Now is the time to take stock of the amount of silage required on farm for the winter period.
Support is available from Farming Connect to help famers prepare a winter-feeding strategy and budget for the winter months to ensure maximum profitability over the period.
GrassCheck GB has identified that grass growth has fallen below the 5-year seasonal average and is considerably lower than this time last year, due to lower air temperatures and lack of sunshine as well as decreasing daylength at this time of year.
Some things to consider may include.
- prepare a feed budget early for the winter months to ensure maximum profitability over the period.
- consider the nutritional requirements of your herd/ flock, making sure livestock have enough feed for maintenance and production.
- calculate the nutritional content of the winter feed you have available
- use this information to see if you have an energy surplus or deficit which will help to manage your herd/flock and feed accordingly.
Farmers can determine how much silage stock is required for the winter and get additional advice by accessing the information on Farming Connect. There is a range of support available from technical articles, 1-2-1 surgeries, advisory service and mentoring.
Farmers wishing to access this support should speak to their local development officer or contact the Farming Connect service centre on 03456 000 813.
For further information please select the following link: Take stock now to build winter resilience | GOV.WALES