Spring outlook 2019
October 2019
Helen Smith, Agriculture Advisor
The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted a dryer than usual spring, with little rain in local forecasts across the South East. It is important to carefully develop a plan for your rural property and livestock. Discussing this plan will assist in clarifying key decision making dates and actions.
Consider pros and cons - eg. budget out different strategies, labour required, and your health and well-being. Local Land Services can assist you with developing plans, providing advice and technical support.
Spring is a crucial period for breeding stock with young at foot. It is important to know the nutritional demands of stock – Local Land Services staff can assist. A “best guess” can leave animals short of requirements. If you are putting out feed, double check you are feeding enough.
Stock rapidly lose weight with high nutritional demands and inadequate feed. Avoid animal welfare issues by enacting plans before stock become skinny.
Local Land Services vets and ag advisors are available to assist with advice on a range of options for, including feeding, early weaning, or moving stock: to alternate properties, agistment or sale. Your plan may include a combination of approaches.
If moving and/or selling stock ensure animals are fit to load and travel (vet staff can assist). Plan the logistics, feeding to the next local sale or going to different saleyards, and check the wait-lists for abattoirs. Consider timing: animals in good condition will attract better prices - rather than waiting and selling in poor condition. On-line selling is increasing and agents can assist if you haven’t tried this before.
Remember stock water requirements and evaporation increase over summer – this will be a deal breaker if you don’t have enough stock water. Local Land Services staff can assist with budgeting for water quantity and quality.
Be aware of groundcover going in to summer: intense summer storms and hot-windy weather pose erosion risks, particularly for lighter soils. Be mindful of protecting pastures when deciding to sell or keep-and-feed. Lot-feeding or "sacrifice" paddocks are recommended: carefully select and plan these areas if you go down this track. Again, seek advice from Local Land Services if you would like assistance.
Be aware of bushfire danger period, and have a fire plan for your property and animals. Local Land Services can also help with connecting to the Rural Assistance Authority and Rural Financial Counselor for assistance, including financial assistance and subsidies.
You can visit the NSW DPI Drought Hub for a full list of services and support.