Careful consideration should be given to management effects on pastures and soils since these are the primary resource. Stock management is vital and the following measures are very important. Obviously, the longer all cattle remain on the property the worse feed and water supplies become and the harder it is on pastures, soil, livestock, finances, machinery and of course managers and families. Winter rain may produce herbage in southern Queensland but is unlikely to break a drought. Sale or agistment are the two options available to reduce stock numbers.
Sales help to generate a cash flow to meet ongoing commitments.
Depending on costs and returns, normal sale cattle may be topped off with conserved fodder reserves, purchased feeds, or custom grain feeding rather than selling on a depressed store sale market. The aim is to preserve the bulk of the breeders and young stock to restore normal production quickly after the drought breaks. Calves and weaners under 12 months of age should only be sold if absolutely necessary, as they are the cheapest group to hand feed. They are also next year s income. Agistment Agistment can have many pitfalls.