The buzz on Flystrike management - 23 November 2009
Sheep producers looking for additional flystrike management information and measures can now refer to the ‘Producers’ Corner’ on the Sheep CRC website.
A suite of information on seasonal planning, breeding strategies, ram selection and day-to-day management has been compiled by leading scientists and researchers, and is available for stud breeders and commercial producers at www.sheepcrc.org.au.
The Sheep CRC’s Information Nucleus flocks have provided vital information on flystrike management practice over the last two years. All progeny are non-mulesed, and with their locations at 8 sites across Australia ranging from low to high rainfall, the Sheep CRC has experienced what its like to run sheep with variable breech strike susceptibility.
Sheep CRC Project Leader Industry Training, Mrs Lu Hogan, says by using the lessons from this experience, and new proven genetics as well as the CRC’s information package, producers who choose to make a change can have confidence.
"We know there are producers who have successfully moved towards alternative breech strike management techniques and that there are others who are now planning or considering their move.
"The information built up by the Sheep CRC focuses on an integrated approach based on using shorter-term management measures while breeding a more breech strike resistant flock."
Information available at www.sheepcrc.org.au includes:
• Monitoring fly activity and risk periods
• The factors that make sheep susceptible to flystrike
• Preparing a flystrike management program with planning templates and calendars
• Visually assessing sheep (ewes and rams) for breech strike risk levels
• Segmenting and managing ewe and lamb, and weaner flocks on the basis of breech wrinkle
• Using available management practises and treatments for short-term protection
• Selecting sires using visual scores and the Early Breech Wrinkle ASBV for longer-term protection
• Marketing non-mulesed wool
• Producers making the transition - case studies
• Getting started – planning, techniques, targets and tips
• Further information and contacts
All sections have links to some other sources of further information and resources.
Joint training in flystrike management is being developed by the Sheep CRC and State DPI’s and training course schedules will also be listed on the website.
Media contact: Janelle Holzberger on 02 6773 2927
CJ Hawkins Homestead, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351