Challenging Season for Dairy Farmers as Drought Persists
Source: dairynews.today
Dairy farmers in North Island face an early end to the season as dry weather persists, affecting feed supply.
James Allen from Ag First reports a challenging situation for dairy farmers as the season may conclude three to four weeks ahead of schedule due to ongoing dry conditions. While 20mm of rain was received recently, it falls short of alleviating drought conditions. Some relief is provided by good maize crop yields, yet all uncontracted maize is already claimed. Central and south Waikato remain parched, with isolated heavy rainfall only in parts near Te Aroha.
Despite these challenges, farmers exhibit resilience with high payouts and sufficient supplement stocks maintaining operations. Nonetheless, with crunch time approaching, decisions on culling and drying off are imperative as current feeding strategies prove unsustainable. The focus now shifts to safeguarding pastures and cow condition in preparation for next season, with strategic planning towards 2026. While the drought impacts Northland, Waikato, and Taranaki severely, Canterbury enjoys a favorable season, and Southland shows recovery.
Despite these challenges, farmers exhibit resilience with high payouts and sufficient supplement stocks maintaining operations. Nonetheless, with crunch time approaching, decisions on culling and drying off are imperative as current feeding strategies prove unsustainable. The focus now shifts to safeguarding pastures and cow condition in preparation for next season, with strategic planning towards 2026. While the drought impacts Northland, Waikato, and Taranaki severely, Canterbury enjoys a favorable season, and Southland shows recovery.
