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Embedded risk management in dryland sheep systems I. Field results and development of a destocking algorithm

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  • Gicheha, M.G.
  • Edwards, G.R.
  • Bell, S.T.
  • Bywater, A.C.

Abstract

This paper presents part of a study evaluating alternative management strategies to address effects of climatic variability on productivity and profitability in dryland sheep farming in New Zealand. The study included a field trial and the development and use of quantitative models of sheep grazing systems. Field research carried out to investigate and demonstrate key aspects of high performance sheep systems in dryland environments is briefly described and a summary of results presented. These demonstrate that it is possible to maintain high pasture quality throughout the growing season with a relatively high stocking rate, leading to rapid lamb growth and sale. Flexibility to change feed demand quickly when conditions dry may reduce the variability of income between years (i.e. reduce risk) in comparison to the average farm in the region represented by a regional monitor farm model.

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  • Gicheha, M.G. & Edwards, G.R. & Bell, S.T. & Bywater, A.C., 2014. "Embedded risk management in dryland sheep systems I. Field results and development of a destocking algorithm," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 124(C), pages 12-20.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:agisys:v:124:y:2014:i:c:p:12-20
    DOI: 10.1016/j.agsy.2013.05.003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Diaz-Solis, H. & Kothmann, M.M. & Grant, W.E. & De Luna-Villarreal, R., 2006. "Use of irrigated pastures in semi-arid grazinglands: A dynamic model for stocking rate decisions," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 88(2-3), pages 316-331, June.
    2. Cacho, O. J. & Finlayson, J. D. & Bywater, A. C., 1995. "A simulation model of grazing sheep: II. Whole farm model," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 48(1), pages 27-50.
    3. Diaz-Solis, H. & Kothmann, M. M. & Hamilton, W. T. & Grant, W. E., 2003. "A simple ecological sustainability simulator (SESS) for stocking rate management on semi-arid grazinglands," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 76(2), pages 655-680, May.
    4. Finlayson, J. D. & Cacho, O. J. & Bywater, A. C., 1995. "A simulation model of grazing sheep: I. Animal growth and intake," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 48(1), pages 1-25.
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