Major droughts generally develop following a dry spring and failure of subsequent summer rains. Decisions need to be made as to what relief measures are necessary. Important factors are the expected duration of the drought, the current water and feed supplies, the composition and body condition of the herd and financial resources available. 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.