Out of season lamb: summary of workshop discussion

Abstract

Out-of-season lambing The optimum time This depends on feed supply. Considerable planning and feed supply management are required. Because pasture is the cheapest source, northern regions are likely to be more suited to out-of-season lambing. Livestock problems would need consideration, including getting ewes to cycle by drug use or by natural means. Climate and weather changes were seen as being a physical constraint with regular extremes of drought, flood and cold spells, and the long term possibility of the greenhouse effect upsetting climate patterns. The market was seen as being the major constraint, and the current state of the market makes it financially unattractive for farmers to take on additional risks and costs.