Regional data highlights producer decision-making
New analysis from Hunter Local Land Services (LLS) is providing practical insights for producers looking to make timely decisions as seasonal conditions tighten, with distinct patterns emerging between the Upper and Lower Hunter.
The latest data combines MLA saleyard throughput, the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) and soil moisture readings from the Scone probe. Together, these show soil moisture declining from spring into summer, alongside increasing saleyard numbers and a relatively stable EYCI - indicating continued market confidence.
For producers, this reinforces the value of acting early. Aligning stocking decisions with seasonal conditions and market signals can help maintain ground cover, manage feed availability and reduce the need for more costly or reactive decisions later.
At a local level, the Upper Hunter (Scone) shows a measured and progressive increase in yardings aligned closely with declining soil moisture, reflecting proactive and well- timed decision- making.
“In the Upper Hunter, producers are responding early and making deliberate decisions based on seasonal signals,” Sarah Giblin, Hunter LLS Team Leader Agriculture, said.
The Maitland (Lower Hunter) data reflects a reactionary December spike in stock sales off the back of an unseasonally dramatic decline in soil moisture for this region in early Spring.
This highlights an opportunity for producers to use available data to plan ahead, rather than responding when conditions become more critical - particularly where a ‘green drought’ may mask declining feed availability.
“These insights are about supporting better on- farm decisions - helping producers act earlier, reduce risk and maintain productivity,” Sarah concluded.
If you're considering next steps this season, visit the LLS Farming Forecaster website for local data and reach out to the Hunter LLS Agriculture team on 1300 795 299. Based locally, our staff understand regional conditions and can provide practical support to help you plan ahead and manage risk.
Media Contact: For more information, please contact Michelle Gapes, Regional Communications Advisor, North Coast/Hunter via email michelle.gapes@lls.nsw.gov.au or 0467 291 890