SHARING OPTIONS:
Reports indicate that grass supplies are very variable on sheep farms at present.
Some farmers who had a good grass surplus or who are lambing later and are building demand slower are still in a relatively good position, while others find themselves in a trickier position.
For the latter group, a significant increase in grass growth may get many out of trouble and back on track quickly. For others, careful management will be required to steer a course back on track.
While the change away from harsh northeasterly winds is providing kinder conditions, temperatures are forecast to remain relatively low. This means all farmers will need to keep a good eye on grass supplies over the coming week.
SHARING OPTIONS:
While straw supplies may be tight and represent a significant cost skimping on it could end up costing your system dearly in the longer term. \ David Ruffles
Weather challenges: Torrential rain in many parts of the country in recent days and waterlogged soils are creating challenges for many early lambing flocks and putting pressure on housing space. Where ewes are retained indoors for longer than originally planned it is important that nutritional requirements are met to ensure reaching peak milk yield is not compromised.
Recently lambed ewes suckling twin lambs and offered ad-lib access to moderate-quality silage of 68 to 70 DMD will require in the region of 1.2kg to 1.5kg concentrate supplementation daily. Where ewes are lacking flesh or silage quality is below this level then concentrate supplementation should be increased to 1.5kg to 1.7kg. Single-suckling ewes in good body condition will typically require 0.6kg to 0.8k