Dairy

Plan effluent use for winter

By Nicholas Spandler

Apr 3, 2026

Agriculture Victoria said farmers should plan to empty their effluent storages now, as winter quickly approaches. Photo by Sophie Baldwin

Winter is coming, and Agriculture Victoria is reminding dairy farmers to plan effluent applications early, saying effective use of effluent ponds can improve pasture performance.

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Agriculture Victoria dairy industry development officer Rachael Campbell said effluent ponds were designed to be emptied before the wet season, allowing farmers to capture the nutrient and water value of effluent while ensuring adequate storage through winter.

“When plants are actively growing, an effluent application can give pastures a kickstart and help them respond quickly to follow-up rain,” she said.

Ms Campbell said testing effluent before spreading was recommended, as nutrient levels could vary significantly depending on herd size, feed inputs and pond management.

She also advised targeting paddocks with lower soil fertility and rotating application areas to avoid nutrient build-up.

Producers were reminded to allow at least 21 days before grazing treated paddocks to reduce livestock health risks, and to keep young and transition stock away from high-potassium areas.

Agriculture Victoria said making better use of nutrients already stored in effluent ponds could deliver productivity and cost benefits at a time when fertiliser prices remained a concern for many dairy businesses.

Agriculture Victoria recommends testing before application, to ensure appropriate dispersal rates, as nutrient levels can vary.