Case Study: ExcelCrop Revolutionises Beef and Lamb Production at Dismal Swamp Farm

At ExcelCrop, we're dedicated to empowering farmers to achieve unparalleled success in their livestock operations. Mark McLean's experience at Dismal Swamp Farm near Mt Gambier in South Australia serves as a compelling testament to the transformative impact of our liquid fish fertiliser on beef and lamb production.

Farm Profile: Mark McLean oversees an 80-hectare property characterised by diverse soil types ranging from peat swamps to non-wetting sandy rises. Situated in the picturesque locale of Dismal Swamp near Mt Gambier, South Australia, the farm benefits from an average annual rainfall of 700mm. Mark's operation encompasses a small cross-breed beef herd alongside a flock of Suffolk and White Suffolk sheep, renowned for their quality and productivity. Notably, Mark's 2014 vealers topped the Mt Gambier market, underscoring the farm's reputation for excellence in livestock production.

ExcelCrop Application: Embracing his uncle's recommendation, Mark adopted ExcelCrop's liquid fish fertiliser several years ago, revolutionising his farming practices. Leveraging a strategic approach, Mark incorporates ExcelCrop into his pasture management regimen to maximise productivity and sustainability. Employing a foliar application method at a ratio of 5 litres to 200 litres of water per hectare in late Autumn and early Spring, Mark ensures optimal nutrient absorption and pasture health. The synergistic combination of ExcelCrop's liquid fish fertiliser and liquid seaweed as a drench for sheep and hand-reared calves and lambs has become integral to the farm's success.

Tangible Benefits: Since integrating ExcelCrop into his farming practices, Mark has experienced a multitude of benefits across various facets of his operation. Notably, soil health has improved significantly, with pH levels reaching 5.5 without the need for lime supplementation. The prevalence of red-legged earth mites and Lucerne fleas has decreased, eliminating the need for insecticides. Increased dung beetle activity further underscores the product's role in fostering a thriving ecosystem beneath the surface.

Enhanced Pasture Quality and Animal Health: Mark's pastures have flourished under the influence of ExcelCrop's liquid fish fertiliser, resulting in superior hay production and pasture quality. The farm's hay, coveted by racehorse and equestrian clients, attests to the product's ability to enhance forage palatability and nutritional value. Livestock preferences for ExcelCrop-treated areas further validate its efficacy in promoting animal health and performance. Notably, lambs raised on ExcelCrop pastures exhibit exceptional growth rates and health, with lambing percentages consistently exceeding 125%.

Financial and Environmental Sustainability: Beyond the tangible benefits to livestock health and productivity, Mark underscores the financial and environmental advantages of ExcelCrop's solutions. Reduced reliance on chemical drenches and decreased handling requirements translate to significant cost savings and reduced stress for both animals and farmers. Enhanced fertility and nutrition provided by ExcelCrop-treated pastures contribute to improved reproductive performance, with calving rates exceeding 100% for three consecutive years.

Conclusion: Mark McLean's success story at Dismal Swamp Farm stands as a beacon of inspiration for the livestock industry, showcasing the transformative potential of ExcelCrop's solutions in modern agriculture. Through strategic application and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Mark has unlocked new levels of productivity, profitability, and sustainability on his farm.

At ExcelCrop, we remain dedicated to supporting farmers like Mark McLean in their pursuit of agricultural excellence, offering innovative solutions that redefine the possibilities of livestock production and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.