A:   We also have released a new version of use of byproducts and have some things in there on storage. You can look at this at the beef website (http://beef.unl.edu) then click on "byproduct feeds" on the left side. There is a large document on feeding applications, and there is an item on storage with some pictures. (it is a large file though).

Now, to answer your specific questions, WDGS does tend to be a bit cheaper in the summer. This is due to feedlot numbers tending to decline at that time. It is variable when this occurs (June to September).

WDGS can be stored in silo bags (under no pressure) and keep okay. The bag will flatten out and it takes a bit more storage space. If you want to bag under pressure, then we have been working on adding low quality forages (cornstalks or wheat straw, ground). There appears to be little to no spoilage during feedout in the bags whether you put them in under no pressure or with the added forage. The key is the same with WDGS as it is with high-moisture corn or corn silage, air is the enemy (oxygen).

Varmints are always a problem. Raccoons and other pests tend to like distillers grains. However, if they puncture a hole (which is less common), it can be taped and little damage occur. Once the bags are opened, they tend to just steal from the end rather than make a hole in the bag (that has been our experience anyway).

Another approach is to store in a bunker. However, you have to pack it in, it has to have forage mixed in (and at a bit higher inclusion of forage), and you have to have the bunker or space for it. Some have put it on the ground, which is less than ideal, but tends to work out okay for those that have done it.

I hope it helps, I was not clear on your question on the grain ration for starting cattle. I would normally recommend 40 to 50% roughage (Forage) with the remainder as concentrate for starting calves. I don't care for growing cattle with high grain diets (either feed forages to gain 1.5 to 2.0 lb per day (which can be costly delivering feed for that rate of gain in the feedlot) versus letting them go and finishing them. Some small framed cattle need to be grown prior to finishing to get them large enough to be profitable. However, I would rather they harvest the feed and then supplement them (an example is grazing corn stalks and supplementing with WDGS at 4 to 5 lb of DM per day per head).