From Water Carting to Waterlogging

July 16, 2021

The Jerramungup area is in the Great Southern Ag Zone which is approximately 450 kilometers southeast of Perth. From 2018 to 2020 it has been amongst the driest areas of WA. This has resulted in reduced cropping yields, increased tonnages of livestock feed bought in, and water cartage for livestock. This year, 2021, has seen the scales tipped back the other way with a very wet first half of the year. Some parts of the region received over 100 millimeters of rain in just two days late in June on top of already wet conditions. Growers are reporting crop losses due to waterlogging and re-seeding of some crops will be required if drying conditions allow access to the paddocks.

During the 2018 – 2020 period, Milne Feeds, in conjunction with their depot at Campbells Transport, marketed many tonnes of pelletised feed in the area. This season has seen sheep farmers in the area saying they don’t have enough sheep to keep on top of the feed as 2021 continues to provide amazing growing conditions for pastures. However, it is not all good news, as waterlogged pasture introduces a number of considerations for sheep graziers.

Importantly, sheep growers should be aware of the variability of pasture during different growth stages, which can significantly affect the amount of digestible energy available to livestock. This can impact growth rates of sheep during what may seem to be an abundant feed season. Milne Feeds sheep specialist, Brett Blanchett, comments that increased moisture content of waterlogged pastures also reduces the dry matter intake for sheep. For example, a pasture measuring 80 percent moisture will only contribute 200grams of dry matter intake (DMI) per kilo consumed.

Milne Nutritionist, Josh Sweeny, also highlights the need for careful parasite (worm) management as a consideration for maintaining a healthy flock on lush pasture.

 The photos below shows sheep in a regrowth wheat paddock from 2020 (left) and a cereal paddock that has succumbed to waterlogging this season (too much water) on the right.