Cows and Calves enjoying the fast growing oats on a farm on Cargo Rd
Driving through various parts of the state over the long weekend, it was pleasing to note that Canowindra and immediate districts are the standout areas in terms of growth from the last rain we have received over the past three weeks.
Brad O’Riley, local agronomist from Canowindra Produce said, ‘The rain has been very good for the farmers and has produced a positive outcome for winter crops and growth, however we will need more rain for the crops to continue growing at the rate they are now”.
Brad warns to watch out for a few pests this season, with a few cutworms in the canola crops and aphids in the wheat and lucerne crops. Brad also stated that urea is in short supply for July and August, so ensure you have enough for your top dressing for your canola and wheat crops. Talk to your local supplier and consider deep soil nitrogen testing before top dressing your crops, so you know how much urea you will need.
Paul Breen, local livestock agent with KMWL said,’ On Tuesday in Forbes, the lamb market was $10 easier than the previous week, with a large yarding of 45,000 compared to the previous week of 27,000. New sucker lambs will be in in August and this will see the older lamb market deflate. With the green feed and the wetter weather it is always a good idea to keep an eye out for pulpy kidney which can kill very fast, so particularly larger lambs should be vaccinated against this prior to putting them on green feed. Another worm to look for is the barbers pole worm, which has a symptom of pale gums and lips in sheep. With cattle the lice seem to come out in the colder weather, so if you see them rubbing against trees or fences this could be the cause.’ Paul said that it was shaping up for a good season, as long as the rain keeps coming.
By Cheryl Newsom