Hastings Update:
Regional average spore counts are around the 10,000 mark, with hotspots across the region indicating the risk is not over yet. Areas around Waiwhare/Taihape Road had hotspots reaching 45,000. Best advice is to monitor the spore counts on your pastures to assess risk more accurately.
Waipukurau Update:
Spores are still present although not in extremely high numbers. April can still be a high risk month as if we see a return of warm, muggy weather there is usually enough moisture around to support spore production. Remember the overnight temperatures need to be consistently over 12 degrees to allow fungal growth.
Further spore count rises could occur quickly with the right conditions. It is important to keep monitoring the spore counts, the risk period runs into May and can change quickly. Regular monitoring and reviewing your action plan is key.
Mitigation options to think about
Identifying high and low areas on your place by spore counting
Prioritising most at risk stock (replacements ewe lambs/heifer calves) on the safest pastures
Avoid grazing to low residuals
Zinc treatments – boluses, zinc oxide, zinc trough/water treatments (cattle)
Reducing spore loading by supplementary feeding
Spraying selected paddocks with a fungicide (talk to us about paddock selection criteria)
Sell saleable stock
