With the drought hitting hard and just a few weeks to go until local saleyards and processors wind down for the end of year break, North Coast Local Land Services is urging producers in our region to consider how they are going to feed and manage water supplies for their livestock over summer.
The entire region is drought-impacted, with close to 83% of the region now classified as being in intense drought. North Coast Local Land Services General Manager Louise Orr said with drought and in some areas bushfires now impacting producers, it’s more important than ever to be planning ahead.
“While many producers have made the difficult choice to destock, we know there are still lots of landholders trying to hang onto their stock, despite issues with feed and water availability. We are urging producers to make realistic feed and water budgets and honestly consider their options” said Louise.
Nathan Jennings Senior Land Services Officer (Agricultural Advice) said as temperatures increase water requirements of stock also increase. Supplementary feed remains expensive and difficult to source due to the widespread drought.
“It is crucial that producers take time to consider the workload as well as the emotional and financial costs of ongoing feeding and what other options there might be,” said Nathan
In some cases, the best option is to look to further reduce stock numbers. With Christmas fast approaching closing dates of saleyards and processing facilities need to be considered. Details of the last sales and reopening dates are listed below.
- Lismore Last Sale Tuesday 10 December, reopens Tuesday 7 January
- Grafton Last Sale Thursday 12 December, reopens Tuesday 7 January
- Kempsey Last Sale Saturday 14 December, reopens Saturday 4 January
- Casino Last Sale Wednesday 18 December reopens Wednesday 8 January
“Due to current seasonal conditions many processors are already booked up into the New Year and there may be a wait to get cattle in, but please contact your processor to discuss your individual circumstances,” said Nathan
“If you are purchasing stock feed make sure you speak with your local feed supplier now to source quality feed,” said Nathan
North Coast Local Land Services is offering free feed testing. Testing helps producers be confident purchased fodder will meet the nutritional requirements of their stock.
Drought support has changed in NSW. Landholders are encouraged to visit the DPI Droughthub (www.droughthub.nsw.gov.au
