Great, average or poor summer?
LIC national FarmWise manager, Edward Hardie on the decisions dairy farmers need to make now for a good summer.
Reputation of milk quality is paramount
We have all had to deal with milk quality issues onfarm at some stage in our farming careers — whether it be a freezing point grade or high bulk somatics on the first pick-up or perhaps an antibiotic scare during the season.
How to improve on last year’s mating results
It's past mid-September and as calving draws to a close it is time to ensure mating plans are in place.
If feed’s tight, hold tight
Many farms are struggling with wet soils making for slower growth rates and poorer utilisation.
An unhealthy cow won’t perform to its potential
Animal health is a vital aspect of farm management to get right, and it starts right from birth.
Remember the good old days of 4% empty rates?
Thinking back over the last 15 seasons or so, the average dairy herd in New Zealand had a targeted empty rate about the 4% mark. Today, 4% seems unachievable.
Reducing mud will bring better grass growth rates
Many farms are not where they should be in average pasture cover for this time of year.
Robust and agile by best use of energy, water and nutrients
Most dairy farmers are good at growing and harvesting pasture.
Low cell count should remain high priority
Commonly I hear farmers say, "Why bother with low cell count when there are no financial incentives from my dairy company to maintain a low bulk somatic cell count?"
Maximise pasture yield and feed the cow
Given the tough financial situation, it is time for dairy farmers to rely more on pasture production and to plan how to get more milk from fewer cows.