Beating challenges with good veld management

Second- and third-generation beef producers Robert and Sanele Khumalo farm on Elandsfontein, close to Mooi River in KwaZulu-Natal. Their farm covers 256ha, with another 300ha leased to accommodate their herd of 600 Beefmaster X Brangus cattle.

The Khumalos are hands-on livestock farmers, and manage the feeding, breeding and herd health of their animals with precision. This has seen them build up and maintain a sustainable operation despite recent challenges, chief of which are too much rain and too little land.

Elandsfontein receives ample rain, providing decent grazing for most of the year. Although this rain is obviously welcome, the Khumalos need to pay close attention to the nutrition their cattle receive to ensure optimal performance.

“Rain influences the nutritional value of the grass, and this year, where more than 2 000mm have fallen so far, the nutritional density of the grass is less. The cattle therefore require an energy lick to keep them in top shape,” says Robert.

The farm is divided into camps, with stocking density