Supplementary feeding rangeland goats yields results
16 November 2017
As previously reported in Goats on the Move, MLA has instigated and funded a trial of supplementary feeding of rangeland goats and Ausvet Pty Ltd is coordinating the trial with several other collaborators.
The first half of the trial used a prepared ration from a commercial supplier, specially formulated by animal nutritionists to assist the growth of young goats.
The aim was to obtain proof of concept that rangeland goats do gain weight rapidly whilst on a very good quality feed. Results showed that goat growth was relatively good overall. However, the advantage over un-supplemented goats was marginal at about 1kg additional growth, which is unlikely to be economical.
The second half of the trial is concentrating on feeding the legume, lupins, which are considered more economical. Mobs are being trialled in Queensland at properties near Warwick, Dirranbandi and Eulo.
Interim results from one completed site, where two paddocks of goats were trialled, are promising. The lupin supplemented goats were 7kg heavier on average than the supplemented goats over a three-month period. The project team is now working to complete the trial groups at the other sites and the full set of results will be analysed and published in 2018 with recommendations for industry.
The interim results are being presented at a producer field day at Warwick on 2 December. For more information click here and to RSVP contact Shannon Plowright at 02 6228 6200 or shannon.plowright@ausvet.com.au by 25 November for catering purposes.
For those who are unable to make the field day, a free webinar is being held on 12 December, 12pm Australia Eastern Time (Brisbane). To register for the webinar, click here or visit the MLA events page.
For more information on the project contact Brendan Cowled at brendan@ausvet.com.au or 0420 851 350.
