Dry weather and drought

Manage the impact of dry weather and agricultural drought using the resources below.

Manage livestock in dry weather

Managing prolonged dry conditions

Tips on making sure livestock are kept comfortable in hot weather and managing grass and feed stocks.

Managing livestock in prolonged dry conditions

Avoid a shortage of bedding

It’s important to work out how much straw you will need during a prolonged dry spell, and to calculate whether there will be a deficit.

Find out how to plan for a shortage of bedding

Keep an eye on feed and fodder

Checking whether you have a deficit based on current livestock numbers and feed supply lets you make informed decisions about stock sales or purchasing of additional feed.

Manage feed price volatility and alternative feed options during feed and fodder shortages

Plan for water supply problems

If your farm loses access to water it is essential to have a plan in place.

Discover the best way to manage water supply for livestock

Find latest reports on rainfall, soil moisture, river flows, groundwater levels

Use fertiliser wisely

Watch our YouTube video to learn about fertiliser use in dry conditions.

Prevent and manage fires

While there is always a risk of fires breaking out on farm, the risk is greater during prolonged dry conditions.

Find out how to prevent fires in times of drought

Get to grips with water regulations

Water regulations are in place to protect ground and surface water – make sure your business stay on the right side of the law.

Check the water regulations for farmers

Useful links

Our horticulture and potatoes archive has information on nutrient management and irrigation during a drought

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