Efficient procurement of feedgrains, concentrates and bought-in forages
Background:
Farmers have increased use of grains and concentrates in feeding systems by at least 10% p.a. up to an average level of about 1.6 tonne/cow/year. This level of grain and concentrate feeding now contributes at least 35% of milk solids. In addition more farmers are buying conserved forages, particularly cereal hays.
It is critical that farmers understand the grain and fodder marketing chain in which they participate, and apply feed supply and price risk management strategies to protect their farm.
Project objective:
Provide tools and resources to help farmers manage the risks to associated with the supply, quality and price of bought-in feed.
Project scope:
The project includes the following activities:
- Support the Australian Fodder Industry Association to strengthen the proficiency and accuracy of feed testing laboratories
- Collaborate with the RDCs of other animal industries and GRDC to improve the supply of feedgrains
- Provide farmers with up to date information on the supply, price and ways to purchase feedgrain and fodder
- Investigate the level and range in feed wastage in the dairy industry
- Provide farmers and consultants with detailed info on the nutritive content of the range of feed ingredients available
Outcomes/benefits:
Farm profitability can be improved via a more efficient procurement of bought-in feed. This will be achieved by providing farmers with the tools, skills and knowledge to purchase their grain, concentrates and fodder at a “fair” and consistent price.
If dairy farmers can purchase their feed grain for a very conservative $20 less per tonne, the “average” dairy farmer with 242 cows and using 348 tonne grain/concentrate per year will save almost $7,000 per year.
More information:
For more information, contact Dave Henry, Dairy Australia Feedbase Program Manager.