Plant-based bubble bursts
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As the new dairy season gets underway and farmers tackle ongoing financial challenges, they are being urged not to make hasty decisions about selling cows and cutting back on supplementary feed.
Slow pasture growth over the last couple of months, combined with a wet October and lack of sunshine, could see cows short on crucial energy, fibre and protein as mating gets into full swing across the country.
As dairy farmers head into mating with lower cow body condition scores than last season, feeding quality pasture and supplements will be crucial for getting cows in calf and putting milk in the vat.
With calving underway, dairy farmers are being urged to plan ahead, as feed availability is affected by global shortages along with slow and intermittent international shipping.
A deficit in pasture protein levels last summer, combined with a good payout, has seen dairy farmer demand for quality, cost-effective protein-rich supplements soar. according to a feed importer.
As temperatures soar, farmers are being urged to review feed plans and consider what supplements could help reduce the impact of heat stress on their cows.
A challenging winter for Southland dairy farmers has affected cow condition coming into mating, which may impact calving spreads next season.
Waikato dairy farmers may face challenges from pasture with low nutritional value as they head into spring and balance date approaches.
Feed company GrainCorp claims its new blending facility in Timaru will give South Island farmers more choice and flexibility when choosing feed product for animals.
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