Many farmers will already be considering what a potentially dry summer could mean for their farm business. To help inform those decisions, recordings from Beef + Lamb New Zealand's (B+LNZ) recent El Niño webinar series are now available online, covering seasonal forecasts, practical planning and lessons from farmers who have managed through dry conditions before.
The three-part series brings together insights from NIWA climate and weather expert Chris Brandolino, farm consultant Rob McNab, and East Coast farmer Simon Hales. Together, they explore what current forecasts are showing, practical drought planning considerations, and lessons learned from managing through previous dry periods.
B+LNZ Regional Extension Manager Laura Davis says planning for dry conditions starts well before the rain stops.
"Whether you're currently reviewing feed supply, considering stocking options, or simply keeping an eye on seasonal forecasts, it can't hurt to hear some additional practical ideas and perspectives that may help inform your planning."
Part one: What could El Niño mean this season?
Chris Brandolino outlines what a strong El Niño pattern could mean for New Zealand and explains the key weather signals farmers should be watching. He discusses the potential for warmer temperatures, lower rainfall in some regions, increased fire risk, and the uncertainty that remains as the season develops.
Listen now: El Nino ready – preparing your farm business for a dry season: part one
Part two: Planning ahead and making early decisions
Farm consultant Rob McNab shares practical steps farmers can take to prepare for a challenging season. Topics include having a written plan, completing feed budgets, identifying trigger points, communicating with your team and advisers, and making decisions early rather than reacting under pressure.
Listen now: El Nino ready – preparing your farm business for a dry season: part two
Part three: Lessons from the farm gate
East Coast farmer Simon Hales reflects on his experiences managing through dry periods and the lessons he has learned along the way. He discusses feed budgeting, protecting breeding stock, acting early, being realistic about feed supply, and the importance of looking after yourself and your family during challenging conditions.
Listen now: El Nino ready – preparing your farm business for a dry season: part three
Looking for more information
B+LNZ has a range of tools and resources available to help farmers prepare for and manage dry conditions, including:
- Drought resources
- Advice on pushing feed forward for summer
- Farmers share tips for preparing on B+LNZ’s Northern South Island Facebook page
“As always, the right approach will depend on your region, farm system and seasonal conditions, but taking time now to review plans and consider different scenarios can help put you in a stronger position if conditions do become challenging,” Laura adds.
Thank you
A big thank you to the Ministry for Primary Industries On Farm Support team and the Whanganui Region Catchment Collective who helped organise this webinar series.