A statistical approach to practical fodder banking

Abstract

A fodder bank on each livestock farm is the only reliable counter to disruption of the fodder flow caused by drought and other calamities. The minimum size of the fodder bank and its rate of accumulation can be specified as a function of the following: annual fodder requirement, forage production as determined by rainfall, rainfall probability, and irrigation and nitrogen usage on pastures. The approach is explained, a usable function is derived, and its application is illustrated. Certain practical aspects of the fodder bank are considered.