Farm conditions in the Manawatu and Otago

Welcome rain last week has meant growth on Manawatu farms has rocketed away, with pasture and crops both benefiting from the moisture. While it has remained warm, night-time temperatures have been a little cooler. "[But] we've already seen a few clinical cases of facial eczema in dairy cows and that's a worry, because it means there will also be others affected that are sub- clinical," DairyNZ consultant Louise Cook said. She suggested farmers should be vigilant in keeping an eye out for any symptoms of the disease, and be proactive with preventative zinc treatments. "Things on dairy farms are ticking along pretty nicely. Those who put in summer turnip crops have had a great growing season. We've had lots of sunshine, which is good for the crops." Ms Cook said most dairy farmers have their maize silage on contract at between 25 to 30 cents/kg/dry matter. Recent dry weather means the 2008-09 summer was finely balanced for many Otago farmers who were waiting and hoping for rain. While the province looked green, farmers in some areas say feed was short and extra rain was needed to top up depleted soil moisture levels.  Some farmers in inland North Otago were considering quitting stock due to the hot, dry weather, while those in South Otago were still finely balanced, with another two dry weeks potentially forcing some to consider quitting some lambs in store condition. Wanaka farmer and the federation's Otago president Richard Burdon said there had been plenty of rain in the upper Clutha, and recent hot weather had hardened up the feed.  With lamb and venison prices holding up, Mr Burdon said there was some optimism.  However, dairy farmers were slow in committing to winter grazing contracts, something which Central Otago farmers were usually finalising at this time of the year, he said.