Riverine Plains Blog

Key Messages: 

• Each day is different – some days will run more smoothly than others so be aware of this and know when to take a break, switch paddocks or call it a day. 

• Try to think rationally and not over think things. Discuss options openly with your harvest staff. 

• Share the responsibility with others and delegate tasks when possible.

This season is testing the resilience and patience of farmers in our region and while harvest is currently very stop, start and erratic, it is important to keep safety at the forefront. 

Options for Harvesting Canola

It is important to assess your paddocks and make decisions based on the trafficability, potential rain forecast and seed colour change (SCC).

Key messages

• Review cash flow budgets in light of revised yield & quality
• Communicate with your farm advisors & bank manager
• Be open-minded to opportunities that increase your income stream

Key Points

• Monitor canola for seed colour change (both on the main stem and branches) to determine the optimum windrowing time
• Contractor availability, trafficability & heavy, lodged crops may compromise windrowing
• Direct heading may provide an alternative to windrowing in some situations.

Riverine Plains’ farmers would usually be busy gearing up for windrowing at this time of year, however the cool and wet conditions have delayed canola maturity and caused a host of other issues.

Key Messages

• Monitor sheep for foot problems & try to move affected sheep to a dry area to allow feet to recover,
• Look for signs of skin and insect borne diseases, dehydration and other illnesses,
• Isolate newly arrived sheep to prevent the introduction of diseases or parasites.