Feedpads
- There are clear advantages in reducing pasture and soil damage: better pasture utilisation, increased pasture regrowth and improved animal welfare leading to increased production and fewer costs associated with pasture renovation. There are a number of options available if animals are to be taken off paddocks.
- A dairy feedpad is a confined yarded area that provides adequate water, space, feeding facilities and an effective effluent removal system. Stock can be held in the area for varying lengths of time. To reduce pasture damage, stock can be fed and held on the pad for a few hours each day or longer depending on the weather.
- Dairy feedpads are used throughout Australia to feed stock in times of pasture shortage, reduce the adverse effects of stock on pastures in wet weather, reduce pasture renovation costs and help adjust milk characteristics throughout controlled feeding. They are also used to facilitate higher stocking rates on farms of limited size.
- Avoid feedpads being situated adjacent to creeks or drainage lines to reduce risk of soil and nutrient movement to these waterways.
- You will need to consider enlarging your effluent system to cope with the additional loading from the feedpad. If possible have a separate effluent system for the feedpad areas, if not have some form of solids separation prior to entering the existing effluent system. Store over winter months to avoid run-off and reuse over pasture or crops.
- There are many types of feedpads that suit most situations and budgets. Many farmers have developed their own innovative feedpads by utilising or expanding existing infrastructure on the farm.
- Look around for ideas and don’t be afraid to ask questions and visit farms with systems that may suit your farm. Planning is very important.
- A feedpad becomes a permanent asset and can be used for the whole year. It can also be used for other activities such as calving, drafting, vet checking and as shade/shelter during adverse weather conditions.
Page Top
