when less vegetation is available in the veld. Approximately 7 ha of ryegrass and hayfields are also baled as supplementary fodder to the natural sweetveld grazing.
Bruce says producing feed on the farm helps them reduce pressure during difficult seasons.“ You never know what the next season will bring. If the veld becomes too dry, you must have backup feed available.”
According to Kevin, rainfall patterns have changed dramatically over the years. In the past, 300 mm to 400 mm annually was considered good rainfall, but now storms can deliver 100 mm in a single afternoon. The increase in rain has also changed the grass composition of the veld, forcing them to adapt their grazing and burning practices.
“ We now try to burn blocks of grazing every second year because the grass grows much ranker than it did previously,” he says.
10. Sue still tends the flowers around the house to keep the place welcoming.