We have yet another late start to the season - apart from delayed sowing of crops, pastures have yet to germinate and it is likely that producers will have to hand feed their animal a large proportion of what they need well into winter.

After such a long period of drought most producers are accustomed to this, and while livestock prices remain reasonably good, it is a bit easier to accept yet another bill for stock feed.

However, feed costs can add up quickly and producers should plan their feed strategies carefully to ensure that they are meeting their goals at the lowest possible cost.

The first step is to estimate how much feed can be expected from existing pastures, when this feed will be available, and what its quality will be.

The next step is to assess animal requirements for each class of livestock.

This step will include setting realistic weight targetss.

Finally, fill any feed gaps efficiently with an appropriate supplement.

Sounds easy, but in reality it can be a bit of a challenge to get the optimum system.

One key area where producers can improve livestock outcomes is to pay close attention to where feed is purchased.

What may seem like a bargain on a dry matter basis may be very expensive when costed on an energy basis.

There is a wealth of information on the NSW DPI web site under "Drought" which can help you further improve your livestock feeding program.

This includes a database of feed tests, through which you can get an average value for any particular feed, and a really useful feed cost calculator that can help you compare various feeds or rations on a dollar basis.

Of course, the feed value of most feeds can vary widely with seasonal conditions and harvest time.

It is highly recommended that you purchase feed or devise rations on the basis of a feed quality test.

Contact your NSW DPI district livestock officer for more information on livestock feeding or www.agric.nsw.gov.au/reader/drought.