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Managing grass seeds

Grass seeds are an annual problem for many. Significant production and processing losses can occur. South Australian lamb producer Graham Clothier avoids processor penalties and lost productivity with a conscientious grass seed management program.

Without intervention, seeds from barley, brome and silver grasses would be a challenge at the Lucindale property Graham runs.

“Barley grass seeds can get into eyes of sheep, while brome and silver grass seeds penetrate their skin and carcase. This impacts the health of our stock and can lead to penalties if seeds go through to processing,” Graham said.

For Graham’s full story see http://www.mla.com.au/Livestock-production/Producer-case-studies/Sights-set-on-seeds

A series of YouTube clips have been developed addressing the grass seed issue and management options. This includes:

Winning against seeds - https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=F8H5F9lvkXc
Premature shearing - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07c-R-t9Qmg
Winter cleaning - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOeB45j8caA
Spray grazing - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhyQMbzohlA
Spray topping - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O55SzIk8KVI