SIMULATION OF MAT HAY-HARVESTING WITH 6 YEARS OF WEATHER DATA

A computer model was constructed in which hay-making with forage mats and a traditional system was simulated. While mats were left in the fi eld for drying to a moisture content safe for storage, the traditional ly made hay was field-dried to 35% moisture content (w.b.) and then pl aced on a hay-drier. Based on past forecasts, decision functions were used to determine whether to allow mowing. Actual weather conditions w ere then used to calculate the outcome of the two harvesting systems o ver a 6-yr period. The simulations showed that the harvesting result w as considerably improved by matting. Especially during years with unfa vourable weather, mats were less exposed to inclement weather compared with traditionally made hay.