The ensiling process presents losses that are associated with the fermentative profile, resulting in lower nutritional value and lower aerobic stability of silages. The study evaluated the effects of adding chitosan and microbial inoculants to Mombasa grass (Megathyrsus maximus) silage. Chitosan altered some variables of the fermentation profile, but the treatments did not show a relevant effect on fermentation losses, chemical composition, and aerobic stability.

Tannins are secondary compounds that act to protect proteins from microbial degradation. Affinity between tannins and proteins is due to the presence of multiple phenolic hydroxyl groups in tannins, which promotes an easier connection with proteins. Tannins can decrease proteolysis in silage, inhibiting microbial action, through the protein-bound linkage in the ensiled mass. Thus, it is recommended to include of tannin as an additive in sorghum silage to improve fermentation patterns, diminish aerobic deterioration, as well as improve digestibility.

The dairy industry’s recent growth in Ireland has resulted in a high demand for additional workers, increasing the requirement for farmers to be skilled in Human Resource Management (HRM). This study identified that the adoption of HRM practices is influenced by farm characteristics, in particular herd size, the number of employees on the farm. This study has contributed insights into the prevalence of specific HRM practices on Irish dairy farms, and indicated that there is a significant scope for improvement. A novel aspect of this study was the focus on the potential factors that influence the adoption of HRM practices on Irish dairy farms. The findings of this study could be used by agricultural advisors and those working in HRM to provide tailored advice to support dairy farmers and other small business owners in managing their employees.