Getting the best from grazing regime
Today I'm looking in more detail at how managing dry matter intake at spring turnout will ensure that fresh grass is fully utilised while at the same time maintain or improving animal performance.
A typical Friesian/Holstein requires approximately 3 to 3.5 per cent bodyweight in dry matter intake – Jerseys can be slightly higher. That’s approximately 20kg DMI, with typically 12 to 14kg forage intake leaving another 6 to 8kg to be achieved in the parlour.
This assumes forage intake can be achieved at pasture, which is often not true so at least 2 to 4kg silage DMI may be required.
Daytime grazing activity is typically at its lowest in the middle of the day, activity is high at sunrise and highest at sunset. Therefore, achieving short but affective grazing bouts during these periods will maximise grass intake and grazing efficiency while allowing further total mixed ration intakes in the middle of the day, also reducing field damage.
Early turnout when the grass plant has three fully-developed leaves will stimulate early growth and keep farmers ahead of the inevitable grass surge.
While labour intensive, on/off grazing can be an effective method of improving animal performance and grazing qualities.
Adam Clay is NWF Head of Technical
