Ann Thompson: Time to make your plans for future

Dairy farming has plenty of upsides and the long-term outlook is looking good even though the short-term it's not.

The dairy industry is facing its third season of low payouts.

It's been tough and farmers have been looking out for their families, their staff and their communities.

The long-term outlook for dairy is good though short-term it's not. It all depends on the old supply and demand equation worldwide.

In the meantime, Federated Farmers recommends dairy farmers continue to work on their 'plan for the future'.

Spring probably isn't quite the time to do this as calves are coming thick and fast, but it is something that needs to be prioritised as planning is critical for the long-term success of any business.

Five years out is a good horizon. Once you've thought about how many cows you'll be milking then (or how many milk solids you'll be getting) you can think about what the herd will look like, what farm system to use, and what's going to be happening with your pasture.

Then get down to routine maintenance: the shed, fence-lines, hedges, house, machinery, effluent system ... and the list goes on.

Dairy processors are now coming out with 2016/17 season forecasts which give an indication of what you can work towards. Having a plan gives you direction when considering the budget which your banker will appreciate.

Another thing to plan for is 'fun time' for the family which may just be a picnic in the paddock on a sunny day with bat and ball.

Dairy farming has plenty of upsides, which is why farmers chose to milk cows. Rural New Zealand is a great place to bring up kids and friends always enjoy dropping by. The job is varied and outdoors.

There's plenty of machinery to keep any farmer happy and all the work achieved is often all your own. It is something to be really proud of.

This includes the fence which is straight, the gate that's hung well, the water leak that's been fixed, and the milk that is high quality.

Farming is full of beauty too. The seasons are noted and occasionally noticed. I sometimes get farmers sending me great photos of their 'office' and the view from mine pales into insignificance.

Good pasture and well-grown crops are to be admired. And there's no denying dairy farmers make the most of the daylight hours and see every beautiful (and challenging) sunrise and sunset there is.

And then there're those cows - all with their own personality.

So make a plan and look up at what you have to work with.