While parts of the Central Tablelands have recently received good rainfall - Mudgee has had nearly 6mm this afternoon - not putting stock back into the paddock too soon will pay off in better pasture production in the long run.
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That's the message from Local Land Services' Phil Cranney, who reports some farmers around the region have had sufficient rainfalls to prompt fresh pasture growth.
"Farmers who have had rain will need to assess their paddocks carefully as the species composition, soil and landscape type all need to be taken into account in deciding when to resume grazing," Mr Cranney said.
"While Mediterranean species such as cocksfoot and fescue are generally dormant in summer, these pastures are likely to respond to recent heavy rain if a cool change sweeps through in February.
"Some properties have received falls of 60mm to 100mm in isolated storm events which will almost certainly spur pasture growth."
Where pasture is starting to recover, waiting until desirable grass species are at the three leaf stage before grazing, will give roots time to replenish the water soluble carbohydrates that drive plant growth and persistence.
"The risk is that people may let stock, particularly sheep, into those recovering pasture paddocks too soon," said Mr Cranney.
"If plants don't have time to fully restore root reserves, they are more susceptible to the next dry period. Allowing more time for recovery will enable a better chance of survival for desirable perennial grasses."
At the same time, in paddocks dominated by undesirable plants, as long as there is no risk of soil erosion, Mr Cranney recommends grazing early to reduce plant root reserves.
In the higher altitude regions, native grasses such as microlaena can respond quickly to rain in the summer months and provide high quality feed for livestock.
Microlaena is highly tolerant to grazing, although rest and recovery is still advised until ground cover reaches a level where the risk of soil erosion is minimal.
Meanwhile many landholders across the Central Tablelands have not had significant rainfall and are continuing to hand feed stock in confined areas.
When rain does eventually arrive, Mr Cranney advises the transition from supplementary feeding back to pasture, needs to be handled carefully.
"Managing nutrition during the transition phase is particularly important in merino flocks to avoid a break in the wool staple, which can result in a significant discount from wool buyers."
- For more advice on pasture recovery and livestock feed contact the Central Tablelands Local Land Services office in Mudgee on (02) 6378 1700.
