Plan 365 January 2014 by Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited

JANUARY 2014

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

NUTRITION

FORAGE AND ARABLE

HORTICULTURE

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Plan 365 is a technical guide aimed at helping shareholders learn about best practice and the latest advancements in rural technology.

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

The far South's top drop DEVELOPING STOCK WATER SYSTEMS IN SOUTHLAND Ken Stewart is a Technical Field Officer specialising in water system design, based in Farmlands Invercargill and servicing the Southland region. Ken started with Farmlands (then CRT) more than five years ago, coming from a background in water and waste water treatment for the Alliance Group. “On the job” training, peer review and professional development through attending external training programmes has seen Ken develop into an experienced water system designer during this time. “My work now includes designing stock water schemes for sheep and beef farms, dairy support blocks and dairy conversions, including farm dairy effluent systems”, Ken says. “These designs can be either new systems or extensions to existing schemes, or simply giving advice to shareholders on water related matters.” Ken begins all new designs with a comprehensive fact finding visit to the farm. This essentially entails assessing: • Water requirements - current stock numbers, planned growth, dairy shed and household water • Current reticulation system, if any – can any of it be incorporated into the new system?

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

• Water source – can it meet demand, is the quality OK, what storage is required?

scheme feasibility studies, the current dairy season’s payout and investment in further expansion and conversion

• Access to power – existing or needs to be developed?

looks to be strong.”

• Best pipeline route – survey heights and distances

to the friendly team at your local

Following the visit and talking to the farmer, a reticulation design is developed and report compiled, specifying system layout, pipe quantities, material, diameter and pressure rating, fittings schedule, pump duty and storage and trough requirements. This report, together with a pricing schedule, is then submitted to the farmer. “I get a great deal of satisfaction from starting with a blank piece of paper and then developing a system that meets the specific needs of the farmer,” Ken says. “Feedback from our shareholders has been excellent.”

For more information please talk Farmlands store today. Article supplied by Iplex

Ken sees the industry as changing and expanding for various reasons in Southland. “I find more sheep and beef farmers are adding a dairy support component to their business. The recent hot and dry summers and local authority's requirement for more natural water ways to be fenced off are also factors. Couple this with central government investing in district water

THE FARMLANDER

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Go with the flow KEEP YOUR NUMBER ONE ASSET FLOWING WITH THE NEW GALLAGHER WIRELESS WATER MONITORING SYSTEM. Gallagher understands that stock, pasture and water management are all key factors for successful farming and that's why this clever Wireless Water Monitoring System has been added to the Gallagher range of animal management products. It's an innovative product, which accurately measures water levels in tanks or ponds and wirelessly transmits this information to a Touchscreen Display unit mounted in a convenient location, such as at a house or farm dairy or implement shed. Features Extremely easy to operate and install, the system helps farmers keep track of water storage and provides peace of mind by highlighting potential water issues before they become a major problem. Up to nine tanks can be monitored by

one display unit. The display can store water level information to give the user a clear picture of historical tank levels over a 30-day period. Optional equipment for the system includes a Wireless Pump Controller that allows the remote control of a pump. A Directional Long Range Antenna is also available to increase the range of the signal up to 10km. Benefits As well as constantly measuring water levels in storage tanks and ponds around the farm, the Wireless Water Monitoring System can also alert farmers to abnormal water loss caused by problems like broken water pipes or overflowing troughs. If the level in one or more tanks begins to decrease quickly then farmers know they have a problem. Water is a crucial resource on any farm and the Wireless Water Monitoring

System is a great tool for helping farmers catch water problems before they seriously impact on the well-being of livestock. It’s also a big time saver, because you don’t have to physically visit the tank or pond. Applications The Wireless Water Monitoring System’s ability to monitor the level of any fluid means it can also be used for monitoring effluent ponds. Dairy farmers can keep track of effluent pond levels remotely, and take action to prevent ponds running over. The Wireless Water Monitoring System is available through your local Farmlands store.

For more information please talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store today. Article supplied by Gallagher

How the system works

The Display Unit shows in an instant how much liquid is left in the tank, saving time by eliminating the need to visit the tank/water source. It can be placed in a convenient locaion on the farm, ensuring all staff can check the water status.

The system works by accurately measuring the liquid level in the tank based on pressure and sends this information wirelessly via the Tank Unit to the Display Unit

The system's range can be extended with the use of Ultra-Long Range Antenna.

Wireless pump functionality can be achieved by adding a Wireless Pump Controller to the system, allowing the farmer to remotely control his pump to ensure tank levels are maintained as required.

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

HORTICULTURE

Dupont Benevia insecticide is now available ®

™

DuPont™ Benevia® insecticide, recently registered in New Zealand, is a new mode of action insecticide that will give growers an alternate resistance management tool for controlling key pests in potato, onion and tomato crops.

“The reduced stress from the lack of pest

Benevia® is rainfast in just two hours and

and disease pressure will help to establish

is available in a convenient, easy-to-use

a vigorous crop.”

liquid formulation.

The ability of Benevia® to rapidly stop

Benevia® is also registered to control

the target pest feeding is an important

TPP, green peach aphid and tomato fruit

attribute to help reduce the possibility

worm in tomatoes.

Benevia insecticide is a new anthranilic

of liberibacter transmission occurring

diamide (or Group 28) insecticide from

in potatoes.

the same family as DuPont™ Coragen® insecticide but has activity on both chewing and sucking insect pests.

Field trials conducted in New Zealand

treat 10 hectares. For more information, please visit www.benevia.co.nz

Manager, Raeleen Watherston, says

the possibility of zebra chip disease in

Benevia® insecticide has many attributes

potato crops.

thus minimising crop damage and disease transmission. Benevia® also features translaminar and local translocation action, for improved distribution and availability to the target pest.

a non-ionic surfactant in all crops, will

the ability of Benevia® to control Tomato Potato Psyllid (TPP) and hence reduce

the ability to rapidly stop pests feeding,

which, at the use rate of 500mL/ha plus

and throughout the world have highlighted

DuPont Crop Protection Territory

that growers will find beneficial, including

Benevia® is available in a 5L pack

Benevia® is registered for the control

DuPont™, The DuPont Oval Logo, Benevia® and Coragen® are trademarks or registered trademarks of DuPont or its affiliates. Article supplied by DuPont

of onion thrips, in onions. “Once again, application early when thresholds have been reached will optimise control, with repeat applications at seven to 10 day intervals,” Raeleen says. This multi-crop registration is very convenient for growers

Benevia® is also active on multiple life

who produce both potatoes and onions.

stages of the pests, with the potential to protect the yield and quality of potatoes. Benevia® should be applied early in a pest infestation and early in the crop cycle, to prevent the development of damaging

Growers are urged to follow resistance management guidelines, to ensure the product remains an integral part of the industry for years to come. This involves growers using a “window” approach, to

pest populations.

avoid exposure of consecutive insect pest

“Best results are achieved on developing

generations to the same mode of action,

crops, when they are most vulnerable

including applying a maximum of three

to the stress of feeding damage and

applications to a single insect generation.

disease transmission,” Raeleen says. *May not be stocked in all stores. Available on request.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER

HORTICULTURE

Psyllid control WHAT’S NEW? Since the outbreak of the Tomato Potato Psyllid (TPP) seven years ago, commercial vegetable growers of solanaceous crops have spent large sums of money to control this pest. The cost to the potato industry alone in lost yield and control measures has been put in the tens of millions of dollars. Costs of between $25-50 per tonne (depending on yield) have been added to most potato growers to control this pest.

environment and food source. Further identifying the over-wintering hosts is all part of the ongoing control regime. Work continues to look at new cultivars that have resistance to liberibacter but they are still some time away from being a commercial reality. Even with cultivars resistant to the disease, the damage inflicted by psyllids still demands an effective control regime. At this time,

Psyllid causes yellowing and weakening

chemical control continues to be the most

of plants, such that yields are dramatically

proven and accepted method.

reduced. A bacterium (Candidatus

Chemical control generally involves using

liberibacter solanaecerarum), known as “liberibacter” that is spread by psyllids also causes the problem “zebra chip” for the potato industry. Liberibacter infection, even one week from harvest, can have severe effects on potatoes. Sprouting of seed potatoes is significantly reduced and physiological maturity is thrown out of sequence. The result is variable crops at emergence, which equates to more

particular products as two back-to-back applications. These include products such as Tripsol, Movento, Sparta and the newly released Benevia. These are used in combination with Karate and organo-phosphate products (e.g. Methamidophos). “In furrow” treatments with chemicals such as Actara also produces good control during early growth.

variable crops at harvest.

We strongly advise growers to use these

There has been an industry wide and collaborative approach to look at solutions for this pest. A myriad of different

chemicals in conjunction with a monitoring programme, to ensure optimal results are achieved. Optimal results are further

approaches for control have been identified. These range from the release of the ‘Southern Ladybird’ in a South Island potato crop for ‘bio-control’, to looking at ‘Entomopathogenic’ fungi, which show promise in greenhouse conditions. Recent research shows that TPP will over-winter

only possible if growers use the modern sprayers to ensure product is delivered effectively. Products will be more effective

stages and physical numbers of the pest. Prediction models to better time spray applications are coming but must be used in conjunction with hands-on monitoring. Longer term control looks like biological control agents. Again, these are some years away from being available and proven. For more information on psyllid control in potatoes, tomatoes, tamarillos, or other solanaceae species, please talk to your local Farmlands Horticulture Technical Advisor. Article supplied by Andrew Whitworth, Farmlands Horticulture Technical Field Adviser, Hawke's Bay.

when used with the better adjuvants (e.g. HyWett) to ensure maximum leaf wetting is achieved.

in sites not previously considered, such

Certainly the immediate future for

as boxthorn, which provides an ideal

controlling TPP is to use the available

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

chemistry, timed to coincide with life cycle

THE FARMLANDER

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Get in early WITH AUTUMN FERTILISER This is a great time of year for sheep

fertilising your more productive land first,

How about nitrogen?

and beef farmers to start planning their

as this is where you will get the best return

You may be unsure about the profitability

autumn fertiliser programme. Applying

on your investment. The extra production

of using nitrogen but it is worth keeping

fertiliser early means you don’t have to

that results will then allow you to invest

an open mind about it. If you are going for

worry about getting hold of contractors

in increasing the fertility of your

good finishing weights for stock, you want

during the busy autumn season.

harder country.

to run extra animals or to successfully

The main factors to keep in mind are:

Before you start, it is best to soil test to get

flush your ewes then having the extra

an idea of current nutrient levels. A regular

• Soil testing will help improve the accuracy of fertiliser recommendations • Phosphorus and sulphur are the key elements to consider

testing regime is important - testing should be done every one or two years, at the same time of year, so that you can monitor trends. Focus on the levels of phosphorus

• Strategic nitrogen applications can

(P) and sulphur (S) in particular, as they will increase your pasture quality and drive

be profitable Jeff Morton, Ballance Science Extension Officer, believes there is still scope for sheep and beef farmers to improve their land’s productivity. “A lot of hill country farmers lack the confidence to invest

it will boost your feed bank going into winter. Your product choice will depend on weather conditions and the need for other nutrients. SustaiN is best if autumn rain is unreliable. PhaSedN could be an option if sulphur is also required.

pasture production. The table below gives

For more information please talk

an indication of target nutrient levels but

to the friendly team at your local

you will need to take your production goals

Farmlands store today.

into account when deciding on the levels

Article supplied by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

required for your farm.

extra money in fertiliser, because they are

In many cases, Superten is still the most

not certain about their returns. But I think

economic way of supplying phosphorus

that, for the North Island hill country in

and sulphur - but if low sulphur is a

particular, there is room for improvement.”

concern then a Sulphurgain product would

If finances are tight, concentrate on

be a good option.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

feed on hand can be a real benefit. Also,

Test

Ash

Sedimentary

Pumice

Peat

Olsen P

20-30

35-45

QTK

7-10

5-8

7-10

5-7

Sulphate-S

10-12

Organic-S

15-20

QTMg

8-10

5.8-6.0

5.0-5.5 (75mm) 4.5-5.0 (75-150mm)

THE FARMLANDER

FORAGE AND ARABLE

No room for error with pasture seed quality and processing THE INSIDE WORD ON RYEGRASS SEED Every summer, in the space of a few short

meet the right quality specifications,

verification of traceability and the

weeks, Agriseeds harvests thousands of

or it can’t be sold.

first samples are taken for in-house

tonnes of ryegrass seed, most of which is

Commercial seed production is the

grown in Canterbury. That seed then has

last stage of the Agriseeds pasture

germination and endophyte tests. Then it’s cleaned, to remove any contaminants

development programme - but it’s by

and straw.

right condition for autumn pasture sowing.

no means the least important. Without a

There’s no margin for error – not one

After cleaning, every line of seed is

sophisticated system to grow, harvest,

kilo of seed can be sold until it has been

tested again. This time, the samples are

process, test and distribute the new

tested – and tested again – to make sure it

cultivars, there would be little point

sent to the National Seed Laboratory

meets strict standards for purity, quality,

creating them in the first place.

germination and endophyte. So how does

Like other stages of pasture development,

to reach you at the right time and in the

the process work?

this one is subject to a series of protocols

Imagine co-ordinating around 100 farmer

and procedures and all parts of the quality

seed growers, up to 30 different grass

assurance programme are independently

in Palmerston North, where they are analysed again for germination and endophyte, as well as for seed purity. Once these results are back (at least 21 days later), the seed can then be treated (if required) and mixed to order (likewise)

cultivars (including different endophytes),

audited by AsureQuality.

15 independent seed cleaning businesses

So what exactly does happen to the

and several thousand tonnes of perishable

seed between the time it leaves the

product, in a fixed time frame – and then

seed grower’s farm and the time it

you need the right weather too!

arrives on yours?

It’s not just a matter of volume, either.

First, it’s trucked to the seed cleaner,

fact, the whole process of post harvest

Every line of ryegrass seed (or each crop

along with the appropriate AsureQuality

grown in an individual paddock) has to

documentation, to provide independent

management is so important for seed

before being bagged for distribution. To add to the complexity, seed containing a novel endophyte is stored in special controlled humidity cool store facilities to keep it in optimal condition for sowing. In

quality at the farm gate that Agriseeds has established a hub in Canterbury to treat, mix and store its commercial harvest. The 4500 square metre development has close to 3000 tonnes storage capacity and was specifically designed to ensure seed integrity is maintained, from the time of harvest right through to sowing. For more information please talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store today. Article supplied by Agriseeds

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Summer Stress SOW THE SEEDS OF CONTENTED COWS Many parts of New Zealand have experienced great grass production and cows are responding well. As we get closer to higher temperatures and less moisture, it can cause pasture to go to seed.

The process of seed formation and

greatest advantages of Nutrimol are

reproduction causes great stress in

seen at summer stress period. For

the plant, with nutrient loss to form the

the sake of cow health and stress

seed, which is generally coupled with

management, we recommend you

toxins forming in the seed head. There

adopt a proactive approach by

is another significant occurrence and

incorporating Nutrimol Classic at 5ml/

that is a dramatic composition change,

cow/day in the diet. Administer 50mls

whereby an increase in the dominance

by oral for three days, reducing to 10ml/

of ryegrasses in the sward occurs.

cow/day by oral for seven days and

The sudden change in the bio-chemical

thereafter 5mls/cow via Dosatron or

make-up of the plant and the sudden

manual drench for the duration of the

change in total sward composition

summer period.

causes an immediate stress on the

For more information please talk

dairy cow. Signs are loss of appetite, loss of production, change in the gait of the cow and in drastic cases staggers. Farmers have told us that pre-summer

to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store today. Article supplied by Bell Booth

and summer usage of Nutrimol, administered via water troughs or oral application causes an almost immediate, positive impact on cow condition. For many farmers, the

NUTRIMOL CLASSIC 20L • Assists with offsetting summer stress in dairy cows. • Farmers confirm that animal well-being is improved. • Helps to bridge the gap between low feed and high production demands. • Complements an existing IntenSE trace element programme.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Thermodurics SUMMER LOVING BUGS While sitting on a beach or in a boat this summer, the last thing any dairy farmer wants to spoil their well earned holiday is a call from the milk company, or the staff, about a thermoduric grade problem. Of all the bacteria that can plague a farm milk plant, thermoduric are the most hardy. By their very name they are heat resistant and guaranteed to stick around, despite your best efforts, if certain areas of the plant are not examined closely. They can survive pasteurisation, making them a high risk bug for affecting milk quality down the processing line. Just to make themselves even more durable, there are two types – the “hygiene” type and the “environmental” type. Environmental thermodurics are less common, usually caused by feeding

poor quality silage and indicated on the milk docket as “spores”.

Test buckets: A smorgasbord for

Competition is intense in the bacteria world but killing off the majority of bugs with hot water washes makes life easier for thermodurics. The main causes are old protein build up, often accompanying perished rubberware. Just to make thermodurics that much more challenging, they will not always be accompanied with any smell because they are often from accumulations of aged deposits, not fresh. To add to its difficult detection, testing for thermodurics takes several days to culture, so getting one is often a guarantee you will get at least one more.

if possible. Rubber seals, hoses and

Key areas for thermoduric problems over summer: Milk lines: Water and air flushing accumulators can affect cleaning performance if not adjusted properly. Rubberware: Split liners can cause recurring problems, as well as cone seals in milk lines, diaphragms and unions – in fact, any rubber component that has milk contact. Vats/Silos: Any rubber contact including door seals, best removed during cleaning when possible, donuts and elbows on entry pipes. Look for a bluish rainbow haze on the stainless surface to indicate a lack of wash/ contact time.

THE FARMLANDER

bacteria and best avoided altogether nipples must be thoroughly cleaned each time after use. Jetters: Often end jetters can block with pieces of broken plastic and debris, slowing flow rates below the required 3L per minute per jetter. Plate coolers: These are often the last place checked, because of difficulties in realigning plates and seals - but can hide lingering and ongoing thermo problems. A robust cleaning system, coupled with the increased use of high strength chlorinated alkali detergents, is crucial to maintaining plant cleanliness during the hot summer months. Detergent company reps are trained to know what to do to assist clients and identify problems quickly and effectively – be sure to call on their help if milk quality issues have become a headache. Their “extra set of eyes” and vast experience will help take a load of bacteria worries away this summer.

For more information please talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store today. Article supplied by FIL

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Declaring war on facial eczema ATTACK BEFORE SIGNS GIVE IT AWAY Facial eczema occurs in warm, moist conditions, when the fungus Pithomyces chartarum rapidly multiplies throughout the pasture. The fungal spores contain a toxin called sporidesmin. The production of sporidesmin causes considerable stress to young stock and dairy cows once ingested. Cows in particular become very sensitive to light, skin becomes inflamed and milk production drops dramatically. The risk of facial eczema is on the rise, so it's time to develop your plan of attack. Farmlands has a range of options and strategies to combat this terrible disease.

Dosatron inline dispensers Dosatron inline dispensers provide the mechanism to dose stock drinking water with the required amount of zinc sulphate (heptahydrate). Every litre of water has the desired amount of zinc treatment to help protect the liver from the toxins. Dosatrons are simple to install, easy to use and cuts out the need to drench when set up properly. Cows consume a significant amount of water during the summer, so this is an effective method to address the needs of the animal. Start dosing zinc sulphate at low rates before the onset of facial eczema and increase as the spores rise. Having zinc in

Pasture spraying If you farm in an area with frequent prior history of facial eczema, the best approach should be to apply an approved

the diet coupled with pasture spraying provides a two prong approach to fight this disease.

pasture spray to kill the spores before they start breeding.

Caramillo Masking and Flavouring Agent

Pasture fungicide's active ingredient is either carbendazim or

Animals may take time to adapt to the taste of the zinc

thiophanate-methyl, which when applied at label rates stops

sulphate present in their water, as the product is very bitter.

the growth of the fungus that causes facial eczema.

To ensure cows maintain their water intake, add Caramillo

Timing of application is important and the product should be applied prior to the danger period. As soon as pasture

Masking and Flavouring Agent to disguise the taste of zinc and keep your animals drinking.

spore levels hit 20,000 per gram of pasture, spray your

Dose 20mL Caramillo to every kilogram of zinc

pastures immediately.

sulphate dosed.

Experience shows that treatment of long or short pasture

Drenching

is equally effective. One treatment at label rates should

Zinc Oxide is suitable for drenching or adding to silage or

normally provide effective coverage for up to six weeks.

other feeds. Daily drenching of 3g/100kg liveweight/per day

After four weeks of application, monitor spore numbers and

is the recommend rate. Ensure you use a stabilised product

retreat where necessary.

to increase the ease of mixing and drenching plus start

Pasture sprayed with a fungicide should preferably be left for seven days before grazing with stock. In an emergency

treatment at least two weeks prior before the facial eczema season commences.

situation, some worthwhile protection may be obtained

For more information please talk to the friendly team at

by grazing 24 hours after treatment. Where a total of 100

your local Farmlands store today.

-150mm of rain falls after treatment, a reduction in the period of protection may occur. Monitor closely by spore counting.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Article supplied by Bell Booth.

THE FARMLANDER

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Moxidectin and Barbers Pole WORM CONTROL It won’t be long before we experience the first Haemonchus contortus (Barbers Pole) outbreak and realise that the warm winter we experienced last year facilitated survival of larger than normal numbers of larvae. Other weather related factors affecting feed levels and sheep condition could alter this outcome - but first indicators suggest Barbers Pole is off to a good head start. So what hasn’t changed about the Barbers Pole worm? The female worm is still the largest gastrointestinal strongylate parasite at 20mm in length and can produce 10,000 eggs per day after just 14 days following infection. A heavy infection can drain up to 500ml blood per day and cause stomach damage, resulting in appetite suppression and death of its host in a matter of days. Moxidectin, which is the active ingredient in MOXAM® Sheep and MOXAM Selenised, is the most commonly used active against Barbers Pole because of its potency and persistent activity. Despite frequent use of Moxidectin, it continues to give good control against this aggressive parasite.

Moxidectin is an important tool in limiting the production loss associated with Barbers Pole. To preserve moxidectin long-term, ensure you have a drench management plan that includes other active families (doubles, triples and new actives) to slow the development of resistance. MOXAM is a registered trademark of Bayer. ACVM Registration Nos A10378, A10618.

Article supplied by Bayer Animal Health.

Gribbles Veterinary Pathology Laboratories carried out a survey of drench efficacy across NZ in 2010-2011 and again in 2012-2013. The good news is that little has changed in overall resistance of Barbers Pole to the Moxidectin active. The efficacy is still above 95 percent on all 19 properties tested - refer to Table 1 below.

Table 1: Drench efficacy. Data supplied by Gribbles Veterinary Pathology Laboratories (2012-2013).

Drench family

LEV

IVO

ABA

MOX

BZ/LEV

LEV/ABA

Triple

29%

No. of farms with drench resistance / total no. of farms tested

12 / 42

1 / 47

3 / 41

0 / 11

0 / 19

0 / 44

0 / 10

0 / 17

0% = no properties showed signs of drench resistance. >0% showed properties had some level of drench resistance.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER

Swat®, the Cyromazine advantage

Hitting fly control head on with Cyrex Liquid

THE DISCOVERY OF THE CYROMAZINE MOLECULE WAS A TURNING POINT IN FLY CONTROL OVER ALL PREVIOUS AND SOME LATER EXTERNAL PARASITICIDES.

CYREX LIQUID IS A COMBINATION MAGGOT, FLY AND LICE CONTROL PRODUCT MANUFACTURED BY ELANCO ANIMAL HEALTH, WHICH PROVIDES A NEW ZEALAND BASED SOLUTION FOR BETTER FLY CONTROL.

Cyromazine was the first of a line of insect growth regulators (IGR) that worked by preventing moulting from one stage in the fly life cycle to the next, via a hormone blocker. This is different to other related IGR compounds such as Diflubenzuron, which acts as a chitin (external shell) growth inhibitor. All the IGR compounds have unique properties, which make them superior to previous compounds. These include wide safety margins, low toxicity, non-stripping, non-irritant and easy mixing, with longer term fly control not seen in any previous products. Even though cyromazine has no lice control or maggot knock down, it has one very important feature that sets it above most others – no known resistance. Despite 30 years continuous use, no resistance has developed - not even a reduction of the protection period. This feature has been put to the test with every sort of application technique, good and bad, both in the field and in the laboratory - and still no resistant flies have evolved, including the Australian green blowfly, Lucilia cuprina. This feature makes Swat the go-to product for early, middle and late season fly control, for now and hopefully the next 30 years. This is the Swat advantage.

Article supplied by Bayer Animal Health.

Cyrex Liquid's two actives target two different stages of fly infestation. The cyromazine ingredient delivers up to 12 weeks fly control, while maggot and lice control are controlled by a potent new active ingredient called spinosad – the same active as found in Extinosad and Expo products. Cyrex Liquid is available in 5L and 10L packs, each of which will make up 2500 litres or 5000 litres of dipwash. There is also a convenient 250ml dressing pack. You can achieve up to 12 weeks fly prevention with saturation jetting or dipping of the target areas of the sheep and you’ll also achieve complete lice control with saturation treatment of the entire fleece.

CYREX LIQUID 10L • Proven efficacy from two different chemical classes. • Up to 12 weeks fly prevention. • Fast knockdown maggot kill. • Improved wound healing and evacuation from wounds. • Kills lice within hours. • Seven day meat withholding period. • Excellent safety profile for operator and animals. • Available in 250ml dressing pack plus 5L and 10L packs.

Swat® is a registered trademark of Bayer. ACVM Registration Nos A10169, A10168.

SWAT LIQUID 10L • Swat Liquid is a saturation dip for long term protection against all the common forms of flystrike. • Swat Liquid is an insect growth regulator containing cyromazine 500g/L and has no known resistance.

Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act 1997, A10169

NUTRITION

Reliance Mineral Pellets ARE YOU TIRED OF MIXING OR DUSTING MINERALS? Or worried that too much gets blown or

Increasingly, farmers rolling grain on-farm

washed away when needed the most?

are installing silos and delivery systems

At Farmlands Nutrition, we are seeing increasing demand for - and growing interest in - mineral pellets. Dairy farmers looking to provide minerals and additive to their cows have a wide range of choices, from DIY through to bespoke mineral pellets. Most compound dairy feeds are in effect mineral pellets, because they contain major minerals, trace elements and often additives like Bovatec® at therapeutic levels. Some inshed grain feeders choose to use a wheat based compound dairy pellet at 1kg per head per day, with a high rate of trace minerals and Bovatec®, to complement their own barley rather than use a concentrated mineral pellet. For dryland farms and summer silage feeding, a high protein compound feed with elevated rates of trace minerals and additives can make an ideal complement to grain

for concentrated mineral pellets, fed at anywhere between 100g and 450g per cow per day. Lower rate mineral pellets predominantly deliver trace elements and additives like Bovatec®, along with some magnesium and salt. Where cows are receiving more than 2kg per head per day of grain, a higher rate mineral pellet that contains calcium is normally appropriate. Dicalcium phosphate contains both calcium and phosphorus and is often requested where herds are producing closer to 1kg MS/kg live weight. Mineral pellets are excellent carriers for additives like Bovatec® and mycotoxin binders, which are best fed at the recommended rates and ideally twice daily. Endophyte toxicity should be considered if cows are displaying classic endophyte staggers - but also if milk production is falling faster than expected,

and summer pasture. Molasses may not

or if cows are nervous or seeking shade.

always be the best carrier for minerals,

Mineral pellet delivery systems are now

because pasture often contains more

available, which can feed pellets into the

than enough sugar and the response

rolled grain auger or to a feed head on

from feeding molasses may be less than

the rotary platform. Mineral pellets can be

could be achieved with grain.

supplied in 25kg bags, bulk bags or bulk.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Summary • All compound feeds are mineral pellets but concentrated ones are favoured by those with grain rolling systems • The carrier and feeding rate can be adjusted according to need • Reduces the need for dusting • Standard feeding rates are » 100g/head/day (contains magnesium and sodium) » 200g/head/day (contains calcium, magnesium and sodium) » 350g – 1000g (to balance TMR or high grain diets) • Contains » Bovatec® or Rumensin®, which helps to eliminate bloat and improves feed efficiency » Major minerals critical for life » Trace minerals such as copper, zinc, selenium, cobalt and iodine for herd health and fertility » Flavour for enhanced palatability Think about your dairy herd’s needs now but also consider how their mineral requirements will be met next spring. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist - Reliance Feeds

THE FARMLANDER

NUTRITION

Heifer gain helps with continuous growth DESIGNED TO HELP ENSURE HEIFERS REACH OPTIMUM SIZE AND WEIGHT Pasture and forage only systems throughout New Zealand are failing to ensure heifers reach optimum size and weight at first calving. Strategic use of feed supplements for heifers older than three months may be worthwhile to ensure targets are achieved. Friesian heifers with a mature body weight of 500kg need to gain a little over 0.61kg/day, from reaching 100kg at three months of age to 450kg at 22 months. Corresponding growth targets for Jersey and Crossbreds are 0.43kg/day and 0.55kg/day respectively. These growth rates seem quite achievable but in reality the majority of heifers are not achieving targets. Surveys suggest that heifers can start slipping behind target weight gains from their first summer. Grass quality can fall with reduced protein and increased fibre levels, which reduces both digestibility and intakes. Autumn rains should bring a time of plenty but autumn grass can have more protein and less energy than is ideal for heifer growth. Winter can be a challenging time – pasture and crop quality drops and inclement weather can increase maintenance requirements. A heifer’s second spring can be the only time after weaning that growth exceeds

THE FARMLANDER

daily growth targets - but typically, it will not be enough to make up for previous long term deficits.

Heifer Gain 16% Typical Specifications

When pasture supply is limited, or when bigger gains are required to make up for previous shortfalls, extra conserved forage or hard feed may be necessary. Straights such as rolled barley or palm kernel expeller could be considered but may not be best balanced to meet the needs of the animal. Compound feeds should be considered if a wider range of nutrients are required in a convenient form for heifers that are slipping behind targets and need a boost. One month of 12.5 MJ ME/kg DM pellets at 1kg per day (after introducing gradually) would deliver enough energy for 12.5kg live weight gain, assuming 26 MJ ME/kg gain for a 200kg heifer.

Crude Protein 16%

Reliance Heifer Gain 16% has been developed for older calves and yearlings, with some palm kernel (maximum 15 percent) introduced for economy - but not so much that performance or palatability will be compromised. Typically available as a 6mm pellet, a 4mm option will be available in limited quantities for those shareholders with Advantage Feeders and a 10-12mm nut for those who prefer to feed on the ground.

12.5 MJ/kg DM

Typically fed at 1kg per head per day.

Ingredient selected from: Wheat, barley, palm kernel expeller, soya, canola meal, cottonseed meal, peas, molasses, limestone flour, salt, magnesium oxide, dicalcium phosphate, flavour, trace elements and vitamins. Dairy farmers and graziers are urged to weigh heifers regularly and compare to breed targets or the average weight of older cows in the herd. If extra gains are required, especially with lighter animals in a mob, Heifer Gain 16% should help heifers hit the mark more often. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist - Reliance Feeds

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

NUTRITION

Rice Bran for Horses THE BENEFITS OF CALORIES FOR PERFORMANCE HORSES Equi-Jewel is a high fat stabilised rice bran supplement. At 20 percent fat, it is a great way to get a concentrated source of calories into a horse's diet - with many benefits!

Stabilised rice bran is a safe, palatable means of adding calories to the diets of many types of horses. Because many of the calories originate from fat, adding stabilised rice bran to the diet avoids potential digestive upset, which may occur with high grain feeding. Stabilised rice bran also offers the advantage of providing fat in the diet, without the mess of adding vegetable oil. Many types of horses can benefit from the addition of fat in the form of stabilised rice bran. Performance horses benefit primarily in two ways. First, dietary fat serves as a calorierich feedstuff, which helps the athletic horse meet its energy requirements. Second, for performance horses who have trouble maintaining their weight, stabilised rice bran functions as an additional energy source that does not

require feeding more grain in the diet. The additional calories provided by stabilised rice bran can increase the energy density of the diet, or reduce the amount of grain that must be fed to maintain condition. Stabilised rice bran is also a popular additive to the diets of show horses and horses being prepared for public auctions. Both groups of horses are scrutinised for coat and body condition. With its elevated fat content, stabilised rice bran is a good source of essential fatty acids. These fatty acids are necessary for healthy skin and quality coat condition. In fact, one of the first benefits noted from feeding rice bran is a positive change in coat condition. In summary, the primary feature of stabilised rice bran is its high (20 percent) fat content. Stabilised rice bran is convenient as an energy and essential fatty acid source in the diets of show and performance horses, as well as young growing horses. Finally, stabilised rice bran should be viewed as an additive to a horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diet and not a replacement for essential vitamin and mineral fortification. For more information please talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store today. Article supplied by NRM

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER

NUTRITION

Feeding Palm Kernel THE PROS AND CONS OF CHEAPER MEAL Palm kernel expeller meal (PKE) is a high fibre (around 70 percent NDF), mid-protein (14-17 percent CP), mid-energy by-product feed, which lacks the high starch levels found in grains and complexity of compound feeds. PKE is a simple, relatively safe feed for farmers that do not have an in-shed feeding system and those who want to increase cow condition at the end of lactation, increase milk production or fill a feed gap where pasture quality or quantity is limiting. PKE is a dry, gritty meal, with a soapy smell that has a low palatability initially but will be more appealing when cows are accustomed to it. PKE is most widely used as a forage extender, to help manage grazing residuals when pasture growth is lagging behind demand. If used to fill a feed deficit e.g. during a drought, cows can eat up to 6kg DM/day, provided they have at least 50 percent of their diet as long forage, such as pasture or silage. As a source of digestible fibre and fat, PKE at limited levels can also have a place in the diet of higher yielding cows and compound feeds, to complement high starch rations. PKE can be fed in the dairy shed but silos should have a steep cone. Long trailers have become popular for feeding out PKE. A minimum 10 percent wastage occurs during storage and feeding out when feeding in trailers, more if they are over filled. Feed pads offer the opportunity to reduce waste and pasture damage.

THE FARMLANDER

Nutritional value PKE has tended to be attractively priced per kg DM compared to purchased conserved forages. Its low price on world markets has reflected its nutritional value as a forage replacer, rather than a high energy concentrate like grain. The majority of the energy in PKE comes from digestible fibre and protein - about one third of the energy comes from fat, which is typically 8 percent but at

PKE’s low calcium (0.25 percent) and sodium (0.02 percent) content should be supplemented, especially if feeding at higher rates. The copper level in PKE (about 20-28mg/kg DM compared to 10mg/kg in barley) limits its use in sheep diets and needs to be considered when feeding at higher rates to cattle. Unscreened PKE sources may contain relatively large shell fragments that can puncture cattle hooves and may increase the

times has fallen closer to 5 percent of

incidence or severity of lameness.

the DM, which would be reflected in

The adage “everything in moderation”

a lower ME. Importer literature states

is probably applicable to PKE, which

typical ME values for PKE ranging from

offers benefits if used with care but

about 11.7 to 13.6 MJ ME/kg DM and

has its limitations and is not an

DairyNZ suggests 11.0-115 MJ ME/kg

irreplaceable saviour.

DM. Laboratories have difficulty giving accurate ME values for PKE samples,

For more information please talk

because they are unable to calibrate their laboratory results to animal trials.

to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store today. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Nutritionist - Reliance Feeds