Consequently, silage leachate may be an environmental problem on many farms. The amount of leachate produced, made from corn, legume-grass, or small grain varies with the crop stored, its moisture and nitrogen content, and handling and storage conditions. Of these, moisture content is most crucial. Silo Type Bunker silos are noted for producing silage leachate. Horizontal trench silos excavated into the ground may adversely affect groundwater quality, especially in coarse soils when close to the water table.
Tower silos produce juice during and immediately after filling.
Plastic bag silos can act like bunker silos because liquid can pool in the bag and spill out when opened. These silages may be of higher moisture content. Silo covers or caps keep rain from entering the silage, reducing the potential for producing leachate, and providing a higher quality silage. Moisture Content Harvesting and storing silage at the correct moisture content is the best way to prevent seepage and subsequent pollution. The moisture contents that cause the least seepage also produce the best quality silage.