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from the ceonewsin briefSpring is one of those timesin our seasonal calendarwhen the focus is verymuch on the farm.We know that it can be a pretty stressful time, whenthe demands on you and your staff are probably attheir greatest.So our August issue is always trying to strike theright balance between giving you access to key relevantinformation that might be helpful at this time of year, but atthe same time realising you don’t necessarily have a lot oftime for reading.While you are busy on the farm, DairyNZ has also beenworking hard on the next steps with our strategy forsustainable dairy farming, Making Dairy Farming Work forEveryone. The launch on July 9 was just the first step (seepage 2-3) and we are now focused on setting targets againstthe 10 objectives, and aligning the dairy levy investmentwith those priorities.It was Winston Churchill who said that “however beautifulthe strategy, you should occasionally look at the results” –and I can assure you that DairyNZ will be doing that! Weneed to set the right targets to drive that kind of focus onresults. We’ll be reporting back to you on those targets infuture issues.As we said at the launch of the strategy, there is so muchopportunity in our industry and you, as farmers, are the vitalplayer. Behind the farm gate is where competitiveness andresponsibility begins in our dairy industry.Looking ahead, our future looks bright, but just like in the2012/13 season, all kinds of challenges (like droughts) cancome our way. The issue is resilience.How quickly do we bounce back, how easily do we copewith the unexpected, how well do we manage the volatilityof different factors in the business – all that will help drivedairy farming’s continued success in the long run.There is no need to worry on that front, in my view.Farmers have resilience running through their veins andwe saw that this past season in the way farmers coped sowell with the drought. After all, you need resilience to getthrough every spring!As always, I like to hear your feedback, so contact me ontim.mackle@ceo.dairynz.co.nz.Tim MackleCEO DairyNZHeat detection eventsHeat detection events will be running in the North Island, topof the South Island and on the West Coast during September.These events will cover topics such as what’s to be gainedfrom improving heat detection, motivating others in the teamto detect heat and determining whether or not mating isgoing to be successful.Recognising the signs of heat and the use of heat detectionaids will also be covered.For more information visit dairynz.co.nz/events.In memoriam: Ken JuryFormer chief executive of the Dairying Research Corporation,one of DairyNZ's predecessor organisations, Ken Jury passedaway in early July in Hamilton, after a short illness.He began working at Ruakura in 1958 and was directorof animal research between 1979 and 1987. Ken was therecipient of the prestigious Animal Production Society'sMcMeekan Memorial Award in 1988 and became the firstchief executive of the Dairy Research Corporation, a jointventure between the New Zealand Dairy Board and MAF(Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry) in 1990.Ken was well known for his academic and administrativeabilities, his interest in the advancement of young people,and the application of biological and mathematical sciencesin agriculture. His greatest satisfaction was from helpingothers and encouraging and promoting the efforts of othersin the New Zealand animal industries.Rapid biosecurity response needs goodfarm dataThe recent increased occurrence of anaemia on Upper NorthIsland farms due to theileriosis reinforces that threats to NewZealand's biosecurity are always possible.A rapid response to a biosecurity outbreak or other naturalevent emergency relies on accurate information about ruralproperties. Being able to contact rural landowners in thesesituations protects stock, crops, farmers' livelihoods and theNew Zealand economy.This vital contact information is at the heart of FarmsOnLine- a government-managed database of information aboutthe ownership and management of all rural properties, landuse, stock and crops. It is the authoritative source of ruralproperty information for biosecurity management.Landowners can register and check their property details athttp://farmsonline.mpi.govt.nz/To report suspected exotic pests or diseases,call 0800 80 99 66.InsideDairy1

industry launchStrategy launches withstrong supportAt this month’s industry strategy and water accord launch inWellington, the Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy reinforcedthe importance of exporting goods produced in a sustainable manner.“One of my major goals as Minister for Primary Industriesis achieving the ‘export double’ – doubling our primary sectorexports by 2025,” he said, speaking to industry, central and localgovernment leaders, and sector stakeholders at Parliament’sGrand Hall.“In doing this, we need to have an emphasis on exportinggoods that are produced in an environmentally sustainablemanner, that add real value.”Prime Minister John Key and Nathan Guy launched the newdairy industry strategy, Making Dairy Farming Work for Everyone,and the new Sustainable Dairying: Water Accord on July 9.They reflected their strong support for its importance to thecountry’s future prosperity.“It should be clear to everyone that we are not faced with achoice between the economy or the environment. It has to beboth,” said Nathan.“I believe most farmers are environmentalists and want toleave the land in a better state than they found it.“Farmers are a competitive bunch and want to be the bestacross a wide range of indicators, including both environmentaland economic. Farmers are there for the long haul – they are thecustodians of their land.”To find out more about itFor more information and to download a copy of theMaking Dairy Farming Work for Everyone strategy, itsbackground supplement and the new Sustainable Dairying:Water Accord visit dairynz.co.nz or call the FarmerInformation Service 0800 4 DairyNZ (0800 4 324 7969).What others had to say“In the last 10 years, one thing that has definitely changed,in my mind, is that the environment and the responsibilitiesaround the environment have changed on the farm fromsomething that begrudgingly had to happen, to somethingthat has been embraced by farmers and farming bodies.”Prime Minister John Key“Our 11,500 dairy farms are like our All Blacks, the bestthere is! They produce – along with their processing sectors –around $3 out of every $10 New Zealand earns from the restof the world.”DairyNZ chairman, John Luxton“The new water accord, launched together with the newstrategy, is supported across the industry and sets nationalenvironmental benchmarks for dairy farming.”Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ)chairman, Malcolm Bailey“As dairy farmers we have to lift our game on water qualityif we want to meet the aspirations we have as an industry,while still earning the respect of the rest of the community.This strategy and the new water accord are putting thatcommitment down on paper for all New Zealanders to see.”Federated Farmers’ Dairy chairperson, Willy Leferink“The launch of this Strategy for Sustainable Dairy Farmingand water accord provides sound evidence of the NewZealand dairy sector's determination to address sustainability.The dairy industry has been collaborating globally toaddress sustainability and the New Zealand dairy industryhas more than played its part in providing leadership in theinternational context. But it is action that counts most andthis strategy provides a foundation for action at a time whensustainability challenges locally, nationally and globally areincreasing in both scale and intensity.”Executive director of SustainAbility and former CEO ofFairtrade International, Rob Cameron2dairynz.co.nz

^ The committing partners to the new water accord with the Prime MinisterRt Hon John Key and Minister for Primary Industries, Hon Nathan Guy.^ The Minister for Primary Industries and the Prime Minister launched the newstrategy and water accord with DairyNZ chairman Hon John Luxton.^ Minister Hon Nathan Guy.^ Around 180 people attended the launch, held in theGrand Hall at Parliament.^ Centre of Excellence in Farm Business Managementresearcher and Lincoln University lecturer Kevin Old,DairyNZ board member Barry Harris and Taranaki-KingCountry MP and dairy farmer, Shane Ardern.^ DairyNZ chief executive, Tim Mackle, Fonterra’s group director,co-operative affairs, Todd Muller and Minister for the Environment,Hon Amy Adams.InsideDairy3

water featureCool resourcein hot demandWater under the radar4dairynz.co.nz

Water is in hot demand. New Zealandhas lots of it – and lots of uses forit. The future of dairy farming isincreased competition for water.This means knowing how much wateryour farm uses, securing supply andbeing efficient with it.What should farmers do now?When water quantity limits do arrive, meeting them willbe a compliance requirement. However, greater wateruse efficiency will enable a farm to grow under set limits.Over the next five years, farmers are recommended to:• Get a water meter installed to measure use.• Identify where water efficiency gains can be made(visit dairynz.co.nz/smartwateruse).• Be aware of any changes in regulation or councilpolicies on water use.• If limit setting processes are underway in your region,get involved.• Ensure the farm has secured access to water.New Zealand’s most valuable resource has become hotproperty as industries, communities and ecosystems compete fortheir slice of the pie.Water has traditionally been quite accessible, however asdemand increases, regional councils face the challenge of settinglimits and allocating the water resource to users. This includesagriculture, where water limits will become a reality around thecountry in the next 10 to 20 years.DairyNZ environment policy manager Mike Scarsbrook says thelimits aren’t prompted by a shortage of water, as New Zealandhas plenty of it. It’s the increased demand on water whichrequires tighter control and managing availability of water duringdry summers when river flows need to be maintained.He says securing access to water will become par for thecourse as regional councils set water quality and quantitylimits nationwide.“As a country, we are very rich in water. But it’s now aboutgetting access – we have to compete for water, so we mustshow we are responsible users of it,” says Mike.“We compete with other agricultural users, hydro, townwater supply and community. And, the actual waterways too –to remain healthy, they need both a minimum flow and somedegree of variability. For example, floods are importantto waterways.”(cont'd pg 6)InsideDairy5

“We are involved at regional council level with policy changes,then helping farmers through understanding the rules andproviding tools to make it work on-farm.”Water allocation^ DairyNZ environment policy manager Mike Scarsbrook.(cont'd from pg 5)Government regulation set two years ago prompted councilsto take greater control of water.Since the National Policy Statement for FreshwaterManagement was introduced in July 2011, regional councils havebegun putting in place policies to set freshwater objectivesand limits.Each regional council is at a different stage of implementingpolicy, but ultimately all farmers will face more rigorousprocesses when accessing water supply.DairyNZ continues to work on behalf of farmers through theResource Management Act (RMA) reform process and are activelyinvolved in work to define the environmental bottomlines.How water is divvied up depends on existing allocation.During the allocation process, the council looks at whether thecatchment’s water is already under or over-allocated.“To do this, they establish how much water is needed in theriver to maintain the natural ecosystem and how much can beallocated to outside users,” says Mike.“For example, at Karapiro in the Waikato, 5 percent of the lowflow volume can be allocated.”If a catchment is over-allocated, users will receive less water.This creates business risk for farmers.“They’ll either have less water for their farm or will have tofind it from somewhere else. For example, Canterbury has watertrading schemes.”Regions which are over-allocated have been prioritised forpolicy changes. Where water is under-allocated, there is greaterroom for development, if nutrient limits can be met.TIPS TO SAVE WATER NOWIn the farm dairyMilk coolingMatch water flow to milk flow that meets the cooling objectivesrequired by processing companies ( water measurement > register of blue tick).Yard wash-downPre-wet the yard on warm, sunny days with a yard hoseor sprinkler.For manual washing, use a scraper or chain (inside an old yardhose) under the backing gate to break up dung before hosing.Make sure pump capacity and hose size are compatible and gofor high water volume under low pressure (install more, shorterhoses – ideally on booms – to reduce hose drag). Work activelyand close to the effluent. Train all staff to use the desiredapproach for time and water efficiency.Commercial yard washers and flood washing are time efficientbut can use a lot of water. Get water-use specifications from themanufacturer if installing a new system. Weigh up staff time,power costs and water use when choosing an efficient system.Check out the Smart Water Use on Dairy Farmsresource materials (booklets, fact sheets, worksheets,water use study results and case study videos) atdairynz.co.nz/smartwateruse.6dairynz.co.nz

BEFOREAFTER^ Concept images for the proposed Ruataniwha Water StorageScheme, in the Hawke’s Bay.Photos courtesy of the Hawke's Bay Regional Council.^ The Hurunui River.“If we can get it right, the scheme willprovide environmental, economic andsocial benefits for Hawke’s Bay region,creating a win-win situation.”“Some groups have also been concerned about the impactson water quality from intensification,” says Brigid. “Fortunately,science has shown that water quality issues can be resolved byaddressing phosphorus losses from both urban and rural sources.“For towns in the regions, this means upgrading two sewerageschemes. For farmers, this is excluding stock from waterways,riparian management and good management of farm dairyeffluent.“If we can get it right, the scheme will provide environmental,economic and social benefits for the Hawke’s Bay region,creating a win-win situation.”DairyNZ recently lodged submissions on the Tukituki PlanChange which contains the policies and rules around land use andwater in the Tukituki Catchment and will enable the developmentof the Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme.Given the scale and importance of this proposal, theEnvironmental Protection Authority will consider both the resourceconsent applications for the scheme and the plan change.Hurunui limit setting resultIn April, the Hurunui and Waiau River catchmentsbecame the first in Canterbury to complete the water limitsetting process.The proposed Hurunui and Waiau River Regional Planreleased in 2011 has completed its submissions process withan outcome which enables further irrigation to take place inNorth Canterbury.DairyNZ regional policy manager James Ryan says DairyNZand Fonterra presented a range of evidence during hearingsbefore independent commissioners in late 2012.“The commissioners agreed with the DairyNZ and Fonterraevidence, that the Hurunui River’s water quality is largelyinfluenced by phosphorus and that the proposed nitrogen limitcould be increased,” says James.“However, the recommendations do present uncertaintyfor farmers, particularly as the irrigation reliability of existingschemes, including the Amuri irrigation Scheme, is affected andsome farmers will be required to apply for resource consent.”A number of the decisions are now being challenged onpoints of law in the High Court.All farmers in the catchment will be required to prepare afarm environment plan from 2017.DairyNZ will meet with farmers to discuss what thesedecisions mean for farmers and how DairyNZ can best workwith farmers to help ensure they meet the requirements of theHurunui and Waiau River Regional Plan.InsideDairy13

droughtMore dry spells predictedThis year’s drought sparked concerns that it was a sign of things to come.And NIWA research agrees.The predictions show most farmers in the North Island andeastern South Island are in line to spend 5-10 percent more timein drought by 2050.NIWA principal scientist Andrew Tait says the occurence ofdrought is likely to change in future, by as much as double insome regions.“So while it depends on where you are in the country, if youspent 10 percent of your time in drought now, it’s likely to be asmuch as 20 percent by 2050,” says Andrew.“Rainfall is predicted to be less in the east and north, sodrought is likely to most affect Northland, Auckland, Gisborne,Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa, Marlborough and Canterbury.”However, Andrew says even places like the Waikato willbe affected.More droughts in other areas will be due to the change inseasonal wind patterns and more evapotranspiration.In predicting drought, NIWA use a range of scenarios topredict climate change in New Zealand. While predictions are notdefinite, the key finding is a general warming trend in yearsto come.2012/13 droughtAndrew says climate stations nationwide show this year’sdrought was the worst in at least 41 years.“Everywhere in the country was different, but using Hamiltonas an example, the soil moisture profile there showed it wastwice as dry compared with normal, a 50mm deficit, back inNovember 2012,” says Andrew.“Rainfall arrived in December, which returned soils to normallevels. However January through to mid-March saw soil moisturelevels approach permanent wilting point, where grasses die.”What farmers can doBecoming more drought resilient is important for farm systemsin future.Taking stock of a current farm system and looking atopportunities to endure a drought, is a good idea. Efficient wateruse and storage opportunities might be one area for development.Less severe droughts may require similar management tacticsto what most farms currently use. However, more severedroughts might benefit from greater access to irrigation anddifferent pasture or crops in place.The ranking of the 2012/13 drought.The period July 2012-April 2013 is compared with all previousJuly-April periods since 1972/73. The worst (magenta) is over27.6% of country. The worst, second and third worst (magenta,dark red and red) is over 53% of the country.The PED (potential evapotranspiration deficit) index is used tomeasure the drought intensity.Additional worklooking at PED forindividual climatestations since recordsbegan showed the2012/13 droughtwas the worst forNorthland, SouthAuckland and Bay ofPlenty-Taupo since1950 and for centralWaikato since 1940.14dairynz.co.nz

variation 6New water rules forWaikato farmersWaikato farmers are facing some complex rule changes under Variation 6. The new rulesmean all farmers taking more than 15m 3 /day per site, per day must now apply for consent.DairyNZ sustainability developer, Brigid Buckley, says forWaikato dairy farmers, water taken and used for milk coolingand dairy shed wash down now requires resource consent – evenif a farmer has been doing this for years.“If you have ground and surface water takes of more than15m 3 (about 215 cows), per Certificate of Title, per day, formilk cooling and dairy shed wash down, you need to apply forresource consent by January 1, 2015,” says Brigid.“We are encouraging farmers to measure their water use inthe farm dairy this peak season, September to early December,to ensure the right volume of water is applied for.”Variation 6 was introduced after a lengthy policy processwhich began in the early 2000s, after it became apparent thewater allocation policies in the Waikato Regional Plan could notdeal with current competition for water.The rules now govern the way ground and surface water istaken and used across the Waikato region.Ground vs surface water takesA second aspect of Variation 6 is the subtle difference in rulesand requirements between ground and surface water takes.“For example, some surface water takes will also be required toundertake riparian planting, water metering or reporting.”Quantity limits have been set for surface water, as many parts ofthe Waikato are reaching full allocation, or exceeding it. Obtainingresource consent will become more difficult for farmers.“No limits have been set for groundwater – yet. Instead,groundwater is subject to ‘management levels’. So when totalabstractions reach a point, investigations into the resource’savailability are triggered and could potentially lead to a limit,”says Brigid.Stock drinking and domestic water use remains ‘allowed’under section 14(3)(b) of the Resource Management Act 1991,until a water resource reaches full allocation. However, in somecases, stock drinking water takes will also require consent.Apply for consent nowDairyNZ encourages all Waikatofarmers to apply for resourceconsent sooner rather than later.“If you have increased yourwater take (or cow numbers) since15 October 2008, we recommendthat you discuss your situationwith a resource managementprofessional as soon as possible,”^ Brigid Buckley.says Brigid.“Above all, it is important thatdairy farmers apply for the right volumes of water for theirfarm dairy.”Without knowing how much water is used for milk coolingand dairy shed wash down, a default calculation of 70 litres/daymultiplied by cow numbers is used to ascertain water use.Going forward, installing a meter is the best way for farmersto know and manage their water use, and at the same time haveproof for current and future consent applications.For more information on water efficiency, visitdairynz.co.nz/smartwateruse.Variation 6The Waikato Regional Plan’s Variation 6 introduced in 2012distinguishes between those farmers who had water takes in theregion prior to 2008, and those who did not.This means water takes introduced since October 15, 2008(including increases in cow numbers or conversions) are subject tothe traditional first in, first served consent process under the RMAand will be granted based on availability of water.Farmers with existing water takes prior to that date will begranted consents.InsideDairy15

Here are some tips that will help lighten the loadfor you and your staff:Communication with the team• Meet with the team at least weekly (if not daily) duringcalving, so everyone is clear about what’s going on• Address issues as they come up, so that little things don’tbecome big issues.Motivate each other• Celebrate when things go well – it re-energises people andmakes the hard work worthwhile• Celebrate milestones during calving e.g. once you have calvedhalf the cows have a barbecue or shed shout.Fatigue and stress• If you drive with less than six hours sleep, your risk of a crashtriples (Land Transport NZ). Fatigue slows your reflexes andaffects your ability to concentrate and make good decisions.Consider your staff and rosters – do they allow for decent restand sleep periods for everyone?• Make a goal of getting off the farm at least once a week(encourage your staff to do the same) to allow sometime out.Support each other• Share how you are going with your team and family (aburden shared, is a burden halved)• Mistakes happen. Coach staff on what to do next time andthen move on.Keep calmanddo a checklistFor those still with time to prepare for calving,ensure you are ready to go, with this quick checklist:F F Talk with your team about what physical signs you eachshow when feeling under pressure (so they can cut eachother some slack)F F Ensure everyone knows what’s expected of themF F Check that all your equipment is well serviced, in theright place, charged up and ready to goF F Give each person a quick reference card withkey contactsF F Take time to coach any new members on farm abouthow you rear calves/collect calves/check cows etc, as yoursystem may differ from previous jobsF F Have a casual/relief milker already signed up (with anemployment agreement) so that they are available whenyou need themF F Fill that freezer with some healthy, quick mealsF F Ask the team if they have considered how they willensure they eat well throughout calving. You may needto think of some novel solutions, especially foryoung staff.Leadership• Lead by example, not just on the farm, but also in ensuringthat you rest and eat well, and encourage your staff to dothe same.• Make a note of issues that arise. Post-calving, review yourlist of issues and create a plan to ensure they don’t happennext season.Perhaps most importantly, keep your sense of humour.Sometimes things are out of our control and there is not much wecan do.Spring is a busy time on dairy farms and you can’t change that.You may already have some practices in place to ensure thatthings run smoothly over calving.Trust your instincts and support your employees to get thebest results you can. But remember, asking for help is smart.To get further assistance in getting the best from your teamgo to peoplesmart.co.nz.You know it’s calving when…☞☞The summer spare tyre from around your waist has welland truly flattened.☞☞Your shopping list contains only Scourban and Redbull.☞☞You talk to your vet more then the missus or mister.☞☞You are followed by a vapour trail of colostrumand afterbirth.☞☞Nodding off at the dinner table is acceptable practice.☞☞Your most exciting Facebook update is your first tankerpick up.☞☞The sales reps stop coming up the driveway.☞☞Tom Hanks on Cast Away seems better groomed than you.☞☞A single beer at the end of the day has you slurring yourwords and unable to stand.☞☞A late night out is catching the end of Coronation St.InsideDairy19

eproductionSubmission rate stilla high priorityBY CHRIS BURKE | DairyNZ team leader, reproductionFarmers will not achieve a seventy-eight percent six-week in-calf rate ifsubmission rates remain in the low eighties.A 90 percent three-week submission rate is the first keyindicator of good mating performance. Achieving this targetrequires that cows are both cycling and being detected in heat.There is room for improvement with one or both of these keymanagement areas, because the national average submissionrate is almost 10 percent below target.Submission rate key for six-week in-calf rateTracking progress with pre-mating heatsAn early indication of an impending fertility problem is neededfor a timely response.A rule of thumb is that if 75 percent of the herd has cycled byseven to 10 days before PSM, the herd is on track to achieve an85 percent pre-mating cycling rate. A non-cycling problem willbe avoided if these targets are met.The importance of the three-week submission rate for gettingthe herd back in calf is depicted in Figure 1. This data is from the1827 herds in the LIC Minda system that were able to generatedetailed InCalf Fertility Focus Reports for the 2011 matingseason.The results indicate that a 10 percent increase in the threeweeksubmission rate (horizontal axis) will, on average, increasethe six-week in-calf rate (vertical axis) by more than five percent.Also, nearly 40 percent of the variation in six-week in-calf ratewas explained by differences in the three-week submission rate.Pre-mating cyclingIf 85 percent or more of the herd has cycled before theplanned start of mating (PSM), a 90 percent three-weeksubmission rate should be guaranteed. This is provided that heatdetection during artificial breeding (AB) is performed to a highstandard (i.e. 95 percent of heats are detected).Better still, these will be more fertile heats. The chance of acow getting pregnant to the first heat after calving is about 45percent; this is 5-15 percent lower than subsequent heats.22dairynz.co.nz

Intervening with non-cyclersHaving to intervene with non-cycling cows is undesirable, butif non-cycling rates are higher than 25 percent by the PSM, thenit is unlikely that a 90 percent submission rate will be achievedwithout management intervention.Further, when these non-cyclers do eventually have a heat,it will be sub-fertile. The easiest and best option to get noncyclerssubmitted is treatment based on the use of the hormoneprogesterone.Healthy cows cycle more quicklyThe 2003 Fertility Monitor Study reported that the three-weeksubmission rate is reduced by about 5 percent by diseases suchas retained placenta, metabolic disorders and lameness.Mastitis was associated with only a 1 percent reduction, whileuterine infections had the largest effect, reducing submissionrate by almost 10 percent. Cow health has to be managed tokeep disease incidence within the accepted norms,as described in the InCalf Book.Heat detectionHeat detection is the most important task on the farm duringthe AB period. A missed heat is expensive – at least $100 a time.Training and experience matters because knowing whatto look for is crucial in keeping missed heats to less than fivepercent (i.e. one in 20 cows), while also minimising the numberof unnecessarily inseminated cows.Tail paint remains the most commonly used aid, althoughmany farms combine tail paint with mount detectors to increasethe chance of detecting ‘light’ heats and reduce the decision toa ‘yes or no’ signal. The preferred option should be the one thatworks best for the farm.Paddock checks have been associated with better heatdetection performance. However farmers often claim paddockchecks don’t find cows that can’t be identified in the shed; thereis not enough time; it is too difficult to identify cow numbers inthe paddock and re-identify cows in heat back at the shed.If the indicators are that heat detection is not as good as itcould be, then paddock checks may be more justified. Heatdetection performance should be monitored. One indicator ofpast performance is the three-week submission rate of earlycalved, mature cows.Minimise cow stressStress reduces the intensity of oestrus and, therefore, makesheat detection more difficult. Poor energetic state, hunger orsocial discomfort are all stressful to cows.A 2007 DairyNZ study in Taranaki reported a tendency forsubmission rate to be reduced from 92 to 88 percent when cowswere underfed during the first two weeks of AB mating (i.e.eating 8kg DM/day of pasture with no supplements).It appeared as though the 4 percent reduction in submissionrate among restricted cows was a consequence of poorlydisplayed oestrus, because blood results implied that the cowscycled as expected.To avoid stress on the herd during mating, a constant supplyof adequate feeding is essential. When separate mobs are run,these need to be established well in advance of mating, to givecows time to adjust socially.Visit dairynz.co.nz/incalf for information on the InCalfProgramme and Fertility Focus Reports.Figure 1Actions:• Look at the InCalf Fertility Focus Report from last season. Aone-star rating in the ‘heat detection’ indicator box meansthere is room to improve.• Monitor daily submission rates, checking that 4-5 percent ofthe herd are being inseminated daily.• Take account of any heat synchronisation treatment wheninterpreting this daily average value.• Above all, review heat detection practices and leave nothingto chance.^ The six-week in-calf rate increases by 5 percent for every10 percent gain in the three-week submission rate.InsideDairy23

spring prepManaging minerals in springMineral supplementation plays a key role in getting cows through the transition period.Supplementing cows’ diets with magnesium should begintwo to three weeks before calving and continue until there isenough in the diet (insufficiency is caused by high N and K diets,inclement weather and high milk production) – which can beNovember/December.High producing cows may need magnesium supplementationinto the summer.Following are minerals to consider.After calving, provide 150g/cow of finely ground limestone(lime flour) daily during the colostrum period – double this rateif dusting. An alternative is to add lime flour to supplement or tofeed calcium-enriched molasses.To reduce the risk of metabolic problems, don’t grazespringers on effluent paddocks.Magnesium (Mg)The most important mineral for dry cows is magnesium.Magnesium plays a role in milk fever prevention (calciumdeficiency). It helps produce hormones that are important for theabsorption of calcium (Ca) from the gut and the mobilisation ofCa from bones.Daily magnesium supplementation for two to three weeks precalvingwill reduce the risk of milk fever. However, it does notbuild up a store of magnesium in the cow.Magnesium sulphate (MagS) and chloride (MagC) are moreeffective at preventing milk fever than magnesium oxide(Causmag). Unfortunately, they are difficult to feed because theyare bitter and not very soluble.Pre-calving add 60g MagS per cow into the water trough daily(introduce it gradually for up to one week) and dust the pasture(or silage) with 60-70g Causmag per cow each day.Supplementing with magnesium needs to continue aftercalving, until spring growth rates have slowed (aroundDecember) to ensure that milk production is not compromisedand to prevent grass staggers (grass tetany).However, too much magnesium can cause scouring and poorabsorption of other nutrients. Therefore, it is important to knowhow much is given to cows and how much they actually need.For further information and actual amounts required referto DairyNZ Facts and Figures (Pg48-55) and Farmfact 3-1Magnesium Supplementation (dairynz.co.nz/farmfacts).Calcium (Ca)Supplementation with calcium (Ca) immediately after calvingensures the cow absorbs enough calcium to prevent milk fever.In most cases, it is important that calcium supplements are notstarted before calving, as its presence in a pregnant cow’s dietreduces the absorption of Ca. The risk of milk fever is greater inthese situations.24dairynz.co.nzSupplementation methodsThe following methods are listed in order of effectiveness. ReadFarmfact Magnesium Supplementation (3-1) for quantities andthe source of magnesium used.DrenchingMagnesium sulphate, magnesium chloride or magnesium oxide.Magnesium oxide is the cheapest form of magnesium. However,it is poorly soluble in water, causing difficulty with some drenchsystems. Additives (e.g. Comag) can reduce drenching problems.Pasture dustingMagnesium oxide. Wind and rain result in field losses of dustedmagnesium oxide, so required levels of magnesium oxide aredoubled when dusting. Pasture can be dusted three days inadvance, weather permitting. In very wet weather, it may pay todust more than once per day, preferably when cows are given anew break.Hay treatmentMagnesium oxide. Apply a slurried mixture of magnesium oxideto hay – no more than 15 cows to one magnesium-treated bale.This can be used in conjunction with pasture dusting. Molassescan make this slurry more palatable.Water troughMagnesium chloride or magnesium sulphate. Good option if nosupplement is being fed or pasture is too short for dusting. Canalso be used with drenching or pasture dusting during periodsof greatest risk. Use a dispenser; watch the concentration;introduce magnesium gradually over two to three weeks.Magnesium bulletsThere are magnesium bullets available for dairy cows. However,these only provide 2-3g mg/cow/day e.g. a 170g magnesiumbullet that releases over 9-12 weeks will supply approximately2-2.7g Mg/cow/day. This is well short of the requirements forcow pre-calving and in early lactation.

the pasture pageFind, diagnose and fix…BY ROB BRAZENDALE | DairyNZ team leader, productivityEarly spring is a good time to identify thosepaddocks that are under-performing and make aplan to do something about them. It is particularlytimely for those considering growing summercrops as part of a pasture renewal programme.Research has found that, typically, the worst performingpaddocks grow less than half the amount of pasture a farm’sbest paddocks grow (see Table 1). If the worst paddocks can beimproved, even to average, this will significantly increase thetotal amount of pasture grown on-farm.Farmers need ways to identify those under-performingpaddocks and, secondly, understand the reasons for their poorperformance.Many may believe that poor-performing paddocks are obvious,however researcher Tom Fraser concludes that many farmersdon’t have a good grasp of individual paddock performance. Thisis based on his work in Canterbury where farm owners comparedthe performance of new pasture with paddocks considered goodor poor.Farmers who regularly monitor their pasture and record farmwalk data are able to build up a picture of individual paddockperformance. Recording grazing events will also provide someinsight to which paddocks are under-performing.For those farms without data, the Pasture Condition ScoreTool is useful to rank paddocks visually and identify priorities forpasture renewal.Reasons for poor performanceDiagnosing why a particular paddock is under-performing isoften not simple. It might be that the paddock is in a poorer partof the farm.Other reasons include poor drainage and compaction;low fertility; insect/drought damage and weed infestation.The Pasture Condition Score Tool is useful to visually rankpaddocks and identify priorities for pasture renewal.Find it at dairynz.co.nz/pasturescoring.Poor drainage affects pasture performance. Pasture plantsdon’t perform well in water-logged soils because nutrients areless available. These soils are slower to warm up in the springand poor soil structure means they are more prone to drying outin the summer i.e. winter wet and summer dry.Pasture damage is more likely to occur on poorly drainedsoils and less desirable species are likely to establish, reducingpalatability of these pastures. Compaction is a common outcomefrom lack of poor drainage.Pastures require adequate levels of the key elements and theproper pH to perform at the optimal level. With the informationfrom a soil test, any deficiencies should be corrected.Pasture damage by insectsInsect damage is often more evident after a drought, as it isthe combination of moisture stress and insect challenge thatcauses plant death. Identifying insect damage is important, as itwill determine what endophyte is required for any new pasturesubsequently sown.In some cases, the damage from some insects is obvious butfor others it’s more difficult to identify. Grass grub and blackbeetle damage is very distinctive, while Argentine stem weevil ismuch more subtle.If in doubt, seek advice from your seed company technicalrepresentative or farm advisor.Weed infestation generally occurs from gaps, because thedesired pasture species have not persisted so it is important tounderstand these underlying causes.The best advice is to get a soil test and dig a few holes in thepaddock. This will take you a long way to figuring out why thepaddock is under-performing.Table 1 Pasture dry matter accumulation (t DM/ha/year)FARM FARM AVERAGE WORST PADDOCK BEST PADDOCKResearch farm 1 18.0 10.8 23.6Research farm 2 19.3 15.9 23.0Commercial farm 1 14.4 9.5 21.1Commercial farm 2 16.0 11.7 21.5Source: Clark et al (2010) Inter-paddock annual dry matter yield variability fordairy farms in the Waikato region of New Zealand.InsideDairy25

cover featurehealthwellbeingYour mind matters – it’s ok to askfor helpBY DR NEELS BOTHA | AgResearch senior social scientistThe busy spring period is well underway for most of us. Forsome, the pressure and demands become overwhelming atthis time of year, and if not dealt with, it can lead to burn-out,depression and even suicide.We all need help sometimes, yet for many people help is one ofthose four letter words they think they are not supposed to use. Inreality, asking for help is a smart strategy.Asking for help• No-one can read your mind. It is up to you to make the first stepand talk to someone who can help.• Simply say what the problem is by describing the behaviour thatconcerns you. For example: “I can’t sleep”.• Be honest. You can’t expect to be helped if you mask or understatethe issue.• When you ask for help, listen and be prepared to take action. Ifyou are not happy with the advice you get, go toBY FIRST ANDLASTNAME | Job titlesomeone else.Where to get helpThere are many sources of help available.If you are worried about money or have farming troubles:• talk to your bank and/or accountant• call an agricultural consultant• call the Rural Support Trust ph 0800 787 254• visit the DairyNZ website at dairynz.co.nz or ph 0800 4 DairyNZ(0800 4 324 7969)• ask another farmer who can help or refer you on.what’s hot>>>The meteoricrise ofStevenAdamsInstalling awater meterSmartphones(44% of NZ farmersin a recent surveynow have one!)what’s notIf you feel depressed or struggle to cope when things are getting thebetter of you:• call and visit your GP• visit depression.org• talk to a friend or family member.If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide:• call Lifeline on 0800 543 354• call your GP• call your pastor/church• call 111• at least tell somebody.>>>Trying tomake thefirewoodlast thatbit longerSleeping inAsking for help is a smart thing to do, and addressing issues early oncan help stop them turning into serious problems.Dr Botha is part of a long-term Farmer Stress and Wellbeing project,funded by DairyNZ. He has led the research for the last three yearsand is focusing on developing new tools to support farmers who arecoping with stressful situations.The winterpower bill26dairynz.co.nz

REGIONAL UPDATELower North IslandScoring to make gainsThe DairyNZ team in the Lower North Island are hosting events inSeptember to help farmers lift their herd’s reproductive performance.The events will cover the key factors that impact on six-weekin-calf rate and empty rate.Lower North Island regional leader Kevin Argyle says aftercalving and in the lead up to mating, one of the immediate focusareas for farmers is minimising body condition score (BCS) loss.“It is important to ensure cows are fed properly and that theymeet body condition score targets,” says Kevin.“Ideally, the average body condition score loss in the six-weekperiod after calving should not exceed one score and no morethan 15 percent of cows should be below a score of 4.0.”A pilot scheme in the Lower North Island has shown just howimportant body condition scoring is year-round.50:50 sharemilkers Brian and Kate Underwood were part of apilot programme in the Lower North Island which saw a vet comeonto their 120ha Linton farm and condition score their herd. Thisinformation was then used to make decisions.Brian appreciated having an independent view, especially as itwas only his second season as a 50:50 sharemilker on the farm.By the end of the pilot, cows achieved an average BCS at calvingof around 5.0 – an increase from 4.6, achieved the year before.The farm was also 25 percent ahead in milk production at the endof November and the empty rate was reduced by 2 percent.Cows were body condition scored three times prior to calving– at pregnancy test, pre dry-off and pre-calving. They were alsoassessed after calving to check how much weight they had lost.BCS information shaped decisions. For example, after conditionscoring in February, any cows below a BSC of 4.0 were matchedup with cows that were due to calve in the first three weeks.This group were dried off a month earlier than the rest andpreferentially fed.Meanwhile, body condition scoring the herd in the lead up tomating last year was a learning experience which will help shapedecisions this year, says Brian.“The aim is to lift the six-week conception rate, this year weended up with a 70 percent six-week in-calf rate and my aim is toget that to 78 percent. We have to get that conception rate upand that is what we are focussing on this year,” says Brian.Herd reproduction events will be running nationwide over thenext few months. For more information see the news in brief(pg 3) or visit dairynz.co.nz/events.Lower North Island Consulting OfficersRegional Leader/Northern Hawke's BayKevin Argyle 027 499 9020Wairarapa Leo Hendrikse 021 286 4346Southern Hawke's Bay/Central/Northern Manawatu/RangitikeiKim Fraser 021 222 9023Tararua/Coastal/ SouthernManawatu/HorowhenuaAbby Hull 021 244 3428InsideDairy27

Want to see the plan forensuring the long-termsuccess of dairy farming?Find out in the new industry strategy.MAKINGDAIRY FARMINGWORK FOREVERYONEGet your copy of the newstrategy and supplement.Go to dairynz.co.nz/strategyrefresh or phone0800 4 DairyNZ (0800 4 324 7969) to order a copy.Strategy for Sustainable Dairy Farming 2013-2020Sustainable Dairying:Water AccordA Commitment to New Zealandby the Dairy SectorNew Sustainable Dairying:Water AccordThe dairy industry has made a new commitment to enhancing theoverall performance of dairy farming, as it affects freshwater.Read what it means for you, the dairy farmer.Go to dairynz.co.nz/wateraccord.