Important questions around tackling flood-induced shortages in quality feed were among the top points discussed by agribusiness advisers at the Murray Dairy 2022-23 Summer Feedbase Planning event in Echuca on October 16.
Attended by more than 20 farmers and service providers, the event was a forum for skilled advisers in feedbase and nutrition to share perspectives on how to fill the feed gap caused by ongoing wet weather and flooding in Victoria and NSW.
Murray Dairy regional extension officer and event co-ordinator Natalie Eckert said despite the disappointing end to the spring harvest season there was hope heading into summer.
“Despite the many challenges faced by Murray region farmers due to flood impacts, it is important to share the message that there are options to overcome shortages in quality feed. That is the takeaway from this event,” Ms Eckert said.
She said the single most important thing farmers could do was employ a trusted local adviser to identify immediate feed gaps and find solutions.
“This season presents opportunities to produce home-grown summer forages, utilising the added benefits of low water price, the soft start to the season and ample seed supply,” Ms Eckert said.
Throughout the session, attendees heard presentations from silage and seed specialists and a nutritionist.
Pioneer Seeds silage specialist and Murray Dairy board director Jason Scott emphasised the importance of setting silage goals prior to sowing.
“Engage with contractors, nutritionists and agronomists to ensure they are aware of your goals and what you want to achieve,” he said.
Mr Scott also shared his professional recommendation that dry matter (DM) should be between 35 and 38 per cent.
Pacific Seeds territory manager Dan Rolls advised forage sorghum should be planted at a depth of 3cm to 5cm with a press wheel to ensure good seed to soil contact.
Mr Rolls also reminded attendees that seedbed preparation was integral to ensure establishment.
To round out the discussion, CRC Agrisolutions director and nutritionist Scott Rathbone reinforced the need to plan for the next 12 months, understand the quantity of feed needed for this period, and to class feed into groups of stock.
“Don’t ever get yourself into a position where you need to dramatically change the diet to introduce large quantities of a new feed source to your herd,” Mr Rathbone said.
For more information about summer feedbase planning, head to: murraydairy.com.au