Intensification of farming systems
There are a range of feeding systems used on dairy farms throughout NSW being low bale (low levels of concentrate fed to the cow and more pasture in the diet), moderate to high bale, partial mixed ration (PMR), hybrid and more intensive zero grazing or total mixed ration (TMR) systems where the cow is in a contained system and has all feed brought to her (higher concentrate levels mixed with other feed sources).
While NSW is predominantly a pasture-based system, a range of factors have seen a gradual shift towards more intensive feeding systems. These include being able to manage challenging climatic conditions (e.g. extreme wet or heat), an inability in some regions to access more land or water and a desire to expand the business.
To help farmers understand the economic performance and risks of TMR systems and inform their decision making, two projects have been undertaken involving NSW TMR farms; the “Economics of Intensification” and the “Economics of Contained Housing Systems.” These have been delivered with industry funding and support as outlined below.
Information on intensification can also be found of the Dairy Australia website.
Economics of intensification (Dairy Up Project P3)
P3 – The economics of intensification
This project was funded through the Dairy Up collaborative R,D&E program in NSW. It involved social science research investigating farmer motivations in considering a transition of their business to a more intensive feeding systems and an economic analysis of the performance of 7 NSW businesses who transitioned to a TMR feeding system. This has provided a unique insight into the economic performance of this type of system in NSW.
Economics of contained housing systems
Expanding on the “Economics of Intensification” Dairy Up project, this research looked at the economics and risks of TMR feeding systems on 7 inland NSW and 8 Northern Victoria dairies over an 8-year period. It highlights the significant investment required and how the system increases total costs, cost of production and risk profile. This research was funded and supported by Agriculture Victoria and Dairy Australia and the DPIRD Dairy Business Advisory Unit.