Spring rains have taken a big slice out of the season’s feed production in what should have been a bumper season for dairy farmers.
Pastures have been flooded and silage and hay crops flattened by the floods across northern Victoria.
Murray Dairy chairman Andrew Tyler said farmers were facing a feed shortage, power interruptions, animal health challenges and rising costs during a time which has traditionally been a peak milk production.
He said feed may be available but would probably be low quality.
Cattle walking through sodden paddocks and muddy lanes could easily spread mastitis.
“The first week in November is an historic peak in production for this region,” Mr Tyler said.
“Some silage has been done, but we will be way behind.”
He said there was a question over whether available feed would be milker quality.
“It looks pretty tricky at this time, and on top of that, we may not be able to get our summer crop program started,” he said.
“A lot of cropping ground will still be inundated.”
He said some farmers had to dump milk, but he believed most farms were able to hold the milk and get it picked up the next day.
“Milk transport companies have done a fantastic job in the operating conditions,” he said.
“Getting their staff would be an issue for them, too.“
While plans may have gone out the window, he said on a positive note, milk prices were better this season.
“Obviously we would like the government to kick in with some support,” Mr Tyler said.
“I would encourage farmers to contact their field staff who will have details on what help is available.
“Murray Dairy will be assisting with information as well.”
For more information go to the Murray Dairy website and look for the flood impact webinar, which was recorded on Friday, October 21.