As July gets underway, farmers across the UK are facing another spell of hot, dry weather just as harvest begins. While early reports suggest some encouraging crop quality, prolonged dry conditions are creating challenges across both the arable and livestock sectors.

For livestock producers, these conditions are a timely reminder of the importance of planning ahead for forage, feed supplies and animal performance through the remainder of the summer.

Harvest Gets Underway

The first winter barley crops are now being harvested across many parts of the country.

Early reports indicate that feed barley quality has generally been encouraging, with good specific weights and low moisture contents. However, yields remain variable depending on rainfall and soil type, while many malting barley crops are struggling to meet specification due to smaller grain size.

As a result, larger volumes of barley may enter the feed market this season, although prices continue to be influenced by global competition and export markets.

For livestock producers, this means grain availability will continue to evolve over the coming weeks as harvest gathers pace.

Heat Continues to Test Farmers

After one of the warmest Junes on record, another period of high temperatures is forecast across much of England and Wales.

While the recent wet winter helped replenish water reserves, prolonged dry weather is now beginning to affect grass growth, forage production and crop development.

Many livestock farmers are already reporting:

• Slower grass regrowth following first-cut silage.
• Concerns over second-cut silage yields.
• Increased water demand for livestock.
• Greater pressure on grazing availability.

For arable growers, irrigation has become essential in some regions, while spring crops continue to depend heavily on rainfall over the coming weeks.

Managing Livestock During Hot Weather

Heat doesn't just affect crops. Livestock performance can also suffer significantly during periods of prolonged high temperatures.

Reduced feed intakes, lower milk yields, slower growth rates and increased stress can all occur when animals struggle to regulate their body temperature.

Simple management practices can make a real difference, including:

• Ensuring constant access to clean, fresh water.
• Providing shade wherever possible.
• Feeding during the cooler parts of the day.
• Monitoring vulnerable stock closely.
• Maintaining good ventilation in housed livestock.

Supporting rumen health and ensuring diets remain balanced also becomes increasingly important when feed intakes naturally decline.

Planning Ahead

Although much of this year's harvest is still to come, the next few weeks will provide a much clearer picture of crop yields, forage availability and grain quality.

With weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, forward planning remains one of the best ways to protect both livestock performance and farm profitability.

Whether it's reviewing forage stocks, assessing feed requirements or preparing for changing raw material availability, taking action early can help avoid unnecessary challenges later in the season.

At Target Feeds, we're continuing to monitor developments across the industry and work closely with our suppliers to ensure reliable feed supply throughout the harvest period.

If you'd like advice on livestock nutrition or feed planning for the months ahead, our team is always happy to help.