Farmers in south-west Victoria are encouraged to consider containment feeding to protect pastures and paddocks from soil erosion over the next few months.
Land Management Extension Officer, Clem Sturmfels said paddocks with depleted pasture cover are susceptible to damage. Those most at-risk are on sloping ground and with a sandy topsoil.
'Once pasture cover drops below 70 – 80%, damage to soil can occur. This damage can be wind erosion, sheet erosion, soil structure decline or a combination of all three,' said Mr Sturmfels.
'Continued overgrazing will also significantly damage pastures, resulting in reduced plant density and vigour.
'Placing animals in a stock containment area (SCA) is the ideal way to protect paddocks in a dry season when ground cover has diminished,' said Mr Sturmfels.
'Setting up a SCA requires careful planning and design to make them efficient and easier to operate.'
Containment areas should allow two to five square metres per sheep and 10 to 15 square metres per cattle. Good fencing, appropriate subdivision to separate different classes of livestock, and water troughs with a reliable water supply are also required.
'Managing livestock in a SCA is a significant commitment and requires daily monitoring and maintenance to ensure the nutritional, water and health needs of stock are met,' added Mr Sturmfels.
Farmers looking for alternate options to protect their paddocks from soil erosion, could consider using a sacrifice paddock or a laneway as a temporary SCA, to restrict damage to a smaller area of the farm.
Farmers are advised to check with a local Council Planning Officer before starting construction of a stock containment area as a planning permit may be required in some situations.
