Maize
Good Soil = Good Yield
For Waikato farmer Alan Henderson, maize growing is a key component of his dairy farming operation. Words Heather Chalmers.
Episode 10 – Is maize the answer to growing more feed on farm?
Maize is pretty amazing for dairy farmers with both environmental and animal feed benefits that align with Fonterra’s target of 80% home-grown feed. Hear about Nestle’s recent presentation at a FAR maize field day, how maize is expanding into Southland with short maturing hybrids and how a Waikato dairy farmer is hitting $9,000/ha operating profit regardless of the payout.
Onfarm feed helps offset costs
Rex and Sharon Butterworth are focused on running a system that remains profitable regardless of the payout as they make the most of their home-grown feed, which sets their stock up for optimal production. Claire Ashton reports.
Efficiency from amazing maize
Waikato dairy farmer Paul MacKenzie is growing 43% of his milking platform in maize. Maize silage is an ideal component for his highly stocked winter milking system, but he told Sheryl Haitana there is always more efficiency to be found. Photos by Emma MaCarthy.