Facial Eczema Risk Bulletin #17
for week ended 13th May 2012
No. of sites monitored: 5
Average Spore Count: 148,000
Highest Spore Count: 515,000 Himatangi
Lowest Spore Count: 10,000
Weekly Rainfall (mm): 18.2 (Source: AgResearch Palm Nth)
No. Days Grass Min Temp > 12°C 0 (Source: AgResearch Palm Nth)
Weekly Ave Grass Min Temp: 3.3°C (Source: AgResearch Palm Nth)
Facial Eczema Risk Rating: MODERATE
The data is slightly misleading this week, as one enormous count in Himatangi has skewed the average. However the other four sites still averaged at 56,000 so vigilance is still required.
The minimum grass temperatures have not made it over 12ºC for the last couple of weeks but it is difficult to predict whether this is the first sign that winter has arrived, or if the Manawatu will see another spell of warm weather. Continuing with treatment for the next few weeks is wise, allowing time to assess the effects of the week’s rainfall on spore counts, but we may be nearing the end of the risk period.
If you have any concerns or have had high spore counts on your property during the last few months, it may still be wise to bring some grass in for checking prior to using high-risk paddocks if you are grazing stock down to low residuals.
Click here for advice on facial eczema prevention from Totally Vets.
Spore counts can vary greatly between properties and even between paddocks. We encourage farmers to bring in grass samples to get a more accurate idea of the facial eczema risk on their own property. Contact Totally Vets if you would like more information on bringing in your own samples for testing.
