With the northern part of New South Wales fortunate in recent weather events, spring will be off to a good start. Livestock Production Specialist Adam Turnbull explains how to manage the spring flush correctly to maximise production of livestock.
A strong start to spring can be a make-or-break opportunity if the spring flush isn’t managed correctly, especially in medic dominant pastures. A range of livestock including young, low condition, pregnant and lactating stock are headed this way either on agistment or as a trade opportunity, with the current strength in the market. There are a few key points to consider.
Spring pastures are highly digestible, high in protein and energy, however, usually low in dry matter, low in starch, magnesium, phosphorus and sometimes calcium. Due to the high protein content, supplements are of great benefit. They should not, however, contain urea as that is a protein rapidly absorbed in the rumen, therefore resulting in excess ammonia that can inflame the hind gut and cause scouring and reduced weight gain.
Supplements that contain soluble starches, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus are used instead that will promote fermentation, rumen function and increase pasture utilisation. That in turn increases carrying capacities or increased grazing days of pastures, plus the all-important weight gain, whilst meeting daily requirements of minerals lacking in the feed source.
Key points for livestock grazing spring feed:
- Vaccinate. Use a Minimum 5-in-1 vaccination for protection of clostridial disease, mainly pulpy kidney.
- Drench. Internal parasites can enter an “inhibited stage” during winter and emerge when stock graze lush feed. An effective broad-spectrum drench is required.
- Understand the nutritional requirements of each class of stock as it varies greatly. Ask an Elders livestock production specialist for assistance if unsure.
- Ensure stock are full prior to grazing lush feed. Trade stock especially should be fed hay prior to grazing lush feed.
- Supplement early to maximise the utilisation, as often pasture types can change quickly depending on climatic conditions that can also result in a change of supplement.
- Correct supplement choice is crucial for the pasture type and class of stock. Utilise an Elders livestock production specialist for correct supplement selection
- Cost effective option to increase pasture utilisation during seasonal changes
- Supply adequate amounts of supplements in ratio to mob size to prevent “mobbing” and over consumption, for example, three days’ worth. Refer to the feeding guide on the product label for recommended daily feeding rate.
Disclaimer - important, please read:
Elders provides recommendations to the best of its knowledge and based on assumptions and information which it understands to be up to date, complete and accurate. If you are aware of any error or inaccuracy with the information on which this recommendation is based, you must immediately bring this to Elders’ attention. This recommendation is provided for your use only, and not that of any other third party. In some circumstances, the information Elders provided may be in summary form or derived from information sourced from third parties, however, Elders has not independently verified the information and cannot guarantee its accuracy.
You should always carefully evaluate all available information and consult Elders or another advisor further before you commit to any course of action or rely on any recommendation. Additionally, Elders expects that you will use your knowledge, experience and best judgement in relying on any recommendation and determining whether the recommendation is, and continues to be, appropriate. Elders do not accept liability or responsibility for any indirect, consequential or economic loss or damage of any kind arising from your acceptance or reliance on this recommendation. To the fullest extent permitted by law, all guarantees, warranties or implied terms and conditions are expressly excluded and Elders’ liability with respect to any services provided is limited to re-supply of the services, or the cost of having the services re-supplied. Elders may from time to time recommend products or services for which it may receive a financial incentive (rebate, commission, benefit, etc) from a supplier/manufacturer directly related to your purchase or use of that product or service.
