Embedded risk management in dryland sheep systems I. Field results and development of a destocking algorithm

This paper presents part of a study evaluating alternative management strategies to address effects of climatic variability on productivity and profitability in dryland sheep farming in New Zealand. The study included a field trial and the development and use of quantitative models of sheep grazing systems. Field research carried out to investigate and demonstrate key aspects of high performance sheep systems in dryland environments is briefly described and a summary of results presented. These demonstrate that it is possible to maintain high pasture quality throughout the growing season with a relatively high stocking rate, leading to rapid lamb growth and sale. Flexibility to change feed demand quickly when conditions dry may reduce the variability of income between years (i.e. reduce risk) in comparison to the average farm in the region represented by a regional monitor farm model.