Feeding Pastures for Profit
Achieve higher pasture production and take the guesswork out of feeding supplements profitably. To put yourself in control participate in an upcoming Feeding Pastures For Profit (FPFP) program.
DPI Dairy Services are looking at running an FPFP program in the Corryong region this autumn if there is sufficient interest.
For more information, or to register your interest please contact Tom Farran, DPI Tatura, telephone (03) 5833 5297.
Monthly Reminders February
Pasture
- It is about time to start thinking about the areas that will be sown down in the autumn, and whether this will be done with irrigation or with the autumn break.
- Start getting organised for autumn fertiliser applications now by working out and ordering what you need so that it is there ready to go when you want it to.
Cows
- Use strategies to keep the cows cool while the weather is hot so that there are no set backs (in both the cows and the young stock).
- Make sure stock have plenty of access to clean and cool water. On a hot day, a lactating cow can drink anywhere up to 150 – 200L/day.
- Check that the diet is meeting the requirements of stock. There are a number of indicators that can signal the need to check the balance of the diet.
- Check for pink eye.
- Make sure that immunisations are up to date and that the stock are drenched if required.
- Cows should be dried off in condition score 5-5.5 and maintain this condition until they calve. If your cows are fatter or thinner than this try to correct this before drying off.
Water Issues
- Continue to check water supply dams for signs of blue green algae. If present, avoid using the water, prevent stock access and get the algae identified.
- Average February evaporation rates means irrigation in the order of 34mm should be applied over a week for the higher valley regions and 43 mm for the lower country.
- These application rates assume your soil moisture levels are not already in deficit.
- For autumn start irrigators ensure irrigation infrastructure is ready to go to guarantee an early autumn break on your farm.
Business
- Plan to learn something new this season. Participate in one of the upcoming courses, field days or farm walks on around the region this month.
- Take a break, even if it’s just for a couple of days. Plan it, and even send a deposit so that you are locked into going.
Safety Messages
- Remember to carry the fire extinguisher on the tractor – you will never know when you will need it.
- Don’t exceed the lifting capacity of your frontend loader – some of the large square bales around are much heavier than bales you may be used to.
