The 1st of March launches an important pasture management strategy for our dairy farmers. Its so important that our dairy farmers DO NOT take holidays in March or April.
So what is the story…
In the picturesque rain-fed pastures of Jamberoo, dairy farmers have mastered the art of keeping their lands green and productive throughout winter and spring. The secret? A strategic farming technique known as oversowing, where ryegrass seeds are introduced into existing kikuyu grass pastures. This practice is crucial for ensuring that cows have access to energy-rich feed during the colder months when the robust summer grass, kikuyu, fades.
However, this isn’t without its challenges. The high rainfall in Jamberoo can sometimes lead to an overgrowth of kikuyu, making the planting of ryegrass a bit of a balancing act. Farmers must carefully manage the kikuyu levels to give the ryegrass seeds a fighting chance to establish themselves without competition. This meticulous management is what sets Jamberoo’s dairy farms apart, ensuring that they remain green and productive even when other farms do not.
To tackle the task, many farmers in the area have turned to innovative methods like using fertiliser spreaders for efficient seed distribution —a tool that plants seeds directly into the soil with minimal disturbance. This not only preserves the soil structure but also reduces erosion and maintains moisture levels, making it a win-win for both the environment and the farmers.
Other farmers in Jamberoo opt for direct drilling, a technique that allows for precise seed placement into the soil without significantly disturbing the existing grass or soil structure. This method is especially beneficial for integrating ryegrass into kikuyu pastures, as it minimizes competition and promotes better seed germination and growth. By using direct drills, farmers can maintain the soil’s health, reduce erosion, and ensure that the new seeds have the best possible start, contributing to the sustainability and productivity of their dairy farms.
This photo shows a direct drill where a light knock down spray has being used to give the ryegrass every possible advantage
While sod seeding ryegrass into kikuyu offers benefits, managing kikuyu’s aggressive growth is crucial to prevent it from overwhelming the ryegrass. Effective strategies include regular mowing or slashing to keep kikuyu manageable. In cases where kikuyu growth is too dense, farmers might opt to bale it for silage, ensuring the ryegrass has room to establish. Additionally, setting clear boundaries is essential to contain kikuyu within desired areas, preventing it from encroaching into spaces reserved for ryegrass.
While kikuyu grass offers rapid establishment and drought resistance, its aggressive growth requires diligent management. Through innovative practices and careful planning, the dairy farmers of Jamberoo have found ways to harness its advantages while ensuring the successful establishment of ryegrass, thereby keeping their pastures and our rolling green hills productive year-round.
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The story of pasture management in Jamberoo highlights several connections to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Let’s explore them:
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- The oversowing technique ensures that cows have access to energy-rich feed during colder months, contributing to food security for both humans and animals.
- By maintaining productive pastures, dairy farmers support sustainable food production.
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- The meticulous management of kikuyu levels demonstrates responsible land stewardship.
- Innovative methods like using fertiliser spreaders and direct drilling minimize soil disturbance, reduce erosion, and promote soil health.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- Efficient seed distribution through fertiliser spreaders reduces waste and ensures optimal resource use.
- Direct drilling minimizes resource-intensive practices, aligning with sustainable production principles.
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- By preserving soil structure and reducing erosion, these practices contribute to climate resilience.
- Maintaining green pastures helps sequester carbon and mitigate climate change.
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- Reduced erosion and moisture preservation benefit water quality and availability.
- Responsible seed placement minimises water runoff and contamination.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Efficient pasture management supports dairy farmers’ livelihoods and economic stability.
- Innovative techniques enhance productivity and profitability.
In summary, Jamberoo’s pasture management strategy exemplifies sustainable practices that address multiple SDGs, promoting environmental conservation, food security, and economic well-being. 🌱🐄🌎