Managing the current drought on sheep farms
WITH the continuing dry spell circumstances are considerably different to normally expected on sheep farms at present.
Grass growth has virtually ceased on many farms with only some of the peaty type soils continuing to maintain grass growth. However soil temperatures are so high even these soil types are having difficulty maintain grass growth.
Some management decisions may have to be taken. The grass demand of stock will need to be reduced on many sheep farms. There are a number of options for this- lambs should be weaned on time or even earlier than normal. Prioritise grazing for these lambs on any after-grass or leafy swards that remain in the grazing area.
Draft lambs as soon as they’re ready and use the scales to monitor weights. Feed 300-500g/day concentrates to lambs where necessary to maintain weight gain in order to finish them if they are not sold as stores.
Sell cull ewes early in conjunction with prompt weaning of lambs in order to reduce feed demand. Tighten the remaining ewes on small area and supply them with maintenance only nutrition. Hay or silage can be fed to weaned ewes if necessary on a reduced area. Where fodder supplies are limited or poor quality concentrates may need to be fed to these dry ewes until conditions improve. When the drought is over these can be prioritized for improving condition prior to mating.
With respect to grazing there should be no topping or cutting carried out until conditions change. Stretch available grass and divide paddocks where possible with temporary fencing to maximise grass use. Though re-growths are slow try to avoid the temptation to regraze early. Monitor grass supply regularly and maintain rotation length 25-30 days.
As regards fertiliser application if drought conditions and soil moisture deficits continue it is advised delay nitrogen application until rain is forecast. This will be the current situation on most farms. CAN or CAN containing compound products are the best fertilizer option. Again, be ready to spread when rain is forecast.
However, care should be taken on fields that are sloping and very dry to avoid loses of fertilizer from run-off when rain returns. On these types of fields small applications at first are recommended.