Graziers in the Lower South East are currently benefitting from favourable circumstances according to the latest State Government report.

“Livestock are in good condition and there is plenty of feed in paddocks and in storage if required,” stated the PIRSA Crop and Pasture Report.

However, well above average rainfall in July across the Lower South East has provided some challenges for the agricultural sector.

“Waterlogging is a problem across the district and some dead patches are evident in crops,” stated the report.

“Many paddocks are not trafficable, which is halting the application of fertilisers and fungicides at a crucial growth period.

“Aircraft are being utilised but are unable to efficiently apply the higher amounts of fertiliser required.

“Waterlogging and reduced nutrient supply due to lack of paddock access will reduce crop yields.

“Wheat is at early stem elongation growth stage; a crucial period for applications of nitrogen and fungicides to maximise yield potential.

“Spring canola is approximately 25-50% in flower.

“Winter-planted summer canola yield is likely to be affected due to waterlogging and lack of fertiliser.

“Beans are close to flowering.

“Preventative applications of fungicides and insecticides are being used for management of disease and insect pests.

“Ryegrass control has been very challenging this season due to multiple germination periods and an inability to get onto paddocks to spray herbicides at the appropriate time.

“Pasture growth is still slow but improving. Hay is still being fed to cattle and supplies are easily found.”