Why are droughts or extreme dry conditions not considered or treated the same as emergencies?
Droughts come and go slowly and they are a prolonged, abnormally dry period when the amount of available water is limited. In Australia drought can be managed as a normal business risk over extended periods. Farmers are encouraged to adopt self-reliant management approaches, as they are in the best position to develop agronomic practices and business strategies to suit their particular needs and enterprises.
For strategies, tools and tips on how to manage during dry conditions visit www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/seasonal
What is the best way to help primary producers experiencing extreme dry conditions or drought?
If you wish to donate towards fodder to help primary producers experiencing financial hardship because of the dry conditions, cash is the most helpful donation as it allows those impacted to buy exactly what they need.
The Rural Relief Fund accepts donations of money to help support farming families, with priority given to both family and animal welfare.
Where can I go for help in sourcing fodder and feed during dry conditions?
TasFodder links buyers and sellers of fodder and feed and provides a free, year-round online registration service that aims to help farmers find alternative sources of fodder and feed. Head to the Fodder & Feed section of the TFGA website here
Where can I find out about places and arrangements available for agistment?
Livestock agents, rural real estate, Tas Country or social media platforms are a good place to start.
What options are there to help manage stock in dry conditions?
Monitoring water and calculating feed and water requirements for livestock is important, along with strategies to manage stock in dry conditions. See Dry Conditions Tips and Strategies on the DPIPWE website for more information.
What is the best value fodder to buy in times of drought or dry conditions?
Feed quality in any year is highly variable. There are many informative resources available online to help you make a decision about the available alternatives that best suit your needs. See the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture’s publication ‘Feed tests can save money’ and other resources under the ‘Feed and Fodder’ heading on the Dry Conditions Tips and Strategies webpage.
An agricultural consultant or the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture may be able to provide advice on what to consider with your stock.
I am unable to purchase feed and fodder, where can I go to for help?
The Rural Relief Fund provides financial support to farming families, with priority given to both family and animal welfare.
Free financial counselling is also available through Rural Business Tasmania or phone 1800 88 FARM (1800 88 3276).
Mental health support is available through www.rawtas.com.au or phone 1300 HELP MATE (1300 4357 6283)
I am concerned about animal welfare, what should I do?
People who own, manage or otherwise care for animals are responsible for their welfare. For more information, please contact Biosecurity Tasmania.
