Grass quality analysis-

Having sampled the grass growth, GDC have analysed the grass samples on a monthly basis- to provide an accurate indication of the grass' ability to feed livestock. Monthly data on both the fields are shown below-

Field by field growth recording-

Using the Sonic feed reader, as part of the project, Richard has been able to easily record the grass covers in KG of dry matter per hectare across all of his farm, comparing grass growth rates on different fields, helping plan out his grass management. The following table shows the covers in each of the sampled fields, and provides a comparison between the weekly grass recordings carried out-

Grass wedge charts-

Through the use of grass wedges as below, Richard has been able to map out his grass covers accurately, and plan for any predicted peaks or troughs in his feed production- which is crucial when aiming to get the most out your available grass.

As Richard's grazing requirements have risen over the summer period, the grass wedge for the 30/07/2011 reflected that Richard's grass covers were matching up to his requirements, with the red line (depicting his required level of grass) roughly matching the available grass within his grazing fields.

By mid August however, Richard's grazing paddocks had exceeded his requirements, as the blue bars, have risen above the red line significantly. This will have given Richard the confidence to shut off some of his platform for a late cut of silage, or to introduce more stock- with his current stock grazing requirement well below his available fodder.