Partial Mixed Rations

A partial mixed ration (PMR) is a total mixed ration (TMR) fed to dairy cows in between bouts of grazing which therefore makes up only part of the cows’ diet. This is opposed to a TMR, which provides 100% of the diet.

The PMR method of feeding dairy cows has grown in popularity in the last two decades in Australia as systems have evolved and feeding infrastructure has improved on many farms.

Dairy Australia has invested in a significant amount of research into PMR systems in recent years. The following fact sheets have been developed by Agriculture Victoria to describe the results of this research and can also be found on Agriculture Victoria's tools and resources webpage.

Partial mixed rations for grazing dairy cows

A series of experiments at Agriculture Victoria Ellinbank were conducted to investigate the milk production response to feeding supplements as a PMR.

Download the Partial mixed rations for grazing dairy cows fact sheet.

Grain mixes or partial mixed rations?

Improved methods for providing grazing cows with supplements.

Download the Grain mixes or partial mixed rations? fact sheet.

Milk production benefits of canola in partial mixed rations

Increasing dry matter intake and milk yield using canola meal in mixed rations.

Download the Milk production benefits of canola in partial mixed rations fact sheet.

Profitability of short-term partial mixed ration feeding decisions under variable pasture allowance

This study investigated the economics of short-term PMR feeding with low, medium or high pasture allowance

Download the Profitability of short-term partial mixed ration feeding decisions under variable pasture allowance fact sheet.

Profitability of short-term partial mixed ration feeding decisions

The economics of short-term PMR feeding decisions was analysed and compared with feeding grain in the dairy and forage in the paddock.

Download the Profitability of short-term partial mixed ration feeding decisions fact sheet.

Whole-farm investment analysis of a PMR feeding system for dairy cows

The profitability of mixed ration feeding systems was investigated where the construction and purchase of infrastructure and equipment was required.

Download the Whole-farm investment analysis of a PMR feeding system for dairy cows fact sheet.