This case study demonstrates the positive impact of the Total Replacement Therapy programme on a Whakatane dairy farm, showcasing improvements in pasture quality, milk production, and overall farm performance.
Total Replacement Therapy: A Whakatane Dairy Farm's Journey
Farmer's Perspective: Alan's Experience
"We're keen to see how the pasture responds to the real rain that's coming," says Alan. "Based on past experience, we're expecting a rapid response."
Alan is impressed with the results of the Total Replacement Therapy programme thus far. "Many small things have come together to create some very credible results. We're hopeful that next season will be a bit more settled, allowing us to see clear, quantifiable evidence that these positive changes are due to the Total Replacement Therapy system."
He emphasises, "We view this process as a journey, not a shock treatment."
Team Approach
Alan praises the collaborative effort: "We're impressed with the team approach between David Law (Forward Farming) and the Kiwi Fertiliser team, especially Ron McLean with his logistics experience, and Gerry Strange with on-farm support."
Future Potential
"I reckon there's huge potential with this exciting programme; the future has new possibilities for all of us," Alan concludes.
Key Observations
Clover has increased dramatically, from 20% to 70%
In April, milk production was steady at 1.5kgMS/cow/day
Maize treated with Total Replacement Therapy was, on average, 200mm taller and 5mm thicker through the stalk than untreated maize in December
Pasture has continued to grow in hot summer conditions, even without rain
Pasture is leafier, with less stalk
