Stocking rate from litter is up ninefold

James (left) and father Ian Bird on their all beef property near Gresford in the Lower Hunter.

Seven year’s application of poultry litter and a program of soil testing have pleased son James and father Ian Bird on their all beef property near Gresford in the Lower Hunter.

Soil tests have changed from being deficient in all major nutrients to no deficiencies. 

"Litter is not cheap per hectare, but it is highly effective," James Bird said.

Paddocks which once struggled to run one cow to 2 ½ hectares on couch and carpet grass dominant pastures now produce lush ryegrass, clover and kikuyu.

James and Ian run 60 cows or steers on 16 hectares after litter application and have been cutting up to 16 bales of slilage per hectare when they can’t keep up with the feed.