Management Changes With the Intensification of Farming the Pumice Lands Over the Last Ten Years

Abstract

The reasons for the large changes in pumice land farming systems over the last 10 years are outlined and the resultant increases in production presented. The large increases in district milkfat production and milkfat per cow are attributed to management changes such as later calving, shorter lactation, winter management, and the grazing of lucerne. Changes in sheep farm management such as later lambing, earlier weaning, grazing of lucerne, the use of rotational grazing, and a decline in beef cattle are outlined. Lambing percentages have increased, but wool weights are static. Future management changes that farmers should follow are outlined.