Drought conditions could have dire repercussions on feed reserves and financials

Farmers across the country are struggling with drought conditions, with worries turning to the longevity of winter feed supplies and suitable grass cover for spring 2027

Dairy herd feeds on silage in fields where drought has left the grass scorched and pasture severely depleted. Pictures: Chani Anderson

Despite a good month for grass in June, the ongoing dry conditions have left many farmers with little choice but to begin feeding winter reserves.

August is a key growth period for farmers to begin building grass covers for autumn. The target average farm cover by September 1 is about 1,000kg DM/ha.