No images? Click here StockedUpIssue 1 | March 2024
For WA Sheep and Cattle Industries Welcome to the first issue of the new ‘StockedUp’ newsletter. Season and production advice
Image source: DPIRD ![]() Confinement feeding![]() Confined feeding can play an important role in protecting the land from erosion while ensuring adequate nutrition for livestock. During dry years, paddocks are at an increased risk of overgrazing and erosion, particularly when ground cover falls below 50%. Poor seasonal conditions, grazing stubbles, paddock burning and cultivation are all factors which contribute to a high risk of wind erosion. The drier than average conditions this season mean supplementary feeding is necessary and widespread. Common supplementary feed sources such as lupins and hay have increased in price and availability is low depending on location. Many producers may source pellets as a full ration, or look at using alternative and novel feed sources. The variable quality or alternative feed sources mean that feed tests are vital for calculating rations when using alternative feeds. Setting up confinement feeding areas allows for better control of stock and easier management of feeding, watering, monitoring and handling. Before moving stock into confinement, it's highly recommended producers assess the resources required to ensure stock can be managed until they can return to pasture. For further information and advice on setting up confined feeding please visit the Confinement feeding webpage. Image source: DPIRD ![]() Weaner management: pain relief![]() The Weaner Pain Relief Trial was launched to evaluate the effectiveness of both short and long-acting pain relief products within the context of large-scale northern beef enterprises. This initiative, prompted by producer demand, sought not only to improve animal health and well-being but also to educate producers on the advantages of integrating pain relief into standard husbandry procedures. The trial ran over 2 consecutive years with 3 Western Australian properties from the Kimberley and Pilbara regions, each providing weaners for the trial. A total of 1,619 Bos indicus, and Bos indicus cross, weaners were assessed for physiological and behavioural changes following these procedures. Preliminary findings of the trial highlighted the significant impact castration and dehorning have on animal health and well-being which was observed throughout the trial. The trial demonstrated that although there were no cost benefits in using pain relief, it is an essential step in managing pain and critical for improving animal welfare outcomes. By exploring the benefits and limitations of pain relief products, this research project aims to shape the future of animal husbandry practices in the Australian beef industry, ultimately enhancing the well-being of cattle and the sustainability of beef production. Find out more on the trial, as well as further information from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) on Weaner management in northern beef herds. Image source: DPIRD ![]() Our researchDryland salinity is a critical issue for Western Australia’s agricultural lands, reducing the growth of pastures and crops and affecting the biodiversity of remnant native vegetation. Reseach into saltland pasture establishment as a grazing option has confirmed the potential profitable outcomes to a livestock grazing system. The Saltland Genie web-based app, launched last year in collaboration with the Gillamii Centre, brings together 8 decision support tools to help landholders implement solutions on their salt affected land. For steps on establishing a productive saltland pasture site, visit the Saltland Genie Webapp or read more on our Saltland pasture webpage. Image source: DPIRD ![]() Prevent livestock access to sources of lead![]() Lead is highly toxic to livestock, particularly cattle, and can result in neurological signs such as blindness, dullness, and sudden death. Stock owners are reminded to remove or fence off items containing lead from grazing paddocks, such as batteries, sump oil, paint and old machinery. Preventing residues in meat and meat products is critical for human food safety and WA’s ongoing access to valuable export markets. Animals that survive lead poisoning are quarantined for at least 12 months to ensure that animal products for human consumption or export do not contain lead residues. If you suspect your animals have been exposed to lead, contact your local DPIRD field veterinary officer – see Animal Biosecurity and Welfare contacts for your nearest officer. For more information on lead toxicosis and prevention, visit DPIRD’s lead poisoning and residues in livestock webpage. Image source: DPIRD ![]() Our staff![]() Image: Some of the DPIRD Livestock Research and Industry Innovation team. DPIRD’s Livestock Research and Industry Innovation team has approximately 70 staff across the state, ranging from Kununurra in the North to Albany in the South! We will be introducing our talented team over our quarterly issues and highlighting the exciting research projects we are working on with industry. The team is headed up by Director Julia Smith, who has been with DPIRD since 2008. Before stepping into the Director role, she worked in the Albany office for over 12 years undertaking research, extension and policy work on a range of sheep industry challenges. ![]() Upcoming events
Image source: Meat & Livestock Australia ![]() Further informationWA Sheep and Cattle Industries news from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). If you have any questions, or require further information please email livestock@dpird.wa.gov.au Subscribe to the StockedUp e-newsletter Important disclaimer Copyright © State of Western Australia (Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development), 2024. ![]() |