The free 32-page publication also covers the benefits of making hay, what types of hay to make, the hay price outlook, what hay buyers really want, what prevents hay from selling, hints and tips for producing quality hay, preparations, the pros and cons of hay versus silage, storage, tips for handling mice and how to interpret feed tests.
This is the seventh year the booklet has been published.
Feed Central general manager Cieran Maxwell said no matter what nature and the markets do, good hay making practices would be crucial, and quality should be the focus of any production management plan.
“There will be a market for quality hay,” he said.
“Storage will be key and producing hay or straw with no shed storage plan risks significant negative financial impacts.
“The standard requirements apply — high density bale weights, consistency in bale shape and size, visual appearance and feed test result.”
Threats for the season include unfavourable curing and baling conditions, lack of shed storage leading to damaged product, mice damage, over-supply of lower quality product to market requirements, large amount of feed on the ground and end user’s own production.
There is also uncertainty about COVID-19’s disruptive effect on connected markets.
Every year about 10 million tonnes of hay, straw and silage is produced in Australia, with total value about $2 billion. About half is traded, and half retained for on-farm use.
The booklet is available from: https://www.feedcentral.com.au/tips-for-a-profitable-hay-season/