With the season closing in and forecast of rain not optimistic, producers are weighing the options when assessing their drought or frost affected crops.
Nigel Phiilips, NSW DPI Wagga Wagga, acknowledged most producers are aware of the risks involved, when he was addressing the keen crowd in the GRDC marquee on the second day of the Henty Farm Machinery Field Day.
“With their experience, many are well aware of the risks and are managing well through the current drought having had the experience of previous tough times,” he said.
“They have taken appropriate management decisions to salvage maximum value from their crops with minimum risk.”
Salvaging crops whether drought or frost affected is a talking point at the moment, and various strategies where discussed at the GRDC marquee during the second day of the HFMD.
Richard Meyer, NSW DPI Wagga Wagga cereal analyst said it was vital the feed value of crops was measured and known as producers consider grazing or conserving crops as the season is turning.
“A lot of farmers will be looking at potential low yields so they are considering salvaging something from their crops,” he said.
The NSW DPI have developed a Costs and Income Calculator for producers to use when assessing their options.
Growers input data from their own situation to assess the costs and returns of each option.
By knowing the costs and potential value of each product, growers are then able to make an informed decision on the best option of failing crops.
