Plan 365 February 2018 by Farmlands

FEBRUARY 2018

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.

NUTRITION

Several options available for replacing palm kernel Fonterra’s Fat Evaluation Index (FEI) may encourage farmers away from straight palm kernel extract (PKE) to other straights, layered loads or blends. The huge popularity of PKE in New Zealand suggests that if levels are reduced, either something will have to fill the gap or national milk production levels will fall. Lower input/lower output systems on average tend to be less profitable so the majority of farmers are likely to want to maintain output and fill any nutritional gaps that reduced PKE use may generate. PKE imports have put New Zealand on the radar of international commodity traders, which is increasing the basket of straights available. Responses have been favourable to rumen-safe, low-fat, high-fibre, pectin-rich soy hulls, which seem especially well suited to complementing high-protein, high-quality New Zealand pastures. Dark grain distillers – both maize and wheat – seem to have a fermented

taste or smell that stock enjoy but as mid-protein feeds they are of most value when additional protein is required to balance lower protein forages. Where additional protein is required, soya bean meal takes some beating – although it seems expensive per tonne when protein content and quality are taken into account, it is often cost-effective compared with less protein-rich alternatives.

milled and pelletised 6mm grain pellets

Starch-rich feeds are favoured the world over for high-producing dairy cows because starch effectively provides soluble carbohydrate in a slower release form than sugar. However they are still best suited to controlled feeding situations such as in-shed, total mixed or partially mixed diet feeding systems, which reduce the risk of over-consumption. Tapioca offers the advantage that it requires no further processing. By comparison, grains require rolling or hammer milling to ensure fracture of the seed coat. Tapioca’s large pellet can be hard on augers. Hammer-

uncertain industry. Nutrition Specialists

ensure good utilisation of grainbased blend pellets in an appealing form that travels well through augers and helps to open up a blend. The NRM Nutrition Specialists have a Blend Calculator that allows bespoke blends to be created and priced. Forward contracts allow the option to secure some certainty in what can be a very weather-dependent, have good local knowledge of what is available and what works well in a region, which reflects the quality and quantity of the forages available. They are committed to delivering the most appropriate feed solutions for our shareholders and are closely involved through our National Feed Desk in the supply and use of straights and blends and strive tirelessly to provide meaningful advice through our on-farm and retail networks. A timely investment in equipment and processes has greatly increased the capacity of the Farmlands blend plant at Waharoa. High-capacity mixers allow the production of precision blends with the option to incorporate a host of essential minerals and additives, including registered zinc to aid in the prevention of facial eczema. As a Farmlands-owned facility, the Waharoa Blend site welcomes pre-arranged visits by individuals and groups. For more information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Farmlands Nutritionist.

| New equipment and processes have boosted capacity of the Farmlands blend plant at Waharoa.

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

NUTRITION

Several options available for replacing palm kernel Fonterra’s Fat Evaluation Index (FEI) may encourage farmers away from straight palm kernel extract (PKE) to other straights, layered loads or blends. The huge popularity of PKE in New Zealand suggests that if levels are reduced, either something will have to fill the gap or national milk production levels will fall. Lower input/lower output systems on average tend to be less profitable so the majority of farmers are likely to want to maintain output and fill any nutritional gaps that reduced PKE use may generate. The inexorable rise in feed silos going onto dairy farms suggests the popularity of supplementary feeding will continue. PKE imports have put New Zealand on the radar of international commodity traders, which is increasing the basket of straights available. Responses have been favourable to rumen-safe, lowfat, high-fibre, pectin-rich soy hulls,

which seem especially well suited to complementing high-protein, highquality New Zealand pastures. Dark grain distillers – both maize and wheat – seem to have a fermented taste or smell that stock enjoy but as midprotein feeds they are of most value when additional protein is required to balance lower protein forages such as maize silage or dry summer grazing. Where additional protein is required, soya bean meal takes some beating – although it seems expensive per tonne when protein content and quality are taken into account, it is often cost-effective compared with less protein-rich alternatives.

as in-shed, total mixed or partially

so it needs to be stored carefully.

mixed diet feeding systems, which reduce the risk of over-consumption. Grains are well suited to pelletised compound feeds. Home-grown grains can be included in blends but need to be chopped or rolled to ensure good utilisation by cattle. Tapioca contains readily fermentable starch and offers the advantage that it requires no further processing prior to feeding but it comes in a large pellet that can be hard on augers. Although rich in starch, biscuit meal can be heat damaged and high in energy derived from soft oils, which limits use in ruminant diets and can become rancid, The NRM Nutrition Specialists have a Blend Calculator that allows bespoke blends to be created and priced. Forward contracts allow the option to secure some certainty in what can be a very weather-dependent, uncertain industry. Nutrition Specialists have good local knowledge of what is available and what works well in a region, which reflects the quality and quantity of the forages available. They are committed to delivering the most appropriate feed solutions for our shareholders and are closely involved through our National Feed Desk in the supply and use of straights and blends and strive tirelessly to provide meaningful advice through our on-farm and retail networks. For more information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist. Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Farmlands Nutritionist.

| Dairy farmers have an increasing range of alternatives to feeding their herd palm kernel extract, or PKE.

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

NUTRITION

Breaking the itch cycle needs diverse strategies Few things are more frustrating than having a horse with consistent skin and coat problems. Not only can they be uncomfortable and itchy for the horse but skin irritations can often prevent outings to shows and competitions due to their effect on the coat and how it looks.

Lightweight, light-coloured fly sheets and masks are useful, but they should be kept reasonably clean. Dirt will attract more insects and the combination of sweat and dirt can irritate sensitive skin. Commercial-grade fans will help minimise pests in stabling areas.

All horses are at risk of skin irritations from external sources. However, some develop a more severe reaction, which can result in severe itching and subsequent scratching. Major causes of itch include flies, mosquitos and biting midges, also known as Culicoides. Some horses are allergic to bites and have an extreme reaction.

Keeping the horse clean is also essential for managing skin conditions as sweat can make the problem worse. Avoid harsh detergents, which can strip the coat of natural protective oils. Consult your veterinarian for a suitable mild shampoo for sensitive horses.

While it is impossible to completely eradicate flying pests, avoidance techniques and environmental management is important. Certain plants as well as dust and mould particles from bedding and hay can stick to and irritate the skin, especially if the horse gets sweaty. Removing offending plants, wetting hay, or altering bedding can help minimise irritants. Shade and physical barriers are essential for skin protection.

THE FARMLANDER

part of sound nutritional support. A veterinarian will determine if medication is warranted to help break the itch cycle, or if allergy testing would be useful. Although allergy testing is not yet an exact science, it can be a valuable tool for treatment. Allergy treatment is individualised and essentially “retrains” the immune system to reduce reactions to itchy stimuli, which takes time. Shots can take up to a year for maximum effectiveness and even up to 2 years in severe cases, so patience is required.

Bug sprays can help but it is important to select a water-based spray with at least 2% active ingredients for it to be effective. Keep an eye on your horse for any adverse reaction to bug repellents.

In conclusion, there is no one

In terms of diet, omega-3 fatty acids such as those found in marine-derived fish oil supplements and flaxseed flake and oils have anti-inflammatory properties and are potentially helpful for easing inflammation associated with itch and allergy. Although unlikely to cure the problem, omega-3s are a helpful

the environment and committing

answer to solving the problem of the itchy horse. Multiple strategies are necessary, including decreasing exposure to trigger factors, managing to long-term management. For further assistance and advice on designing a diet for your horse to manage skin conditions and improve coat quality, consult a reputable equine nutrition advisor. Article supplied by Luisa Wood, Equine Nutrition Technical Advisor.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

NUTRITION

Feeding the modern pig The modern, domesticated pig has come a long way compared to its predecessors, from as recently as 30 years ago. The growing pig has been genetically selected to be leaner, whilst the sow is now far more prolific, with the potential to produce well over 20 piglets per year. In addition, the amount of feed that the pig consumes, relative to its high performance has declined, so the modern pig is therefore a lot more efficient. However, to achieve its potential, the pig needs a good feed. NRMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Pig Tucker Pellets are the perfect all-rounder, specifically formulated to provide protein and energy to support lean growth in young pigs and milk production in lactating sows. Pigs require nutrients very similar to humans and the most important nutrient is water. Water needs to be clean, cool and fresh and must be available at all times. A good feed will supply balanced protein, carbohydrates, essential fats, fibre and added vitamins and minerals. Little Pig Tucker Pellets provide all these nutrients in a convenient, complete feed at 17 percent protein. Piglets that are suckling can be offered Little Pig Tucker Pellets as a creep feed from birth to weaning, without restriction, and can then be continued on this feed as the complete feed for growing pigs post-weaning through to market. It is a good idea to restrict the feed once pigs get to around 40kg, as this will reduce feed wastage and will also ensure that fat deposition is reduced.

THE FARMLANDER

| Pigs need good feed to achieve their potential.

For sows, feed 5kg on farrowing day and build this up to approximately 9kg per day as quickly as possible. The size of the sow and number of piglets she has, as well as the environmental temperature and humidity, also needs to be considered when determining the maximum amount to feed.

always a good idea to rear them in

For older type genetics such as Kunekune pigs, Little Pig Tucker Pellets can also be fed. Simply restrict feed the pigs and allow them access to pasture or other fibre sources. A good rule of thumb for the lactating sow is to feed Little Pig Tucker Pellets between 1 and 2kg plus 250g per piglet she is suckling. For growing pigs, feed around 500g per pig up to 4 months of age.

Finally, watch out for rats and mice

Pigs are very sociable animals, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

groups rather than individually. They have a very strong social order too and can be aggressive, so keep an eye on this and put some play-things in the pen. Hanging chains or even old tyres from the ceiling will work well. that will be attracted to feed. Try to limit spillage and use suitable feeding troughs that allow the pigs to eat all the feed and are easily cleaned. Bait stations for vermin should be placed where the pigs cannot gain access. For more information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist. Article supplied by Natalie Chrystal, Nutritionist, NRM.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Forage brassica pests face new IPM weapon High insect pest pressure can lead to significant yield losses in forage brassica crops. It pays to spray insecticides early before significant crop damage occurs, but you don’t want to kill beneficial insects at the same time. Growers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This means monitoring crops for the presence of beneficial insects (such as lacewings, ladybirds and parasitic wasps) as well as pests, and not using non-selective OP/SP insecticides at the first sign of pests. If an insecticide is required because the pest-to-predator ratio is out of

balance (and the good guys are losing the battle), using a slightly more expensive selective insecticide can actually save you money, by reducing the need for a follow-up treatment thanks to the work of beneficial insects.

the canopy and protects new growth.

A new IPM option for growers this season is Minecto™ Star, a combination insecticide designed to control a broad spectrum of insect pests in forage brassicas without harming key beneficial insects. It’s a combination of two IPM-compatible insecticides – cyantraniliprole (the active ingredient of Exirel®) plus pymetrozine (a systemic aphicide). The addition of pymetrozine, with its systemic movement in the plant, offers exceptional control of aphids within

the product is when both caterpillars

Minecto Star is approved for the control of cabbage aphid, diamondback moth and white butterfly caterpillars, European leaf miner, soybean looper and nysius. The best time to apply and aphids are present in the crop, before pest numbers build to high levels. You can apply a maximum of three sprays of Minecto Star at 2 to 3-week intervals as indicated by pest pressure, with no more than two consecutive applications. When it comes to controlling insect pests, it’s important to monitor crops regularly and apply an appropriate insecticide before the build-up of high pest numbers. If high aphid numbers are present and the crop is dense, the addition of Pirimor® is recommended for its fumigant and knockdown activity against aphids, and it also has IPM selectivity. Minecto Star comes in a 900g pack, enough to treat 6 hectares at the 150g/ha label rate. A non-ionic wetting agent is required and water rates sufficient to ensure thorough coverage. A 21-day withholding period applies before feeding to livestock. For every $100 you spend at Farmlands on the forage brassica insecticides Minecto Star, Ampligo® and Pirimor, you have a chance of winning one of five deluxe mystery weekend trips for two. For more details, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer of the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Syngenta.

| Growers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of Integrated Pest Management, or IPM.

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Much to gain from pasture renewal plan Renewing pasture can have a significant impact on production and animal health. Pasture is the most cost-effective form of feed and the return on investment from pasture renewal can be high. New grass varieties can grow more on the shoulders of the season and can be leafier, with higher ME, resulting in more milk and faster liveweight gains. Renewing pasture can also have an impact on animal health, reducing parasites and (with appropriate endophytes) ryegrass staggers and heat stress. Think ahead Select your paddocks early. The Pasture Renewal Charitable Trust (www.pasturerenewal.org.nz) has some great resources to score pasture condition and to analyse the costs and benefits of renewal. Early paddock selection allows you to plan a re-grassing programme that includes two autumn spray-outs and a period of time with no clover. An early soil test allows early adjustment of pH with lime and capital fertiliser application as required. It takes 12 to 18 months for lime to be effective. In the meantime, get advice to select varieties for your farm. Think about flowering dates, diploid versus tetraploid and especially what endophyte is best. When and how? Perennial pasture can be sown in autumn or early spring (depending on location) following a brassica or fodder beet crop. Ideally the forage crop has followed a winter ryegrass. Remember

THE FARMLANDER

| The return on investment from pasture renewal can be high.

to replace the nutrients removed by the crop, particularly potassium.

this all-important early development.

You can re-grass by going from pasture to pasture. However, if sowing in autumn, be aware that soil moisture may be depleted and that one sprayout will not give as effective control of perennial weeds as two. These issues can be addressed by sowing after a two-spray summer fallow. This is a very simple, low-risk process, employing two autumn sprays, effectively stopping transpiration.

species. Act quickly for best results.

Think about your crop establishment method. Unless winter grazing has damaged your paddock, no-tillage is best to maintain soil structure, moisture and worm numbers. A great start At sowing, germinating seeds need immediate access to key nutrients. Phosphorus is essential for early root and shoot development. Nitrogen is also important to encourage tillering and leaf expansion. Drilling DAP adjacent to seed supplies both for

Watch closely for germinating weed Timely grazing Start pluck testing from around 6 weeks after sowing. If grass tears when tugged, it shows plants are firmly rooted. Grazing early keeps the sward open and encourages clovers. Graze with light stock or limit grazing time to prevent pasture and soil damage. Nurture with nitrogen Clovers take up to 18 months to establish and fix enough nitrogen to supply themselves and their companion grasses. Use SustaiN to apply nitrogen after each grazing to promote a healthy sward. Around 25-35kg N/ha (55-75kg SustaiN/ha) is sufficient. Too much will inhibit clover development. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Trials prove worth of ryegrass combination Some Farmlands shareholders have been testing a new perennial ryegrass and endophyte combination for four years and their positive findings are now backed by independent research.

and chosen for high density and

weevil (ASW). This is one of the

ground cover. This helps pastures

reasons 24Seven Edge is perfectly

tolerate periods of close grazing that

suited to the upper North Island,

commonly occur during dry summers.

as well as other regions. Edge has

Their recovery in autumn and strong

been tested to confirm it is safe for

ground cover reduce the invasion

animals, with no ryegrass staggers

24Seven perennial ryegrass has performed very well in a series of independent trials, achieving the maximum five-star rating in the upper North Island and upper South Island regions in the most recent update (February 2018) of the Forage Value Index (FVI).

of winter and summer weeds. The

or changes to body temperature.

benefits of these features have been

Another benefit of 24Seven Edge for

proven in many pastures sown with

many farmers is its very late heading

this cultivar that have exceeded a

date. It will not start producing any

three-year lifespan with honours.

stem until very late spring, 24 days

Endophyte is important for persistence,

later than mid-heading cultivars.

especially in the upper North Island,

Despite the late heading date, its

by reducing one of the stresses

early spring production is still very

This validates earlier research in long-term trials by DLF Seeds in the Waikato region that showed 24Seven to be a standout for both production and persistence.

placed on ryegrass plants â&#x20AC;&#x201C; insect

good, as confirmed by the FVI ratings,

feeding. 24Seven is available with

which take into account the higher

Edge endophyte, which is proved by

value of feed at this time of the year.

independent scientists to enhance

Peter Risi has been using 24Seven for

protection of plants from insects,

three years on his dairy farm east of

24Seven is a diploid cultivar bred in New Zealand under harsh conditions

including the most damaging ones,

Cambridge and has found it to perform

black beetle and Argentine stem

very well. It was recommended to him by his Technical Field Officer, Brett Turner, who has also been impressed with 24Seven on other farms in the Waikato region. The combination of positive results from on-farm use and strong performance in independent trials means farmers can be confident 24Seven is the right choice for new perennial pastures. 24Seven Edge is highly recommended for all high-performance farm types, including dairy farms, where its tolerance to insects and grazing will be greatly appreciated. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by DLF.

| Peter Risi in a 24Seven ryegrass pasture with Farmlands TFO Brett Turner.

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

FORAGE AND ARABLE

Pasture reliability key in changing conditions With increased pressure from outside the farming community to uphold our clean and green image through a “natural” farming system, it is essential that we get our pastures right. Dairy farming is largely about delivering an effective, high-quality, homegrown feed so it can then be effectively converted into a highquality, saleable milk product. Higher stocking rates, increased genetic merit throughout the nation’s herd and changing New Zealand conditions mean we are putting more and more pressure on our traditional pastures, with many not performing and persisting in the way we hoped. Farmers today are constantly looking for a silver bullet, a pasture that will persist, yield, withstand all of New Zealand’s environmental challenges and fit perfectly into their systems. Although the perfect pasture may not exist, ONE50 AR37 tethers pretty closely to this line for a wide range of farmers. ONE50 is a late-heading (+20) diploid perennial ryegrass that has been extensively researched throughout New Zealand. This research and trial data is from the DairyNZ Forage Value Index (FVI), which gave ONE50 five stars in all dairy regions, and also Agricom’s national trialling programme. The dry matter production generated from these trials shows that with the elite genetics of ONE50 and the added benefits of the novel endophyte AR37, the financial gain can range from $277 to $614 per hectare across New Zealand. AR37 protects against black

THE FARMLANDER

| James McNally and Farmlands TFO Sam Sturgess inspect the ONE50 pasture on James’ Kakanui dairy farm.

beetle, Argentine stem weevil larvae, root aphid, pasture mealy bug and porina, allowing the plant to better perform under a wide range of climates and stresses.

met James’ expectation for persistence

When looking for a reliable, highperforming, robust and longlasting grass, James McNally turned to ONE50 AR37.

percent of his dairy platform being

James, a dairy farmer milking 800 cows in Kakanui, Oamaru, has been consistently using ONE50 AR37 for the past 8 years on the advice of his local Farmlands TFO, Sam Sturgess. He has found ONE50 AR37 to be robust, high yielding and persistent, particularly in his heavier paddocks, where grasses had previously not performed. James has found that ONE50 is hard to beat on total DM yield across the farm, especially when the farm is producing about 16 tonnes of dry matter annually. ONE50 AR37 has

With the incorporation of ONE50 AR37

and he has only just begun to replace some of the original paddocks planted. James understands the importance of new pastures, with at least 10 re-grassed each year. His re-grassing programme usually follows a crop, to break the grass-to-grass cycle. into this system, he has found it to be a consistent and reliable product. ONE50 AR37 is an elite, late-heading diploid that currently benefits farming systems around New Zealand, and should be seriously considered when re-grassing this autumn. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Agricom.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

HORTICULTURE

Monitor vineyard focuses on innovation Marlborough Grape Producers Cooperative (MGP) and Farmlands Cooperative have recently embarked upon a joint initiative to establish a monitor vineyard in Marlborough. MGP and Farmlands are both cooperatives with the common goal of maximising the profitability of their respective shareholders. It is therefore no surprise to learn that the vast majority of MGP shareholders are also Farmlands shareholders. Given this natural alignment of business philosophies, MGP and Farmlands have embarked on the project to establish a monitor vineyard that will primarily demonstrate, document, test and record industry best practice. In addition, the vineyard will also provide capacity to investigate and demonstrate “blue sky” technologies.

| Farmlands Technical Leader Mart Verstappen is very enthusiastic about the potential learnings for all parties involved in the monitor vineyard project.

are growing Sauvignon Blanc on their property close to Blenheim. MGP, Farmlands and the McLauchlans are enthusiastic about the project, which commenced recently.

Leader, Mart Verstappen are

Year one of the project is heavily focused on measuring, recording and truth-testing all vineyard activities while following industry best practice.

Through this project, MGP and Farmlands are demonstrating commitment to the Marlborough viticulture industry. The two cooperatives believe that the focus on stewardship, continuous improvement and innovative thinking are critical for the sustainability of the industry.

Mark Daniels, General Manager

Farmlands’ Technology, Futures, Insight and Innovation team will provide input to this project – they are already doing in-field arable trials of advanced sensor and monitoring technologies.

Year one of the project is heavily focused on measuring, recording and truth-testing all vineyard activities while following industry best practice. This is not limited to crop protection product usage but also all crop cultural practices. This will provide essential baseline data for the project.

“

The vineyard selection process resulted in the property of Ben and Helen McLauchlan being chosen for the project. Ben and Helen, in conjunction with their uncle Bruce McLauchlan,

THE FARMLANDER

MGP Technical Manager, Johnny McMillan and Farmlands Technical

working at the coal face with this project, and are both very enthusiastic about the potential learnings for all parties involved. Horticulture at Farmlands believes that such projects are an essential part of continuous improvement processes. “The industry will always be facing evolving challenges, so a focus on continuous improvement is essential for the sustainable future of the industry and our growers.” Both MGP and Farmlands shareholders will hear more about this project as it progresses through the current season. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Advisor or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by MGP and Farmlands.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Good planning essential for effective drenching Farm drenching programmes have four aims – to kill parasites within the lambs, to optimise growth rates (either for slaughter or to reach mating weight), to reduce or maintain low levels of pasture contamination and to slow the development of drench resistance.

It keeps killing the incoming Barber’s

Most gastrointestinal parasites produce similar clinical signs in lambs, however, one parasite is different from the rest – Barber’s Pole worm (Haemonchus contortus). This parasite sucks blood and in large numbers may cause anaemia and sudden death due to blood loss. The key to controlling this parasite is to ensure eggs and larvae don’t build up on pasture during summer and autumn. The most convenient way to achieve this is to use Cydectin® Oral Drench for Sheep. This very potent drench kills the important gastrointestinal parasites of sheep including Barber’s Pole. Its key difference from other drenches is its persistent activity.

drench you use, this can cost about

Pole larvae for up to 35 days and Teladorsagia (Ostertagia) circumcincta larvae for 21 days. This helps prevent parasite build-up on pasture. After poor feed quality, parasites are the biggest cause of lambs not thriving. If parasites are resistant to the 14 percent of your lamb’s carcass value ($14.00-$17.00 per lamb)1. A recent study2 of New Zealand farms supplying lamb to UK supermarket chain Sainsbury’s showed 37 percent of farms were using ineffective drenches and 80 percent had some form of drench resistance. There was a high prevalence of resistance to some of the combination drenches, particularly the BZ/lev combination (over 40 percent), which had a higher prevalence of resistance than moxidectin (less than 10 percent). Knowing which drenches work on your property is vital to optimise lamb growth.

High levels of larvae impede growth and this was demonstrated in a trial3 where Cydectin Oral Drench for Sheep was compared with a shortacting drench over a 2-month period. Cydectin treatment negated the effect of the constant larval challenge and resulted in an increased lamb growth rate of about 60 percent. Long-acting products such as Cydectin Long Acting Injection for Sheep are very effective at reducing pasture contamination and can be particularly helpful on farms where pneumonia is also a problem in replacement hoggets, due to a reduced need for mustering and yarding. The key to slowing drench resistance is to make sure you leave some animals undrenched. They will deposit parasite eggs onto the pasture that are susceptible to the drench you are using, which can help dilute the resistant parasites. An example is running undrenched cull ewes with your lambs after weaning. Developing a drenching programme for your farm that meets all four criteria mentioned above is complex and requires planning. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Zoetis. Cydectin is a registered trademark of Zoetis. ACVM No. A6204 and A9926. 1. Sutherland, I. et al. The production costs of anthelmintic resistance in sheep managed within a monthly preventive drench program, Vet Parasitol. 2010. 2. Sainsbury’s FECPAK G2 Project. 3. Murphy, A. A comparison of production responses in lambs drenched with moxidectin or ivermectin. NZ J. Ag Research. 1994.

| After poor feed quality, parasites are the next biggest cause of lambs not thriving.

THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Too late to act once facial eczema revealed Planning, flexibility and monitoring are all key components of successful facial eczema (FE) management. FE presents as skin irritation of the white areas, swelling of the ears and muzzle, seeking shade and restlessness. This is caused by the liver being unable to detoxify chlorophyll, leading to levels in the blood rising to dangerous levels and causing a “secondary” photosensitisation. The liver is damaged by toxins released from the spores of the fungus Pithomyces chartarum. The damage to the liver occurs quite soon after the spores are ingested but it may take a few weeks to see the clinical signs, so waiting for animals to be affected before taking action will cost you a lot of lost production. The liver damage can be caused both by a sudden high volume of spores being ingested or an insidious lower level of ingestion. Although the liver does have a wonderful ability to regenerate itself, FE is a significant insult and repeated challenge does result in permanent damage and reduced function. As the liver is a major organ of the body, malfunctioning here decreases productivity. The FE challenge can be monitored using pasture and faecal spore counts. Regional pasture spore counts are monitored over the summer and these are a guide to what may be happening on your farm. Once these regional counts are trending towards 20,000, begin monitoring at least

THE FARMLANDER

| The facial eczema challenge can be monitored using pasture and faecal spore counts.

four paddocks on your own farm. When the counts on your farm are trending towards 30,000, prepare for zinc supplementation of the cows. The Time Capsule® was developed by AgResearch as a convenient manner of administering a consistent dose of zinc for long periods. The bolus is coated in beeswax, which leaves no residue in the rumen. Once administered

administered. To ensure the correct dose is delivered, The Time Capsule comes in convenient sizes to match the bodyweight of your sheep and cattle. The Time Capsule is an effective and proven method for preventing facial eczema and has been reliably protecting sheep and cattle in New Zealand from the effects of this for over 20 years.

weeks and sheep for 6 weeks. After

For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

this period a further bolus can be

Article supplied by Agritrade.

orally, the bolus sits in the rumen and the zinc is dissolved, providing sufficient zinc to protect cattle for 4

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Adding chlorine to farm’s water halts contamination Most farms and orchards have a high demand for water, necessitating storage in tanks and troughs. Any stored water is at potential risk of contamination. There may be cracks in the top of the tank, or the cover might not fit or even be missing, so birds and small animals and their faeces, leaves and all sorts of debris will eventually contaminate the water. In addition to this, most properties source water from the ground, dams, creeks or rivers, where water is prone to contamination from other animals or whatever naturally washes into that water source. GEA’s FIL Farm Chlor® Chlorinator water disinfection system is designed to be installed on the main water line, between the pump and tanks, so any water pumped passes through the Chlorinator unit and is treated with a pre-set amount of chlorine before being stored or pumped elsewhere. In addition, there are specially formulated Chlorinator Rods (chlorine rods) for use in the system. Together, the FIL Farm Chlor Chlorinator system and Chlorinator Rods treat the water with chlorine to approved drinking water standards, suitable for human consumption. Offering water that isn’t of good integrity – in other words not safe for human consumption – is not good for animals or plants either. There’s more to consider because your animals are producing milk, which is a food product, or your crops are food for human consumption.

THE FARMLANDER

| Water that isn’t safe for human consumption is not good for animals or plants either.

So we must ensure that the water used to clean milking surfaces is clean and that water fed to animals or crops is clean, protecting the integrity of our food supply industry.

(PPM) of chlorine to the water.

Adding chlorine to water was the biggest breakthrough in human health to prevent illness. It makes sense that food-producing animals should drink chlorinated water too.

farm water pressures up to 150PSI.

Chlorine offers low residual protection of water. You’ll notice that wherever rainwater runs with no light, it turns green and goes slimy. The same thing happens right through the water system and in troughs as well. Chlorine helps to retard slime growth, preserving water cleanliness. The FIL Farm Chlor Chlorinator system will reduce the level of bacteria, providing better quality drinking water across the farm. Designed to be adjustable, the system consistently delivers 1 to 5 parts per million

Installing the FIL Farm Chlor Chlorinator system is simple enough for anyone to do themselves. Also, the system is very robust, specially designed to take The system, where used correctly, delivers chlorinated water to the entire property and therefore free of E coli. Slime and bacteria growth will be reduced. Trough water will be more potable, aiding cow consumption. The FIL Farm Chlor range offers a solution to suit many situations, be it sheep, dairy or horticulture. It is the latest in water treatment, providing farmers and horticulturalists with a simple solution to quality water. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by GEA FIL.