Australia: Animal performance data to drive the future of export hay in China and beyond

Published Feb 26, 2021

Tridge summary

A collaborative project between AgriFutures Australia and the University of Melbourne, led by Dr Paul Long Cheng, is investigating the use of oaten hay in China's dairy industry. This research aims to enhance sustainable dairy production, with a focus on improving animal health, production, and environmental outcomes. Oaten hay is under-researched in an international context despite its increasing use. The project will survey Chinese dairy farmers and academics, replicate a Chinese Total Mixed Ration (TMR) model at the University of Melbourne's Dookie campus, and conduct studies on rumen fermentation and production. The project also aims to reduce nitrogen excretion by feeding Australian oaten hay to cows, with an expected field trial to start next year.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

The project – started this year – could also deliver animal health, production, and environmental benefits for the dairy industry. University of Melbourne Livestock Nutrition and Grazing Management Lecturer Dr (Paul) Long Cheng is leading the AgriFutures Australia and University of Melbourne research into the use of oaten hay to support the sustainable development of dairy production in China. There has been little international research into this topic and Dr Cheng said it was well overdue, given the increasing use of this roughage source in dairy systems. “The feedback I’ve had from initial conversations with representatives from the dairy industry in China and those in the Australian industry, such as farmers, is they don’t really know how good is good, or how bad is bad,” he said. “Oaten hay is perceived mostly as a hay – a fibre source.” Dr Cheng added: “Anecdotally we know oaten hay is much more than a fibre source – it has the potential to improve animal health and overall ...

Source: Agrifutures