Improving winter feeding outcomes in South Island dairy herds

Abstract

Winter represents an important time for South Island cows during winter poses a number of challenges in this environment. Under current wintering systems, many cows fail to achieve body condition score targets and there is increased potential for nutrient leaching and the loss of soil structure and health. Improving winter feeding outcomes is not always compatible with reducing impacts on soil, reducing nutrient leaching and improving welfare of cows and staff. Strategies for improving wintering outcomes are explored.