Refocusing on the basics, measuring covers, tracking leaf emergence and using this to set rotation lengths helps get the best from pasture.
Use DairyBase, milk processor reports, or the DairyNZ pasture and crop-eaten calculator (dairynz.co.nz/pasture-eaten) to check your homegrown feed eaten (tonnes/hectare/year) and the amount of pasture and crop your cows are actually consuming, and see if you are maximising performance.
1. Gather the data
Regularly measure your pasture to calculate average pasture cover (kgDM/ha) and growth rates. These figures are essential for making informed decisions on rotation length, fertiliser use and supplementary feeding.
Monitoring pre-grazing covers ensures cows are fed correctly, while managing post-grazing residuals supports optimal regrowth and pasture quality.
2. Record it
At a minimum, record pre- and post-grazing covers and grazing dates. This helps rank paddock performance and identify underperforming areas. Tools such as a feed wedge can guide real-time grazing and feed planning, while a rotation planner early in spring supports pasture growth and cow condition ahead of balance date.
Accurate records lead to better decisions and more useful insights from platforms such as DairyBase.
3. Check the wedge
Make sure pre-grazing covers meet cow demand and match the wedge target. Ryegrass should have 2.5 to three live leaves (2600kg-3200kg DM/ha) for optimal regrowth. Keep post-grazing residuals at 1500kg-1600kg DM/ha to maintain pasture quality and supplement efficiency.
4. Make the call
If pasture is short, slow the rotation, apply fertiliser and add supplements as needed. Prioritise feeding productive cows and consider culling poor performers.
If pasture is surplus, conserve or defer grazing and adjust the rotation to maintain quality. Use supplements strategically to support overall feed management, not just production.
5. Keep it going
Measure frequently — weekly during short rotations — to stay accurate and responsive. Timely data helps manage feed surpluses or deficits and improves supplement efficiency.
Trials show that getting cows to produce more milk solids from the same feed can double profit, compared with just cutting supplement costs.
Focus your efforts where they give the biggest return. — DairyNZ
