DairyNZ to hold dry summer workshops
DairyNZ is holding two workshops in the new year to help Northland dairy farmers manage their way through a drier than usual summer.
“Northland received only 37% of its average rainfall in October and November,” says DairyNZ regional manager Tafi Manjala. “Forecast showers have not arrived and soil moisture levels are currently trending towards wilting point."
Regional pasture growth rates currently average 27 kgDM/ha/day. This is well short of demand for most farms e.g. for a farm stocked with crossbred cows at 2.5 cows/ha producing 1.3 kgMS/cow/day requires approximately 38 kg DM/ha/day. This equates to a demand of 40% more than the current growth rate can provide.
These workshops are being held in response to requests from local farmers to help them proactively tackle a dry summer by planning and sharing strategies. DairyNZ will also present on the principles on summer management and cost-effective modeling scenarios on matching feed supply to demand including:
- Do I buy more feed, at what cost and what type?
- Do I dry off cows and how many?
- OAD and 16 hour milking
Workshop venue: Roger and Jane Hutchings, Supplier 10555, Lodore Road, Okaihau
Date: 7 January, 2010
Time: 11am – 1pm
Workshop venue: Jordan Valley Farm, Supplier 17063, 259 Jordan Valley Road, Hikurangi
Date: 8 January, 2010
Time: 11am – 1pm
A BBQ lunch will be provided at both venues.
Media Contact
Alex Fear
DairyNZ Senior Communications Advisor
Phone: 07 858 3831
Mobile: 0274115663
Email: alex.fear@dairynz.co.nz
