately ruled out purchasing a load from this cutting, citing the risk of spontaneous combustion and mold. He thinks I'm paranoid. I told him a good deal isn't worth the risk. He suggested posting here for more experienced opinions. Anyone willing to weigh in?

 

[msscamp]

You're not paranoid.

 

[kerley]

Sarah you are right on. Tom :cboy:

 

[grannysoo]

Sounds like you got you some of that "horse hay". :roll: :roll:

You're right on with your opinion...

 

[hopalong]

Moldy hay is a lot different that WET hay,
I would be cautious of wet hay but jump on moldy hay!!

 

[2/B or not 2/B]

Thank you to those who replied. We won't be purchasing this particular hay. I was always warned about spontaneous combustion and have always taken it seriously. Our barn is not replaceable so why gamble? I think my bf thought it was a legend or myth, but your comments prompted him to do some more research and now he understands. :)

 

[bigbull338]

your right in not buying that hay.it was baled way to wet.

 

[TexasBred]

Check more than one bale. It might be the only one in the whole load.

 

[bandit80]

Check more than one bale. It might be the only one in the whole load.

Exactly. How many times have people been baling hay and gone through a windrow either along some trees, or in a low area where there could be some moisture. Don't rule out the whole lot just because of one bale.

Now if several bales are like this, probably best to just avoid it.

 

[2/B or not 2/B]

TexasBred wrote:Check more than one bale. It might be the only one in the whole load.



Exactly. How many times have people been baling hay and gone through a windrow either along some trees, or in a low area where there could be some moisture. Don't rule out the whole lot just because of one bale.

Now if several bales are like this, probably best to just avoid it.

I can see your point and I will definitely keep that in mind. In this case, we've visited his hayfields. They're on the valley floor, in the open, the land appears very level. It's the flatlands, no trees, nothing. It seems like the bales should be uniform, but we're gonna ask him about it. We've worked with him before. He's an honest, open person. We just want to be safe.

 

[msscamp]

Check more than one bale. It might be the only one in the whole load.

Possible, but unlikely.

 

[Grippie]

Check more than one bale. It might be the only one in the whole load.

Exactly. How many times have people been baling hay and gone through a windrow either along some trees, or in a low area where there could be some moisture. Don't rule out the whole lot just because of one bale.

Now if several bales are like this, probably best to just avoid it.

I agree... :nod:

 

[grannysoo]

Our barn is not replaceable

That's a scary statement...