This workshop, led by Nicole Logg, focused on strategies for successfully finishing lambs raised on solar pastures. She discussed how nutrition at weaning plays a critical role in lamb growth and overall performance, along with key principles for meeting protein and nutritional requirements. The session also reviewed different feed sources, including how to manage the spring pasture flush, evaluate commercial feeds and pellets, and formulate effective feedlot rations. Drawing on her expertise as a ewe nutrition specialist and farmer, Nicole provided practical guidance for producing a high-quality lamb product within solar grazing systems.
When Should Lambs Be Weaned?
Weaning is typically targeted at around 14 weeks from the start of lambing, based on a 6-week mating period. By this stage, milk contributes only about 10% of a lamb’s energy intake, with pasture supplying the majority. Lambs should reach at least 45% of their standard reference weight (e.g., 27 kg / 60 lbs for a 60 kg ewe) before separation, and those intended for early mating should reach roughly 80% of that reference weight by 8 months.
How Does Pre-Weaning Nutrition Influence Lifetime Performance?
Nutrition before weaning plays a lasting role in development. Intake of starch and fiber supports rumen papillae growth, permanently increasing nutrient absorption capacity. Creep feeding helps build rumen function and eases the transition at weaning, while early exposure to feeds improves post-weaning acceptance. New feeds should be introduced consistently—at least three times per week for two weeks—until most lambs are actively consuming them.
What Are the Protein Requirements for Growing Lambs?
Growing lambs require diets with about 17% crude protein to support moderate growth rates. High-quality undegradable protein sources, such as soybean or canola meal, are important for muscle development. Urea should be avoided due to toxicity risks in underdeveloped rumens. Nutritional needs may vary by breed, with early-maturing types requiring higher inputs sooner, and typical intake averaging around 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of dry matter per day for a 30 kg lamb.
How Does Energy Affect Protein Utilization?
Energy intake is the primary driver of growth, as protein cannot be effectively utilized without sufficient energy. In dry conditions, both energy and protein should be supplemented, with fiber included to maintain rumen health. During lush spring growth, additional starch helps balance excess protein, while roughage slows digestion. In feed shortage scenarios, commercial feeds should be carefully evaluated for energy density, protein quality, and salt levels.
How Should Feed Sources Be Evaluated and Balanced?
Feeds should be assessed based on cost per unit of energy and protein. When selecting commercial rations, it is important to check for urea inclusion, salt content, and feeding recommendations. Rations can be balanced using tools like the Pearson Square, and mineral supplementation should be incorporated directly into feed. Introducing salt gradually before transitioning to a full mineral mix can improve intake and effectiveness.
What Health Practices Support Successful Weaning?
Effective health management during weaning includes timely vaccination against clostridial diseases and drenching to control parasite loads. Nutritional stress can reduce calcium levels, so access to legumes or supplements is important. Trace minerals such as zinc and selenium help support immune function, while consistent access to clean water is essential to maintain feed intake and reduce stress-related setbacks.