by Deb Maxwell, Operations Manager, ParaBoss
Flystrike prevention treatments are expensive and labour intensive, so getting the biggest bang for your buck makes sense. The time they are applied makes a big difference to their overall impact. The FlyBoss Optimise treatment tool can find the best application time in your area.
The Optimise Treatment Tool uses your local long-term average weather data to calculate the risk of flystrike across the year. Although the weather is different each year, this tool provides a solid starting point for treatment times, which can be adjusted slightly according to the season.
Results are displayed in a simple graph, and when each management practice (shearing, crutching and chemical treatment) is applied, the tool calculates any reduced flystrike risk and changes the graph accordingly.
When you select the Optimise Treatment button, your treatment inputs will be moved to the time that gives the best overall impact.
This example from the Optimise Treatment Tool uses the following inputs:
The 3 graphs show the flystrike risk with
a) no application of Cyromazine (high risk of flystrike)
b) Cyromazine applied first week of November (current management)
c) Optimise Treatment option applied; treatment was moved to the fourth week of November, giving the lowest risk of flystrike.
(it’s very easy, no typing, just make selections from the options)
The FlyBoss Tools were developed by Brian Horton, University of Tasmania.
FlyBoss was developed by the Sheep CRC and it is now funded by Australian Wool Innovation and Meat and Livestock Australia and coordinated by the University of New England.