Return to Table of Contents . Silo Design and Construction Silo construction for most agricultural uses is not regulated in Virginia. Silage stored in glass-lined silos typically has a lower moisture content and poses a low risk of groundwater contamination. It is possible, though, for some liquid to leak out. Silo bags generally store silage of higher moisture content.
Liquid can pool in the bag and spill out when opened.
Horizontal trench silos excavated into the ground may affect groundwater, especially in coarse soils when close to the water table. Properly compacted clay soils and concrete floors can limit leachate seepage. The type of silo often has less effect on the potential to contaminate groundwater than the condition of the silo. Older structures can be relined to make them relatively watertight. Silo caps or covers keep rain water from entering the silage, preserve a quality silage, and reduce the potential for producing leachate.