Hunter current advice

Current advice for farmers in Hunter

Although recent rainfall has been welcome, supplementary feeding is still likely to be necessary for many producers this winter. Pasture growth and feed quality remain limited with cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Dry conditions continue to impact many parts of the Hunter, with maintaining groundcover remaining one of the most important management tools available to protect soil health, pasture recovery and long-term farm productivity. Properties that maintain groundcover during dry times are generally better positioned to capture and utilise rainfall events, reduce erosion risk and support faster pasture recovery when seasonal conditions improve.

• Get advice to help maintain groundcover on your property and contact us to speak with a member of the Ag team.
• Local Land Services is currently offering a limited number of free feed and water tests. For advice on supplementary feeding, ration planning or livestock nutrition, contact us. 

Current biosecurity concerns for the Hunter

• As feed and water become limited, feral pigs are concentrating around remaining resources. These seasonal conditions also create a critical window for control programs, where well-planned and coordinated action can deliver stronger results. To stay ahead of population growth, landholders are encouraged to take a strategic approach that combines multiple control methods and aligns with seasonal conditions and farm operations. Contact your local Biosecurity officer or learn more about pest animal control.
• As feed shortages continue across parts of the Hunter, many producers are sourcing hay and supplementary fodder from outside their local area to help bridge the winter feed gap. While bringing fodder onto your property can help maintain livestock condition and production, it can also introduce significant biosecurity risks. If you notice unusual plants, suspect fire ants or require advice, contact your local office.

Animal health conditions to watch out for

District vets in the Hunter region have been seeing an increase in worm burdens in growing cattle. The combination of short pastures, reduced ground cover, mild conditions and the recent rain is creating a perfect storm for worm numbers to explode. 

• Barbers Pole Worm (Haemonchus) remains the most common worm affecting young cattle in the region. Resistance to single-active drenches is becoming more common, increasing the risk of treatment failure. Local Land Services can provide testing kits and advice to help develop an effective worm management program. Contact us to find out more.
• As we head into winter please contact us if we can help you with animal health concerns. Veterinary, agronomy and livestock advice is available and our District Vets are keen to talk about worms and drenching and to arrange a farm visit to help trouble shoot any animal health concerns.