With the continued hot temperatures of this year’s summer thoroughly diminishing any dry feed left in paddocks, the topic of confinement feeding ewes through the late summer and autumn period is even more pertinent. In conjunction with the impact on pasture, extreme heat also impacts feed intake requirements. During periods of extreme heat, ewes require increased energy intake to maintain good body condition, as some energy is diverted to thermoregulation mechanisms. Whilst lamb prices continue at all-time highs, maximising body condition, growth and fertility of sheep is essential to capitalise on the current market. There are many easy and effective ways to accomplish supplementary feeding; from trail feeding in a sacrificial paddock, right through to a purpose-built confinement area. Earlier in summer Milne Sheep Specialist, Brett Blanchett, shared his experiences and points to consider when setting up a confinement system. Catch up on that article here.
Water quality is particularly important and can be impacted by the hot weather WA is currently experiencing. A recent spate of livestock losses in Victoria (reported by ABC), due to toxic water, is a timely reminder that, as dam levels become low towards the end of summer, water quality can be compromised. High temperatures can lead to increases in bacteria, such as E. coli. Checking and flushing water troughs frequently to avoid water becoming stagnant is an important tool, as is regular water testing.
As we know things can, and do, change rapidly in the farming season. Take the tragic recent fires in the Wheatbelt and even the deluge of rain in the Northern and Eastern areas as an example. Given this, confinement feeding can sometimes come out of necessity and may not be something that was planned or considered.
For those who have been thrust into considering it, or are simply looking for some more tailored information, the sales and technical team at Milne feeds are always available to help guide you through any queries and provide any information you may require.
Growers who have never fed by confined methods may have the age-old concern about acidosis (grain poisoning). Milne Feeds’ EasyOne® 9mm pellets have the unique Hyfibe® technology which minimises the risk of acidosis in ewes.
Milne Sheep Specialists, Brett Blanchett and Wayne Manoni, are always available to assist farmers with information via email, phone, or an on-farm visit.
