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Recent measurements suggest that dairy farms can be a significant emission source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). However, accurate estimates of farm-level emissions currently do not exist. We developed a preliminary process-based model to estimate VOC emissions from silage on farms and to assess the effectiveness of management changes on reducing emissions. Using ethanol as a representative VOC, we evaluated the effects of environmental conditions (temperature and air velocity) and management practices on emission. Model predictions suggest that VOC emission is sensitive to environmental conditions, with the greatest emission occurring under hot and windy conditions. Predictions indicate that changes in silage management can substantially reduce VOC emission, but that changes in individual sources will not lead to significant reductions on their own. Combined changes in storage and feeding practices can lead to substantial emission reductions, according to model predictions. Preliminary predictions of ethanol emission for typical conditions are substantially greater than previous estimates of VOC emission from silage. Additional measurements are needed, however, to complete the model for all important VOCs and to fully verify farm-level predictions. When complete, this model will provide a useful tool for evaluating strategies for reducing VOC emissions from silage.