Introducing feed
As seasonal conditions worsen many landholders are bringing feed onto their farms from external sources, including interstate. This poses significant biosecurity risks and highlights the value of the farm biosecurity plan. A farm biosecurity plan includes actions before introducing animals, feed, chemicals and visitors onto the farm, actions on arrival and routine management on farm.
Consider the following when purchasing feed:
• Is the feed provider reputable and trustworthy?
• Request a Commodity Vendor Declaration (CVD)
• Record batch numbers and product details
• Check feed for weeds on arrival
• Understand “Swill Feeding”
• Do not feed “Restricted Animal Matter” to cattle or sheep
• File and retain CVD and feed purchase records
Managing agistment stock
Some producers have been fortunate enough to find agistment for their stock either in coastal areas or interstate.
• Inspect the agistment property first, either personally or have someone you trust do it
• Ensure all animals have an NLIS device
• Vaccinate animals before they leave your property, so that they are protected
• Find out about diseases that occur where your animals are being agisted and try to prevent them
• Visit the animals soon after they move to the agistment property and then at regular intervals to ensure all is well
If these animals are returning to your property it is recommended they be treated as new stock arriving, and the following biosecurity actions should be considered:
• Keep new stock separated for at least 21 days when returning from agistment
• If animals are ill during this period, contact your vet
• Check stock regularly during the quarantine period of at least three weeks
The health of your animals
Monitor the health of stock and look for signs of disease. Feeding time is a great opportunity to spend a few minutes observing animals. Look at how they walk, how much they are eating, their body condition and their faeces. If you have concerns, please give us a call.
Healthy animals are stronger and will be productive when seasonal conditions improve.
Your farm biosecurity plan should also include simple measures like reviewing health documents before purchasing livestock, reading the label on all chemicals before use, developing an annual livestock vaccination program and keeping records of stock purchases and sales.
For more information about Farm Biosecurity Planning contact the Biosecurity Team at Northern Tablelands Local Land Services on 02 6732 8800.
