Cow Management Jan/Feb 2021 by Cow Management

JA NUA RY/F EBRUA RY 2021

cowmanagement

Maize focus:

maximising forage crop potential

Gold Cup judges poised to pick awardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centenary winner

Calf care

pointers to mitigate cold-weather issues

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

CONTENT FEATURES

From the editor Cow talk Dairy-Tech Online preview Roger Evans ForFarmers nutrition news/ Thompsons nutrition news 31 NMR dairy management news 33 CRV UK breeding news 46 Events and contacts 3 4 10 17 23

health temperature monitoring

MAIN A RTICLE

6 Gold Cup finalist profiles HEA LTH

Temperature monitoring to prevent BRD 35 Tips on keeping calves cosy

MAIZE FOCUS

24 Variety selection and timely management pointers to maximise forage crop potential DA IRY MANAGEM E N T

39 Dairy prospects for 2021

14 focus forage maize

feeding improving efficiency

FEEDING

18 Balancing rations and producing top-quality silage to maximise milk from forage and maintain profitability BREEDING

40 Dutch data key to developing feed efficiency index

Philip Metcalfe:

“I’ll be looking for things that I’ve not seen anywhere else”

ON THE COV ER

Next generation: focusing on future milkers is key to dairying success Picture: Ruth Downing

Roger Evans:

“It’s a case of adding value to what we already do”

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

FROM THE EDITOR

New year, fresh start Welcome to this year’s first issue of CowManagement, which is also under new management. I’m excited to share news that myself and my colleague Jason Davies are the proud new owners of what we hope will continue to be a popular, well-read and progressive dairy title. We’d both like to thank all the magazine partners, sponsors and advertisers for their continued support. And, most of all, thanks go to you, our readers, for your loyal readership and honest feedback. We’re looking forward to working with you in 2021. With that in mind, do get in touch if there’s anything you’d like to see featured in the magazine, or if there’s anything we could do to make your reading experience more enjoyable or informative. We’re just on the end of the phone or an email. We’re hitting doormats just before Dairy-Tech Online. So, if you’ve yet to sign up for any of the events that are happening during the two-week-long programme, take a look at page 10 to find out what you could be missing and how you can get involved. Also topical, as always, is the weather and, producers’ toes and fingers aside, it’s calves that are most vulnerable to the cold. See page 14 to find out more about a #Calfmatters trial that is taking temperature monitoring and mitigation to the next level, in a bid to help prevent bovine respiratory disease. And we have

tips and pointers from vet Tim Potter on keeping calves cosy and healthy on page 35. This issue also includes our timely focus on forage maize to help producers and growers with some onfarm decisions about varieties and key aspects of crop management for the 2021 season. There are also some pointers on making the most of the resulting crop and the importance of regular maize silage analysis. Grass silage takes centre stage on page 18 and 19. Maximising feed efficiency and milk from forage are key to dairy productivity and, more importantly as we enter what’s set to be another turbulent year, profitability. Just what could be in store for producers in 2021 is outlined on page 39, where Andersons’ Mike Houghton shares his thoughts on prospects for dairying during the next 12 months. And always willing to share his thoughts with CowManagement readers is our regular and avidly-read columnist Roger Evans. His latest ruminations on a serious topic, but with a smile at the end, can be found on page 17. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @cowmanagement for the latest news and views from our team. And thanks again for reading CowManagement. Stay safe and here’s to a better year.

RACHAEL PORTER

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

COW TALK

MBE surprise for industry stalwart RABDF vice chair Di Wastenage has been awarded an MBE in the 2021 New Year Honours list for her services to the UK dairy industry. In her role at RABDF, Mrs Wastenage, who is also a director of her family’s Devon-based dairy business, has contributed on a wide range of topics including the environment, animal health and welfare. She also works hard to encourage young entrepreneurs and new entrants into agriculture. Mrs Wastenage was involved in creating the ambitious targets for reducing antibiotic usage within the dairy sector.

An ambassador for women in farming, particularly through her role as patron of Women in Dairy, she showcases the importance of female roles and the exciting opportunities there are for women in the sector. And she was delighted about her award: “I am proud to be representing the farming sector, both locally and nationally, particularly during these challenging and dynamic times. Receiving this honour has come as a complete surprise and ensured that a tough year finished on a positive note.”

Risk-sharing service for growers Maize growers are being offered a 50% discount towards the cost of re-sowing any crops damaged by bird predation or frost in the 2021 sowing season, following the launch of a service by KWS. This underlines its confidence in its birdrepelling seed treatment – Initio Bird Protect (IBP) – and offers growers and producers a risk-sharing opportunity. “The seed treatment will be used across the majority of KWS maize seed varieties,” says the company’s John Burgess, adding that it was developed following the withdrawal of

approval for the seed treatment, Mesurol, which acted as a bird deterrent. “I believe that sowing untreated maize seed is not an option, because the risk of bird damage is too great. An effective seed treatment represents an insurance policy to secure crop yields.” He adds that the company had no reports of bird damage in its seed varieties where IBP treatment was used in 2020. “Our maize seed service for re-sowing has been launched to back up our claim that the product will deter birds.

“Modern maize varieties are also extremely vigorous and have a much greater degree of frost tolerance compared with varieties that were available even a few years ago,” says Mr Burgess. “We hope that it will not be necessary for growers to apply for the 50% discount in 2021, as a result of frost damage.” The service can be used until June 30, 2021, and users must be registered on the free myKWS system, which provides supportive materials and useful online tools for maize growers.

Plan ahead for better silage Producers looking to make better silage in 2021, and reduce their reliance on bought-in feeds, should start planning now. So says Volac’s Ken Stroud, who is offering timely tips in a five-point plan. “Begin by reviewing the analysis of your 2020 silage. What are the areas for improvement?” he asks. If ME is low, swards may have deteriorated to include less nutritious grasses, making

some reseeding necessary. “Alternatively, the way silage is made may need attention. This could mean cutting grass younger, while it’s more digestible; wilting faster, to minimise in-field energy losses; or improving fermentation, so energy is conserved better in the clamp,” he says. Good communication with the contractor is also key. “Grass must be cut at its nutritional peak – not a week or two later. So

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

understand your contractor’s time constraints and inform them of yours,” says Mr Stroud. Producers should also prepare the clamp – the ‘storage container’ for silage – for at least half a year. “Don’t let clamp condition undo all the hard work put into other areas of silage-making.” And producers should also have silage making materials ready. “Avoid compromising silage quality or quantity by failing to have all the necessary materials for a good preservation. Start by ensuring you have enough of the correct additive,” he adds. Finally, he says that all producers should have a ‘plan b’ – just in case something changes. “The weather, for example, can be notoriously fickle. If it’s wet, be prepared to set the harvester to chop grass longer to stop clamp slippage. If it’s dry, you may need to chop shorter so the grass is easier to compact. “And also have a plan for if it looks like you’ll be short of silage,” he adds. “This could include ensiling some cereal as wholecrop.”

Probiotic bedding treatment launched A biological bedding treatment, which inoculates cubicles or loose housing with healthy bacteria to crowd out pathogens, will be launched at Dairy-Tech Online in February. Pre-launch users of EnviroSystems’ Cobiotex report drier beds and 20% average lower straw use, as well as reduced somatic cell counts and fewer lameness cases. Developed in France, where it is now used across herds comprising 180,000 cows, the seven-strain bacterial formulation is carried in a hyperabsorbent powder. In cubicles, it is applied once a week to dehydrate the area of the bed underneath the udder and compete with pathogens for nutrients and living space. The formulation includes the only registered microbiological biocide in Europe. A monitored trial with father-and-son producers Andrew and Tom Pemberton, based in the North West, saw a 10% reduction in somatic cell counts from

100,000 cells/ml to 90,000 cells/ml. Another trial, with a Staffordshire-based herd, recorded 70% fewer lameness cases requiring treatment. The cubicle building’s atmosphere was also noticeably fresher. EnviroSystems’ microbiologist Henry Russell reports that, probably due to fewer lame cows,

average milk sales also rose by two litres a cow, worth more than £1,000 a month. Both trials involved a pre-treatment observation phase, then three-month treatment period during full-time housing. Microbiological analysis of bedding litter found significant changes in bacterial populations.

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cowmanagement OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020

GOLD CUP FINALISTS

Search for a centenary star

The line-up of finalists for the 2020 winner of the NMR/RABDF Gold Cup is in place. This year marks the 100th year of the dairy industry’s most prestigious award. As the industry waits with bated breath, we spoke to the judges tasked with selecting the winning herd to find out what they’re looking for. TEXT RACHAEL PORTER

espite the obvious pressure, North Yorkshirebased producer and 2018 Gold Cup winner Philip Metcalfe says he has relished the prospect of being one of the panel judging the dairy businesses that have made it through to the 2020 NMR/RABDF Gold Cup final. He knows the task of selecting a winner won’t be easy: “The six finalists clearly stood out as potential winners from this year’s entries, but I know what I, personally, will be looking for.”

Philip Metcalfe: “I’ll be looking for things that I’ve not seen anywhere else” 6

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

Philip adds that it’s an honour to be the dairy producer and past Gold Cup winner that makes up the judging panel for the 2020 award. The other members of the judging panel are Somerset-based dairy producer and RABDF chairman Peter Alvis, and Anglesey-based producer and NMR chairman Trevor Lloyd.

Profitable business

“Cow health and welfare are top of my list,” adds Philip. “I want to see cattle in good condition and with no lameness. And I’ll also be looking closely at feed efficiency and nutrition management. “It also has to be a business that’s generating a good profit. It sounds obvious, but this year’s finalists comprise herds and dairy businesses run using a range of systems – grazing, organic and housed. There isn’t just one system that achieves good levels of profit. They can all do it, if well managed.”

Meet this year’s Gold Cup finalists

Philip is renowned for his passion for dairy cattle breeding. “So I will be admiring the cows and taking an interest in the herds’ genetics. What really fascinates me about breeding is that it’s the foundation for good health and productivity.” He’s hoping the judges can get on farm and visit the finalists, albeit delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions: “I want to find out what they’re doing that’s different and innovative. I’ll be looking for things I’ve not seen anywhere else, and that work for them. “Staff and team management is also important to my business. I’ll also be interested to find out more about leadership and protocols that are in place, particularly in respect of health and safety. Training and recruitment interest me too. The latter, particularly, in the wake of Brexit. Are they using UK staff to limit the threat to their business of no longer easily being able to source employees from abroad?”

Technical ability

Trevor Lloyd says that in judging such high-calibre herds – all with exceptional dairy cow and business management – he’s looking for the herd that ‘takes his breath away’. “The one that stops you in your tracks and makes you ask: ‘how are they doing that?’ Excellent technical ability coupled with profitability – that’s a given. And herd health plays a key role, so that has to take centre stage. You can’t have a productive and profitable business without exceptional herd health – and that’s not easy to achieve and maintain. It requires hard work and commitment.” Mr Lloyd adds that 100 years ago – back in 1920 – the judges would have been looking for the same things. “Exceptional cow and herd performance and a level of technical ability to achieve and sustain that, with a nod to herd health and staff management.” “I am really looking forward to it. I’ve seen the finalists on paper and I’m excited about the opportunity to really get inside these businesses. This is such a prestigious award and we need to get it right.”

Worthy winner

Peter Alvis, co-ordinator of this year’s judging panel, agrees – the pressure is on to select a winner worthy of the cup’s centenary title. The difference will, he says, be in the detail. “Which is why it’s so important to actually visit the finalists and dig deeper into their businesses, as well as seeing day-to-day management for ourselves. “It could be how they approach a particularly task or how they’ve overcome a problem. It could be staff management or team development. It’s invariably about the smaller details and looking for the things that give them the edge.” |

The Downing Partnership

John & Rachel Downing Wintersell Farm, Edenbridge, Kent Herd size: 544 cows, plus 250 followers Average yield: 12,120 litres, at 4.01% butterfat and 3.37% protein, with a SCC count of 111,000 cells/ml Unit size: 160 hectares ● All-year-round calving herd, TMR fed, with 120 days grazing a year ● Large specialist dairy, after ‘de-diversifying’ and increasing cow numbers ● Managed on just 160 hectares, with forage grown and bought-in from neighbouring units ● High fertility due to a multifactorial approach – starting with good lameness control and cow comfort/health/ welfare, as well as breeding and the use of electronic heat detection tool ● 37 home-bred cows have each produced 100-tonne of milk in past five years

R Torrance & Son

John Torrance Battles Hall Farm, Stapleford Abbotts, Essex Herd size: 670 cows, plus 430 young stock Average yield: 13,530kg (milk sold), at 4.08% butterfat and 3.26% protein, with a SCC of 82,000 cells/ml Unit size: 429 hectares ● All-year-round calving herd, housed 365 days a year and TMR fed ● Herd comprises third highest number of EX cows in world ● Combination of breeding for functional type and investment in housing for good health and welfare has enhanced performance ● No antibiotics used at drying off ● Significant maize grower – suits land well

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

GOLD CUP FINALISTS

Hoskins & Vickery Ltd

W & P Ives

Herd size: 410 Jersey x Friesian cows, plus 170 young stock Average yield: 4,700kg, at 5.05% butterfat and 3.82% protein, with a SCC of 130,000 cells/ml Unit size: 340 hectares (138 for dairy) ● Spring-block-calving, grass-based system, grazing 365 days a year. A system that makes money and could be a blueprint for new entrants ● Purchased feed costs – just 1.3ppl ● Excellent fertility: CI 363 days and conception rate of 67% ● Motto: ‘grow grass/use grass’ – aims for 14t/ha

Herd size: 240 cows, plus 240 young stock Average yield: 13,985 litres at 4.10% butterfat and 3.24% protein (more than 1,000kg solids per cow), with a SCC of 132,000 cells/ml Unit size: 242 hectares (180 for dairy) ● All-year-round calving ● Milk from forage: targeting 5,000+ litres ● Lely robots installed in December 2019 ● High health status, due to preventative approach and eradication schemes. Particularly important when selling stock ● Genomic testing all heifers

RP Sainsbury & Sons Ltd

Gibbins Dairy Ltd

Herd size: 240 cows, plus 170 young stock Average yield: 9,234 litres (6,086 litres from forage) at 4.2% butterfat and 3.3% protein, with a SCC of 108,000 cells/ml Unit size: 455 hectares (350 for dairy) ● All-year-round calving herd, TMR, plus parlour feeding to yield ● Mixed organic dairy and arable unit ● Low staff turnover: a team approach ● High milk from forage: more than 60% of average yield ● Good fertility: starts with good forage, feeding, cow health and welfare

Herd size: 500 cows, plus 200 young stock Average yield: 7,900kg, at 4.20% butterfat and 3.30% protein, with a SCC of 98,000 cells/ml Unit size: 370 hectares ● All-year-round calving herd, TMR, plus parlour feeding and zero grazing ● Large organic and PWAB herd (500 cows) ● Omsco contract and cheese/clarified butter sold to specialist antibiotic-free US market ● Good health due to preventative approach, since no antibiotics can be used. Weekly vet advisory visits ● Team approach and training/investing in staff

Mark Hoskins Down Dairy Farm, Hindon, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Mike Sainsbury Lyegrove Farm, Badminton, Gloucestershire

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Joe Ives Park Farm, Herriard, Basingstoke, Hampshire

Jonathan Gibbins Hethenhill Farm, Clyst Hydon, Cullompton, Devon

FROM THE EDITOR

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

DAIRY-TECH ONLINE PREVIEW

What’s on at Dairy-Tech Online 2021 We take a quick look at the myriad of seminar, presentations and attractions on offer at this year’s two-week event. Dairy-Tech Online, running from February 3 to 17, will be packed with online workshops, webinars, conferences, new product briefings and debates. The two-week online event replaces the Dairy-Tech event usually held at Stoneleigh Park, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Dairy-Tech Online’s programme will feature some of the popular attractions of the live event, including the Innovation and Dairy Hub and foot trimming demonstration. International speakers will feature in many of the sessions – a positive aspect of moving online is the increased accessibility it offers. Together with experts from the UK, they will showcase content relevant for all farming systems, covering the latest dairy innovations, timely policy updates and practical workshops. These will include sessions on mental health in agriculture, and Brexit.

Online sessions

Delegates can tune in from the comfort of their own home, with the daily online sessions starting every morning at 10.30am. These will also be available to view afterwards. For more information about the event and to sign up to the free sessions visit https://dairy-tech.uk/ Sessions on offer include the day-long Dairy-Hub, which kicks off the fortnight of

activity on February 3. This will feature a wealth of advice, insight and guidance on the key issues currently affecting UK dairy producers. Its panel debates with a range of speakers including DEFRA’s Victoria Prentis, AHDB chair Nicholas Saphir, and NFU Dairy Board chairman Michael Oakes. There will also be forums and seminars focusing on the state of the nation, farming efficiencies, emissions and the latest environmental tech. Animal Health Workshops will take place on February 5, offering practical information and updates on some of the prominent health issues currently affecting the dairy industry. An increased focus and drive by supermarkets and processors on reducing antibiotics means good health in all aspects of dairying is vital and this session will help equip producers and animal health experts with some of the latest technology and information in this area. In each hour-long session, leading experts and producers will cover topics including: identifying and managing TB risks, calf health, technology to detect mastitis, and benchmarking for antimicrobial resistance. The Innovation Hub, on February 10, will showcase all things new – products, ideas, technology, concept and techniques. The Centre for Innovation

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

and Excellence in Livestock (CIEL) along with other companies and organisations will be presenting some of the latest research finding in the dairy sector. And on February 11 during the mental health webinar, Stephanie Berkeley will be discussing the issue of mental health, the signs and how to get help. She will be joined by New Zealand-based producer Wayne Langford, best known on social media as the YOLO Farmer (You Only Live Once), about his battles with mental health and how he has overcome them.

Business speakers

Warwickshire-based producer George Clarke will be one of a handful of speakers talking on February 8 about the many ways he has diversified his family business. He recently installed a milk vending machine at Chesterton House Farm to offer fresh milk to the local community. George is selling pasteurised milk, in glass bottles, from his 100-cow herd. Fourth generation producer Andrew Hoggard, who milks 560 cows on North Island in New Zealand, will be one of a handful of producers talking about his grazing policy and maximising milk from grass, during a ‘grazing’ discussion session on February 9. Producers can also take time out to discover how an increasing number of herds are embracing the latest innovation to make their lives a little easier, put more milk in the tank with less effort and achieve optimal feed efficiency for healthy and productive cows. On February 4 delegates can discover the benefits of milking robotics first-hand from producers and find out more about how investing in automation means more flexible working hours and a better work:life balance.

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

DAIRY-TECH ONLINE PREVIEW

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A system offering fully autonomous harvesting and feeding of fresh grass has been launched by Lely. The Exos system is based on an electric vehicle that automatically mows, loads, carries and dispenses fresh grass to cows at the feed fence. It can be tailored to meet herds’ daily zero-grazing requirements and can be programmed to operate 24:7.

The machine’s lightweight and soilfriendly technology also allows it to make the most of the grass growing season, whatever the weather, mowing from early spring to late autumn. The system also collects data in the field, to aid grassland management and cutting decisions.

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cowmanagement OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020

HEALTH CALF REARING

Temperature checks key to optimising calf environment What can producers learn from the poultry sector to help take calf rearing and disease prevention to the next level? Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health is exploring this question, as part of its #Calfmatters campaign. TEXT RACHAEL PORTER

roducers know that well-ventilated and draughtfree housing is key to disease prevention and achieving optimal growth rates in young calves. But less is known about the impact of temperature and humidity or, more importantly, how to monitor and control these two factors. So Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, in conjunction with PrognostiX, a veterinary business specialising in poultry data collection and analysis, has set up dairy unit trials involving sophisticated temperature and humidity sensors developed for use in the poultry industry. The work will continue into 2021 and Prognostix’s specialist poultry vet Barry Thorp says that the findings will highlight areas where dairy producers can improve calf

Barry Thorp: “Look more closely at humidity and temperature in calf buildings” 14

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environment and bovine respiratory disease (BRD) control. In poultry houses everything from temperature and ventilation through to feed and water are constantly and consistently monitored and managed. “This keeps disease and associated growth checks and mortality rates at bay in poultry production systems, and is key to maximising health and welfare,” says Boehringer Ingelheim’s vet adviser Ailsa Milnes. So, logic says that there’s much to be gained from better management of the calf environment. Good building design is critical and of particular relevance to pneumonia control in young stock. There are two key functions here – ventilation and thermal control. Ventilation is vital to remove excess heat and water from buildings. It also removes micro-organisms, dust and toxic gases such as ammonia, and provides fresh air. “Thermal control is also important for disease prevention, health and production efficiency,” adds Dr Milnes. Recent work, carried out at the University of Nottingham, revealed that environmental conditions, particularly temperature, play a significant role in calf mortality rates. “All animals have a thermoneutral zone – a temperature at which they require no energy for maintaining body

temperature, either through warming or cooling mechanisms.” For newborn calves, this thermoneutral zone is between approximately 10°C and 26°C, changing to between 0°C and 23°C by a month old. For every 5°C decrease in temperature below the lower critical temperature, a calf’s energy requirement increases by 1.1 MJ, with food digestibility also decreasing by around 2% for every 10°C drop. Temperatures above the upper critical temperature can cause heat stress, which is associated with reduced intake, reduced weight gain and increased disease. Heat stress is not purely a function of temperature. Relative humidity (RH) plays a big part too. Humidity also effects pathogen survival. Viral survival is at its lowest with a RH of between 40% and 70%. Similarly, Mannheimia haemolytica (a major respiratory disease causing bacterium) survival is lowest at between 50% and 55% RH.

Data loggers

“The ideal RH for a calf environment is 50% to 60%, regardless of temperature, although greater adverse effects on calves are seen with high humidity and extreme temperatures,” says Dr Milnes. Monitoring temperature and humidity in a building can give a proxy of the building’s function and suitability for the age of stock present. “The use of data loggers gives advisers a better idea of building performance,” she says. “But, unfortunately, these are usually only placed at one point in the building, often away from the stock and do not give a fair representation of the whole set up.” “One solution here is equipment that provides real-time access to data from a heat map produced from multiple sensors around a building, with no expensive or difficult installation processes,” says Dr Thorp. To date four calf units, in England and Wales, have installed PrognostiX environmental monitoring in their calf housing, with more units to be added in early 2021. The equipment comprises a communication device and multiple sensors. The sensors are positioned throughout the calf house or shed and monitor temperature and humidity, taking measurements every 15 minutes.

Ailsa Milnes: “Thermal control is important for disease prevention, health and production efficiency” Results of the trials, which end in autumn 2021, will offer insight into exactly what’s going on in the calf house environment and help producers to optimise calf health and welfare. “My gut feeling is that producers need to look more closely at the humidity and temperature in calf buildings, particularly during the first six weeks of the calf’s life. That’s the critical period – the age where mortality rates can be as high as 10%.” Initial data indicates that temperatures can fluctuate enormously from night to day. Temperature drops are likely to be particularly problematic because they create increased humidity and condensation, contributing to an adverse environment for calf health. “We’re looking to provide a more controlled and consistent environment for the calf – in terms of temperature and humidity – within the buildings and/or pens. And these also need to be draught free.” Dr Thorp is aware that this will require investment in facilities on some units. “But our results will allow producers to justify that expenditure. They’ll be better able to see the value in providing calves with a better and more controlled environment.”

Insurance policy

And some will also see the benefit of using a vaccination programme as an insurance policy, if they recognise that there’s an issue with a particular building, at certain times of the year, that can’t be resolved. Targetting bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is important as it’s the cattle disease that accounts for significant antibiotic use. “It makes sense to start here. There are big wins to be had and many producers already have calf-rearing protocols in place, such as colostrum management and strict hygiene routines, to keep BRD in check,” says Dr Milnes. “A closer look at the environment could be the missing piece in the puzzle for those still seeing breakdowns. We know it’s not easy to control the calf-rearing environment – many calves are housed in sheds and buildings that are not ideal and often not fit for purpose. This work will highlight this and encourage change,” adds Dr Milnes. The company’s calf vaccine range against BRD – Bovalto Intranasal, Bovalto 3 and Bovalto 4 – has a key role to play in reducing disease, protecting herd health and welfare and reducing antibiotic use. “It’s another tool, but it’s not a silver bullet and is certainly no substitute for good calf management and husbandry.” |

Online seminar at Dairy-Tech

Data capture: sensors are positioned at calf height

Boehringer Ingelheim’s #Calfmatters work with PrognostiX will be explored in more depth during an online seminar at the Virtual Dairy-Tech 2021 event. PrognostiX’s poultry vet Barry Thorp will be discussing the initiative with Boehringer Ingelheim’s Ailsa Milnes, including a Q & A session, at 11.30am on Friday February 5. Register at www.dairy-tech.uk/watching-dairy-tech-online.

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

A FEW WORDS FROM ROGER EVANS

Shropshire-based producer and award-winning columnist Roger Evans shares a cautionary tale about extra-marital affairs.

Status and sabotage Years ago, if you had the misfortune to go to our doctor’s surgery, you’d find the waiting room packed and be able to predict who’d be there. Three quarters of the ‘patients’ would have three things in common – little else to do, nothing wrong with them, and wanting antibiotics. The doctors would probably dispense antibiotics just to get them back out of the door. The days when antibiotics were handed out by doctors like sweeties are long gone and procedures are also being tightened up on a farm. If you produce organic milk then you can also apply to have ‘produced without antibiotics’ (PWAB) status for your herd. We hope to get this soon. We are not on some sort of crusade, but if you qualify for PWAB there could be a premium for your milk. To us it’s simply a case of adding value to what we already do. This premium is not automatic – your milk buyer has to find a customer for this PWAB milk and it has to fit in with haulage patterns. But qualifying for PWAB is the first step. That’s not to say that you can’t use antibiotics. There are welfare issues to consider, but milk from cattle that are treated, even just once, can never be sold as ‘PWAB’ again in their lifetime. And those that require regular treatment are, eventually, culled. We have not used antibiotics very often during the past year. We haven’t used dry cow tubes for more than 12 months. Antibiotics in milk has always been an emotive and contentious subject. I used to be involved with milk cooperatives and I thought that I had heard all the excuses. Most of them concerned the persistence of dry cow tubes. ‘I turned the handle and then realised what I’d done, so I stopped it’. Then one day a producer turned up who was in big trouble. He had had lots of failures. His excuse was that it wasn’t fair. We asked why not. He explained that he was having an affair with his neighbour’s wife, and that when he went out with her, his neighbour sneaked down and squirted antibiotics in his tank. That’s why he thought it wasn’t fair. I said that all the penalties he has received thus far would have to stand and suggested he fitted a lock on his dairy door. He hadn’t thought of that, but I expect he was a little distracted.

“Days when antibiotics were handed out like sweeties are long gone” cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

FEEDING SILAGE QUALITY

Additive offers peace of mind – and performance Margins are tight and efficient forage utilisation is fundamental to dairy business profitability. So every mouthful of high-quality forage that a cow eats really does count. TEXT JAMES MARSHALL

elsh producer Marcus Ferraro says that the use of a silage additive has become a ‘go-to’ resource in his drive to improve palatability of grass silage and maximise forage intakes. With average yields of 7,800 litres per cow, he is aiming for 4,500 from forage. So getting plenty of high-quality silage into the cows is a number-one priority. “I first started using an additive with the mindset that it would just act as a bit of an ‘insurance policy’ when making grass silage, but now I see it as a key

Marcus Ferraro: “We aim to utilise as much grass in our system as possible” 18

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

tool in helping me to optimise silage palatability and driving intakes,” says Marcus, who farms in partnership with his wife, Vicki, and his father, Richard, near Cardigan in Wales. “Every extra mouthful of grass silage that we can get into our cows really does count when it comes to maximising the profitability of our herd. And, for many years, a silage additive has made a big difference.” Marcus runs an autumn block calving herd and milks 250 three-way cross Holstein, Norwegian Red, Fleckvieh cows. The 210-hectare unit comprises 65 hectares of spring and summer grazing. “Grass grows well here, so we aim to utilise as much of it, in our system, as possible. Cows are turned out and rotationally grazed as early as mid-January and we also operate a multi-cut approach to silaging, kicking off the silage-making season in mid-April,” he says. “We often suffer from a lack of grass growth in the early part of the season, due to hot weather, but aim

to take a grass cut every 35 days. It is important that the grass is clamped within 24 hours of cutting, so this will happen whatever the conditions.” Marcus works with ForFarmers’ forage specialist Michelle Cross to assess grass ley performance, and together they are currently reviewing the use of the company’s Ryegrass Plus grasses in some of the unit’s leys to help cope with drought stress. ForFarmers’ account manager Elliw Griffiths and Michelle regularly analyse the farm’s silage and Elliw then uses this data to assess the cows’ diet to ensure nutritional consistency in the base ration. Analysis of 2020’s first cut revealed an ME of 11.2MJ/ kgDM and a crude protein level of 17.3%. Marcus is satisfied that silage yields and quality seem to be on an upward trajectory.

Fuelling performance

“We now aim to reseed land every four years, and this has made a significant impact on grass ley performance,” he says. “When we moved back into dairying in 2013, the farm had a lot of permanent pasture and we were struggling to produce good volumes of high-quality silage. We rarely produced anything with an ME content of more than 10.4MJ/ kgDM. Since reseeding more regularly on a four-year rotation, grass quality is better and we consistently produce silage with an ME of 11MJ/kgDM and above.” He adds that timely fertiliser application also helps to stimulate grass regrowth and quality. “We have a fertiliser spinner out in the field, following the contractor’s forage harvester and spreading as soon as possible.” While producing plenty of good-quality grass is important, Marcus knows this is only half the picture and that turning this grass into high quality, highly palatable silage is key to fuelling animal performance. In order to do this, and following

Michelle’s advice, Marcus began using Ecosyl in 2015 and has been an additive convert ever since. “Our contactors have a lot of grass to harvest when the weather is good. I know they can’t be with all the producers on their list at the same time,” he says. “When grass needs cutting, I don’t want to be in the position of having to wait out poor weather and then risk having to jostle for my place in the contractor ‘queue’, when the weather improves. Using an additive gives me confidence to let the contactors cut our grass, even when conditions aren’t perfect.” He began using Ecosyl as an ‘insurance policy’ when ensiling grass, but has come to regard using a silage additive as much more than this. “It helps us – irrespective of harvesting conditions – to proactively improve the palatability of our grass silage and, therefore, support high forage intakes in our cows.” And while there is a large range of additives available on the market, Marcus has been impressed with Ecosyl’s performance and its ease of use. “During a period of low milk price back in 2017, we actually switched to a cheaper brand of additive. But we noticed a significant drop in feed intakes, because the palatability of silage decreased,” says Marcus. “As soon as we switched back to Ecosyl, intakes increased again. So, while it is a more expensive product it is money well spent due to the increased feed utilisation. “The low-volume applicator means that just a small quantity of additive is required to treat a large volume of silage. We are handling small bottles of additive that can be ready mixed, rather than hauling barrels across the farm. I can easily provide contractors with a generous supply of additive at the start of a day’s silaging, which they can keep safely in their vehicles. And I don’t have to worry about them running out of additive – or silage quality – while I get on with looking after my cows.” |

Next generation: young stock tucking into grass silage

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

FORFARMERS FOCUS

Take steps to prepare for turnout It’s never too soon to prepare for turnout, and having a plan in place to manage it helps to ensure that the transition to grazing is smooth and avoids disruptions to cow health and performance. The key thing to remember are the nutritional differences between the grass silage fed in winter and the fresh spring grass available at the start of turnout. If turnout is not carefully managed, the lower levels of dry matter and fibre found in spring grass, combined with the high levels of sugars and lack of ‘scratch factor’, can cause substantial problems with digestion and, subsequently, milk production. A slow start is vital. Once conditions are suitable, begin by turning cows out to grass for just a few hours a day and then gradually increase the time spent grazing – ideally in the space of at least a week. This gives the fibre-digesting rumen microbes time to adjust to the change in diet and helps to reduce the risk of digestive upset. Producers should also keep an eye on digestive function. As the time spent grazing increases, look out for any changes in cow behaviour and activity that could indicate digestive upset. Pay close attention to the cows’ faeces, looking for undigested fibres or bubbles, as this could be a sign of sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA).

Measuring is important too. Taking regular grass sward samples reveals the true nutritional value of grazing. Understanding the differences in nutritional quality of grazing across all fields as the season progresses helps to ensure that cow rations are balanced. Any shortfalls can be addressed with buffer feeding. And AHDB’s ‘Forage for Knowledge’ figures can also be used as a guideline for grass growth and quality. Producers should also pay attention to milk constituents, as these are another indicator of how cows are performing at grass. A fall of 0.3% in butterfat or protein during the course of a week could, again, be a sign of SARA. But decreased butterfat levels could also be a result of the high levels of rumen-available oil, combined with the low fibre found in spring grass. Carefully comparing grass quality and milk constituent figures is the best way to understand the risk of any problems around turnout and can help to ensure that producers are supporting milk production with the best possible cow rations. Looking back at 2020’s figures can also help to prepare for any challenges at particular points in the season before they occur. For more information about managing turnout speak to your ForFarmers account manager or call 0330 678 1200.

Dent maize hybrids Maize is an excellent source of energy and starch for inclusion in dairy rations. Selecting a suitable maize variety, based on maximising both dry matter yield and the nutritional feeding qualities will give growers the best returns. Dent hybrids offer advantages in ruminal starch digestibility. Starch that is not broken down and digested in the rumen will pass through the cow. Starch lost in the faeces indicates poor utilisation, loss of nutrients and wasted energy. Trials of dent hybrids show a 2% reduction in faecal starch loss compared to flint hybrids, and each 1% reduction in faecal starch equates to an extra 0.35 litres of milk per day. After two months in the clamp, the benefits offered by dent varieties compared to flint is worth £229 per hectare. Six months after ensiling the benefit is reduced but still worth £115 per hectare. Pioneer variety P7034 is the first dent hybrid avaliable in the UK and produces silage with high starch content and yield. P7034 is also high in plant digestibility and early flowering. Along with a fungicide and a bird repellent seed treatment (Korit), P7034 is also avaliable with Lumibio Kelta. This is a biological seed treatment that improves the avaliability of soil nutrients to support faster emergence, more vigorous seedlings, improved yield, and reduced biotic stress. If Korit-treated seed is used then the typical sowing window can still be used, drilling at between 30mm and 40mm with a soil temperature of between 8OC and 10OC. Using a maize starter fertiliser will also aid establishment.

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

MAIZE FOCUS MANAGING RISK

Risk management key to maize success

What steps can producers take to mitigate maize growing risks, protect their investment, and guarantee a high-yielding, top quality crop? We spoke to a leading maize expert to find out more. TEXT PHIL EADES

ith maize costing around £800/ha to grow it is essential to ensure a successful crop – and guarantee a return on investment. Key to this is reducing risk, according to LG Seeds’ Tim Richmond. “A successful maize crop can be defined as one that will mature in time to ensure a timely harvest and the establishment of the successor crop. And it also has to produce a high yield of top-quality forage to maximise the return on investment,” he says. “Recent advances in plant breeding mean that there are real advantages in being more targeted in variety selection to increase the prospects of a successful crop by reducing risk.” Mr Richmond add that the days of growing a variety because ‘it has always done well’ have been replaced with the need to select the best variety for the circumstances. “It is also important to select varieties that can help reduce the risk of seasonal variation and producers must make sure the seed has the appropriate seed treatment.” He believes that a focus on variety choice can help reduce risk in three key areas. The first is maturity and

Harvest time: earlier varieties mean more timely cutting

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

this is increasingly driving the market towards varieties in the early and very early categories, which require fewer Ontario Heat Units (OHU) to reach maturity.

Suitable varieties

“This means that they require a shorter growing season to mature and can also be harvested sooner, in better conditions, to ensure a successor crop can be established in good time. Well-fermented silage will also be available to feed earlier. LG’s variety Gema, for example, is FAO 150 and will be ready for harvest around 10 days earlier than established varieties, such as Ambition.” To help identify suitable varieties for different parts of the country, LG’s Maize Manager App uses Met Office data to show OHU accumulations by post code and provides recommendations for producers’ specific locations.” Mr Richmond also urges producers to select varieties with good early vigour, as it is vital for the seed to germinate and ‘get away’ quickly. “The quicker the

Variety selection: key to return on investment and successful harvesting

plant can start photosynthesising, the faster it will grow away.” Having selected a variety that will grow successfully, the second risk that can be managed is ensuring high-quality feed is produced to increase the return on investment (ROI). Mr Richmond says the advances in maize variety breeding mean newer varieties offer a considerable financial advantage compared to earlier cultivars. Analysis of LG varieties shows that during the past 17 years dry matter yield per hectare has increased by 20% or 2.98t/ha. At the same time, starch yield has increased by 24%, equivalent to more than an extra tonne per hectare, and ME yield has improved by 27%, or an additional 43,750MJ/ha, due to a combination of higher yields and superior quality.

Additional litres

“This extra energy is enough to produce an additional 8,200 litres of milk per hectare, delivering an exceptional return on investment from choosing the latest genetics.” Mr Richmond stresses the importance of focussing on quality to maximise the yields of quality forage to optimise ROI. With 50% of the total energy in maize contained in the vegetative parts of the plant, varieties combining high starch and high cell wall digestibility (CWD) should be chosen. Higher CWD results in a higher quality feed and encourages faster rumen throughput. He adds that it is crucial to use independent data to inform decisions, rather than just taking the breeder’s word for it, and advises growers to only consider varieties included on the BSPB/NIAB Forage Maize Descriptive List. “This list provides an independent way to compare and select varieties to develop a shortlist to meet your circumstances. Varieties not on the list will probably not be worth growing. “The difference in return on investment can be considerable and, using BSPB/NIAB data, the LG Maize Manager App allows varieties to be ranked on this basis. Early maturing varieties, combining good starch and CWD, will drive productivity per hectare.”

Tim Richmond: “Use independent data to make informed decisions when selecting maize varieties” The data shows that new varieties deliver a substantial financial benefit. The variety Prospect, for example, is maturity class 9 / FAO170 but is above average for dry matter yield across all varieties on the BSPB/NIAB List. It has exceptional CWD combined with high starch and will produce 210,095MJ/ha. That’s enough to produce 39,808 litres – 2,082 litres more than an average variety. Conclusion is a first-choice variety on this year’s BSPB/ NIAB List and, with a FAO190, it is still early maturing, ensuring a timely harvest. It out-yields all earlier varieties on both ME and dry matter, supporting 2,432 litres/ha more than the average.

Seed dressing

The third risk that producers can manage is establishment success, and Mr Richmond stresses the need to ensure an appropriate seed dressing is used. Korit remains the only registered bird repellent, but he says that bird repellents are only needed where bird damage will be a significant problem. There is also a lot of interest in seed dressings that support crop establishment. “Korit Pro, for example, combines the bird repellent effect with trace minerals to stimulate root growth and function and a fungicide to prevent root damage caused by rhizoctonia. It is important to find out what dressings are available on your variety of choice. “Making a decision based on the latest data will help ensure that the maize variety you grow fits your system. It will also minimise risks and deliver the best return on investment while, at the same time, helping to meet the increased environmental pressures faced by producers.” |

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

MAIZE FOCUS EXTREME WEATHER

Manage maize to mitigate climate change UK producers are rethinking future maize management strategies to ensure that they maximise forage crop potential, and protect their investment, even when dealing extreme weather conditions. TEXT PHIL HAINEY

UK maize growers have made significant progress in delivering high yields and energy content in recent years. But the prospect of changing weather patterns in the future could lead many to rethink their management and variety choices, according to Grainseed’s Wilson Hendry. “Our ‘Roots Power’ initiative is designed to identify traits that will best protect varieties against drought stress and lodging. And there is plenty that producers can already do to address changing UK conditions,” he says. Roots Power is an in-depth look at the genetic properties that will help maize varieties to be more resilient in the future. The work, being carried out in conjunction with plant breeders Euralis Semences, is centred around root structure and strength, but this thinking is already filtering through into current varieties and management advice.

Climate change

“The start point for growers is to accept that climate change is happening. I think most acknowledge this, based on their own experiences, but if there are any doubts you only have to look at recent weather statistics.” The company’s analysis of 2020 Met Office data shows that while 2020 had 7% more

heat units between May and September than the 30-year average, lack of rainfall at critical times of the year stopped this translating into the bumper yields that should have been achieved. “The early advantage in terms of heat units was gained in early summer, with May more than 20% ahead of the average, and June more than 12%,” says Mr Hendry. All maize growing areas experienced above average maize heat units (MHU), with Southern England, East Anglia, South East and Central England seeing more than 1,400 MHU – significantly more than the minimum 1,200 MHU needed for forage maize. The effects of the early dry conditions were then compounded by low rainfall at key points in the growing season. “Most areas suffered a significant lack of moisture in May that caused widespread germination issues, particularly on those difficult seedbeds on heavier land where drilling seed into moisture was almost impossible. Delayed germination and drought stress slowed plant progress, with lack of access to N, P and K definitely playing its part.” With drought stress appearing to be more of an annual occurrence, particularly on lighter land in lower rainfall areas, growers need to factor this into their future crop management to mitigate against its effects.

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

“So add the possibility of drought conditions into your varietal choice decisions. If you’re in a drought-prone area, it’s worth taking a look at some of the more drought-tolerant varieties such as Marco and Crosbey,” he says. “Both can be drilled on sand and gravel and, if grown at lower seed rates, this can also help to optimise the available moisture. Increasing the level of organic matter in soils can also help, so make as much use of FYM as possible.” Preserving moisture should also be a priority when thinking about cultivations. “Maize hates compaction so, if there is a problem, carry out subsoiling. Good seedto-soil contact is vital, so a relatively fine seedbed has advantages. But be careful not to overwork soils.”

Seed rates

Correct soil pH is also important to aid nutrient uptake and fertilisers will be beneficial, particularly where soils are at index 2 or below for P. “For most growers, starter fertiliser will always be worth investing in. Putting a source of phosphate, with a little nitrogen, down the spout allows the plants to immediately tap into the nutrients when they put roots down.” Mr Hendry adds that reducing seed rates should also be considered to make maize crops more drought resistant. “This could help to limit moisture competition between plants and produce stronger growing crops that are better able to take up available nutrients. Drilling earlier than usual may also help in situations where conditions are steadily drying. “But take care. Maize is a subtropical crop and will only germinate at between 10ºC and 12ºC, so it’s best to drill when temperatures are on a rising scale. Ideally drill when soil temperature is at least 10°C for four consecutive days at a depth of 10cm, when taken at breakfast time.”

FROM THE EDITOR

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

MAIZE FOCUS FORAGE ANALYSIS

Regular analysis is key to unlocking potential Test and monitor starch degradability in maize silages to feed more balanced dairy rations and maximise performance. TEXT PHIL EADES

Producers should analyse maize silage regularly to keep track of starch degradability and to ensure optimum rumen health. So says Trouw Nutrition GB’s Liz Homer, adding that it’s the only way to guarantee cost-effect performance. ““This winter, with many grass silages offering lower digestibility, we have seen herds where diets have needed more rapidly fermentable carbohydrate to fire up the rumen – perhaps by adding cereals or molasses.

Fermentable energy

“Many producers were hoping that the addition of maize silage would provide the fermentable energy required for milking rations, to save on feed costs, but this has not been the case due to a lower starch content and reduced starch digestibility,” explains Dr Homer. The latest analysis of more than 3,500 samples carried out by Trouw Nutrition confirm that while early crops analysed well, later harvested crops have lower D value, reduced ME content and lower starch. Starch degradability, which influences how well cows will make use of the starch, is lower and this is reflected in increased bypass starch. NDF and lignin are also higher. “The result is a less fermentable crop with lower total and rapidly fermentable carbohydrates, which will have an impact on supplementary feed choices. One positive is that the acid load will be reduced, improving rumen health. And this means that it will be possible to increase fermentable energy sources if required,” she adds.

Dr Homer stresses that producers should not just assume maize is high energy and high starch, and advises regular silage analysis and balancing the diet accordingly. She adds that it is quite likely that, where crops have had less time in the clamp, diets will benefit from an increase in fermentable energy sources to optimise rumen efficiency. “The starting point for all cost-effective diets is to optimise rumen function by balancing the types of carbohydrates and proteins. Where cows are underperforming, adding more bypass energy and protein sources may not be economic because they will not address the root cause of the problem, which is reduced rumen fermentation. “This position may change as the fermentability of maize starch increases with time in the clamp, but there is no rule of thumb for how quickly this will happen or the extent of the increase.” Research shows that any increase in fermentability results from the breakdown of the protein matrix encasing the starch granules. This typically affects diet performance three

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

months after ensiling by making more starch available for rumen fermentation. Increases are usually greater in drier silages compared to lower dry matter crops, where any changes will be smaller and more gradual.

Monthly analysis

Dr Homer says the only way to get a handle on the degradability of starch in maize is regular monthly analysis to allow diets to be fine-tuned. Cow diets should then be formulated using the NutriOpt Dairy system, which is the only rationing system to ration cows based on the end products of digestion and takes full account of differing rates of rumen fermentation. “Unless the rumen is balanced in nutrient terms and the rate of fermentation, cows will not perform as expected,” she continues. “Basing diets on regular analyses that include the details to understand exactly how silages, particularly maize, will perform in the diet means it will be possible to formulate rations for more cost-effective performance.”

home farm - Hartpury University & College Utilising yeast to make the most of home-grown forage

pilot farm

HARTPURY HOME FARM Andrew Eastabrook Farm Manager

Animals

PARLOUR type

250 Dairy 200 Beef 700 Ewes

30/30 GEA Rapid Exit Parlour

Average YIELD cow/yr 9,500

Dairy cow ration Chopped straw 1.5kg / Blend 5.5kg / Ground maize 3kg / Grass silage 15kg /Maize silage 37kg / Dynalac 300g Urea 150g / Minerals 80g Levucell SC Acidease 30g

Andrew Eastabrook from Home Farm, Hartpury University & Hartpury College, talks about how he has utilised a rumen specific probiotic yeast to make the most of his home-grown forage. Making the most of forage Over the past few years at Home Farm we have had a significant drive towards increasing production from forage. At the start of 2019 we set out to achieve 4,000 litres from forage/cow/year, and by the end of 2019 we had reached that goal. Improving silage quality and consistency has been a fundamental part of this and has allowed us to drastically reduce the amount of concentrate in the ration. We have gone from using 3.5t of bought in feed/cow/year to only 2.5t, which is a significant cost-saving.

Unlocking the potential of fibre To really maximise production from forage we needed to increase rumen efficiency. Our nutritionist, Roy Eastlake, explained that by feeding Levucell SC rumen specific live yeast we could reduce the risk of dips in the cows’ rumen pH and stimulate the growth of fibre digesting microbes. This increases fibre breakdown in the rumen and stimulates dry matter intake meaning the cows DIGESTIVE get as much out of the forage as possible. Roy MICROFLORA BALANCE also explained that Levucell SC will outcompete lactic acid producing microbes while stimulating the growth of microbes that consume lactic acid, reducing the risk of sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA). This is important for us as our ration currently contains a lot of maize silage and ground maize, which although being a great energy source in the rumen, pushes the cows closer to the acidosis edge. The cows also seem to deal with diet transitions better when they are fed the live yeast. For example, when we switched from last year’s to this year’s maize silage we didn’t see any negative effect. Equally, we have seen little impact when changing between different cuts of grass silage. The yeast seems to make the cows slightly more resilient to change.

Lallemand advert

We have seen the physical effects of this when we wash the parlour after milking. The muck has been very consistent even when we’ve changed diets. I believe it is through the good management practices on farm as well as the effects of the yeast that we can maintain this consistency.

Using the OptiCut approach has helped us produce higher quality grass silage. By regularly carrying out fresh grass analysis we can pick the ideal cutting window based on the grass quality and weather conditions. Getting the most out of the grazing platform has also been key to increasing production from forage. The cows are grazed for as long as possible and by regularly plate metering and using AgriNet to monitor grass growth we can keep on top of the grazing wedge, maximising the quality of our grazing. The weather this year meant we made very dry grass silage, and under the circumstances we are happy with the quality although it wasn’t quite as good as our 2019 grass silage: 2019 2020

D value

36% 45.6%

15.8% 14.4%

75.8% 71.8%

12.1 11.5

Partnership with Lallemand Animal Nutrition Lallemand have been working with Hartpury since 2015 aiming to help the farm achieve its productivity and cow welfare goals, through the application of quality silage production and feeding practices, as well as utilising in feed technologies such as rumen specific live yeast to increase rumen efficiency. The principles of CowSignals and the most modern cow monitoring technologies are used to ensure the cows are healthy and as comfortable as possible. “The collaboration with Lallemand Animal Nutrition has enabled us to set ambitious targets for improvements in production from forage, cow health and welfare, it has also helped us practically to achieve these targets.” Andrew says

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

DAIRY MANAGEMENT NEWS

NMR introduces GeneEze NMR is introducing its new genomic services, GeneEze, at Dairy-Tech Online in February 2021. GeneEze will be an umbrella name for the company’s genomic testing and related services, which will be extended through 2021. The first new development under the GeneEze brand is an in-house genomic testing laboratory at its National Milk Laboratory (NML) site in the West Midlands. This is scheduled for March 2021. With an initial investment of £400,000, NMR will be providing a streamlined genomic testing service from the new lab for dairy females, initially for Holsteins but extending to other breeds in 2021. Tissue samples, supplied in kits or via Nordic Star UK ID tags, will be tested through the GeneEze UK laboratory and the results will be processed by AHDB Dairy. These genomic evaluations will then

be available to producers through NMR’s Herd Companion site and from the AHDB Herd Genetic Report site. “Our UK testing site brings greater simplicity and efficiency to genomic services on offer to producers,” says NMR’s genomics manager Richard Miller. “We will integrate it with our other testing, recording and data management and reporting resources, and be able to offer producers, particularly those recording with NMR, a more streamlined genomic testing service.” NMR first launched a genomic testing service, GeneTracker, in 2015. This will be superseded by GeneEze genomic testing. Further services, based on the genomic test data, will be available to milk producers in 2021. For more information contact NMR at customerservices@nmrp.com or call 03330 043 043.

Seasonal parasites Parasites are ever present and, depending on the time of year, our attention might be drawn to treatment options. Many herds will see exposure to worms during the grazing season and then liver fluke later in the year. Through NML’s disease testing services, vets and producers can gain an insight into the parasite burden in the milking herd at different times of the year. Testing bulk milk samples gives an indication of the level of exposure to worms and fluke. Typically more herds test positive for worms at grazing and levels increase as the season progresses, indicating exposure to parasites at grass. In the winter, fluke levels can rise following exposure towards the end of the grazing period. Of course exposure to a parasite doesn’t always mean disease and it’s essential for producers to work with their vet to understand the parasites present and, if treatment is necessary, what is the most appropriate treatment.

Genomic test dates Samples must be supplied to NMR by the submission dates for testing and evaluating by AHDB to achieve the corresponding publication dates, which are: February 18, published April 7; March 18, published May 5; and April 22, published June 2.

Final few 2021 diaries

Taking tissue samples for genomic testing

Centenary year extends to 2021 The dairy industry’s most celebrated award, the Gold Cup, was set to celebrate its 100th year in 2020. Not deterred by delays, and with six finalists in the running, the organisers – NMR and RABDF – will mark the occasion with the presentation of the 2020 award in 2021. The judges will carry out on-farm inspections once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Seeing the units at first hand before awarding the country’s leading title is felt, by all judges and the organisers, to be an essential prerequisite. The current delay is not taking the Gold

Cup history into unchartered waters. In 1925, five years after its introduction, the award was cancelled due to a footand-mouth pandemic. Between 1939 and 1946, World War II brought the award to a halt and then, more recently in 2001 and 2002, the competition did not take place again due to foot-and-mouth disease. The Gold Cup remains the country’s top prize, and the line-up of finalists for the 2020 title certainly maintains the high standards expected of such a coveted prize. See page 6 of this issue to find out more.

NMR has just a few 2021 herd management diaries available, priced at £30.50 plus VAT, including postage. To order a copy contact NMR Customers Services on 03330 043 043 or customerservices@nmrp.com. For more information about NMR products and services contact customer services: 03330 043 043, email: customerservices@nmrp.com www.nmr.co.uk

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

BREEDING INFORMATION

Blessing and Lukaku added to CRV’s stud Blessing delivers efficient milk producers with high protein (+0.14%). The robust, medium-sized daughters will be able to handle their production very well. They will produce persistently, have little sensitivity to ketosis and will remain in good condition. Also, Blessing scores high breeding values for all Lukaku originates from a well-known US cow family health traits. The Jethro CRV’s Holstein breeding programme son can be used on maiden heifers and offers sires that descend from by producers who are striving for an internationally renowned cow families, but A2A2 herd. also bulls that originate from relatively In contrast to Blessing, new entrant Peak unknown bloodlines. The latest addition, Lukaku originates from a well-known Lowlands Blessing, is a good example of female bloodline, the US-based Whittierthe latter. He’s from the Dutch Bles cow Farms Roz family. Lukaku transmits a lot family. “We milk cows that produce a lot of of milk (+917kg) and scores +14% for CRV milk, with high components and no Efficiency, including 107 for the new feed problems, at a low cost,’ says Blessing’s efficiency breeding value. He sires breeder and producer Ditmer Koster. daughters with healthy udders (111 for “That certainly applies for the Bles cow somatic cell count) and good fertility (104). family. They are unremarkable cows within Blessing is a calving ease sire, with wellthe milking herd. But are those cows often shaped udders. All sires are available as not the best?” both conventional and SiryX semen.

Polled bulls on offer CRV has added two polled sires to its portfolio. Delta Shape PP is a homozygous polled bull, which means that 100% of his offspring will be polled. The Hotspot son owes this to his high-performing greatgrandmother, Delta Simone (s. Frank P). Her Atlantic daughter Delta Suze was used intensively in CRV’s breeding programme. She produced 220 embryos and more than 11,700kg of milk, at 4.56% fat and 3.70% protein, in her first 305-day lactation. Grandson Delta Shape PP inherited her milk production traits and breeds efficient producers. He scores 14% for CRV Efficiency. His daughters are easy to manage with strong health traits, including 103 for fertility, 104 for hoof health, and 105 for udder health. They are moderately sized with good udders (106). Delta Shape is also suitable for use on maiden heifers. Red-and-white Red Rocks Bookmaker P is another polled sire who makes his

entrance on the list. Half of Bookmaker’s daughters will be polled. Bookmaker is a great production transmitter, offering 807kg of milk. And the Match P son from the Red Rocks Massia family is the highest red-and-white milk bull currently available in the UK. High milk production is one factor behind his high efficiency score. He also scores +12% for CRV Efficiency, due to good longevity. Bookmaker daughters inherit dairy strength and excellent udders, which are shallow (106 udder depth), firmly attached (109 fore udder attachment), with high rear udders (113 rear udder attachment). Just like Shape P, Bookmaker is also a calving ease bull.

CRV Avoncroft is now CRV United Kingdom This year starts with a new name and logo, as CRV Avoncroft becomes CRV United Kingdom. The name has changed, but the company message is still ‘leading in health and efficiency’.

Webinar success CRV recently successfully hosted a series of webinars. One offered viewers a virtual tour of CRV’s bull stud at Giekerk. Several Holstein bulls from CRV’s portfolio were also showcased. Grazing, and a more general overview of CRV and what the organisation does, were other topics covered in other webinars. CRV plans to host more in the near future. Keep an eye out for upcoming webinars at: www.crvavoncroft.com/registerwebinar

Half of Bookmaker’s calves will be polled

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

HEALTH WINTER CARE

Keep calves clean and cosy as temperatures drop Westpoint Farm Vets offers a few timely tips and pointers on keeping calves warm this winter. TEXT TIM POTTER

Cosy calves: there should be plenty of straw to create a ‘nest’

Taking steps to protect calves from the cold, and ensuring they are warm and dry, will reduce the risk of disease and help to maintain growth rates. Ventilation is vital for removing stale and humid air – as well as any viruses and bacteria that could be lurking within it. So, even in cold weather, a good supply of fresh air is essential. But producers should check that the airflow is above calf level, as animals kept in draughts will not perform. Cold, chilled calves will divert energy from growth into simply maintaining their body temperature. Close gaps under doors and gates that create draughts at the level where calves are lying. And, if calves are housed in large or exposed airspaces, consider making lower covered areas where they can keep warm. As temperatures drop, calves will begin to burn extra energy to maintain their body temperature. So it’s vital that producers take steps to avoid a fall in growth rates. The lower critical temperature (LCT) is the temperature below which an animal requires additional energy to keep warm. In the first

three weeks of life the LCT is between 10 and 15oC and as the calf grows its ability to cope with the cold improves and the LCT drops. Calves older than three weeks have a lower critical temperature of around 6oC.

Immune function

During the winter months it is possible to maintain growth rates by increasing the amount of feed the calves are fed (either by increasing the volume or, for those animals on milk replacer, increasing the energy concentration). The cost associated with this is easily recouped through maintaining growth rates, as well as reduced disease incidence. A well-fed calf has better immune function. Plenty of clean bedding, to reduce calf contact with soiled straw, is also important. Calves like to ‘nest’ so they must have sufficient straw to keep warm and reduce stress. The nesting score is a way to quickly assess whether bedding is deep enough (see Table 1). The aim during winter should be a nesting score of 3, meaning that there is plenty of straw for the calf to nest and trap

a layer of insulating air around itself. Calf jackets are a useful tool and provide protection from the cold. Consider using jackets for calves younger than three weeks old when temperatures fall below 15oC. Make sure calves are dry before fitting jackets and always thoroughly wash and dry jackets between calves to avoid disease transmission. When taking jackets off, always do in the morning when the environmental temperature is at its highest, because this allows the calf to adjust before temperatures begins to fall overnight. Table 1: Nesting scores for calves bedded on straw ● Nesting score 1

Legs entirely visible when the calf is lying down ● Nesting score 2 Legs partially visible when the calf is lying down ● Nesting score 3 Legs not visible when the calf is lying down

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

BI NEWS

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

HEALTH NEWS

Findings reveal improved calf wellbeing During the summer, 444 producers from the UK and Ireland took part in the fourth annual #Calfmatters survey. Of those who responded 54% were dairy producers, 33% beef, 7% dairy and beef, and 6% were calf rearers. Calf scour is one of the most common illnesses affecting young calves and, if not promptly treated, it can significantly impact growth and performance. “It was great to see the majority of farms – 87% – report that less than 10% of calves have suffered with scour,” says Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health’s vet adviser Kath Aplin (see Figure 1). But the findings also show that many producers are not using NSAID therapy for scouring calves. “This is a concern because scour is a painful inflammatory condition. It’s no surprise that affected calves benefit from the use of a NSAID, alongside rehydration therapy,” she adds. Metacam is an NSAID licensed for use in scouring calves. Studies have shown that its use is beneficial, as treated calves have a faster and more pronounced recovery. “Year on year, more producers are giving NSAIDs when carrying out routine tasks such as disbudding, dehorning and castration,” says Mrs Aplin. “The British Cattle Veterinary Association and the British Veterinary Association recommend that NSAIDs are given to control pain after the effects of local anesthetic have worn off. But, despite the increase being reported in the #Calfmatters survey, nearly 50% of farms are still not using an NSAID to

BVD Survey 2021 now open

Figure 1: Proportion of calves showing signs of scour during the 2020

complement local anaesthetic for disbudding.” Studies show that calves given Metacam at disbudding/dehorning have a greater feed intake, resulting in extra weight gain during the 10 days following the procedure, as well as reduced stress and pain indicators. The Red Tractor scheme now includes a requirement for a written pain relief policy, so this may be a good point to consider the appropriate use of NSAIDs for pain relief.

The sixth National BVD Survey is now live and, to take part, producers should look out for survey forms in farming publications, check their email, or visit www.bvdsurvey.co.uk. The survey closes on January 31, 2021, and 10 lucky entrants will be selected to win a Garmin Forerunner 45 smart watch, which is worth £150. Since the survey first began, a lot has changed when it comes to BVD control. BVD eradication schemes now exist in all parts of the UK, testing and surveillance options have improved, data showing herd BVD status is widely available, and livestock markets and auction houses support the clear identification of stock. The annual BVD survey gathers information from across the UK, and from all types of farming systems, to take a snapshot of what producers are doing to control and eradicate this costly disease. The information is then analysed and can be important when it comes to developing future policies. So please take a few minutes to take part. And you could be in with a chance of winning a fantastic Garmin smart watch.

Survey findings can be found in the #Calfmatters Survey 2020 white paper, which is now available online at www. calfmatters.co.uk

#Calfmatters continues partnership with Women in Dairy The working partnership between #Calfmatters and Women in Dairy will continue in 2021. This will be the third year that the two will be working together, sharing many common goals to educate and communicate on a wide range of topics around calf health and wellbeing. “In 2019, we met many women involved in all aspects of calf rearing at farm meetings throughout the country, culminating in the annual Women in Dairy autumn

conference,” says Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health’s Ailsa Milnes, speaking on behalf of #Calfmatters. “Obviously, 2020 was vastly different and both organisations sought to maintain contact with producers and offer advice and support, albeit virtually. We hope to get back on farm as 2021 progresses, and facilitate even more sharing of experiences and knowledge.”

For more information about Boehringer Ingelheim’s products: www.boehringer-ingelheim.co.uk www.calfmatters.com Telephone: 01344 74 69 60 Email address: ukcustomersupport @boehringer-ingelheim.com

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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COWTALK COWTALK COWTALK

BUSINESS UPDATE OUTLOOK 2021

d dairy workers asas restrictions ease ard dairy workers as restrictions ease ard dairy workers restrictions ease Cautious optimism

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rk, work, implementing socialsocial distancing, completely eliminate the risk an implementing distancing,you cannot you cannot completely eliminate theofrisk of an work, implementing social distancing, you cannot completely eliminate the risk of ommon areasareas and external visitors, ging common and external visitors,COVID-19. COVID-19. ing common areas and external visitors, COVID-19. ersonal protective equipment and andIt is important that allthat employers and and e of personal protective equipment It is important all employers e of personal protective equipment and It is important that all employers and employees followfollow the guidelines to safeguard . employees the guidelines to safeguard employees follow the guidelines to safeguard of coronavirus continue to drop, and their This includes cases of coronavirus continue to drop, themselves themselves andworkers. their workers. This includes cases of coronavirus continue to drop, themselves and their workers. This includes ave ahave legala responsibility to protect protecting contractors such as those coming cers legal responsibility to protect protecting contractors such as those coming cers have a legal responsibility to protect protecting contractors such as those coming drsothers from risk their farm the silage season and and and others fromtorisk tohealth their health onto the onto theduring farm during the silage season s and others from risk to their health onto the farm during the silage season and tryingtrying to implement socialsocial distancing wherewhere afety. to implement distancing TEXT MIKE fety. trying to implement socialHOUGHTON distancing where that to think the the possible. eansthey thatneed they need to about think about possible. eans that they need to think about the possible. ce and everything reasonably on theon nine can be found at hey facedo and do everything reasonably Details Details thesteps nine steps can be found at dairycan sector endedat2020 on a it as a foregone conclusion that this extra ey face and do everything reasonably Details on theThe nineUK steps be found o minimise them,them, recognising that thathttps://bit.ly/2X9JnW4 . cable to minimise recognising https://bit.ly/2X9JnW4 . disappointing cost will simply be passed back down the able to minimise them, recognising that https://bit.ly/2X9JnW4 . note, with a 1ppl price cut from Arla – a company that has been the food chain to producers. But really this cost COWTALK COWTAL COWTAL leading light in respect of UK milk must be passed on to the consumer or the processors during the past 12 months. retailer. Perhaps this is a reflection of the shortThe Brexit issue that’s still to be resolved is term uncertainty around Brexit, and the UK European labour. There remains little dairy industry’s seemingly built-in ability to movement on allowing European workers acing the prospects of lower than thanoptions to bolster forageforage stocks. Providing a cers facing the prospects of lower options to bolster stocks. Providing a government hasthan issued new guidelines for forage who can work, implementing socialsocial distancing, completely the risk produce more and more milk, from into the UKyou to fillcannot agricultural roles. eliminate So eliminate The government has issued new to guidelines for who can work, implementing distancing, you cannot completely theofrisk o cers facing theThe prospects of lower options bolster stocks. Providing a fewer grass grass silagesilage yieldsyields are ective supplysupply of for digestible brework, will pated are being hascost-eff cost-eff ective of digestible fibre implementing will Thebeing government issued new guidelines who fican social distancing, you cannot completely eliminate the risk of producers, as COVID-19 restrictions are eased, managing common areas and external visitors, COVID-19. cows. But there’s also plenty to be positive some common sense within the producers, as COVID-19 restrictions are eased, managing common areas and external visitors, COVID-19. ated grass silage yields are being cost-effective supply of digestible fibre will consider dried dried lucerne as an asas help restrictions ensure improved rumenrumen function tocommon getto getareas and external visitors, producers, areimproved eased, managing COVID-19. ed to consider lucerne anCOVID-19 help ensure function to ensure that as workplaces are as safe the ofthe personal protective equipment and andIt isisimportant that allthat employers and and to ensure that are asas safe improved as and personal equipment It is important all employers about, and as we look to of 2021. Government required here. d to consider dried lucerne an workplaces help ensure rumen function to get protective orageforage this winter. the most the total diet.” to ensure that workplaces arefrom as safe as and the of personal protective equipment and It is important that all employers and ative this winter. the most from the total diet.” IssuedIssued in mid-May, the guidelines masks. employees follow the guidelines to safeguard possible. in mid-May, the guidelines masks.optimistic about the employees follow the guidelines to safegu cautiously This is certainly the year when producers tive forage thispossible. winter. the most fromI remain the total diet.” ps’ TrevorTrevor Rees says that Rumiplus dried lucerne is high-temperature Issued in mid-May, the guidelines employees follow the guidelines to safegua e Crops’ Reespossible. saysearly that earlythat Rumiplus dried lucerne ismasks. high-temperature specifi c steps While cases of coronavirus to drop, themselves their This includes specifi c stepsfarm thatworkers, farm workers, of coronavirus continue to drop, themselves andworkers. their workers. This include prospects for 2021.cases Rabobank is continue should be focusing on and efficiency and not e Crops’ Trevor detail Rees detail says that early Rumiplus dried lucerne isWhile high-temperature detail specifi c steps that farm workers, While cases of coronavirus continue to drop, themselves and their workers. This include are that incuts many parts of dried and chopped to between 2cmhave and 4cm, ions arefirst thatcuts first in seasonal many parts of labour, dried and chopped to between 2cm and including labour, should adhere to, ahave legal responsibility to protect protecting contractors such as those coming including seasonal should adhere to, producers producers a4cm, legal responsibility to protect protecting contractors such as those comin predicting world supply growth will ease. output. Dairy businesses tend to be output ons are that first cutsincluding in many parts of labour, dried and chopped between 2cmhave and seasonal should adhere to,to to producers a4cm, legal responsibility to protect protecting contractors such as those comin are lighter thantoanticipated, while ready for adding to rations. It will balance fi bre untry are lighter than anticipated, while ready for adding rations. It will balance fi bre help protect them from the risk of COVID-19. workers and others from risk to their health onto the farm during the silage season and to help protect them from the risk of COVID-19. workers and others from risk to their health onto the farm during the silage season and Andto global dairy trade auctions are driven but, in many cases, this not only untry are lighter thantoanticipated, while forofadding rations. It will balance fibre help protect them fromready the risk COVID-19. workers and others from risk to their health onto the farm during the silage season and since since earlyRABDF May isMay having a levels and, at 10ME and between 17% and yther weather earlyRABDF issummarised having a the levels and, at 10ME andsafety. between 17%18% and 18% has 31-page and trying to implement social distancing where has summarised the 31-page and safety. trying to implement social distancing where increasing. increases costs, but also pushes up supply. weather since earlyRABDF May is has having a levels and, at 10ME and between 17% and 18% summarised the 31-page and safety. trying to implement social distancing where ff-on ecteff onect aftermaths and second cuts. cantly reducing on aftermaths and second cuts. protein, itnot willsignifi not signifi cantly reducing document, which is specifi c forprotein, construction This means that they need toorthink the the possible. document, which is protein, specifi c itforwill construction This means thatin they to about think about possible. is not self-sufficient milkneed dairy on effect on aftermaths and second cuts. it willThe not UK signifi cantly reducing document, which is specifi c for construction This means that they need to think about the possible. e that some producers will end up nutrient density. “The pH of dried lucerne, at ossible that some producers will end up nutrient density. “The pH of dried lucerne, at and outdoor workers, into nine key steps. risks they face and do everything reasonably Details on theon nine can becan found at and outdoor workers, intonutrient nine key steps. risks they faceeating andatdohabits everything reasonably Details thesteps nine steps be found at Optimum output products, but it may mean ossible that some producers will end up density. “The pH of dried lucerne, outdoor workers, intobetween nine6.5 key steps. facerumen and do everything reasonably Details on the nine steps can be found at ass silagesilage thanThese expected. And, between and 7,and makes it arisks natural rumen ss grass thanand expected. And, 6.5 7, practicable makes it athey natural include: assessing risk, determining to minimise them, recognising that https://bit.ly/2X9JnW4 . These include: assessing risk, determining practicable to minimise them, recognising that https://bit.ly/2X9JnW4 . Many producers should consider block have to change – perhaps switching from ss grass silage thanThese expected. And, between 6.5 and 7, makes it a natural rumen risk, determining practicable minimise them, recognising that https://bit.ly/2X9JnW4 . crop and maize offer some bufferbuff ander the of theof fibre wholecrop and maize offerinclude: some assessing andstructure the structure the promotes fibre to promotes calving and look to increase milk yield from brieof tothe British cheddar? Prices wholecrop and maize offer some buffer and theFrench structure fibre promotes producers should consider other otherrumination and saliva production,” he says. atives, producers should consider rumination and saliva production,” he says. forage to more than 4,000 litres per cow. should stable, but producers need tives, producers should consider other rumination and salivaremain production,” he says. The key is to identify optimum, rather than to reflect on future opportunities that e e maximum, output. might be available to them. There will be support for producers. For Resolving Brexit is key – and certainly a many the BPS will be halved by 2024 and priority. For many producers the Brexit Producers facingfacing prospects than thanoptions to bolster forageforage stocks. Providing a Producers the prospects of lower options to bolster stocks. Providing disappear all dairy deal will have come as facing athe complete anti-of lower Producers the prospects of will lower than completely options tofor bolster forage stocks. Providing anticipated grass grass silagesilage yieldsyields are being cost-eff ectiveective supplysupply of digestible fibre will anticipated are being cost-eff of digestible fi bre wi by 2027. There willsupply be new climax, but there is also grass relief that theyields UK are businesses anticipated silage being cost-eff ective of digestible fibre wil unit, which will bewill awarded at attention to thetoGold Cup’s unit, which be awarded at special special attention the Cup, Gold Cup, the advised tothe consider dried dried lucerne as an as an help ensure improved rumenrumen function to getto g advised to consider lucerne help ensure improved function forms of support to replace this, but these has to a deal with Europe and theredried are no Cup’s unit, which will be awarded at special attention the Gold Cup,tothe advised lucerne as an help ensure improved rumen function to g n February 2021. 2021. industry’s most prestigious award, atforage keyatconsider Tech in February industry’s most prestigious award, key alternative this winter. the most total alternative forage this winter. the from most the from thediet.” total diet.” are likely to be harder andfrom more time trade tariffs. alternative Tech in February 2021. industry’s most prestigious award, atforage key this winter. the most the total diet.” ld Cup was awarded in 1920, so events next year,” says RABDF’s Matt Knight. Dengie Crops’ Trevor Rees says that early Rumiplus dried lucerne is high-temperature st Gold Cup was awarded in 1920, so events next year,” says RABDF’s Matt Knight. Dengie Crops’ Trevor Rees says that early Rumiplus dried lucerne is high-temperatu al ural enterprises enterprises & &awarded dfied rural rural enterprises enterprises & & in 1920, so consuming to access and,dried overall, will beisathigh-temperatur However, CowManagement went to says that st Gold Cup was events next year,” says as RABDF’s Matt Knight. Dengie Crops’ Trevor Rees early Rumiplus lucerne dd fied rural rural enterprises enterprises &the & centenary have been the centenary year. year. Dairy-Tech takes takes placeplace atindications Stoneleigh arePark, that first cuts incuts many parts of dried dried and chopped to between 2cm and should have been Dairy-Tech at Stoneleigh Park, indications are that fi rst in many parts of and chopped to between 2cm4cm, and nterprises & been rural enterprises loweroflevel There willand also be grants press, just aatindications few days into 2021, it iscuts in manya parts should have the centenary year. Dairy-Tech takes place Stoneleigh arePark, that first dried chopped to between 2cm and 4 terprises & ural enterprises &&& we’ve the are lighter than anticipated, while while readyready for adding to rations. It will balance fibre to the had tohad to Warwickshire on February 3,country 2021. enterprises the are lighter than anticipated, for adding to rations. It will balance ,ural due topandemic, the pandemic, we’ve Warwickshire on February 3,country 2021. ral enterprises & available help to strategic apparent that the tariffs, the arenon-trade lighter than anticipated, whilethat willready forfund adding to rations. It will balance to the pandemic, we’ve had to Warwickshirealready on February 3,country 2021. sduethe the dry weather since since early May having a and, atand, 10ME and between 17% and he But we will the dry weather earlyisMay is having a levelslevels at 10ME and between 17%18% and one celebrations. But wedraw will draw s celebrations. investment for some producers. export administration and red tape will the dry weather since early May is having a levels and, at 10ME and between 17% and one the celebrations. But we will draw your to your red ilored tobusiness your tobusiness your business business knock-on effect eff onect aftermaths and second cuts. cuts. protein, it will not signifi cantlycantly reducing knock-on on aftermaths and second protein, it will not signifi reducing lored to your to business your business business Environment big topic 2021 and, become significant factors, knock-on effectprobably on aftermaths and second cuts. is the protein, it willfornot signifi cantly reducing ur business ded to your rto business your business “It is possible that some producers will end nutrient density. “The pH of pH dried lucerne, at “It is possible that some producers willup end up nutrient density. “The of dried lucerne Dto your business D VE RDTVI ES RE TMI ES N T ENT A EM business like or not, have “The to pH of dried lucerne, adding costs“Itofisbetween 8% producers to possible2% thatand some willitend up producers nutrientwill density. DoAyour ADVERTISEMENT with less silagesilage than expected. And, And, between 6.5 and makes it a natural rumenrum withgrass less grass than expected. between 6.57,and 7, makes it a natural with less grass silage thansee expected. And, the concept between 6.5environment and 7, makes it a natural rum embrace of the any international trade. Some already while while wholecrop and maize offer some bufferbuff anderthe structure of theof fibre wholecrop and maize offer some and the structure the promotes fibre promo while wholecrop and maize offer some buff er and theThis structure of the fibre promo becoming its own enterprise. is critical Farm Accounts Software Farm Accounts Software Farm Accounts Software alternatives, producers should consider other rumination and saliva production,” he says. Farm Accounts Software alternatives, producers should consider other rumination and saliva production,” he says FarmAccounts AccountsSoftware Software Farm alternatives, producers should consider otherof public rumination andpublic salivagood. production,” he says in respect money for Bureau Accounts Service &Bureau Bureau Accounts Service The dairy sector has an opportunity to &&Bureau Accounts Service & Accounts Service & Bureau Accounts Service & Bureau Accounts Service highlight the positives they do for the environment and limit the negatives, • Perfect shelter e • Perfect shelter particularly around greenhouse gas e • Perfect shelter • Designed for animal health • Designed for animal health • Designed for animal health emissions. • Excellent ventilation • Excellent ventilation •• Excellent ventilation • Shelter from wind & rain There opportunities involving Shelter from wind & rain This summer’s Gold Cup open day, which was was Gold Cup’s unit, which will bewill awarded at special attention to theto Gold This summer’s Gold Cup & open day, which Gold Cup’s unit, which be awarded atwill be mers special attention the Cup, Gold the Cup, the •• Shelter from wind rain This summer’s Gold Cup open day, which was Gold Cup’s unit, which will be awarded at mers special attention to the Gold Cup, the • Shade from the sun Shade from the sun renewable energy, further reduction ofaward, scheduled to be held at the Sloan family’s unit Dairy-Tech in February 2021. industry’s most prestigious at keyat key scheduled to be held at the Sloan family’s unit Dairy-Tech in February 2021. industry’s most prestigious award, • Shade from the sun Software: Software: Software: Software: •Software: Plenty of fresh air • Plenty ofbe fresh scheduled to heldair at the Sloan family’s unit Dairy-Tech in February 2021. industry’s most prestigious award, at key Software: use, electrification, enhanced as winners of the 2019 Cup, has The first Gold Cup was awarded in 1920, so so events next year,” says RABDF’s Matt Knight. as winners of the 2019 Cup, has The firural rstenterprises Gold Cup was awarded infertiliser 1920, ••Ayrshire, Plenty of fresh air events nextand year,” says RABDF’s Matt Knig •Ayrshire, Ample space -inDouble - Software: Double entry bookkeeping bookkeeping software software suitable suitable for for diversified diversified rural enterprises & &awarded Ample space Software: king -inDouble -entry Double entry entry bookkeeping bookkeeping software software suitable suitable for for diversified diversified rural rural enterprises enterprises & & in Software: in Ayrshire, as winners of the 2019 Cup, has The fi rst Gold Cup was 1920, so events next year,” says RABDF’s Matt Knig Software: habitat and biodiversity schemes. • Ample space king Double Double entry entry bookkeeping bookkeeping software software suitable suitable for for diversified diversified rural rural enterprises enterprises & & Software: been postponed until April 28, 2021. 2020 should have been the centenary year. Dairy-Tech takes place at Stoneleigh Park, been postponed until April 28, 2021. 2020 should have been the centenary year. Dairy-Tech takes place at Stoneleigh Park • Minimum draught • -businesses Minimum draught Software: Double entry bookkeeping software suitable fordiversified diversified ruralenterprises enterprises & been Double entrydraught bookkeeping software suitable fordiversified diversified ruralenterprises enterprises farm farm businesses farm farm businesses businesses been postponed until software April 28, 2021.suitable 2020 should have the centenary year. data on Dairy-Tech takes place at Stoneleigh Park - -Double entry bookkeeping suitable for rural & --Minimum Double entry bookkeeping software for rural &&& we’ve •second 75 And good actually how much A second open day is planned for summer “Sadly, due to the pandemic, had to Warwickshire on February 3, 2021. Double entry bookkeeping software suitable for diversified rural enterprises A open day is planned for summer “Sadly, due to the pandemic, we’ve had to Warwickshire on February 3, 2021. farm farm businesses businesses - comparable Double entry bookkeeping software suitable for diversified rural enterprises & 75 farm businesses farm businesses nts A second open day is planned for summer “Sadly, due to the pandemic, we’ve had toit captures Warwickshire on February 3, 2021. -2021, Rolling - farm Rolling comparable dairy dairy farm farm profit profit &RABDF PPL & PPL -2021, Rolling -businesses Rolling comparable comparable dairy dairy farm farm profit profit &calculations PPL &calculations PPL calculations calculations farm businesses s carbon will be required, at winner of the 2020 NMR/ postpone the celebrations. But we willwe draw at the winner of the 2020 NMR/ RABDF postpone the celebrations. But will draw farm businesses ts -2021, Rolling -the Rolling comparable comparable dairy dairy farm farm profit profit & PPL & PPL calculations calculations farm businesses sts unts counts Tel: 01772-785252 Tel: 01772-785252 Rolling comparable dairy farm profit & PPL calculations Rolling comparable dairy farm profit & PPL calculations at the winner of the 2020 NMR/ RABDF postpone the celebrations. But we will draw -- Rolling comparable dairy farm profit & PPL calculations - Easily Easily generates generates management management accounts accounts information tailored tailored to your to your -- Rolling comparable dairy farm profit &information PPL calculations - Easily Easily generates generates management management accounts accounts information information tailored tailored tobusiness your tobusiness your business business because this could become an important unts counts Tel: 01772-785252 Rolling comparable dairy farm profit PPL calculations -- -Rolling comparable dairy farm profit &&PPL calculations - Easily Easily generates generates management management accounts accounts information information tailored tailored to your to business your business business Easily generates management accounts information tailored your business -Easily Easily generates management accounts information tailored to your www.farmplus.co.uk www.farmplus.co.uk -- -Easily management accounts information tailored totoMTD your business ---generates management accounts information tailored to your business om - Up Up to- Up date to date with the the latest latest HMRC HMRC requirements requirements for for MTD MTD Up towith date togenerates date with with the the latest latest HMRC HMRC requirements requirements for for MTD Easily generates management accounts information tailored to your business D V EA RDTVI ES RE TMI ES N ET M E N Tnew ‘enterprise’ for many producers. www.farmplus.co.uk -to management accounts information tailored business m - Up --Easily Up to date to date with with the the latest latest HMRC HMRC requirements requirements for for MTD MTDtoAyour Up date with the latest HMRC requirements forMTD MTD -Up Upto togenerates date with the latest HMRC requirements for MTD ADVERTISEMENT -- -Up date with the latest HMRC requirements for date with the latest HMRC requirements for MTD - Lower Lower price price than than most most competitors competitors - to Lower Lower price price than than most most competitors competitors Up to date with the latest HMRC requirements for MTD -- Up toprice date with the latest HMRC requirements for MTD Lower price than most competitors -Lower Lower price than most competitors - Lower price than than most most competitors competitors ary) - -Lower price than most competitors - Lower price than most competitors

Farm business consultants Andersons shares its outlook for 2021.

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cowmanagement JUNEJUNE 20202020 7 7 cowmanagement cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 cowmanagement JUNE 2020 7 Bureau Bureau Accounts Accounts Service: Service: Bureau Bureau Accounts Accounts Service: Service: Bureau Accounts Service: Bureau Accounts Service:

BREEDING FEED EFFICIENCY

Data develops

feed efficiency value

December 2020 saw CRV introduce a breeding value for feed efficiency. Using sires with high feed-efficiency scores will help producers to reduce feed costs. TEXT INGE VAN DRIE AND WICHERT KOOPMAN

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

eed efficiency is a key driver for dairy profitability. So when CRV began measuring dairy cow feed intake on a large scale in 2017, across several commercial test farms, the cattle breeding organisation knew it was embarking on important work. Its aim was, ultimately, to reduce feed costs for milk production. Feed intake data from more than 7,000 cows has since been measured and, according to CRV’s Pieter van Goor, this gives the company the edge when it comes to real feed intake data. He is responsible for collecting and processing CRV’s feed intake data, including data from five commercial test farms. “Breeding for feed efficiency has huge potential,” says Van Goor. “Feed costs, on average, account for more than half the costs of producing one litre of

milk. If breeding can help producers save just a tiny percentage of this amount, that’s a lot of money.” CRV has gone on to develop a feed efficiency breeding value for its own sires. “This gives an immediate indication of how many more kilogrammes of milk daughters of a certain bull produce from a kilogramme of dry matter, compared with the population average,” says Henk Geertsema.

Feed efficiency in practice The five commercial test farms comprise cows producing, on average, 33.6kg of milk from 23kg dry matter. With the same amount of feed, daughters by sires with a feed efficiency score of 104 produced 34.3kg of milk.

Higher efficiency

In his role as a breeding technical analyst at CRV, he helped develop the breeding value. “The breeding value is expressed as a relative index, with an average of 100. A score above 100 represents higher efficiency and a score below 100 indicates lower efficiency than average,” he explains. Mr Geertsema explains how this works in practice by comparing two bulls: one with a breeding value of 100 and the other with a breeding value of 104 for feed efficiency. Daughters inherit half of their genes from their sire. This means that daughters of a bull with a breeding value of 104 produce, on average, 2% more milk from a kilogramme of dry matter feed than daughters of a bull with a breeding value of 100. With an average production of 10,000kg of milk, daughters by a bull with a breeding value of 104 produce an average of 10,200kg. At a milk price of 27ppl, that is £54 extra revenue from milk for the same feed costs. For a 100-cow herd, that’s £5,400 more income over feed costs. “The differences between individual bulls may seem small, but this calculation example shows that the economic potential of breeding for feed efficiency is huge,” he says. The calculation of the feed efficiency breeding value is currently based on a database containing the registered feed intake data of approximately 7,000 cows. “These are the statistics we receive from various test farms in the programme, where feed intake data is measured and collected for research, and the five commercial farms where we measure feed intake ourselves,” says Mr Geertsema.

Boost reliability

“These CRV working farms alone have more than 2,000 cows. The database is, therefore, rapidly expanding and this will also boost the reliability of the breeding value for feed efficiency.” For young genomic sires, the reliability of the feed efficiency breeding value is about 45%. This percentage increases as feed intake data from their daughters becomes available. For example, the breeding values of G-Force and Titanium, who each have 18 daughters in the feed intake programme, already have a reliability that’s greater than 70%. Feed efficiency is not the only trait that determines how efficiently a cow converts feed into milk. Longevity also plays a key role. “The amount of feed required during the rearing phase can be divided across a greater number of lactations and higher milk production in kilogrammes for cows with high lifetime production,” explains Mr Geertsema. “The CRV Efficiency index shows the genetic

sire breeding value 100 sire breeding feed efficiencyvalue 100 feed efficiency

33.6 33.6 kg kg milk milk

23kg 23kg dry matter dry matter

sire breeding value 104 sire breeding feed efficiencyvalue 104 feed efficiency

34.3 34.3 kg kg milk milk

23kg 23kg dry matter dry matter

Table 1: High scoring CRV bulls for feed efficiency and CRV Efficiency, ranked on feed efficiency

sire

Breeding Value Feed Efficiency

CRV Efficiency

Delta Jacuzzi Red

112

+21%

Delta Nominator Red

108

+18%

Delta Shape PP

108

+14%

Kingfarm Holsteins Anreli Red 108

+13%

Peak Lukaku

107

+14%

Delta Nippon P

105

+12%

Lowlands Blessing

105

+12%

predisposition for this total efficiency. In addition to feed efficiency, milk production and longevity are part of the index.” CRV is not the only breeding organisation working on feed efficiency. “But we are the only organisation able to present an index based on a high volume of data, measured directly from dairy cows in practical conditions,” stresses Mr van Goor. “Other organisations do not yet use actual feed intake data when calculating feed efficiency, or use feed intake from young stock. This is what makes the new feed efficiency breeding value unique.” |

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

Stress Free System for Colostrum Calf Feeding NEW

Dairy Spares 1/2 page NEW

Trusti Pasteur

Tel: 01948 667676 www.dairyspares.com

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

Pasteurises as well as thaws and warms frozen packs for feeding

NEW PRODUCTS

Cattle bolus range extended Three boluses, developed to meet the nutritional needs of cattle and optimise productivity, have been added to the range offered by Denis Brinicombe Group. All have been formulated to help reduce the risk of micronutrient imbalances in grazing and forage-fed cattle, through sustained nutrient release. EnduraBol Biotin, formulated to support hoof health, provides up to four months supplementation of six essential trace elements – cobalt, selenium, copper, manganese, iodine, and zinc – as well as key vitamins. It also supplies around 20mg of biotin per day, helping to reduce the incidence of’ before lameness by optimising the hoof horn structure keratinisation, according to the company. Studies have shown that cows supplemented daily with this level of biotin per day had improved locomotion and it also helped high-yielding cows to reach their potential. A second bolus to be added to the range contains the same trace elements and vitamins, but in levels tailored to pre- and

post-calving cows and heifers. EnduraBol Pre-calver delivers a targeted and sustained release of vital micronutrients for up to four months, to support the cow either side of calving and to optimise post-calving recovery for future fertility. By promoting a healthy immune system in the run up to calving, this bolus also

supports foetal growth and development. EnduraBol Organic bolus supplies the six essential trace elements for up to six months, in order to maximise production and performance potential of dairy cattle managed in organic systems. Every bolus pack contains a 10-cow supply of boluses, which can be administered using a recommended bolus applicator.

Dual-purpose colostrum pasteurising and warming unit A dual-purpose unit that can be used both to pasteurise packs of colostrum, and to thaw and warm up frozen packs for feeding, has been launched by Dairy Spares. Developed by New Zealand company Antahi and designed for use with four-litre Trusti colostrum bags, Trusti Pasteur is a purpose-designed lidded water bath with programmable temperature and heating times. It provides reliable, safe, and accurate heating of bagged colostrum. Pasteurising colostrum is straightforward: cold water is added into the Trusti Pasteur unit to create a water bath. Colostrum, which has been freshly taken and qualitychecked, is poured into Trusti colostrum bags. The Pasteur unit can hold either one or two of these bags, and a metal separator ensures that water can flow all around them. Pasteurisation is achieved by programming the unit to heat the water up to a temperature of 60°C, for a period of 60 minutes. The pasteurised colostrum bags can either be stored in a fridge for up to four days, or frozen for up to one year. To thaw and warm up frozen colostrum

bags, there are two options. The water bath temperature can be re-set to 42°C, and then it takes 35 minutes for a fully-filled four-litre colostrum bag to be warm enough for feeding. Alternatively, for a quicker thaw, the frozen colostrum bags can be placed into the water bath at 60°C and the timer set to 20 minutes – after which they must be removed immediately, to prevent a higher temperature from denaturing the antibodies.

The unit is designed to provide a consistent and accurate water bath temperature. This is important: temperatures above 61°C can cause significant damage to antibodies, while pasteurisation temperatures below 59°C are less effective at achieving bacterial kill. The kit, comprising a pasteurisation unit, eight colostrum bags, two types of feeding attachments for the bags – a Trusti tuber and a teat – plus a cleaning brush and marker pen, retails at £995.00+VAT.

Trusti Pasteur with two bags of colostrum

cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Agrimin Alta Genetics Berrys BI Cargill Concept Cow House Cosy Calf Cowcare CRV UK Dairy Spares DP Agri Farmplus ForFarmers Intershape Lallemand Limagrain Luxum MSD NMR NWF Quill Productions Thompsons Trouw Nutrition Zinpro

SHOWS AND EVENTS 2021

February 3

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Due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and subsequent lockdown, many of 2021’s technical dairy events and shows are yet to be confirmed. Keep an eye on CowManagement’s website for the most up-to-date news.

COMING UP

MARCH GRASSLAND & FORAGE March 6 – our early spring issue will focus on grassland and forage, as well as turnout and cow health.

CONTACTS CowManagement is published eight times per year by Davies Porter Media Ltd Editorial team Editor Rachael Porter Phone: 01394 270587 E-mail: rachael@reporterjournalism.co.uk Design and production David Tokeley & The Lavenham Press Ltd Contributing writers Roger Evans, Allison Matthews, Inge van Drie, James Marshall, Charlotte Grime, Phil Eades, Phil Hainey, Karen Wright, Emily Ball, Tim Potter and Mike Houghton. Publishers Jason Davies and Rachael Porter Advertising sales Sales Director Jason Davies Phone: 07813 603179 E-mail: jason@jasondaviesmarketing.co.uk

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Disclaimer CowManagement does not necessarily share the views expressed by contributors. No responsibility is accepted for the claims made by advertisers. No responsibility can be accepted by Davies Porter Media Ltd for the opinions expressed by contributors. While every effort is made to obtain reliable and accurate information, liability cannot be accepted for errors. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without the express prior written consent of the publisher. Printer: The Lavenham Press Ltd. Phone: 01787 247436

Illustrations/pictures Photographs by Ruth Downing (front cover and page 12)

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cowmanagement JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

FROM THE EDITOR

Out now

CRV Grazing catalogue 2021

Do you want to receive a copy? Contact us: Telephone: 01562 861582 Email: info@crv4all.co.uk

New bulls

Aladiesman ET S1F 120600

Bcasein

NZMI BV BA

281

244

109

Checkbook S2F

NEW

Kcasein: AB

118508

EBI

Long

LiveWt

499

47.5

54.4

205

Production Milk (lts) Prot (kg) BV

387

820

26.8

Prot (%)

Management & Health Fertility

BCS

2.2

0.12

-2.0

-.04

SCS

Fat (kg)

0.02 .04 -0.5

5.3

+7%

0.2

-7

185

Breeding Indicators 2 NZMI

277

284

175

155quickly 0.18

0.19

Shed Temperament

grumpy

Production

lovely 0.15

0.18

Milking Speed

slow

Overall Opinion

poor

Milk (lts) Prot (kg) Prot (%) fast 0.07 0.04Fat (kg) BV -126 17 4.3 24 well-liked 0.25 0.27 BA 213 18.1 4.0 19.1

Long

LiveWt

475

-41.2

246

-5.5

0.80 1.01 BCS tallSCS Calving Diff

Fertility

5.4

5.0

Gest Length

Res Survival

Capacity

frail

0.2

0.29 capacious 0.16 -0.23

0.15 -1.4

-6.2

137

Rump Angle

high

-.03 .05 sloping 0.07

-0.02

-2

-2.6

Rump Width

narrow

Shed Traits

0.42 wide -0.5

0.41 0

Legs

straight

slowly Adaptability Milking curved -0.06

-0.10

quickly 0.48

Udder Support

weak

0.65 Shed Temperament strong grumpy

0.47

lovely 0.49

Front Udder

0.65 strong slow

0.33

CRV Ambreed - New Zealand genetics loose

Milking Speed

Rear Udder

loose

Overall Opinion

Front Teat

wide

Rear Teat

wide

Udder Overall

undesirable Capacity

Dairy Conformation

undesirable Rump Angle

Conformation Stature

0.46 strong poor

0.36

close 0.26

0.16

close 0.11 short desirable 0.68 frail

0.39

desirable 0.41 high

CRV calculated genomic BV’s Rump from October Width 2020

Legs

0.44 0.29

1.0 BV

194

109

fast 0.26 well-liked 0.58

Long

181

119

820

26.8

Fertility

BCS

4.1

0.08

-2.0

-.04

+5% +1% Shed Traits Adaptability Milking

CRV EFFICIENCY Shed Temperament

+11% +9%

Milking Speed

– Capacity Overall Opinion – Superior udders Conformation – Calving ease Stature

Prot (%)

Fat (kg)

469

54.4

0.19 .04 -0.5

5.2

+5%

Ngauruhoe 0.5

0.9

192

Breeding Indicators 2.0 NZMI

275

262

175

155quickly 0.21

0.19

grumpy

Production

0.14

0.18

slow

Milk (lts) Prot (kg) Prot (%)0.04 Fat (kg) fast 0.25 BV 343 25 4.0 27 well-liked 0.31 0.27 BA 213 18.1 4.0 19.1

poor

93 dtrs. 26 herds

-1.6 15 BW BW Rel EBI 1.0 80BV 268BA

0 BV

slowly

lovely

Long

LiveWt

489

-2.5

246

-5.5

5.0

Management & Health short

Fertility

0.87 Calving 1.01 Diff BCS tallSCS

Res Survival

3.6

capacious 0.41 0.32 -0.43

high

-.03 sloping .05 0.07

narrow

Shed Traits

wide -0.5 0.71

0.41 0

0.17

Legs

straight

-0.06 Adaptability Milking curved slowly

-0.10

quickly

0.37

0.17

0.18

Udder Support

weak

0.62 Shed Temperament strong grumpy

0.47

lovely

0.35

0.18

Front Udder

0.08 0.20

-0.10 0.24

sloping -0.43

-0.08

narrow

wide 0.06

-0.08

straight

curved 0.07

0.06

loose

Milking Speed

Rear Udder

loose

Overall Opinion

Front Teat

wide

Rear Teat

wide

Udder Overall

undesirable

Dairy Conformation

undesirable

strong slow 0.50 strong poor 0.57 close

Conformation

Stature Capacity Rump Angle

desirable desirable

CRV calculated genomic BV’s from October 2020

0.19

0.63

0.29

high

narrow

Legs

straight

Udder Support

strong 0.62

0.19

strong 0.34

0.17

strong 0.70

0.23

Mourne Grove Hothouseloose S2F Rear Udder

weak Udder Support Skelton Bust Srb Keredene

Front Udder

0.16 0.39 0.44

Rump Width

Fairmont Mint-Edition

0.33 0.36

0.32

0.81

short frail

Front Udder

San Ray Fm Beamer-Et S2F

0.15 -1.6

Gest Length

frail

Rump Angle Rump Width

-0.02 -2

loose

-1.6

-2.6

fast

0.32

well-liked

0.43

0.08 0.20

60 TOP daughters

tall -0.29

-0.10

0.59

0.24

sloping -0.37

-0.08

wide -0.20

-0.08

capacious

curved

0.06

strong

0.38

0.06 0.19

strong

0.40

strong

0.36

0.23

close -0.19

0.03

0.17

close 0.07

0.03

Front Teat

wide

Rear Teat

wide

close 0.27

0.17

Rear Teat

wide

Udder Overall

undesirable

desirable 0.56

0.22

Udder Overall

undesirable

desirable

0.32

0.22

Dairy Conformation

undesirable

desirable 0.57

0.23

Dairy Conformation

undesirable

desirable

0.45

0.23

Lynbrook Terrific Et S3j Greenmile Dreamweaver

Daughter 524, Ngauruhoe, Harlaw Farms, Reporoa

close Directory 0.14 0.17 CRV UK Grazing 2020-2021

05-11-2020 13:03

Information from the NZ Animal Evaluation run 23/10/2020

Fernaig Admiral Sj3 Lynbrook Om Trick Et S3j Howies Checkpoint Greenmile Provence

+8% +1% +10% +9%

wide

Information from the NZ Animal Evaluation run 23/10/2020

CRV CRV EFFICIENCY EFFICIENCY

– Fertility – Capacity – Body condition score – Moderately sized

48 BV

1.0

Justice Front TeatAja S1F

633-20 Grazing catalogus UK 2020.indd 5

CRV CRV HEALTH HEALTH

Fat (%) Fat & Prot (kg)

Capacity

tall -0.74

loose

+6%

CRV EFFICIENCY

– Fertility 3.7 15.7 4.3 43 NEW F10J6 – Superior udders – Capacity 516671 Kcasein: BB Calving Diff Gest LengthBcasein Res SurvivalA1A2 4.2

SCS

CRV HEALTH

Fat (%) Fat & Prot (kg)

48 TOP daughters

Rear Udder Farside M Illustrious S3Floose Meander

LiveWt

capacious 0.54

Puketiro Frostman S1F Bagworth Rileys Glammweak S2F

Bagworth Pf Grandeur S1F Meander Fmi April S2F

254

Management & Health

CRV HEALTH

Fat (%) Fat & Prot (kg)

Management & Health short

NEW

Kcasein: AB

EBI

Production

78 dtrs. 28 herds

-1.6 15 BW BW Rel EBI 1.0 77 BV 180 BA

0 BV

Conformation

Kraakmans Jaydie Greenmile Provence Mohaka

Greenwell Md Brutus S3F Kraakmans Jubilee Fairmont Mint-Edition Greenmile France Et S3j

Ngauruhoe

CRV UK Grazing Directory 2020-2021

633-20 Grazing catalogus UK 2020.indd 12

633-20 Grazing catalogus UK 2020.indd 1

Mohaka

A2A2

0 dtrs. 0 herds

BW BW Rel

Milk (lts) Prot (kg)

slowly

Stature

+5%

CRV EFFICIENCY

NZMI

Fat (%) Fat & Prot (kg)

Adaptability Milking

UK Directory

CRV HEALTH

– Short Gestation 3.7 15.7 4.3 43 J12F4 – Outcross NEW – Good udders 516652 Bcasein A2A2 Kcasein: AB Calving Diff Gest Length Res Survival 4.0

Bcasein

Breeding Indicators

0 dtrs. 0 herds

BW BW Rel

Shed Traits

2020-2021

A2A2

Breeding Indicators

Crossbred

CRV Ambreed New Zealand genetics catalogue offers a lot of NEW bulls, outcross to Mint Edition.

Holstein Friesian

CRV advert

05-11-2020 13:05

05-11-2020 13:03

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Cow Management Jan/Feb 2021

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