Dolygarn project update

Cover measurements at Dolygarn taken on the 23rd of January, 2019 recorded an average cover of 1381kgDM/ha.  The top 10 fields (which will be James’ lambing paddocks) measured an average of 1450kgDM/ha.  This is under target to what we’d like them to be at this time of year, however this may be due to conditions at measuring, i.e. wet and frost conditions can be worth 100-150kgDM.

A graph of the field covers is shown below;

         

 

Silage analysis at Dolygarn has revealed an ME of 10 and below, which, by looking at the table above, is below the requirements of James’ 70kg (average) pregnant ewes.  This analysis has shown that supplementary feed will be required from 7 weeks before lambing (15th of February).

 

        

Source: AHDB – Feeding the Ewe, 2018

 

Forward planning

Depending on the weather in March, the plan should be to keep the ewes off the pasture now until mid-March when the first cycle ewes and all twin bearing ewes would start to graze (subject to conditions).  All singles (< BCS 3), twins and triplets will now be housed so that the fields can be rested and ewes fed appropriately.

Key messages

  • Do not re-graze any fields (especially the lambing fields) now, unless the feed budget says you can.  The grass in the fields now will be worth more to the ewes 2-4 weeks pre-lambing as it will be 12ME+ and 20%+ protein.
  • Split ewes by scan and condition score; up to 7 weeks pre-lambing a ewe in good condition (BCS 3) can be fed maintenance (1.4kgDM/ha/day).
  • Ewe demand increases dramatically in the last 7 weeks, therefore using silage analysis is vital to decide what to feed (highest ME and protein).  Checking intake of this feed is also vitally important; what are they actually eating?
  • Identify which silages are likely to feed the best (high ME and protein, low NDF).
  • Weigh each bale, and provide a selection to ewes ensuring each bale has even feed barrier space.
  • Monitor which bale they eat the quickest.
  • Remove what was not eaten and feed to the cows (if available).
  • Feed out enough of the preferred silage for 2 days and record how long it actually takes to clear the bales.
  • Accept some wastage (10-20%) to ensure maximum intakes.
  • Calculate the ewe intake (MJME/Day) & (grams protein/day)