Breeder management
The aim of any breeder management plan is to optimise turn-off. This is driven by reproduction rates, which are largely determined by body condition. A breeder should have a body condition score of three or above (on a 1–5 scale) at calving to have the best chance of reconceiving while lactating.
In order to effectively manage breeder condition it is important to have adequate control of the herd. This requires investment in infrastructure such as fences and water points. Without adequate infrastructure it is difficult to implement many herd management strategies such as spelling pastures and weaning.
Good nutrition underpins body condition. Nutrition can be maximised by managing stocking rate and overall grazing pressure. Wet season spelling of native pastures is a key strategy for maintaining good land condition and promoting desirable pasture species.
Supplementary feeding can assist with maintaining body condition, however the economics of implementing a feeding program must be considered. Supplementary feeding will lead to increased intake of pasture which must be factored into subsequent stocking rate decisions.
A lactating cow requires significantly more protein and energy than a dry cow. Weaning the calf will cause lactation to cease and help to prevent body condition decline. The best time to wean will vary with seasonal conditions. Early weaning is recommended in poor years, however additional supplements will be required for weaners weighing less than 150kg.
When implementing controlled mating, calves should be timed to drop when the native pastures are most nutritious. In uncontrolled mating systems breeders should be segregated according to time of calving. Foetal aging while pregnancy testing will identify when calves will be born. Segregating breeders that are due to calve out of season will allow for targeted supplementation, reducing costs. Consistent out of season calvers should be considered for culling where possible.