Excellent grass growth, so most fodder is of good quality

In early July, livestock farmers were in a similar position to last year regarding winter feed, with two in every three farmers having a 25% deficit.

However, the situation has improved significantly, because grass growth has been excellent, and most of the fodder that has been saved is of good quality (including hay) . Also, the price of concentrates is expected to be about 25% lower next winter, and this will eliminate the necessity to pay crazy prices for fodder. Alternative crops such as maize and beet are looking very good.

At this stage, most serious farmers have updated their winter feed budgets, and if short of winter feed they are considering the best option for their own situation.