How many heifers can be run?
As a starting point, annual feed supply and demand can be used to assess how many heifers can be carried on farm. The assumption in this process is that heifers are being grazed on an allocated block within the farm. To determine how many heifers can be run:
- Assess the proportion of the farm that is suitable for growing heifers.
- Estimate the annual amount of pasture grown on the allocated land class.
- Estimate level of pasture utilisation (pasture eaten/ha).
- Calculate total utilisable pasture available = Annual pasture production X % Utilisation.
- Calculate potential number of heifers carried based on annual heifer feed requirements.
- Factor in some flexibility with trade stock as part of base stock numbers.
How should I manage the flow of feed throughout the year?
Heifers require high quality feed, especially from weaning to nine months. Managing surplus pasture to maintain quality is critically important to the success of growing heifers. Feed supply can be manipulated with options such as supplement feeds. To help manage the flow of feed throughout the year:
- Calculate monthly feed requirement per hectare on the heifer block.
- Estimate monthly pasture growth rates.
- Review feed demand vs. supply.
- Identity period of feed deficit and surplus. Consider options to fill feed deficits and manage feed surplus.
- Select an option that best suits the farm, resources available and farm management.
Managing multiple stock classes
If grazing multiple stock classes it is important to consider planning feed allocation.
- Set feeding priorities and plan to feed these stock classes first.
- Monitor liveweight gain and modify plan if required.
- Decide what type of feed is most suitable for each stock class.
It is a risky farm policy when multiple classes of stock that have similar priority ‘windows’ are grazed on the same allocated area. Establishing a dedicated enterprise area within the farm for stock, supported with a feed budget, reduces the risk of compromising stock at a priority time and compromising production and profit, secondary stock classes can then be used strategically to manage residuals or parasite burdens.
Heifer grazing contract terms
The most common contract periods for heifer grazing are:
- R1 grazing: 3-10 months of age often November/December to May.
- R2 grazing: 10-22 months of age typically a 'May to May' contract.
- 18 month grazing: 3- 22 months of age, weaning to following May.
- Winter grazing: 22-24 months of age, May to pre-calving.
There are strengths and weaknesses in each age group for management. Management skills, farm contour, and stock handling will influence which age group is most suited to the farm.
Infrastructure
Heifer grazing requires specialist infrastructure to aid in achieving heifer liveweight targets.