Animal feed experts, ForFarmers UK has warned organic dairy producers of the likelihood of short forage supply in the upcoming winter months, following the lack of grass growth brought on by the dry weather in the UK since early spring.
The organic sector has suffered more than most, according to ForFarmers UK, and it is reported that conserved forage stocks have started to be used without any notable grass growth since early July.
ForFarmers’ organic commercial manager Ben Trott commented on the situation: “It is a real double-edged sword – the organic milk price is at a high with strong demand, with supply falling short.
“Organic dairy producers should be pushing for more production, but it isn’t that easy this year.”
Advisory
Trott advised organic dairy farmers to prepare a forage budget, in order to work out what is available and plan around that.
He added: “Once the farm’s individual forage stocks are established, we can start to look at alternatives.
“Forage analysis is also important as quality needs to be taken into account when making plans.”
The advisers at ForFarmers highlighted that organic farmers do not have multiple options of alternative feeds.
Trott noted: “There isn’t an abundance of moist feeds like on the conventional side – there are very few options which can be utilised as forage alternatives or extenders.”
He also highlighted the diet restrictions for organic cows, where forage has to account for a minimum of 60% of their dry matter intake.
Coompared to the supply that conventional producers will be relying on to fill the shortage with, such as maize, Trott believes there is not the same supply for the organic sector.
He said: “Organic producers will need to rely on grass and wholecrop silages – there may also be some fodder beet available.”
Derogation
In response to the extreme conditions experienced this year, the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is offering derogations to allow organic non-productive stock to be fed conventional forage, based on need and examined on a case-by-case basis.
A number of criteria must be met by the farmer for his certifier to support his application for the derogation.
Trott urged organic farmers to plan ahead by ensuring alternatives are in place now, rather than waiting until Christmas before addressing the problem.
He stated that farmers should consider planting root crops, such as turnips or forage rape, to allow some livestock to be kept outside grazing.
