Dairy state roundup for winter (June-August 2011)
a) Northern Irrigation Region:
June and early July were cold and dry. Pastures and crops that hadn’t been irrigated in May had virtually stopped growing during this time. Since around mid July sufficient moisture has been received in most areas and conditions have warmed up. The past six weeks have been nearly ideal weather wise and some farms have started making early silage as a result. With good early irrigation water allocations, the spring is shaping up well.
b) North East:
In areas with regular fog cover, growth in colder months has been slower. In other valleys experiencing clear skies, favourable conditions have contributed to excellent pasture growth and good grazing conditions. Significant sub-soil moisture has provided good growing conditions in general and the opportunity for an excellent spring.
c) Macalister Irrigation District:
With two floods occurring during winter, many farms have ample subsurface soil moisture. Water is not an issue coming into spring! The current water allocation of 90 per cent HRWS*. Consistent showers ensured reasonable moisture levels for winter growth, however, a few frosts did slow growth. Soil temperatures are on the rise, so grass is due to take off any moment now.
Farmers are looking forward to making the most of a strong start to the irrigation season.
d) South West:
With the continued wet weather, waterlogging and poor pasture growth is making the season challenging for many. However, with late August not being as wet as expected many farms have started to dry out with the focus on managing the recovering pastures.
e) South West Gippsland:
Winter rainfall has resulted in waterlogged paddocks and slower than average growth rates. Wet soil management has been front of mind for many farms. This is transitioning to renovation of the most badly damaged pastures. On the plus side, a full soil moisture profile will provide an excellent start to spring.
f) Coastal East:
July and August have been wet, with some areas being flooded and wet soils from Yarram to Cann River. At the start of September, farmers are requesting an inch of rain and where available irrigation pumps are returned to the river. Pasture growth conditions continue to be above average. However, grazing conditions have been less than ideal.
