MPI animal health and welfare director Chris Rodwell says the feed planning service and the feed coordination service, both of which were well used in drought-affected areas earlier this year, will be returning.
Rodwell says planning ahead is one of the most important things farmers can do to deal with challenges created by drought, and fortunately most farmers are very good at it.
However, for those who need help completing a feed plan, which also includes lifestyle and small block holders.
The MPI-funded service is delivered by Beef + Lamb NZ, DairyNZ, Federated Farmers and other specialist providers.
The food coordination service helps to connect farmers with available feed sources.
Rodwell says animal welfare needs during summer are not too difficult to work out as they are very similar to people, with access to shade and water being two simple places to start.
He encouraged dairy farmers to consider milking at different times of the day or giving their cows a shorter walk to the milking shed.
MPI has also increased its team of regional emergency coordinators who are there to help when people get into trouble by addressing challenges on the ground.
Industry group websites such as B+LNZ and DairyNZ contain more animal welfare advice, while contact details for the two feed services can be found on the MPI website.
