Managing wet soils

One of the major problems many dairy farmers face during winter and early spring is the waterlogging of soils for considerable periods. This not only causes poorer pastures, both in growth and quality, but makes it harder and more unpleasant to farm. Those jobs with critical timing (such as silage making and crop sowing) can be upset, tractors leave deep furrows in paddocks when feeding out, and cows pugging pasture to the point where they require a full renovation, adding to costs and despair for many farmers.

The following information sheets provide information for dairy farmers about the management of wet soils:

• Type of 'off-paddock' systems
• Choosing a type of sub-surface drainage system to use
• Case study of stand-off areas
• Case study of subsurface drainage - 1
• Case study of subsurface drainage - 2
• Composting spoiled hay
• Determining which subsurface drainage system to use
• Mole drainage
• Planning farm drainage
• Renovation of damaged pastures and soils
• Subsurface pipe drainage
• Managing wet soils: types of subsurface drainage
• What are your best options for managing wet soils?
• On off grazing
• Surface drainage
• Grazing techniques
• What off-paddock system?
• Feedpads and stand-off areas