Drought-hit producers are being reminded to be aware of what they are feeding their stock.
Recent testing has shown huge variability in protein and energy levels which has meant some stock could be continuing to lose condition, despite hand feeding.
Central Tablelands Local Land Services officer, Brett Littler, Mudgee, is urging producers to take the guesswork out of what they are feeding by testing.
“We have seen metabolisable energy ranging in some hays from 5.6 megajoules per kilogram, which is below maintenance, through to 10MJ/kg, which is really good feed,” Mr Littler said.
“Similarly, protein variations can be seen from 16 per cent through to below the level of reporting, some is very low quality with less than two pc protein.
“There is a huge amount of variation in samples of hay, grains and silage, and the only way to be certain of energy and nutrient content is to get a feed sample tested professionally.”
Mr Littler said some farmers who had been feeding for several months had reported mixed results on how stock were performing.
“There are cases where animals are losing weight due to under feeding and we’ve even had instances of over feeding where test results have confirmed the ration was supplying more energy than necessary for maintenance.”
More producers were getting tests done on bought-in fodders to make good decisions based on results.
Mr Littler said some stockfeed retailers sold hay with tests results but hay should’t be the only feed tested. Testing grain was also worthwhile.
Test bags can be obtained from LLS offices or other companies such as Feed Central. "Turnaround of results is quick and with the information LLS officers can sit down and help work out what is needed or producers can use the DPI feed cost calculator to make their own mixes,” he said.
The information from feed tests enable feed rations to be fine-tuned and tweeked to efficiently maintain weight or, for example in younger stock, really get them going.
“My advice is don’t guess, get a feed test. It costs a little bit but the benefits producers get from it is huge,” he said.
As producers move into joining for an autumn calving, Mr Littler reminded them to ensure they maintained an appropriate body condition score.
“Generally we are seeing stock that are a little under-fed. Producers need to consider managing the fat level of the cow or ewe and the easiest way to do that is through early weaning.”
Funny feeds can cause big problems
Central Tablelands Local Land Services officer, Brett Littler, Mudgee, said they were seeing what is typical of a drought scenario that is spread over a wide area.
“We are getting a lot of ‘funny feeds’ and what I continue to say to people is, if it’s a different feed they should ask first,” Mr Littler said.
“In the last few weeks I’ve had some really weird ones asked about, including waste products and confectionery.”
Some different feeds being used pose a really big residue risk to livestock so it is best to avoid them, Mr Littler said.
“I’ve had issues with biscuits in the past. Another is onions which are toxic to cattle. Anything over a kilogram and a half can really cause problems,” he said.
“If you don’t know about the products, ask people that are well informed and find out what is the best option.”
