Weinberg, Z.G., Forage Preservation and By-Products Research Unit, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel

Ensiling is a preservation method for forage crops which is based on solid-state lactic acid fermentation. The success of ensiling depends on plant composition, availability of adequate lactic acid bacteria and on management factors. Problems associated with ensiling include nutrient losses and health hazards to the cattle which may result mainly from the activity of undesirable microorganisms, such as clostridia, yeasts and molds. Areas which warrant further research include development of new forage crop varieties which would meet specific needs, improvement of the machinery involved in silage making, development of more efficient silage additives and development of ensiling technology for agricultural by-products.