Your weekly glimpse into research in action at Southern Dairy Hub.
Insights
Pasture growth rates this week are likely underestimated due to the wet and windy conditions during measurement. This was especially noticeable in high-mass paddocks, where the urine patches are lodging.
Wet, squally weather this week has impacted pasture utilisation and resulted in soil and pasture damage in some paddocks. We have also had a couple of metabolic issues in the milkers.
Reduced water intake, poor pasture utilisation and dusted minerals will be impacting magnesium intake.
Paddocks grazed in the first three weeks of calving are showing good regrowth.
To hold the spring rotation plan this week, given the predicted weather conditions, silage will be required for the milkers. We are resisting the temptation to speed up the rotation in these wet conditions, as we still have a way to go until balance date.
The calving pad has been put to good use again this week, with 100% survival of calves born on the pad.
The transition of the oldest calves outdoors has been delayed until dehorning is complete. Calves will be weighed before leaving the shed.
Farm System Description
Standard herd: average BW Southland herd stocked at 3.2 cows/ha at peak, up to 180 kg N/ha and wintered on swedes & kale
Future herd: higher genetic merit herd (127 BW difference) stocked at 2.5 cows/ha at peak, up to 180 kg N/ha and wintered on baleage
If you have any questions about this week's HubWatch, please contact our team.
