A new containment feeding resource has been launched offering South Australian sheep producers a practical and research-informed guide to improve livestock management in drought conditions.
Developed by Dr Penny Schulz, Livestock Technical Specialist Adoption Officer with the South Australian Drought Hub, in collaboration with livestock consultant Deb Scammell of Talking Livestock, the new resource captures the key insights and learnings from a series of producer-focused workshops held across the state coupled with the teams technical knowledge.
Containment feeding, where livestock are kept in a designated area and provided with a nutritionally balanced ration, is increasingly recognised as an effective strategy to manage pasture condition during dry periods, reduce land degradation and maintain animal health and productivity.
The new guide addresses the complexity of containment feeding systems and outlines best-practice management, including animal health, ration formulation, infrastructure considerations, and economic evaluation.
Dr Schulz said the containment feeding offers a valuable opportunity to maintain ground cover while ensuring stock receive the nutrition.
“This new guide brings together the technical knowledge, case studies and on-ground experience shared during our extensive workshop program.”
The development of the guide was supported and guided by a number of SA Drought Hubs initiatives over the last two years, including a producer learning program, train-the-trainer events involving 15 livestock advisers, development of a ration formulation app, five pilot producer group programs involving over 50 sheep producers, individual follow-up and coaching support and cross-Hub knowledge sharing activities reaching an additional 50 producers.
Co-author Deb Scammell said the resource is designed to be both technical and practical, helping producers make confident, informed decisions about incorporating containment feeding into their management plans.
“Every operation is different, and the guide supports producers to tailor a program that fits their goals, infrastructure and seasonal conditions,” Ms Scammell said.
The Containment Feeding: Producer Resource Guide is now available for download via the SA Drought Hub website.
For more information on the project and to download the guide, visit: Containment feeding to boost business performance and resilience – SA Drought Hub
