Given the extent of the dry spell, grass growth rates are quickly declining and practically non-existent on some farms, meaning that grass supply is falling drastically behind demand. The challenge for the short term will be to stretch out grass supplies whilst maintaining dry matter intakes and fulfilling nutrient requirements using alternative feeds. Below are a number of options for feeding in a herd with a dry matter intake of 16-18kg/cow/day, depending on grass availability.
Whichever action is chosen, it is vital to act now to ensure that grass supply is stretched out as early as possible. For more information or to speak about individual requirements please contact Donal Murphy, Tim Regan or Darren Lynch.