Pasture Summit

Simple, repeatable systems are proving to be a winning formula for North Otago couple Peter and Emma Smit. They spoke at a Pasture Summit field day earlier this year and shared just what those systems entail and how they achieve top-performing financial returns.

In this episode, Anne Lee speaks with Peter about the low cost, pasture focused system that keeps their costs down and profitability high. The Smits have refined their approach to pasture management, focusing on residuals, grass quality, and a low stocking rate to maintain resilience through varying payouts. They also discuss their strategic mating plan, long term team stability, and how small, well executed changes continue to lift efficiency across the farm.

With mating underway it’s important to look at your pasture management systems to make sure your herd is eating well. Keeping quality while there is a surplus and then keeping an eye out on when to slow down your round is important to future proof feed supply. Hear from DairyNZ Farm Systems Specialist Mark Williams, and Chair of Pasture Summit Robbie Ferris, on the keys to successful spring pasture management.

Farmers Will Grayling and Will Green discuss their profitable pasture-based systems and share their top tips on hitting pasture cover targets. Barenbrug’s Graham Kerr shares tips for getting the most out of your pasture crops, and when to start having conversations, making strategies, and communicating them.

At the November 2023 Pasture Summit in Canterbury Will Green and Will Grayling shared an insight into their two very different farming businesses for a master-class in profitable pasture-based dairying.
Words Anne Lee. Photos Sarah Perriam-Lampp.

Two farmers and an agri-tech innovator share their pasture philosophy and learnings from top performing dairy farmers in how they focus on pasture utilisation that leads to better outcomes from people, profitability and the environment.