Comparative Stocking Rate (CSR) is a tool to measure the balance between feed demand and supply on a farm. It is determined by calculating the amount of livestock weight per hectare versus the annual feed available.

Managing high-quality pasture during feed surplus periods is a crucial skill in pasture management. This page explains that pasture surplus often develops in spring, which if unmanaged, can lead to low-quality pasture affecting milk production.

If you experience issues with somatic cell count, have a number of clinical cases, or rough teat conditions are persistent, professional help should be sought.

Autumn pasture management in dairy farming involves focusing on average pasture cover and cow condition to prepare for spring.

An endophyte is a fungus naturally found in ryegrass and tall fescue pastures, helping to protect the plants from insect damage. In New Zealand, many ryegrass plants contain this fungus, passed down through seeds.

Failures of pumps and irrigation equipment on your dairy farm can lead to wasted time, limited pasture growth, and stress. The page highlights the importance of regular checks and ongoing maintenance to prevent these issues.

Cocksfoot is a resilient pasture grass, ideal for dry conditions and resistant to many pests. Though its feed value is typically lower than ryegrass, it supports summer growth in dairy pasture mixes, especially in drought-prone areas.

Dry cows should be checked weekly for changes in the udder and quarters, especially during the last two weeks of their lactation and in the first two weeks of their dry period.

Reducing the time and water used in washing dairy yards is vital to an efficient farm routine. The page outlines various methods for efficient yard cleaning, focusing on the design of the holding yard, wash down systems, and the type of surface used.

Dietary fibre is essential for a cow's healthy rumen function. This page explains that when cows eat fibre, it stimulates chewing, saliva production, and rumination.

Critical Source Areas (CSAs), such as swales and gullies, can transport large amounts of soil, phosphorus, and E. coli to waterways. Recognising CSAs and managing them with buffer zones can help minimise these losses.

White clover is crucial for New Zealand dairy pastures, offering nutritional value and fixing nitrogen to boost other grasses' growth. Yet, shade hampers its growth, and overusing N fertiliser can outcompete it.

Coccidiosis is a disease mainly affecting young cattle, causing diarrhoea that can lead to dehydration or even death. The disease comes from parasites found in infected feed, water, or from self-grooming.

Heifer growth, best measured by liveweight, is a vital aspect of dairy farming. Consistent weigh-ins, ideally every 4-8 weeks, help monitor growth and spot issues early on.

Bull management involves ensuring the right number of healthy bulls for your herd, minimising stress and reducing injury risks. A correct ratio depends on your herd's size and percentage of pregnant cows.

Johne’s disease is a long term, infectious disease that affects the gut of cows and reduces their ability to absorb nutrients. There is no cure, so management focuses on reducing the risk of spread.

Heifer rearing is essential for your dairy farm's success. The page discusses three basic methods: rearing stock on your dairy farm, contract grazing, and purchasing grown replacements.

Governance in farming involves leading the business and managing its daily operations. This page explains the role of governance in all farming businesses, regardless of size, including small family-owned farms.

Creating a new pasture isn't just about sowing. Good management, especially in the first year, can boost its performance and longevity. It's only successfully established once it's dense and has survived a summer.

Tony Coltman dairy farms near Dunsandel. At the start of the programme the dairy farm had an effective milking platform area of 335 ha. This was 100% irrigated, at a stocking rate of 4.1 cows/ha.