During a difficult season, some cows will have a tough time getting back in calf.

Many spring calving herds are joining their cows and in some cases these cows are in poorer condition than normal.

Limited feed availability makes getting back in calf a big ask for the cows.

Due to the season, there is a risk of reduced conception rates for many farms.

We can’t change what has already happened, but if farmers pregnancy test early they can make informed decisions about empty cows.

Cows can be pregnancy tested from 6 weeks, meaning farmers can sell empty cows earlier to prevent feeding unproductive stock.

In a lean year pregnancy testing also gives farmers a chance to examine their stock and keep and feed only their most valuable stock.

The cost of owning and maintaining a beef cow for a year is high, so every cow on the property must be fully productive.

Even if they have calves at foot, non-pregnant cows are only partially productive.

Given the year, early weaning is also worth considering.

If you need assistance in formulating a plan for your cows, Expressions of Interest are now open for farmers in drought-affected areas of south west Victoria to register for a free one-on-one consultation with a farm advisor.

The program offers eligible farmers the opportunity to sit down with a consultant to discuss the best way forward for their business in the current season.

The one-on-one includes a drought management planning session of up to 3 hours and follow up call to develop a Drought Management Action Plan.

For more information about dry seasonal conditions and drought support visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 18

• Dr Hannah Manning is a Livestock Industry Development Officer with Agriculture Victoria at Colac