Key decisions/actions this week
Started feeding baleage (2 kg DM/cow/day) and PKE (1.5 kg DM/cow/day) in trailers to standard herds to meet daily intake targets with reduced pasture growth rates and lower pre-graze covers; also receiving 3 kg DM inshed.
Increased inshed feeding by 0.3 kg DM/cow/day to Future herd, average intake of 2.4 kg DM/cow/day and will top up with baleage as required.
Started planting new grass paddocks ahead of first nip off grazing.
Potential early culls have been identified and will be checked for exiting as soon as first scan results are available – persistent mastitis and lame cows plus collapsed udders.
Had planned on applying 100 kg NProtect/ha to swede crops using the drone but postponed on Friday due to dry conditions.
Had PGGW team assess leaf damage on the swede crop – determined it was hail damage.
Have suspended N applications to pasture paddocks until sufficient moisture to get a response.
New grass paddocks at the support block sprayed for weeds.
Have identified paddocks with potential grass grub – to be assessed and an action plan developed.
Remaining calves at support block being weighed and surplus separated for sale before heading to the grazier.