University of Missouri Extension in Howell County has purchased a Draminski moisture probe for producer use. Producers can borrow this moisture probe from the Howell county extension center at 1376 Bill Virdon Blvd. West Plains, MO 65793.
This moisture meter can be used to test both moisture and temperature of hay or haylage bales. Hay baled too wet has the potential to heat up internally and spontaneously combust. Because of this, before producers put hay in their barns, they should test the moisture and temperature of their bales to avoid potential barn fires.
This moisture meter reads from 10% up to 80% moisture, which makes it suitable for testing moisture in dry hay as well as haylage bales. There is no cost to use the moisture probe but a $15 deposit (cash or check) will be held until the probe is returned and then the deposit is returned to the producer.
For more information, contact Howell county extension center at 417-256-2391.
