Research was undertaken at two large field experiments to evaluate the performance of one of two pasture-based wintering system options over three winters – bale grazing in northern Southland and pasture and baleage in South Otago. A general recommendation from the project is that pasture-based wintering of cows can be successfully undertaken, providing some important design and management criteria are incorporated into the chosen system.

The project observed six Otago and Southland sheep, beef and deer farmers use of multi-species, multi-graze cropping options over three winters to help improve animal feeding outcomes while reducing potential environmental damage. Crop yields and nutrient concentration data were collected in July, along with the farmers’ self-collected data and observations. Case studies highlight the range of uses and experiences which occurred at the individual farm level, as well as providing some collective experiences.