Adapting to rapidly changing conditions: LLS workshops on the horizon

The devastating fires in Tenterfield in early November, steady rainfall around much of the tablelands, a recent heatwave which looks likely to persist into the weekend, are certainly keeping producers and small farm owners alike on their toes.

Local Land Services have announced a number of workshops, events and updates around the region including a 'Tenterfield Farming Fundamentals' workshop, agronomy updates at Armidale, Walcha and Glen Innes and a Prograze pastures assessment course.

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LLS Pastures and Plant biosecurity officer Georgie Oakes said helping landholders staying up to date in a rapidly shifting environment is what the workshops are all about.

"Seasons are always changing, year to year. In many ways, it's gone from say having to plant by 'X' by ANZAC day or by Australia day you had to have had 'Y' done, said MS Oakes.

"Now the seasons are slightly moving, so making sure we're understanding the seasons at the present time as opposed to what has been done or experienced traditionally in fundamental."

"Genetics in our pastures and in our livestock has also constantly changing, so it's important to consider these changing aspects of farming today and this is where LLS can offer valuable assistance."

A report by Kellanova ANZ, the parent company of Kellogg's suggests that Nine out of 10 farmers have a plan in place to deal with drier weather.

Pasture availability following the Tenterfield fires provides an example of Instantaneous change that landholders are faced with, as does the heat.

"We will see a rapid change in our pastures also this week due to the hot weather. Water intake of our livestock also with cattle maybe not grazing as much, that will factor in, said Ms Oakes.

"In areas where we haven't received as much rain, pastures will begin to mature every quickly will result in an overall decline in quality."

The farming fundamentals workshop in Tenterfield will be held on December 12, 2023 at the Tenterfield Golf Club.

This event has been designed for lifestyle block and small farm owners, and will cover the basics of livestock ownership and the importance of creating shade on your property.

Agronomy updates at Armidale, Walcha and Glen Innes will focus on significant weeds of importance and pastures and forage options availability for seasonal conditions and livestock demands.

Walcha has been identified as an area of significance for koalas, there will be discussions during the Walcha update about the protection of koalas and their habitats.

Representatives from Barenbrug Australia will be on hand to answer questions as will area specific weeds officers also.

Finally, LLS are currently taking expressions of interest into January for a February kick off of the Prograze pastures course.

This course is designed to assist in such things as visually assessing pasture quality and quantity and understanding how pasture quality and quantity impact on animal production.

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