Irish Farm Business - Vol 4 Issue 4 Winter 2017

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Farm Business YOUNG CALF MANAGEMENT THREE STEPS TO SUCCESS IN 90 DAYS

WINTER MILK LOOKING AFTER THE COW

ANIMAL HEALTH CALF SCOUR CONTROL

>> SEE PAGE 18

>> SEE PAGE 42

>> SEE PAGE 36

IRISH

Volume 4 Issue 4 Winter 2017 Edition Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

DAIRYING

POTENTIAL WINTER FODDER SHORTAGE

OPTIONS FOR SILAGE IMPROVEMENT

SHORT CALVING PERIOD TIPS FOR LABOUR SAVING &CALF FEEDING SYSTEMS

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Farm Business

Foreword/Contents/Credits

Features

IRISH

DAIRYING

Volume 4 Issue 4 Winter 2017 Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

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Foreword

18 NURTURING THE YOUNG CALF – THREE STEPS TO SUCCESS IN 90 DAYS At birth, calves are typically 6.25% of mature body weight. At 56 days 13% of mature body weight and at 90 days the target is 15% of mature body weight, writes Bianca Theeruth, Calf and Heifer Specialist, Cargill..

22 LONGER LIVING COWS The benefits of cows living longer were the subject of a conference in Sweden. A summary of the proceedings is presented here by Joe Murphy.

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t looks like the wet end of Summer and Autumn are going to have an impact on fodder availability this winter. Already there is evidence of prices rising and imports of straw etc increasing. We have an article on winter feed management which should help farmers establish how much they have and how much they need to get through the winter. Once you have a measure of the requirements it should make it easier to plan a solution.

24 FEEDING BARRIERS – THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL This article looks at the evolution in design of feed barriers and the various options now available. By Paul Lyons.

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Work out your available tonnage of forage, match it to animal types and then fill in the gaps, writes Grace Thomas, M.Agr.Sc. P.A.S Agri–King Ltd Nutritionist.

Calf Scour: Calf scour can be a scourge at this time of year. It is the most common cause of death in calves of less than one month old in Ireland.

Cara Sheridan has a good article on prevention and detection which is well worth following.

Iodine Nutrition: It is necessary to supplement the level of iodine for the vast majority of pasture based cows in Ireland. This can cause goitre in newborn calves amongst other symptoms. However, having recognized that there is a potential deficiency in the herd that needs to be addressed it is equally important not to oversupply and end up with toxic levels of iodine which affects milk quality along with other issues. Stephen Butler and David Gleeson have done very good work in this field.

Compact Calving: It goes without saying that there are a lot more cows to be calved around the country. Allied to this the calving period is getting shorter each year.This means the calving period is a lot busier. Emer Kennedy outlines ways to make your use of labour more efficient and also tips on how to get cows more likely to calve during the day when it is more manageable.

We hope you enjoy and gain from this edition…

30 WINTER FEEDING – WHAT TO EXPECT FEEDING COWS THIS WINTER

36 CALF SCOUR – BRINGING PROTECTION TO THE NEXT LEVEL Scour is the most common cause of death in calves less than one month old in Ireland, writes Cara Sheridan, Veterinary Advisor MSD Animal Health.

40 IODINE NUTRITION OF LACTATING DAIRY COWS

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Supplemental Iodine is necessary for the majority of pasture based cows in Ireland but it is important not to over-supplement, write Stephen Butler, Francis Curran and David Gleeson.

42 FEEDING AUTUMN CALVED COWS Bridging the energy gap after calving for a mature cow is always a big task, writes Valerie Hobson, Animal Nutritionist, Quinns of Baltinglass Ltd.

44 MANAGING GRASS SUPPLY ON IRISH DAIRY FARMS Many Irish farms are only producing 50–60% of their grass growth capability, substantial increases need to be achieved.

Michael O’Donovan and Michael O’Leary, Teagasc, report.

48 PREPARING FOR SPRING CALVING 2018

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Until the next time………

Compact calving demands that the farmer uses labour more efficiently to rear better calves and replacement heifers, by Emer Kennedy, Teagasc.

58 WORKING AT HEIGHTS IN AGRICULTURE The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is concerned at the significant rise in the number of tragic deaths and serious injuries resulting from such work, particularly involving fragile roofing materials.

Profiles

The Publishers, Irish Farm Business

23 NATURAL STOCKCARE LTD. 45 NUTRIBIO 53 DIPETANE FUEL TECHNOLOGY

Publishers: Denis Lane and Robert Heuston Main cover photo © Can Stock Photo Inc. / [dgphotography] www.canstockphoto.com Editorial: Denis Lane Advertising: James Small Design: John Barrett Production: Emma Meade

Contributors: Bianca Theeruth (Cargill), Paul Lyons (Bo Steel), Grace Thomas (Agri–King Ltd Nutritionist), Cara Sheridan (MSD Animal Health), Stephen Butler, Francis Curran and David Gleeson (Teagasc), Valerie Hobson (Quinns of Baltinglass Ltd.), Michael O’Donovan and Michael O’Leary (Teagasc), Emer Kennedy (Teagasc), Pat Griffin and John Kennedy (Health and Safety Authority).

Distribution: Easons, Newspread Published by: Select Media Ltd, 4-5 Burton Hall Road Sandyford, Dublin 18 Tel. + 353 1 6622266 Email. info@selectmedialtd.com

All material contained in this edition is copyright of Irish Farm Business 2017 and may not be reproduced or electronically stored without the permission of the publisher. However items may be freely reproduced provided the source is acknowledged. Content and views expressed in the publication do not necessarily represent those of the publishers.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS JAPANESE KNOTWEED – A NEW THREAT TO LANDOWNERS Japanese knotweed is a highly invasive, rapid growing, alien plant species, which is now widespread across Ireland. It produces dense and extensive stands of vegetation which causes numerous problems for farmers and landowners. The plant spreads rapidly and it develops a significant network of roots underground which has the ability to further destabilise and grow through loose block– work. The plant even has the potential to damage farm buildings, pavements and fencing. The network of roots underground are many times greater than what appears above ground; therefore, great care is needed when it comes to treating infestations of Japanese knotweed and any other knotweed species (including Himalayan knotweed, Bohemian knotweed and Giant knotweed).

Knotweed stands must never be cut or trimmed as these activities can generate thousands of small fragments, each of which can regenerate into a new plant and thereby make the problem worse.

It is important that any control or eradication effort should target the extensive underground root system as well as the aerial parts of the plant. Successful eradication of the plant can take 3–4 years.

It is commonly stated that the best time to treat Japanese knotweed is when the plant has flowered but before it begins to die back. Those who are concerned that they may have Japanese or any other knotweed species on their farmland should report these sightings to the National Biodiversity Data Centre and always seek advice on appropriate control methods.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS The C.O.W. profile can be accessed by logging onto your HerdPlus account at www.icbf.com under the View Profiles tab. Here the C.O.W. will generate in seconds, retrieving all current and past ICBF and Teagasc launched a new decision support tool, the C.O.W. information on your cows, while making predictions on future (Cow’s Own Worth), to aid in culling and retention decisions of performance in the herd. Cows that are under–performing will be dairy females on the 31st of October.The launch took place at the ranked at the bottom of the list and may be considered for culling.

Paddy O’Keeffe Innovation Centre, Teagasc Moorepark with a line For more information please visit https://www.icbf.com/wp/?p=9448 of speakers including Prof. Pat Dillon (Teagasc), Dr. Margaret Kelleher “Our strength in the Irish system is collaboration,” Dr. Doreen (ICBF), Prof. Donagh Berry (Teagasc), Alan Jagoe (split–calving Corridan remarked and the C.O.W. is a perfect example of research, farmer), Fiachra Liston (spring–calving farmer), Dr. Doreen Corridan industry, and farmers coming together to create something useful for (Munster) and Prof. Dorian Garrick (Massey University, New Zealand) the industry.This is only the first version of C.O.W. and it is anticipated and Sean Coughlan (CEO ICBF) chairing the session. The event that there will be further developments in the future to enhance the was attended by industry members and pilot herd farmers that service. participated in the development of the new decision support tool. ICBF and Teagasc would like to thank everyone who has helped The C.O.W. is a new on–line support tool that instantly ranks dairy to progress the C.O.W. to this stage and very much look forward to cows on their expected future profit potential based on the most the successful role out of this support tool. up–to–date information available. Farmers can quickly identify under– For more on this and other Teagasc News and Events visit performing cows and choose cull candidates and keep the most www.teagasc.ie/news—events/ profitable cows in the herd.This has the potential to improve herd profitability.

HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITY The initial research for the C.O.W. project took place at Teagasc NOVEMBER INSPECTION CAMPAIGN Moorepark in collaboration with the ICBF and AbacusBio Ltd. FOCUSES ON SAFE WORKING AT Results from the study showed that the C.O.W. was able to rank HEIGHT cows in order of most profitable to least and thereby identify The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) carried out a month long underperforming cows in the herd. The ICBF developed this intensive farm inspection campaign in November. Approximately 500 research further and trialled the C.O.W. on approximately 200 inspections were planned with a focus on safe working at height. herds and received farmer feedback through surveys which was After recent storms, and with the winter months ahead, there was later used to design and implement the new C.O.W. decision concern that more deaths or serious injuries could occur, particularly support tool available on–line from Tuesday 31st October. when carrying out repairs on farm buildings. A particular danger is

THE C.O.W. RANKS YOUR DAIRY COWS IN SECONDS

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS falling through fragile roofs or from ladders. Of the 21 people killed GRASSLAND FARMER OF THE YEAR due to farm accidents to date in 2017 (November), three of them AWARD were as the result of falls from height or falling objects.

The first ever overall winner of the Grassland Farmer of the Year Throughout the month, inspectors from the HSA encouraged Award is Eddie O’Donnell from Golden, Cashel, Co Tipperary. farmers to ensure they had the right equipment and knowledge to The Grassland Farmer of the Year competition recognises those work at height safely. farmers who are achieving high levels of grass utilisation in a sustainable Pat Griffin, Senior Inspector with the HSA says that work on or manner. near roofs can be adapted to make it safer: Fourteen farmer finalists, who emerged from over 100 applications, “Most agricultural roofs are made from fragile materials such as gathered in Teagasc Moorepark on Friday, 27 October for the galvanised sheeting or Perspex and working on these is extremely awards.The Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards is sponsored by the risky and should be avoided if possible.We are urging farmers to find Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and it is one of ways to replace roof fixings from underneath using work platforms. the major initiatives as part of ‘2017 Year of Sustainable Grassland If the work can’t be done from underneath, use a mobile elevated production’. work platform that allows access without having to stand on the Speaking at the awards ceremony, Minister for Agriculture, Food roof itself. Also ladders, if used, must be tied or footed, to avoid and the Marine, Michael Creed TD said: “For the finalists today, slipping, and should only be used for a short duration.” these awards represent the culmination of their efforts and an Pat Griffin added that items stored at height can be a danger as acknowledgement of their endeavour, skill and excellence in the well:“We also want to highlight the dangers of falling objects such as area of grassland management. I believe that this competition will bales and bagged silage.These items are sometimes stored at height provide more focus and exposure of how to succeed at grassland and it is important that they are properly stacked to avoid them to the wider livestock industry. Grass based production systems falling and causing crush injuries.” are at the heart of our efficient dairy, beef and sheep sectors, and The HSA and the Farm Safety Partnership are working to promote recognised and valued by our international customers as a sustainable new approaches to accident prevention on farms based on system. I experience this all the time on our trade missions international research. These approaches and the protection of abroad. Ireland has the unique selling point of being a grazing farmers and their livelihoods were discussed at the National Farm nation and we must continue to inform Europe and the world of Safety Conference in Ennis on November 17th. this advantage. I would like to acknowledge and thank the judging For more news from the HSA visit panel, Teagasc and my own Department for their work in putting http://www.hsa.ie/eng/News_Events_Media/ this competition together.”

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS THE 7 WINNERS OF THE CATEGORY AWARDS WENT TO: Gerard Dineen, Kilnamartyra, Macroom, Co Cork – Beef enterprise award Peadar Kearney,Tallanstown, Dundalk, Co Louth – Sheep enterprise award Eddie O’Donnell, Golden, Cashel, Co Tipperary – Dairy enterprise award The Heffernan Family, Caherleske, Dunnamaggin, Co. Kilkenny – Leinster region Francis Clune, Newgrove,Tulla, Co. Clare – Munster region Jimmy & Edward Payne, Ballymoe, Castlerea, Co Roscommon – Connaught / Ulster region Tim Crowley, Clancoolbeg, Bandon, Co. Cork – Young Grassland Farmer of the Year THE 7 FINALISTS WERE: Michael Doran, Duncormick, Co Wexford – Dairy Peter Mongey, Stackallen, Slane, Co Meath – Dairy Michael & Marguerite Crowley, Bauravilla Upr, Skibbereen, Co Cork – Dairy Tomás O’Leary, Headford Valley, Co Kerry – Sheep Niall O’Meara, Eyrecourt, Ballinasloe, Co Galway – Beef Michael & Mike Magan, Killashee, Co Longford – Dairy Frank & Des Bernie, Newtownforbes, Co Longford – Beef

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Teagasc Director, Professor Gerry Boyle said: “Teagasc research indicates that grass utilisation can be increased significantly on farm.This competition, with an overall prize fund of €30,000, kindly funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, brings together and recognises the top 14 farmers in the country who are utilising best practice and the latest research on their farms. Teagasc has developed a world leading grassland web based grassland system in PastureBase Ireland, which has now more than 4,500 users. We must now increase the usage of the system further to help farmers grow and utilise more grazed grass.”

Padraig Walsh, dairy farmer and chair of the Grass10 stakeholder committee said: “In FBD we believe Grass 10 is a very important project to encourage better utilisation of our most valuable natural resource. We want to do all we can to improve farm profitability in Ireland. What better way to do this than to ensure better dissemination of the excellent research which is carried out by Moorepark. If we can lift grass utilised by just one tonne per hectare it would be worth over €500million euro to the country and over €6,000 euro to a 40 ha farm. FBD is proud as the only Irish owned insurance company to invest our profits for the good of our most important customers, Irish Farmers.”

‘Speaking on behalf of Grass10 sponsors AIB, John O’Doherty, Local Market Leader for Cork County said: “AIB is delighted to partner with Teagasc and the other sponsors involved in the Grass10 initiative. I would like to compliment and congratulate each of the Award recipients here today and hope that other farmers will take inspiration from their achievements and attend the various Grass10 initiatives throughout the country. Our message to farmers has consistently been to invest in the assets that deliver

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS most for the farm business. With a definite correlation with on– producers: the US, the Netherlands, and the UK — milk production farm profitability, affording greater focus and attention to grass drops when cows eat more forage as opposed to grain. But Finbar measurement and utilisation certainly falls within this bracket and Mulligan of the University College Dublin Lyons Dairy and Research should be a priority for all livestock farm operations.”

Centre says that this isn’t necessarily a problem; grass is a low–cost On behalf of Grassland AGRO, Dr Stan Lalor ‘emphasised their feed in the wet and impossibly green hills of rural Ireland, resulting in continued commitment to promoting best practise in grassland favourable economics to grain–fed dairy. management through the grassland farmer of the year competition The much–resented quota system was abolished in 2015, which within the Grass 10 programme.’ led to farmers growing their herds and the Irish government Aidan Brennan, Farmers Journal said: “Practises used by these putting in place ambitious goals. famers to increase grass production and utilisation, include soil Ireland’s published goal, part of its Food Harvest 2020 plan, is to fertility management, sward renewal, grassland measurement and increase milk production by 50% by 2020. From February 2015 to improved grazing infrastructure.”

2016, Ireland upped its milk production by 37% to 295 million The Grassland farmer of the year awards are part of the Grass10 litres, miles ahead of the EU’s 5% bump in overall production in campaign which is supported by Teagasc, Department of roughly the same time period.

Agriculture, Food and the Marine, AIB, FBD Insurance, Grassland Agro and the Irish Farmers Journal.

For more Teagasc News visit www.teagasc.ie/news-events/

THE TECHNOLOGICAL ANSWER TO IRELAND’S GROWING DAIRY INDUSTRY Driving around rural Ireland, it’s easy to guess Ireland’s biggest agricultural sector: dairy, dairy, and dairy.Though Irish farmers also grow cereals, potatoes, beans and peas, oilseed rape, and maize, 90% of Irish farmland is grassland and that means dairy — and to a lesser extent beef. A 2017 report from the Irish Food Board valued the country’s dairy industry at €3.38 billion ($4 billion).

Ireland’s grass–based dairy industry has likely kept the country’s dairy yields from matching the heights of the top three global

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS But the existing infrastructure was not set up to instantly manage the “Slurry Solver,” is a floating raft of sorts that stays on the surface a drastic uptick in production. This has promoted technological of the slurry in the tank allowing the solids to fall while capturing advancement. the methane as it rises.What used to be a simple tank can effectively be retrofitted into an anaerobic digester, allowing the farmer to WHAT ABOUT THE EXTRA WASTE? capture the methane biogas for use.

Even if all the milk is sold and put to use, Ireland will be left with “With this technology, we can reduce the methane content in a big waste problem as the herd grows. In signing the Paris Climate the manure by two–thirds… So even if we just burnt it and let it Accords, the EU has agreed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions go off into free air, our emissions factor is going from 24 down to by 40% from 1990 levels by 2030. one,” explains Wilmington.

Agriculture comprises an eighth of gross domestic product (GDP) The biofuel generated in one of these tanks in one year could in Ireland, and its emissions comprise a third of total emissions, provide the equivalent fuel of 30,000 litres of kerosene, worth according to a 2015 article in The Irish Times. The article suggests roughly €15,000 ($18,000), according to Wilmington. that some farmers are looking at different feedstock options to diminish This extract is from Emma Cosgrove’s article, originally the methane emissions coming from their ruminant animals; a recent published in full on AgFunder News. article in the Veterinarian Ireland Journal said that through honing Visit https://agfundernews.com/ for the full article and in on diet and digestion, methane production could be curtailed. other stories.

But Thomas Wilmington of DIT Hothouse, a technology incubator at the Dublin Institute of Technology, has a plan to deal with the waste by capturing the methane produced and converting it into biogas.

According to Wilmington, farmers currently store cattle waste in the concrete tanks under the floor of their cow sheds.The waste is then pumped out and spread as fertilizer once a year, completely untreated.

He says that as a result of not treating the waste, “our methane emissions are some of the highest per capita [of heads of cattle] in the world; it’s crazy.”

Wilmington, an engineer and university lecturer, has invented a solution in cooperation with DIT Hothouse. The invention, called

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE CALF NURTURE

NURTURING THE YOUNG CALF – THREE STEPS TO SUCCESS IN 90 DAYS

At birth, calves are typically 6.25% of mature body weight. At 56 days 13% of mature body weight and at 90 days the target is 15% of mature body weight, writes Bianca Theeruth, Calf and Heifer Specialist, Cargill.

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uccessful calf rearing and performance is fundamentally Quietly: minimise stress to ensure efficient absorption of based around some key management practices. During the protective antibodies. first 90 days of life calves should reach 15% of their mature Hygiene: Contamination during collection, transfer or feeding. body weight and double their birth weight by 60 days of age.

Disease status of cows, udder cleanliness, operator cleanliness STEP 1: COLOSTRUM – THE FUEL OF LIFE (hands), equipment (cluster and pipework), clean dump bucket Action starts at birth, with the newborn calf getting its first feed and transfer to clean bucket with lid on it. of high quality colostrum within two hours and more than 150g of immunoglobulins (IgG) in the first 24 hours.The calf relies on STEP 2: PRE-WEANING – DOUBLING BIRTH this as a springboard to a healthy start. Colostrum should be fed WEIGHT BY 60 DAYS OF AGE A good feeding schedule and routine from birth to weaning will at body temperature (39°C) and previously frozen colostrum be fundamental to achieving targets for growth, health and economic thawed in a fridge overnight. It is highly advisable to check the performance. Introducing a quality milk replacer maintains growth temperature with a thermometer and once warm use rates, providing concentrations and quantities are correct. Five or immediately. six litres a day, in two feeds, is recommended.

SET CLEAR COLOSTRUM TARGETS TO GET It’s worth checking concentration rates. A litre of milk at 12.5% CALVES OFF TO THE BEST START IN LIFE: concentration means 125g of milk powder in 875ml of water and NOT 125g of powder in a litre of water, which would give a Quality: IgG>50g/l and TBC (total bacterial count) < 100 000 concentration of 11.1%. Calf milk replacers are typically fed at a cfu/ml (bacterial numbers in warm colostrum can double every concentration similar to that of cow’s whole milk, that being 12.5% 20 minutes).

Dry Matter (125g/kg DM). However, it can be fed at concentrations Target: IgG in milk > 50g/l and IgG in blood = 15g/1 (>10 g/l). ranging from 10-20% Dry Matter (100-200g/kg DM), depending on the rearing system and growth rate required. The amount of Quantity: four-to-six litres within the first 24 hours following solids fed per day is key and it is advisable to know exactly how birth – feed two-to-three litres or 10% of body weight within two much you are feeding. hours of birth.

When it comes to selecting calf milk replacer, producers should look beyond the price and the label – and at the bigger picture.

Quickly: within one-to-six hours following birth to ensure Farm objectives will differ from herd to herd: some producers highest absorption of IgG – efficiency of antibody absorption will be driven by reducing costs and others will be looking to declines rapidly from birth onwards.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE CALF NURTURE maximise calf growth and performance. So it’s vital that they Moving into the winter months, producers should be mindful of select a calf milk replacer to suit their set up and objectives, in any drop in calf-house temperature and consider using calf other words their calf feeding system, their calves and their jackets, particularly for those up to three weeks of age. In calves growth goals. aged three weeks or less, the lower critical temperature is 15OC. Encouraging rumen development immediately after the colostrum The rule of thumb is that for every 1OC drop in temperature below 15OC their maintenance energy requirement increases by phase is vital if growth rates are going to be maintained. A high quality calf starter and fresh water will encourage intakes, providing 1%. So keep that in mind and make sure you maximise the potential of the milk replacer. Providing extra straw bedding during cold milk replacer rates are not exceeded so suppressing the calf’s spells can also help calves to keep warm. Calf jackets should be interest in dry feed. Cargill trials have shown that a modified breathable and washed between calves, at temperatures no lower accelerated programme, that accurately balances quantities of milk replacer and dry feed, will maximise growth rates alongside than 60OC to make sure that they are thoroughly clean to minimise rumen development and help to maintain linear growth rates both the risk of disease spreading from calf to calf. pre and post weaning.

Too often producers are encouraged to drive for higher pre-weaning STEP 3: POST-WEANING – AVOIDING THE SLUMP IN GROWTH weight gains by feeding more milk. Current research shows that Producers should focus on a 90-day target and all calves – exceeding 750g/calf/day of milk replacer delays rumen development regardless of breed and birth size – should be at least 15% of their and reduces digestion of starter feed dry matter by between 6% expected mature body weight at this age. Based on the figures in and 9%. This compromises post-weaning growth rates as calves Table 1, this works out at 100 kg live weight for a typical Holstein face a more abrupt and stressful change in diet at weaning, calf. The reason for looking at 90 days versus the weaning period resulting in a growth check.The benefits of extra growth from is that any post-weaning checks in growth will have an impact on the milk replacer are soon lost. achieving the target growth rate.

Intakes of dry feed should be between 1.5kg and 2kg a day by Growth targets can easily be applied to any breed. At birth, weaning for Holstein calves, with the volume of milk replacer at calves are typically 6.25% of mature body weight. At 56 days of the same concentration but reduced to one feed a day of three age they should be around 13% of their mature body weight and litres in the week before weaning. Good quality straw will also at 90 days of age the target is 15% of mature body weight. help rumen development.

“A good feeding schedule and routine from birth to weaning will be fundamental to achieving targets for growth, health and economic performance” Calves on this modified accelerated feeding programme are well equipped to increase concentrate intake post weaning to between 2.5kg and 3kg. Supported with good management and a healthy environment, these calves should be on course to meet their 90day growth target.

Adequate calf housing and paying attention to good hygiene are vital to ensuring that your calves get off to the best start. Calf housing facilities are sadly lacking on some units, particularly when it comes to ventilation and the provision of a dry and draught-free environment for the young calf. Housing, be it new or a re-purposed building, must be designed so that it can accommodate changes to the climate and the environment.

Good airflow, provision of clean and dry bedding are essential and labour efficiency is also important. If a building is set up in a way that allows easy access to and observation of calves then essential day-to-day husbandry tasks will be carried out quickly and thoroughly.

Producers are advised to weigh a proportion of their herd, ideally 10 % of third lactation cows, to get an idea of their herd’s average mature body weight, because there could be variation from herd to herd compared to the breed standard.

Table 1: Target body weight and height at maturity Mature body wt (kg)

Mature body height (cm)

Holstein

680

145

Jersey

454

120

Ayrshire

544

130

Based on breed standard information/indicators and may vary from unit to unit For further information: Cargill Animal Nutrition Ireland, Monread Industrial Estate, Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland.

Phone 045 875726 Website: www.cargill.com/feed and www.nurturewithprovimi.com

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS CALOR ENERGY ADVISORS HELPING IRISH DAIRY FARMERS WITH SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS tanks. This is an essential component in managing hygiene and controlling the Total Bacteria Count (TBC) of milk and other contamination risks such as Thermoduric Bacteria. Calor instantaneous water heaters therefore minimise the need for chemical detergent use on dairy farms.

INSTANT HOT WATER AT 85° C

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Calor’s Agriculture Energy Specialist Damien Shirkie explains why farmers are recognizing the importance of a good energy partner to power and compliment their dairy farms: "People switching to Calor Gas for many reasons but two of the main ones are efficiency and the alor is Ireland’s oldest and most trusted supplier of LPG, and delivery of instant hot water on demand at 85 degrees.We have also seen has a long relationship with the Irish agriculture community a recent increase in number of VMS farmers who are now switching to Calor water heating and are all extremely happy with the results". as a sustainable and intuitive source of energy across the Origin Green and the Sustainable Dairy Scheme are placing ever farm. With many dairy farms expanding or making improvements, greater focus on improving the environmental performance of Irish Calor is reminding customers of the range of innovative energy solutions available to them, helping to drive down costs and increase farms. The Calor LPG solution also delivers in terms of environmental sustainability. As water is heated only when required, environmental sustainability. hot water storage costs are eliminated. Calor’s intuitive telemetry For many years, Calor energy advisors have worked directly with dairy farmers to design systems that reduce costs and work for their system also ensures that you will never run short on gas, as a farm enterprise. The Calor water heating system is unique in that it gauge continuously monitors gas levels. When you need a top-up, is the only system capable of providing instant hot water at up to a transmitter sends a signal and your local Calor depot schedules a 85°C instantaneously. As one of the most important considerations fuel delivery at a time convenient to you. on a dairy farm is hygiene, the Calor solution is ideal as it is more Calor Gas is part of SHV Energy - the largest dedicated than capable of providing the large quantities of hot water which global LPG distributor. Information on Calor is available at are required each day to wash milk lines and bulk milk storage www.calorgas.ie.

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ANIMAL HEALTH

LONGER LIVING COWS The benefits of cows living longer were the subject of a conference in Sweden.

A summary of the proceedings is presented here by Joe Murphy. bouts, where lame cows tend to lie longer. Farmers have very little knowledge of the cows’ time budgets.

WALKING AND STANDING SURFACES FOR LONGEVITY

The main three reasons stated for culling are lameness, mastitis and fertility problems.

Not only is this an animal welfare problem, but it is also very costly for the dairy farmer, so these issues need to be addressed.

Removing the causes of involuntary culling can significantly improve animal welfare and farm profits, but a challenge is getting this information implemented by the dairy farmers.

Lameness is estimated to cost €308 per case, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. The incidence of lameness and mastitis is much higher than what is shown in the culling rate.We should be concerned with the underlying health problems; they are costing the farmers a lot of money.

There are simple things that can be done in the shed that can have a dramatic effect. The first thing to look at is the amount of bedding in the cubicle, the height of the neck rail and not to overstock the shed. The goal should be to have < 10% lame cows in the herd.

THE COST BENEFIT OF KEEPING THE COW IN THE HERD It has been shown that a large number of cows leave the herd early in lactation largely due to metabolic health reasons, and the risk of death is greatest early in lactation. Involuntary culling of cows early in lactation is expensive, in the order of €380 to €760 per cow (US data) not including losses in milk yield due to disease and delayed replacement etc. Efforts to reduce death rates and improve early lactation health can therefore be profitable.

Lameness is detrimental to animal welfare and fertility, (if in pain cows show heat less) and it is one of the three main reasons for involuntary culling. When dairy cows are confined, as in a free stall system, their feet (when standing) and legs (when lying) are affected by wear, trauma, and by microorganisms. The cow’s ability to rest, stand and walk must be optimized. Reduce unnecessary exposure of feet and legs to hard, abrasive and unhygienic floors.

Reduce waiting time for milking. Provide enough space at the manger and feed for all cows 24 hours/day. Invest in soft resilient flooring with rubber of excellent quality. Invest in drainage by sloping solid floors with cleansing urine canals. Preferably invest in slatted rubber and scrapers.

LYING AREA DESIGN AND SHED CLIMATE GETTING IT RIGHT Cows produce more milk and may live longer in a more comfortable environment. Free stalls should be designed according to the needs and size of the cows, bedding should be soft, clean, dry and if possible, inorganic. Floors should provide sufficient traction, be clean and dry, soft and in good condition. Rubber will improve walking.

There should be no bad smell inside the barn, the temperature inside the barn should not be more than 5 °C above the outside, the relative humidity in the barn should be between 50-80% and there should be no draught or dead spaces. Dust and cobwebs indicates poor ventilation.

It is the sum of all the different parts of the barn that creates an environment for good animal welfare that can improve productivity.

Sheds should be built for cows not for people.

LAMENESS – PREVENTION, DETECTION, AND TREATMENT

Prompt detection and early treatment of lameness will decrease recovery time, prevent some premature culling, and improve cow comfort. Monitoring lameness incidence and making management interventions will keep lameness at a lower level. Proper claw trimming is an essential component of lameness control and cow comfort. All walking surfaces should be kept clean of manure accumulation and THE WORKING DAY OF A DAIRY COW: provide non-slip, comfortable walking surface for cows. Footbaths Although cows are social animals, they compete for access to resources, should be properly maintained and cleaned at the appropriate times. such as food. This competition can lead to stress responses, and PROACTIVE MASTITIS MANAGEMENT dairy cows, especially high producing cows, may find themselves Measures in the since long recommended 5 point plan work, in in a trade-off situation between lying and eating if they are under most cases, well to keep mastitis under control: 1) Disinfect all time constraints. They will eat less when pressed for time, and teats after every milking. 2) Treat all cases of mastitis promptly. 3) consequently produce less milk. It is important to try and limit Use dry cow treatment on all cows. 4) Cull all cows with more than waiting time before milking for high producing cows.

3 clinical cases. 5) Maintain the milking system in good conditions.

With increased milk yield cows have less spare time. To provide the high producing dairy cow with proper working conditions she Of these, post-Milking Teat Dipping is probably the most efficient should have free access to feed and resting areas. If the total lying measure to prevent mastitis.

The conference summary will hopefully provide food for thought time is below 10 hours per day the cow might be in lack of lying that will allow cows and farmers to live longer. time. There is a relationship between lameness and long lying

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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FARM DESIGN

FEEDING BARRIERS – THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL This article looks at the evolution in design of feed barriers and the various options now available. By Paul Lyons.

F

eeding barriers are all the same aren't they? Do they need • Prevent stock from leaving their pen and allow periodical access. thinking about? There are only a few types? I would say that • All stock to access feed in a comfortable manner. they are as important as any piece of equipment or infrastructure that we invest in on a farm. As with the purchase of any such item, The first may seem obvious but the second requirement is equally you need to do your research and find the solution that best suits important. Barriers or gates that do not allow comfortable feeding your situation, cheapest is not always best. mean that animals get sores where the come in contact with the There are many types of feeding barriers on the market in the barrier or rail. Poor systems also mean that the animal is also more same way as most shops have clothes, but no more than a suit of likely to pull feed back in to the pen to chew. This can lead to less clothes, there is no such thing as one size fits all. Stock comes in intake, poor performance, waste of feed and often feed ending up all sizes, breeds and ages. As such the way we feed them needs to slurry systems and causing problems with agitation and spreading be adaptable and fit for purpose. In this article I will talk about the down the road. I would also add a third requirement – barriers types of feeding barrier that have developed over time, the benefits should reduce stress on the animal and farmer. By this I mean that of each development and what needs to be considered when the barrier should allow comfortable feeding for the animal but also fitting out a new shed or deciding to overhaul an existing one. the barrier should be of a design that the farmer is not worried

“Barriers should reduce stress on the animal and farmer” My first experience with feeding barriers was in our own farm, see figure 1. They were the type that were once pushed up against the face of a silage pit, they had wooden steps attached to the bottom so the cattle standing up on them had less of a chance of moving them. They have long since served their purpose but in spite of this, have been repaired, adapted and reused. In the grand scheme of things these barriers were great value for money! Table 1 shows a fairly comprehensive list of the types of feed barriers available today. There are no doubt some types I may have missed but looking at this table it is important to ask; what do we expect from a feed barrier system? It’s often a basic question that gets overlooked, the two basic requirements are:

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about it being opened by the animals, causing excessive feed wastage or being difficult to access the pen in the case of an emergency.

This periodical access is mute but an important point. Barriers and gates needs to be easily opened and closed with the minimum of fuss. The time you are handling animal on your own who is about to calf or is otherwise agitated is the time when you will most appreciate a gate or barrier that closes with the minimum of fuss and fiddling with latches. If a barrier has to be opened regularly and it falls once opened; this is often a poor economy. It’s a bit like stairs in a house, when you are young and nimble you will run up and down them. As life goes on it can become a chore, so

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FARM DESIGN can having to lift a poor barrier back on its hinges. That is all the theory, now let’s talk about barriers types.

SINGLE AND DOUBLE HEADRAIL These were one of the first feed options available, feed rails are sometimes known as fattening barriers as they are widely used in feed lots, see figure 7.

They are often single rail that is height adjustable to suit a wide variety stock ages and sizes.The more modern versions have twin rails to allow for a higher barrier to stop stock escaping. The downside is that they are often difficult to adjust for height on your own and they can leave marks on stock where the neck rubs the bar.

Stock tend to pull in a lot of feed with this system but of all the types covered, it’s the most versatile.

Figure 1 – Feed barriers with square spaces

FEED BARRIERS - DIAGONAL, AND Z SHAPED The next step in feeding evolution was the feed barrier. Early designs had vertical bars with a single slot for each animal similar to figure 1. Later designs had diagonal feed spaces. This was to prevent bullying and stop two animals from putting their heads in the one space. These barriers come with the option of being fixed in place or swinging.

Often the choice of what goes underneath the barrier is left to the farmer's choice.Traditionally it was plastered block walls (stub walls), then walls cast in situ and often now it is timber or a mixture of both as in figure 2.The purpose of the timber in figure 2 is so that it can be removed to allow cattle to move in and out easily.An important fact I came across about stub walls is that if they are too wide (say 200mm) then they will significantly hinder the reach of the animal to feed.

Options that use thinner walls or timber will increase the reach of stock by up to 150mm (6'').

I also often get asked about barriers with Z shaped rails and what are the benefits. There are many claims, but the feedback I get from customers is that they give better reach and they are less likely to cause a tag to be lost than their straight diagonal cousins.

Figure 2 – Diagonal Feed barriers

BARRIERS WITH AND WITHOUT TIMBER Feeding barriers with timber attached or built into the bottom are now becoming increasing popular. As with all the various systems I am covering here, there are pros and cons.

The advantages of a timber or gate style barrier are that once opened, there are no obstructions to moving animals in or out of pen. They are popular in straw or other types of bedded system where access for cleaning out is of importance. A gate style barrier can easily be swung open.

The disadvantages are that often the passage needs to be free of feed in order for the barrier to open, also if a lot of concentrates are being fed, the inevitable gap under the barrier can cause some waste. There is also now a move towards putting plastic or steel on gate style barriers as in figure 4, this is often to ensure there is no infection risk from mould in the timber.

This would be of importance in calving areas or where stock from outside the farm is being housed. As previously mentioned in relation to barriers, if they are to be opened, then the hinges and closing mechanism are important to consider and often worth paying a bit extra for especially in the case of a gate style barrier.

If these barriers fall when opening, they are now rubbing off the ground. Gate style barriers often form cross over areas in dairy parlours or access to calving areas in suckler systems and useability is key.

Figure 3 – Gate style barrier with Z shaped rails

Figure 4 – Gate style barriers with plastic

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FARM DESIGN

Figure 5 – Headlock or self locking barrier

SELF LOCKING BARRIERS These are also known has headlock barriers or self locking yokes.

This type of barrier was first used on the continent on large dairy farms and are still popular in dairy set-ups.

In recent years they have also become popular with suckler farmers. The barrier has a moving bar that can be set to lock in place once the animal's head lowers to feed.

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Each space can be released individually or all together. These barriers allow great control over animals, allow tag reading and inspection much easier.

They also have the advantage of completely stopping calves from getting through the barrier but it is important to choose a model that has safety features to stop calves from being injured.

There are some disadvantages, they tend to be a very expensive option, often at least 1.5 times the cost of diagonal barriers.

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FARM DESIGN

Figure 6 – Tombstone barriers

They are not an alternative to a crush, many tasks can be carried out using a headlock barrier but it is difficult to TB test with them as once you approach the animal their first instinct is to pull back.

Finally, care must be taken if they are intended to be used a calving situation.

There are often very good for restraining a cow to allow a calf to suck but they should not be used as during calving as if an animal goes down, there is a real risk of injury or death due to the height of the barrier.

TOMBSTONE BARRIERS Tombstone barriers such as in figure 6 have been around in some form for a long time. The silage pit barriers I spoke about earlier were often available this way.

Figure 7 – Feed rails

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They are now commonly used for horses, bulls, horned cattle or any animals that have large heads. In the equine industry they are an economical solution for winter housing and feeding young animals. They need to be made from strong materials so that that tombstone portion does not detach from the neck rail over time.

LONG REACH AND MOVING BARRIERS A number of Irish companies have developed specialist barriers to allow longer reach for feeding and also self feeding and no review of barriers would be complete without including them.

Long reach barriers are often tilted to allow greater access.

Moving barriers can be pushed forward by animals as they eat into the bank of fodder in front of them. These solutions need careful integration into a shed design from the offset as they may need wider feed passages for access with machinery. I hope this article has proved useful and informative. I have outlined the various aspects to be considered when choosing feeding barriers for your farm, the different types available and the pros and cons of each.

Some of the newer trends in winter housing include 6m bays (20ft) and also a barrier more elaborate than a diagonal one and less expensive than a headlock barrier to stop calves from escaping.

If you are at the design stage for a new shed, I would recommend a good trawl of all the manufacturers websites to research these trends and see what is on offer.

It’s a also a good idea to check out various articles on the Teagasc website which offer an excellent insight and results from their research herds.

Paul Lyons is a Design Engineer with Bo Steel who specialise in cattle, sheep and equine solutions. Paul.lyons@built2last.ie

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WINTER FORAGE MANAGEMENT

WINTER FEEDING – WHAT TO EXPECT FEEDING COWS THIS WINTER

Work out your available tonnage of forage, match it to animal types and then fill in the gaps, writes Grace Thomas, M.Agr.Sc. P.A.S Agri–King Ltd Nutritionist.

P

Table 1 oor weather conditions have wreaked havoc with the The formula is – Height*Width*Length (in metres) harvesting of this year’s forage crop. The late, or in extreme multiplied by the following densities. cases, zero cutting, lodging and contamination of grass silage, maize, wholecrop and straw, has led to a wide variation in quality and yield across farms.

Grass silage 20% DM 750 Kg/cubic metre The variation, combined with the early housing of many herds, 30% DM 675 Kg/cubic metre means that most farms are anticipating a shortage of forage. This 40% DM 625 Kg/cubic metre begs the question, “Where do we go from here?”. The best strategy Maize silage 30% DM 700 Kg/cubic metre to help reduce the effects of variable forage quality and quantity is Wholecrop 40% DM 600 Kg/cubic metre to be prepared.

PREPARATION: STEP 1. CALCULATE FORAGE AVAILABLE The table, labelled table 1,can be used to estimate the available tonnage (fresh weight) in a clamp. The numbers may be used as a guide but it must be noted that tall clamps and/or poorly filled clamps are less dense and may contain 10% less forage.

An average 4X4 bale can contain between 580-755Kg (fresh weight) of grass silage depending on chopping and percentage of dry matter (%DM). Once the available fresh weight of silage is known, available silage DM can be calculated. This will help to determine how much silage is needed on farm, as silage intakes are largely calculated on DM basis.

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WINTER FORAGE MANAGEMENT

STEP 2. CALCULATE THE QUANTITY OF REQUIRED FORAGE

STEP 3. FORAGE AND FEED ANALYSIS

If a forage deficit is identified knowing the quality of all forages Each group of animals on-farm had varying dry matter intakes and straights on farm will help allocate the most suitable forage (DMI) and the herd profile needs to be considered when working for each animal in the herd. out winter forage requirements. An autumn calving herd with a high For example, high quality grass silage is utilised best by fresh

“When calculating forage levels needed for the year don’t forget to include the young calves as they will need forage once they are weaned off milk” number of fresh cows will have higher intakes compared to a spring cows, if fed to dry or stale cows may cause them to be become calving herd compiled of mainly stale and dry cows. When calculating over conditioned. forage levels needed for the year don’t forget to include the young Forage quality and guide to feeding can be seen in calves as they will need forage once they are weaned off milk.

Table 2 below.

ANALYSIS

GUIDE TO FEEDING

Dry Matter (DM)

• •

Digestibility (DValue,IVDMD)

Nitrogen (CP, Nitrates, SP)

• • • • • • •

Fermentable carbohydrates (NFC) • •

Ammonia

• •

Starch

• • •

Sugars

• • •

Mycotoxins

• • •

Minerals

• • • • •

Cows may struggle to meet intakes required when forage is very wet. Watch their intakes, if they are below expected, extra concentrates might need to be added to the diet to make up the energy deficit.

Wetter silage tends to be higher in acid. Remember, the moisture in the silage is not just water, it contains acids.Watch for acid overload and add a buffer if cows are showing signs of acidosis D- Value/IVDMD estimates total tract digestion. The higher the digestibility the higher the energy available.

Silages with higher digestibility require less concentrate to be fed and leads to increased feed efficiency Crude protein (CP) represents total protein in the sample.

Nitrate in silage may be a big issue this year as some silage was cut too soon after nitrate application High Nitrate levels can have an adverse effect on rumen health and lowers the ability of the blood to transport oxygen.

Dilute out high nitrate forage in a ration if possible.

Soluble protein (SP) is composed of soluble Non-Protein-Nitrogen and true protein, this protein is digested in the rumen, adequate levels are needed to help drive milk production. Diets that are high in Maize silage tend to have low SP, so a source of SP may need to be fed to best utilise the forage.

Non-Fibre Carbohydrates (NFC) consists of the total sugars, starch, pectins and organic acids.

As the organic acids, such as lactic, acetic and butyric acid are absorbed directly into the blood stream, they do not contribute energy to the rumen for microbial synthesis. Therefore, the NFC can over estimate energy in fermented forage and grains. This should be accounted for in diet formulation and extra energy added.

Ammonia in silage may be an indicator of clostridia, the feeding of a toxin binder is recommended when ammonia is present.

Ammonia inhibits the absorption of nutrients and raises blood pH, thereby increasing the likelihood of fresh cow problems.

Feed a fermentable sugar source, so the rumen microbes can use the ammonia for growth.

Starch is an indicator of the energy values of maize silage and wholecrop. The higher the starch in forage, the higher the energy available to the cow.

Care must be taken when feeding high starch forages. Rations must be balanced to take care that the rumen is not over loaded with starch at any one time.

Sugar in forages is a nutrient that is often underestimated. Sugars stimulate both starch and fibre utilising bacteria in the rumen, thus the rumen becomes more efficient.

Sugar increases milk yield as the sugar improves protein nitrogen utilisation.

Low sugar forages can be supplemented with the feeding of molasses or sugar beet pulp, but care must be taken as over feeding sugar can lead to rumen acidosis and an increased risk of ketosis in transition cows.

The combination of wet weather, late harvest and lodging of crops means that there a real possibly of a mycotoxin problem in this year silages and straw.

Mycotoxins are produced by molds when the mold or plant is under stress.

The level of mycotoxin in a forage never decreases with storage so it is important to test forages for mycotoxins if they are suspected.

Feeding a toxin binder may help mitigate the effects of mycotoxin on the animal.

Low levels of minerals in the forage will mean extra supplements will be required in the ration to meet the basic cow mineral requirements.

High levels of some minerals such as Iron, can lock up other minerals.

Iron can be especially high from soil contamination on lodged crops A full mineral profile of your forage will help identify these antagonists.

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WINTER FORAGE MANAGEMENT

FACING A POTENTIAL SHORTAGE OF FORAGE – WHAT TO DO NEXT Once a shortfall in forage has been established on-farm there are a number of options available to help overcome this problem.

1. CULL PROBLEM COWS IN THE HERD Cows that have mastitis, are lame or are low producing still need to be fed, however these problem cows are using up vital silage supplies and are not producing a good return on their investment.

A reduction cow numbers by culling will help take the pressure off silage demand and frees up silage for the productive profitable cows.

2. BUY IN FORAGE Whilst buying in forage is a good option, when forage is in short supply throughout the country care must be taken that the

purchased forage is of suitable quality for your herd and that it is not overpriced. Do not panic buy forage; if possible obtain a full analysis of the forage before purchase. This will help determine if it is cost effective. In some cases, it might be more cost effective to help fill the forage deficit with dry feeds or grain.

For example: Grass silage testing 20% DM fed at 10Kg provides the cow with 2Kg DM, feeding 2.2kg of Soya Hulls would provide the same DM intake combined with a higher energy.

3. FEED ALTERNATIVE FEEDS Current silage type and quality should be considered before alternative feeds are purchased. Some farms maybe able to bridge the forage gap by simply feeding extra parlour cake or cereal in the TMR. There are so many different options available it is best to seek advice before purchasing. Table 3 gives a rough guide to a couple of different feeds and the situations they may work best in.

Table 3

FEED

FEEDING OPTIONS

Dried Distillers Grains

Soya Hulls Sugar Beet Pulp

Sugar Beet /Fodder beet

Brewers grains

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Contains protein, fibre and energy.

Can work well with grass silage, maize silage and wholecrop.

Heat damage grains may be lower in quality Provides fibre, lower in energy than cereals Can work well with grass silage, maize silage and wholecrop Provides fibre and energy Molassed and un-molassed available, Molassed sugar beet may be too high in sugar to work with high sugar grass silage. Know your forage sugar level before feeding Provides fibre and energy Low DM content, high amounts need to be fed to achieve required intakes The high sugar level may not work well with high sugar grass silages Often high soil and iron contamination, may cause problems Provide fibre, protein and energy Protein content can be variable depending on source Works well with grass silage, maize silage and wholecrop Contains a high level of oil so it is best not added with high oil blends or grains

All options need to be measured carefully when buying in extra feed and forage, the extra cost of storage and handling also needs to be considered. Diets and rations of all animals on farm need to be broken down and reformulated to find what works best for your herd.

Pre-treating silage or a TMR with a product like Agri-King’s Ru-Max® helps to convert the indigestible fibre in feed to glucose (energy).

Ru-Max® can help unlock the feed potential in your forage. Talk to an advisor today to manage what is going to be a challenging winter.

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CALF HEALTH

CALF SCOUR – BRINGING PROTECTION TO THE NEXT LEVEL Scour is the most common cause of death in calves less than one month old in Ireland, writes Cara Sheridan, Veterinary Advisor MSD Animal Health.

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n increased number of calves were born in 2017 and this trend is set to continue as many farms undergo expansion.

It is widely accepted that more intensive farming systems have a higher risk of disease outbreaks than smaller traditional systems. Calf health has a huge influence on growth rates which ultimately determines profitability of the calf rearing enterprise.

WHAT CAUSES SCOUR IN CALVES? Rotavirus Coccidia (usually >3weeks of age) Cryptosporidia E.coli Salmonella species Coronavirus

virus

Most common

parasite parasite bacteria bacteria virus

Least common

Rotavirus and Cryptosporidium parvum were the 2 pathogens most frequently found in calf post–mortem examinations and faecal samples submitted to labs across the country in 20142.

Mixed infections are quite common and often fatal.

In 2015 according to the Animal Identification and Movement (AIM) System data, 51,759 calves were reported to have died within the first 6 weeks of life.This accounts for 46.4% of total calf deaths less than 12 months of age and 25.8% of total cattle deaths in 2015.

The All–island disease surveillance report 2014 identified gastrointestinal infections or scour as the most common cause of death in neonatal calves (calves less than 1 month of age) submitted for post–mortem examination in Ireland.This accounted for 36% of cases in the south of Ireland and 38% in Northern Ireland. The southern Ireland figure had increased on the previous year’s report from 27.6% to 38%, whereas the Northern Ireland figure had decreased marginally from 38% to 36%.These data highlight that scour control must be a key focus for young calves.

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Targets: <5% death in calves up to 8 weeks <10% sickness/treatment in calves up to 8 weeks

Frequency of pathogens identified in calf post–mortem examinations and faecal samples submitted to DAFM RVLs during 20142

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CALF HEALTH

DIAGNOSIS IS KEY It is not possible to distinguish one cause of diarrhoea from another on clinical signs alone. Faecal sampling of diarrhoeic calves will inform what you are dealing with now and also allow preventative planning to reduce further outbreaks. Definitive diagnosis requires specific tests to be carried out ideally by a veterinary laboratory organised through your veterinary practitioner or at very least with on–farm diagnostic tests performed by your vet. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for the successful implementation of a control programme. Faecal samples (collected in sterile plastic containers) from untreated, freshly–scouring calves are best and any dead calves should be taken to a veterinary laboratory for post–mortem examination. Previous episodes and experiences on farms can also be used positively to implement tailored disease control programmes that are most appropriate on your farm.

Colostrum milked from the cow within the first hour after calving has the highest level of antibodies. Each hour after calving the cows’ colostrum antibody content reduces by 4% per hour due to dilution of further milk production. A supply of first milking colostrum from cows should be frozen.This can be thawed and administered to newborn calves when no colostrum is available.

Target: 3–4 litres of colostrum in the first 1–2 hours of life

HOW CAN WE MAXIMISE CALF HEALTH AND MINIMISE SCOUR? Irrespective of the cause of scour on your farm good calving management, adequate colostrum intake and hygienic practices are the cornerstones of calf health. Preventative disease control is dependent on causative agents previously found and may include vaccination against E.coli, rotavirus, coronavirus and Salmonella species and/or the administration of halofuginone lactate in the fight against Cryptosporidium parvum.

The following points are designed specifically with the dairy calf in mind, however many control measures can be implemented for dairy and suckler calves alike.

The calving unit Calving pens must be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Discuss suitable disinfectants with your vet (Important to note that Cryptosporidium parvum is resistant to most commonly used disinfectants).A good straw bed is paramount.Adequate lighting in the calving shed enables thorough examination of cows and calves at this most crucial time.A clean cow entering the calving pen carries less disease challenge to the newborn calf. Likewise for personnel, our cleanliness (boots, overalls, hands etc.) plays a big part in minimising disease risk to calves.

Monitor colostrum management Your vet can routinely take blood samples from a number of calves to assess calf immunoglobulin levels.This is a good way to measure success of colostrum feeding practices on your farm. Best sampling candidates are healthy calves approximately 2 days of age. Sick calves should not be sampled as they are often dehydrated and will give false results. Common tests include Zinc Sulphate Turbidity test (ZST) and Total Protein (TP) analysis. Approximately 50% of samples submitted to the lab for the above tests in 2014 were found to have inadequate levels indicating insufficient colostrum feeding practices2.

Target: 90% of calves tested achieving results >30 units on ZST test or >5.5g/L on TP analysis Vaccination of the cow pre–calving Vaccination can be used to increase colostral antibodies to certain bacteria and viruses. Calves are born without the ability to fight disease.Vaccination helps to bridge the gap between birth and development of the calves’ own immune system to fight disease.

“An accurate diagnosis is crucial for the successful implementation of a control programme” Snatching calves Once a calf is born it is at immediate risk of picking up infection via the mouth, nostrils or navel hence the dairy calf should be removed from the cow and calving environment as soon as possible after birth. A ‘cuddle box’ system can be utilised; this involves placing the newborn calf in a warm straw bedded box where the cow can access and lick the calf.

Target:Aim to remove 90% of calves from the calving pen within the first hour of life

• Vaccination against E.coli, rotavirus and coronavirus: The cow should be vaccinated according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. One of the vaccines can be administered, as a single dose primary course, 3 weeks to 12 weeks prior to calving (often administered at drying off). When calves are fed milk from vaccinated cows for the first 2 weeks of life, the antibodies have been shown to reduce the incidence and severity of scour3. Calves fed milk from vaccinated cows show reduced shedding of rotavirus and coronavirus.

• Vaccination against Salmonella species: Replacements should be vaccinated with a primary course 6 and 3 weeks pre–calving with cows receiving a booster vaccine 3–4 weeks prior to calving.

Colostrum feeding Aim to feed 3–4 litres of colostrum to the newborn calf within the first 1–2 hours of life. Colostrum contains protective antibodies IN AN OUTBREAK WHAT CAN WE DO TO? called immunoglobulins.The ability of the calf to absorb antibodies A hospitalisation unit is at its greatest during this time. It is important that the feeding This works well to distance the source of infection i.e. the sick utensils (colostrum bucket, bottle, stomach tube etc.) are clean. calves from the healthy calves. Isolate and treat sick calves

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CALF HEALTH promptly. Designated overalls, boots and gloves should be worn when working in this unit and should be washed and disinfected after each use. Separate feeding equipment is a really good idea.

Attend to healthy calves first each day and then deal with sick calves to minimise transfer of infection from one group to the other.

Treatment • Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria (e.g. E.coli and Salmonella spp.) and therefore treatment, through supportive care with fluid therapy and anti–inflammatory/pain relieving medication, is required.

• Calves diagnosed with Cryptosporidium parvum and those in contact should receive a product containing halofuginone lactate, this will reduce the severity of disease and limit the impact to those at risk. This product must be given from after first feeding a newborn calf for 7 consecutive days. On farms that have had problems with Cryptosporidiosis in the past, the calves should be treated with halofuginone lactate for the first 7 days of life. It does not prevent infection but it reduces the severity of disease and reduces the number of eggs excreted. This should form part of a control programme with the above mentioned points.

This product is a prescription only medicine and is available from your vet.

PREVENTION OF HUMAN INFECTION • Cryptosporidium parvum is a highly infectious disease in humans. Young children, immunocompromised (those on chemotherapy for example) and elderly adults are at risk. People become infected through contact with infected animals and through ingestion of contaminated food and water.

• Salmonella infection not only causes disease in animals; it is also a major threat to human health. S. typhimurium affects a wide range of host species and is the second most common type of Salmonella specie to cause disease in humans. S. dublin in contrast is a rare cause of zoonotic disease. However, when people do contract S. dublin, it can be fatal.

BEST PRACTICE We need to focus our attention to reduce the disease challenge to newborn calves and to ensure they receive adequate immunity via colostrum feeding and vaccination.

REFERENCES 1.AIM (Animal Identification and Movement System) Bovine Statistic Report 2015. Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Dublin, Ireland. http://agriculture.gov.ie/media/migration/animalhealthwelfare/animalidenti ficationandmovement/cattlemovementmonitoringsystem Accessed Nov. 8, 2016 2. Anon (2016). DAFM/AFBI All–island Animal Disease Surveillance Report 2014 3. Mawly et al. Risk factors for neonatal calf diarrhoea and enteropathogen shedding in New Zealand dairy farms.Vet Journal 2015, 203: 155–160 4. Colostrum management, Management of the scouring calf, Cryptosporidiosis in neonatal calves Information leaflets www.animalhealthireland.ie Accessed Nov. 11, 2016

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LACTATING COW HEALTH

IODINE NUTRITION OF LACTATING DAIRY COWS

Supplemental Iodine is necessary for the majority of pasture based cows in Ireland but it is important not to over-supplement, write Stephen Butler, Francis Curran and David Gleeson.

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rass grown in Ireland is generally deficient in iodine, but RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IODINE INTAKE excessive supplementation with iodine results in excessive International dairy cattle mineral nutrition reference literature iodine concentrations in milk. A recent industry–wide indicates that the dietary iodine requirements for lactating dairy initiative to reassess the iodine nutrition of lactating dairy cows is cattle are similar in both confinement (USA, UK) and pasture–based having a beneficial effect on milk iodine concentrations. systems (New Zealand; Table 1). Rogers and Gately (1998) recommended that dairy cows (dry or lactating) are supplemented IODINE with 12 to 60mg/cow per day, with 12mg meeting the requirements Iodine is an essential trace element for both humans and animals. of most animals where supplement is needed, and that any increase The only known roles of iodine are related to its incorporation into in supplement above 12mg is only required in animals diagnosed the thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). with severe deficiency.

These hormones control oxidation rate and protein synthesis in all cells, and hence regulate the rate of energy metabolism in the body. IODINE IN THE DIET OF IRISH DAIRY COWS Approximately 80 to 90% of dietary iodine is absorbed, and most of Iodine intake in grazed grass and in the total diet was assessed in a the iodine not taken up by the thyroid gland is ultimately excreted Teagasc survey of seasonal variation in mineral nutrition on 44 dairy in urine and milk. farms conducted during the 2013 grazing season across the main

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS Clinical iodine deficiency results in goitre (enlargement of the thyroid gland), which is easily recognised and is specific for iodine deficiency. The first indicator of iodine deficiency in a herd is goitre in new-born calves. Iodine deficiency may also result in hairless, weak or dead calves, reduced reproductive performance marked by irregular oestrous cycles, poor conception rates, abortions and retained placenta.

TOXICITY SYMPTOMS The upper limit for iodine tolerance in cattle is 50mg/kg DMI. Exposure to excess iodine results in hypothyroidism, because of response inhibition of triiodothyronine synthesis. Nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, coughing, hair loss and dermatitis have been observed following excessive iodine consumption for prolonged periods (years).

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dairy regions of Ireland. On average, a pasture only diet would have provided 0.25mg iodine per kg DM (range: 0.04 to 0.98mg). Based on the National Research Council guideline of 0.5mg/kg DM, a pasture-only diet would have provided 50% (range: 8%-190%) of the lactating cow iodine requirements. Of the grass samples analysed, 87% contained less than 0.5mg iodine per kg DM. Hence, supplemental iodine is necessary for the majority of pasture-based cows in Ireland.

While grass was iodine-deficient in the 2013 survey, the total diet supply of iodine was generally excessive.When concentrate supplements were fed (especially during March and May), iodine was generally over-supplied in the total diet, with average estimated intakes exceeding 400% of requirements. (Figure 1)

IMPLICATIONS OF EXCESS IODINE INTAKE ON MILK IODINE CONCENTRATIONS Iodine toxicity is especially important for new-born infants, who

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LACTATING COW HEALTH are more sensitive to iodine toxicity because of an immature thyroid gland. Infant milk formula (IMF) is a key market for the growing Irish dairy industry, but milk produced when cows are fed surplus iodine in supplemental concentrate is generally unsuitable for inclusion in IMF. Iodine concentrations in raw milk (bulk tank) should be maintained between 20 and 150 μg/kg. This ensures that cows are maintained in adequate iodine status, and that the milk produced is safe for a diverse product portfolio.

REASSESSMENT OF IRISH RECOMMENDATIONS Until spring 2017, the animal compound feed industry in Ireland had adopted using 60mg iodine per day as the ‘normal’ supplementation rate rather than 12mg iodine per day as originally recommended. In January 2017, all manufacturers of compound feed in Ireland were requested to revert to the recommended rate of 12 mg/d.

In Moorepark research herds, supplemental iodine intake and milk iodine concentrations measured in September 2017 are illustrated in Figure 2.

Herd 1 and Herd 2 were receiving close to the target iodine supplementation rate (dashed red line), but Herd 3 was receiving surplus supplemental iodine. Consequently, the bulk tank milk for Herd 1 and Herd 2 were well below the upper limit for milk iodine concentration (dashed blue line), but Herd 3 was exceeding the upper limit. The results clearly indicate that it is feasible to maintain milk iodine concentration between 20 and 150 μg/kg by providing approximately 12 mg iodine per day.

Initial feedback from processors in 2017 indicates that the iodine specifications for the IMF market has been easier to achieve than in previous years, reflecting the prompt changes to the iodine inclusion rate implemented by the majority of feed manufacturers in line

Figure 1. Grass iodine content and total iodine intake (mg/kg DM) at five time points in March, May, August and October 2013 and January 2014 (total only). The National Research Council (2001) recommendation is 0.5mg iodine/kg DM for lactating cows (indicated by the green bar on the y-axis).

The current Irish recommended lower (12mg/day) and upper (60mg/day) iodine supplementation rates equate to 0.9mg/kg DMI and 3.63mg/kg DMI (blue and red bar on the y-axis, respectively).

“Iodine toxicity is especially important for new-born infants, who are more sensitive to iodine toxicity because of an immature thyroid gland” with Teagasc guidelines. Co-operation from dairy farmers, the feed industry, dairy nutritionists and veterinarians is required to continue using the recommended 12mg per day of iodine, facilitating profitable and sustainable growth of the Irish dairy industry.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We gratefully acknowledge the farmers that participated in the 2013 mineral survey. The research was supported by Teagasc core funding and the Dairy Levy Trust.

Table 1. Summary of the recommended lactating cow requirements for Iodine in different countries.

Iodine requirement (mg/kg DMI) USA1, UK Germany 2 New Zealand 3 Ireland4 1

0.5 0.5 0.5 0.9 to 3.6

National Research Council (2001). Nutrient Requirements of Dairy Cattle, 7th revised edition. Used as reference value in both USA and UK. 2 German Society of Nutrition Physiology (2006). Empfehlungen zur Energie und ährstoffversorgung von Schweinen. Nr. 10, DLG-Verlag, Frankfurt.

3 Grace, N., Knowles, S. andSykes, A. (2009). Managing Mineral Deficiencies in Grazing Livestock. Occasional Publication No. 15, New Zealand Society of Animal Production.

4 Rogers, P.A.M. and Gately, T.F (1998). Control of mineral imbalances in cattle and sheep: a reference manual for advisers and vets. Published by Teagasc, Dublin.

Figure 2. Supplemental iodine intake and bulk tank milk iodine concentrations in three research herds during September 2017.

For further information email: stephen.butler@teagasc.ie 41

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WINTER MILK

FEEDING AUTUMN CALVED COWS Bridging the energy gap after calving for a mature cow is always a big task, writes Valerie Hobson, Animal Nutritionist, Quinns of Baltinglass Ltd.

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only take about 5-6 weeks before she reaches her peak milk yield.

This creates an energy gap that has to be met by a cow’s own body reserves i.e. the cow ‘milks off her own back’. The larger 1) Paddock management this energy gap and the longer it lasts the harder it will be to get 2) Increasing cow intakes as quickly as possible cows back in calf. Cows on grass need to be fed a high energy 3) Fertility – getting cows back in calve as quickly as concentrate (0.92 + UFL). The diet needs to be balanced depending possible on the level of grass available, the quality and quantity of silage available. Autumn grass is low in Rumen Degradable Protein (RDP) Where possible it is important to maximise the amount of grazed therefore it’s important that the concentrates are high in quality grass in the cow’s diet but also to ensure that paddocks are closed protein sources. s autumn calving commences on many dairy farms, there will be the usual challenges ahead including:

“Autumn grass is low in Rumen Degradable Protein (RDP) therefore it’s important that the concentrates are high in quality protein sources.” up correctly to allow for adequate regrowth early in spring. An approximate rule of thumb is for every 1kg DM grass/ha left on the paddocks in early November will result in 1.6kg DM grass/ha available for grazing in early spring – remember “grass grows grass”. When weather permits and grass is available there is saving of over €1 per cow per day.

There is one huge challenge when the cows calve down and that is ENERGY. Bridging the energy gap after calving is always a big task. When a mature cow calves, she will initially only consume approximately 10Kg dry matter per day. Typically it will take her 10-12 weeks before she reaches her peak intake. However it will

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WHAT ARE THE CONCENTRATES LEVELS REQUIRED FOR AUTUMN CALVED COWS IN EARLY LACTATION? Cow Yielding approx. 6,000 Litres (1,300 gallons) Herbage Intake Outdoors full time (12kg DM grass) 8kg DM grass (7- 8hours grazing) 4Kg DM grass (2 – 3 hours grazing) Indoors full time

Supplementation rate where Grass Silage (GS) is offered

Supplementation rate where Maize silage (MS) is offered outdoor fulltime

Approx. 4.5Kg 14% CP

Approx 4.5Kg 14% CP

GS by night + 5.5Kg 16% CP

50:50 GS:MS by night + 5Kg 18% CP

Ad Lib GS + 6.5Kg 18% CP Ad-lib GS + 7.5Kg 20% CP

Ad-lib 50:50 GS:MS + 5.5Kg 24% CP Ad-lib 50:50 GS:MS + 6.5Kg 24% CP

WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDED CONCENTRATE FEEDING LEVELS FOR DAIRY COWS ON GRASS SILAGE ALONE? Milk Yield 23 Litres 27 Litres 32 Litres 36 Litres

60% DMD Silage 7.5Kgs 9.5Kgs IMPOSSIBLE IMPOSSIBLE

65% DMD Silage 6.5Kgs 8.5Kgs 10.5Kgs 12.5Kgs

70% DMD Silage 5.5Kgs 7.5Kgs 9.5Kgs 11.5Kgs

75% DMD Silage 4.5Kgs 6.5Kgs 8.5Kgs 10.5Kgs

It is important to note that a 5 unit drop in DMD in grass silage will require an extra 1.5Kg of concentrates to compensate for the lower energy. On the opposite end of the scale a 6 unit increase in DMD will increase milk protein by 0.1.

EFFECTS OF FORAGES ON MILK PRODUCTION & PROTEIN (INCREASE ENERGY = INCREASE MILK PROTEIN) Forage High DMD Grass silage (+6% DMD) Average Maize Silage (70% DMD Top Quality Maize Silage (75% DMD + 30% Starch Other feeds replacing grass silage (33%) e.g. fodder beet

Effect on Production +0.1% Milk Protein +0.1% Milk Protein No extra milk Yield +0.16% Milk Protein +2.1Kg Milk Yield +0.1 – 0.2% Milk Protein +3.0 – 3.5Kg Milk Yield

Note: 10kg of fodder beet is equivalent to approx. 2Kg concentrate but it’s important to balance properly for protein as beet is low in protein.

Many liquid/winter milk producers are losing out on milk sales due to poor fertility in the herd. In split-calving herds the ability to roll-over cows from one calving season to the next is a large part of the problem. Recycling a cow from one season to the next is easier to do than to cull her and can often become a habit. Increasing the fertility potential will actually ensure that the herd's potential for milk yield is met in annual milk sales.

Quinns of Baltinglass are delighted to announce the launch of their new feed pelleting mill in Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow. Quinns will now be manufacturing all their own pellets on site and therefore have complete control of what type of pellet they formulate and produce. There will be high inclusions of native cereals in all our formulas with soya bean meal being the number 1 source of protein.

Quinns have also invested in a new state of the art NIR machine to analyse all our incoming raw materials and indeed all our finished feeds. This machine will also be able to analyse grass and forages here on site in Baltinglass.

Quinns offer a comprehensive nutritional back up service to all their customers and can tailor make minerals and diets to suit different on farm scenarios.

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GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

MANAGING GRASS SUPPLY ON IRISH DAIRY FARMS Many Irish farms are only producing 50–60% of their grass growth capability, substantial increases need to be achieved. Michael O’Donovan and Michael O’Leary, Teagasc, report.

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n operation since 2013 Pasture Base Ireland, offers farmers ‘grassland decision support’ and stores a vast quantity of grassland data from dairy, beef and sheep farmers in a central national database. At the moment the vast majority of farms recording grass measurements on PBI are dairy farms, currently there are >4,500 farmers using the system.

While every farm situation is unique with varying soil types, local climatic conditions, stocking rates and farmer management capabilities, grass production is limiting on most farms. Irish farms have expanded rapidly over the last number of years,

profitable (+€261/ha, higher net profit), however the highest grass utilisation farms are still only utilising 10t DM/ha.

CURRENT GRASS DM PRODUCTION PERFORMANCE Dairy expansion expectations are now being achieved within the dairy industry, however farm grass production have not followed suit and will have to increase substantially from current levels to meet additional cow feed requirements. The optimum stocking rate for an individual farm is that which gives sustainable profitability and is dependent on the individual farm’s grass

“Sustainable dairy expansion must come from utilising more grass, and not at the cost of importing supplementary feed” growth capability. Many Irish farms are only producing 50-60% average herd size is now approximately 82 cows/farm, this of their grass growth capability, substantial increases in grass requires farms to increase grass grown to meet an increasing production need to be achieved. Other dairy nations that have herd demand.

Increasing stocking rates (an additional 100,000 cows calved expanded without growing and utilising more grass have lost their competitive advantage. Many farmers in Ireland will fall into in spring 2016; (ICBF, 2016) and compactness of calving (a reduction the same policy trap, if grass production isn’t increased; ultimately in mean calving date of five days and an improvement in six this is a farm system of buying milk instead of producing milk. week calving rate of 6% - (2011-2015; ICBF, 2016) has increased Sustainable dairy expansion must come from utilising more spring feed demand on dairy farms. Extra grass must be grown and grass, and not at the cost of importing supplementary feed. utilised in this period to avoid increases in supplementary feed use. Improved feeding of the dairy herd will only come from better It is clear from Profit monitor results in the last two years, grazing management skills being employed at farm level. This that farms targeting high levels of grass utilisation are more means regularly measuring pasture cover, using specialized

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

MILK SHIELD M

The New Milk Acidifier for Calves.

ilk Shield is a milk acidifier for both whole milk and milk replacer. Milk is ingested by calves and digested by the formation of curds. In order for this process to take place, acid and enzymes are required. At times, large proportions of the milk can go undigested due to an inadequate acid and/or enzyme supply. One of the ways to mitigate against this problem is to acidify the milk being ingested. This reduces the pH of the milk, reducing the requirement for acid production in the gut of the calf. With this, it improves the digestion of the milk being ingested, leading to improved health, growth rates and immunity.

As a result, there are reduced incidences of scour or health challenges.

Milk Shield also contains a high level of minerals, trace elements and vitamins, all which aid in improving milk intake, promoting gut integrity and immunity and reducing incidences of scour.

Scour is a challenge faced by many calves and can cause damage to the lining of the gut wall. Reducing incidences of scour all help in giving the calf the best start to life. Increasing the ability to utilise more of the whole milk can also lead to improved weight gain. The high inclusion of trace elements help the calf with a range of body functions associated with digestion.

For further details: Ask in store at your local stockist, call Nutribio on 021 4507303 or visit www.nutribio.ie

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GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT grassland software to analyse grass production data, and making decisive grazing management decisions.These are key drivers of increasing the grass growth capacity on the farm. A recent survey of high performing grassland farmers illustrated that the all agreed that they were completing more farm walks, grazing their cows tighter and reseeding more than they were five years ago.This means that in grazing management practise continuous improvement is required.

At present, Irish dairy farmers are growing 9.1t DM/ha (NFS data, Figure 2) combined with a 220 day grazing season.This is a result achieved with no routine grassland measurement completed on farms.The bottom 20 farms recording grass measurements in PBI, are growing 11.0t DM/ha, the average PBI farm is growing 13.8t DM/ha, while the top 20 farms are growing 16.7 t DM/ha.The seasonality of grass growth between the top and bottom farms in PBI is 1199 versus 816kg DM/ha in spring, mid-season 4932 versus 4462kg DM/ha and autumn 6442 versus 5937kg DM/ha, respectively.There is an extra grazing rotation to be achieved on the top farms compared to the bottom farms (7.7 versus 6.8 grazing’s per paddock per year).This extra grazing is transferred into more grass been supplied into the cows diet, on the lower producing farms, if at the same stocking rate, extra supplement is needed, and also accounts for an extra 20 grazing days.

Figure 2. Grass dry matter production from recorded dairy farms across the country in 2016.

As we move to the close of the 2017 grass growing season, we can see that grass production year to date in well ahead that of 2016. On average this year output is approxmately 0.8t DM/ha higher than 2016.

While spring DM production was reasonable, grass growth reduced in late April. The peak in mid-season production was a lot less and two weeks later than 2016, but yet higher than 2015.Autumn DM production was overall well within the range expected, however the western sea board had high levels of rainfall, which reduced grass growth earlier than usual. In summary grass DM production on farms is being better managed with more frequent pasture covers been completed, the farmers growing high levels of grass and controlling grass supply better and ensuring better feed supply to their herds.

Figure 1. Comparison of National average dairy farms DM production and that of farms in Pasturebase Ireland Grass DM production on dairy farms It is obvious that there is huge variation in grass DM production on farms. High grass DM production can be achieved on dairy farms with good grazing and soil fertility management irrespective of location.This is one of the key early findings already emerging from PastureBase Ireland. There are many reasons for this, including differences in stocking rate, soil fertility and grazing management practices. If soil fertility and grazing management can be improved, many farms are very capable of increasing their DM production substantially.

Figure 3: Mean daily growth rates (kg DM/ha/day) for PastureBase Ireland farms for 2015 to date 2017.

GRAZING MANAGEMENT THIS AUTUMN

Over the next couple of weeks,next spring’s grass supply will be dictated by the Autumn closing management employed.Autumn closing date is one of the most important management factors influencing the supply of grass in early spring.To ensure adequate quantities of grass are available at the start of calving in spring on highly stocked farms, farmers must ensure an average farm cover (AFC) of >600 kg DM/ha is achieved at closing (December 1st).To achieve these targets, farmers should use the autumn planner,which allocates area of ground to be closed Figure 2 shows the annual DM production data from farms across from October to November.The closing of paddocks should start between the country in 2016. These farms have >30 weekly farm walks 5th and 10th October, and 60% of the paddocks should be grazed by completed. In 2013, these farms produced an average of 12.2 t 7th November, however in highly stocked farms with high demand DM/ha. This increased to 13.5 t DM/ha in 2014, highlighting the for early spring grass this target should be 70%, with 100% grazed by the large year effect on grass output. The variation between farms is very end of November. Heavier farms or farms with low autumn growth rates high, the difference between the lowest and highest producing farms should close approximately one week earlier. If average farm cover does was 9.4 t DM/ha. An important aspect of the grass production data is drop due to poor autumn growth rates, farmers should house or increase that the highest producing farms are growing >16.0 t DM/ha, with silage supplementation to prioritise grass for early spring grazing. little variation between paddocks.

CONCLUSIONS The lower producing farms have much greater variation between It is clear that Ireland has huge potential to increase annual DM individual paddocks. In 2015, again there was an increase of 0.6 t production with a better focus on grazing management.This national DM/ha compared to the previous year where on average dairy farms database, will allow the industry to move forward with better under– grew 14.1t DM/ha. Much of the extra DM produced in 2015 was standing of the performance of grassland farms. PastureBase Ireland grown by April, and the mid-year grass growth profile was consistent has highlighted that all dairy farms can increase DM production and with 2014.After a slow spring in 2016 growth recovered well in May, as a consequence increase milk solids and overall farm profitability. however there was 0.3 t DM/ha reduction in DM production with Article by Michael O’Donovan and Micheál O’Leary, Teagasc, Animal & the average dairy farm producing 13.8 t DM/ha.

Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork.

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COMPACT CALVING

PREPARING FOR SPRING CALVING 2018 Compact calving demands that the farmer uses labour more efficiently to rear better calves and replacement heifers, by Emer Kennedy, Teagasc.

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ow that cows are dry and workload has reduced it is time to give some consideration to rearing the herd of 2019 and beyond and also to organising the farm for the coming calving season. Recent CSO figures show the number of dairy cows in Ireland has increased to 1.4 million, ICBF have also released six week calving rates for 2017 showing a 5% increase since 2016 (63% in 2017 compared to 58% in 2016). A greater number of cows calving more compactly mean increased workload for the farmer during the busy spring period. This means farmers need to work smarter rather than harder. An increased workload also can result in less time to monitor the progress of replacement heifers on the farm, which can be a costly mistake. This article aims to address the workload encountered during the impending calving season but also targets to achieve with replacement heifers to ensure they don’t fall behind during the calving season leading to problems at mating start date (MSD).

least efficient farms. Calf houses occupied by the youngest calves were situated between 5m and 20m from the milking parlour on the most efficient farms. Alternatively, calf houses with similar aged calves were situated between 15m and 500m away on the least efficient farms. Calves were initially trained (day 1–4) to drink milk with a bucket and teat on the most efficient farms and from a group mob feeder (bucket with many teats hanging over a group–housed calf pen) on the least efficient farms. In addition to these aspects there are further practices which can be implemented to reduce the labour requirement in spring–time.

FEEDING OF SILAGE AT NIGHT TO PRE– CALVING COWS

In the Irish spring–calving milk production system, farmers attempt to have the majority of cows calving during a 12–week period. Most labour is available on farms between 06:00 and 17:00 h, and during this time maximum supervision may be given to calving. However, calving events outside of this time can put a strain on labour resources DEALING WITH LABOUR THIS SPRING and can also result in less supervision at calving. A study was carried Labour is an important issue on Irish dairy farms and calf rearing is out by David Gleeson to investigate the effect of restricting the a major contributor to increased labour demand during spring–time. duration for which silage was made available to cows on time of In a recent Moorepark study conducted by Justine Deming and Bernadette calving and calving performance in Holstein–Friesian cows. Silage O’Brien, the labour input associated with calf rearing ranged from feeding time was restricted to between 20:30 and 10:30 hours in the 0.48 h/cow/yr to 2.85 h/cow/year (average 1.4 h/cow/year) on days prior to the expected calving date. This resulted in less cows labour efficient farms. Calves were fed manually with colostrum calving by night compared to cows with full access to silage. through a stomach tube on the most efficient farms. Alternatively, Overall silage intake, gestation days, calf weight, calf mortality, cow a combination of practises of unassisted suckling of the dam and body condition score were not affected by feeding regimen. Feeding feeding colostrum from a bucket (without a teat) was used on the

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COMPACT CALVING

milk is laborious and can be prone to error. This difficulty may be overcome by commencing milk replacer feeding immediately after the first feed of colostrum. This can also be considered as a good practice for herds with Johnes positive cows. A recent experiment at Moorepark showed that once calves received 8.5% of their birth bodyweight in the form of high quality colostrum (tested with a refractometer and found to be greater than 22%) within 2 hours of COLOSTRUM SOURCE birth, weight gain pre and post weaning, respectively, was similar to Feeding colostrum from the calf’s own dam is generally considered that of calves fed colostrum and four feeds of transition milk before to be the best practise; however this is an extremely difficult and laborious task in a spring calving system. It means that regardless of calving time, each cow must be milked immediately after calving and colostrum maintained separate from other milking’s before feeding to the calf. Using colostrum from another single cow (other dam) can reduce the labour requirement associated with calf management as this eliminates the need to milk every cow immediately after calving. A recent study at Moorepark compared the effects of feeding colostrum from the calves own dam and from another single cow (not the calf’s dam) on calf health and performance.

This showed that when good colostrum management practises (feeding a sufficient quantity of high quality colostrum (tested with a refractometer and >22%), in a timely manner (within 2 hours of birth), from healthy cows (previously tested for diseases e.g. Johnes, Neospora etc.) and good hygiene practises were applied, no difference was observed in the health and performance of calves receiving colostrum from their own dam or from another dam. If colostrum is stored in order to feed another calf, it should be refrigerated immediately after collection to limit bacterial growth. Colostrum quality can be maintained at 4oC for 48 hours. After this time unused colostrum should be discarded. Frozen colostrum lasts for a year if frozen immediately after collection. silage to cows in small groups, in the evening, after an extended period of restricted access appeared to give the optimum result in limiting the number of calving events occurring by night. It is critical that placement of feed is completed during normal working hours and that cows have adequate feed face when silage is made available.

FEEDING COLOSTRUM Substantial labour input is required when a large number of cows are calving simultaneously; the separation of colostrum and transition

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COMPACT CALVING moving to milk replacer. This suggests that in well managed systems, Table 1. BW targets (kg) for maiden heifers (HF = Holstein–Friesian, especially where the transfer of disease may be an issue, milk replacer NZFR = New Zealand Friesian, J = Jersey) at weaning, 6 months, can be offered immediately after colostrum. However, if there are MSD and pre–calving issues with rota or corona virus and cows are vaccinated, calves should be fed transition milk to reduce the risk of a scour outbreak.

ONCE–A–DAY MILK FEEDING Labour input per calf may be reduced by utilizing a once a day feeding regime in the knowledge that it has no unfavourable repercussions on the growth and health of calves. However, once daily feeding before calves are four weeks old can create health concerns by Achieving target weights – First Winter overloading the abomasum. Furthermore, the rumen of the calf is It is important to minimise the difference between the lightest and not developed at a young age (<4 weeks) so they cannot utilise the heaviest heifers in the herd. The target weights are for individual nutrients from concentrate, consequently milk should not be fed animals rather than as a group average. once–a–day until after 4 weeks. In a recent Moorepark experiment A silage only diet is not suitable for heifers either at or below calves fed milk replacer to a level of 15% of their birth weight target weight over the winter months as weight gains are too low (6 litres) from 4 weeks of age, either once daily or in two equally (~0.33 kg/day). Concentrate will need to be included to ensure heifers divided feeds, did not have an increased likelihood of developing achieve target weight at MSD. The quantity of concentrate will depend diarrhoea. No differences in calf performance or health were observed on heifer BW at housing. Regardless of diet offered over the winter between calves fed once or twice a day. However, even if feeding on weight gains achieved post–turnout are higher than that achieved a once a day basis, they still need to be checked thoroughly twice a day. during the winter. Heifers should be turned out to grass as soon as Although calf rearing is extremely labour intensive there are practices possible in spring, as they can gain up to 1 kg/day at grass compared which can be implemented to reduce the labour requirement during to <0.70 kg/heifer/day while on their winter diet. Consequently the busy spring period. An appraisal of calf rearing systems should heifers have a greater chance of attaining their target weight with be carried out during the quieter months on the farm to ascertain early turnout. If there are a number of smaller, underweight heifers what improvements can be made for the forthcoming season. Another they should be given preference for early spring grass, especially if it

“An appraisal of calf rearing systems should be carried out during the quieter months on the farm to ascertain what improvements can be made for the forthcoming season.” task which should be completed is weighing and assessing replacement is in short supply, and turned out as soon as possible. Depending on heifer weight gain prior to housing and at turnout to ensure heifers how far below target weight they are they may also require are on target and issues around the breeding season can be minimised. supplementation.

Bodyweight and body condition score (BCS) are of greater Through correct feeding and continuous monitoring from the day importance at MSD than age, i.e. heifers can be less than 15 months the calf is born target weights can be achieved. Reaching these at MSD but should not be greater than 17 months of age. Every heifer targets will result in more productive cows when they reach the rearing program should have a target BW or proportion of mature lactating herd. Furthermore, these animals should last in the herd BW to achieve at MSD. At Moorepark studies have shown that heifers for greater than two lactations which will result in the initial investment should be mated at 55 to 60% of mature BW and should calve at 85 during the rearing phase being recovered, thereby allowing cows to to 90% of mature BW.A further target of 30% of mature BW at 6 months generate a profit for the remainder of her lactations. of age can also be set. Based on this research target BW at four critical Article by Emer Kennedy, Teagasc, Animal and Grassland periods are outlined in Table 1 for the more popular dairy breeds.

Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS TACKLING LAMENESS WITH PROVITA HOOFSURE ENDURANCE RANGE

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ameness is now a major challenge in Irish dairy herds. Digital dermatitis (DD), more commonly known as Mortellaro, is an infectious condition and one of the major causes of lameness reducing milk yield, fertility, mobility and feed intake. A study conducted on ten dairy farms in Ireland by Somers and O’Grady in 2015, show that 89% of cows had lesions on their hind feet, 11.8% had lesions on their front feet and only in 6.9% of cows were no lesions found.

This infectious condition spreads quickly through the herd and can reduce milk yield by at least one litre per cow per day.

Overall cost is estimated to be €10,000 per 100 cows in a herd.

It is very important that controlling and treating lameness is a top priority. It is extremely critical that farmers are able to monitor Digital Dermatitis on their farm, and can use their footbaths correctly proprietary blend of organic acids, essential oils and wetting agents. to help tackle the problem. However, a staggering 80% of footbaths is a safe, non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and biodegradable product, It are used incorrectly (AFBI). It’s important to note that a specific which can be easily disposed into a slurry pit or lagoon.This product farm orientated Digital Dermatitis control plan is imperative as it should be used at a 1% dilution rate for maintenance and a 2%+ will allow the farmer to see the changes to the DD problem on their farm. Different levels of Digital Dermatitis should be tackled dilution rate in more difficult conditions. Hoofsure Endurance can be used as a 25% topical spray in conjunction with or as an in various ways. Provita Animal Health can offer support in this alternative to footbathing. Hoofsure Konquest is a scientifically instance. The Provita DD App is easy for farmers to use, and involves simply entering the size, colour and profile of the lesion. proven proprietary concentrated gel, for topical application. It The app will convert your observations and categorise them into can be used with a hoof bandage. Use this on more difficult cases early, acute, healing, chronic or chronic and acute DD lesions. Once of DD. Hoofsure Combat is a unique film-forming hoof spray the data has been submitted a full report and specific recommendations containing a proprietary blend of organic acids and essential oils, providing persistent longer lasting activity. for the farm will be made by Provita.

For further information contact Whelehan Animal Health The full Hoofsure range by Provita includes three products. at Tel: (01) 4688900 or info@tpwhelehan.ie Hoofsure Endurance is a footbath solution, scientifically proven

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

HOW DIPETANE WORKS Dipetane uniquely addresses and solves the fundamental problem existing in standard combustion, which is that some of the valuable carbon remains unburnt. Irish scientists are the first and only scientists worldwide who have discovered how to enable the existing fixed oxygen to gain proper access to burn the valuable carbon much more completely compared to standard combustion.

INJECTOR PROTECTION Dipetane protects costly injectors and valve stems from the EC 90% cut in sulphur, the sulphur had been acting as a lubricant for Injectors and valve stems.

Dipetane’s full burning of the carbon leaves no hard unburnt carbon grating in the system and combined with its built in lubricant greatly increases lubrication thereby protecting injectors and valve stems.

DPF’S-DIESEL PARTICLE FILTERS Minimising regeneration, minimising fuel usage and protecting DPF’s is very efficient. As mentioned above protecting DPF’s through the use of Dipetane is critical and very cost-effective.

Dipetane treated fuel’s unique ability to burn the carbon more completely, compared to all standard fuels means that much less un-burnt carbon enters the DPF and therefore the regeneration occurs less often. In some 6.8 Litre engines Dipetane’s use has extended the regeneration from 70 hours out to over 200 hours. This is a substantial fuel saving and protects the DPF from the very high revs involved in the regeneration process.

UP TO 10% FUEL SAVINGS Dipetane’s independent Scientific Chassis Dynamometer and Boiler Tests under controlled conditions show up to 10% fuel savings. Mix rate for Dipetane is always 1:200. 1 Litre treats 200 Litre’s Diesel, Petrol, Kerosene, Heavy Oil. It does not change the spec of the fuel. It is not an ‘additive’, being 100% hydro-carbon.

Visit http://www.dipetane.com/how-dipetane-works/ for further information.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS TANCO BALE & MULTI SHEARS

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THE PROFESSIONAL’S CHOICE FOR FEEDING PIT & BALE SILAGE anco Autowrap is based in Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow since 1963 and manufactures the widest range of agricultural silage wrapping machinery in the world as well as bale handling and feeding implements.All Tanco products are manufactured to exacting standards in the Bagenalstown factory using proven techniques as well as the latest in robotic and innovative technologies and production methods.Tanco are committed to developing innovative machinery distinguished by high performance, durability and functionality.

The I-73 Bale Shear & I-75 Multi Shear manufactured by Tanco are designed to allow clean, safe, hassle free and quick feeding of bale and pit silage. Both machines are very suitable for using in narrow feed passages as the bale is split forwards. Bales from 4ft to 5ft 6” can be used with the Tanco Bale & Multi Shears because of the adjustable position of the gripping mechanism. The gripping mechanism does not tear the plastic in the critical area therefore retaining the strength of the plastic and stopping it from ripping during the process and it only holds approx. a fistful of silage from the bale.

The position of the hydraulic rams and the blade design means the Tanco Bale & Multi Shears work well, even on badly shaped bales. Lund Blades are used as standard, they are hard faced resulting in a longer wear life and they wear sharp ensuring the blade maintains sharpness as it wears. The Lund blades also have high wear resistance, strength & ductility. Advanced high strength & long wearing Hardox steel is used in the blade of the Tanco Bale Shear. Stonefork tines are used as they are twice as strong as KV tines which is critical due to the high load factor when the

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blade cuts through the bale. The machined, heavy duty tine sleeve is used as standard on both machines ensuring the tines keep their tightness.The integrated hydraulic sequence valves allow the gripping mechanism to open when the blade opens fully and means the gripping mechanism closes first before the blade starts to close.

For the I–73 Bale Shear there is available an optional meal bucket, with approx. 400kgs capacity, that autolocks to the Tanco Bale Shear using a securing pin attached to the gripper hydraulic mechanism. It allows the operator to feed silage, straw, hay and meal without interchanging implements.

Visit www.itanco.com for further information.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS HIGH PERFORMANCE, QUALITY HEIFER MILK REPLACER ACHIEVES HIGH GROWTH RATES A

ndrew Collier from Tinryland, Co. Carlow farms 200 Friesian dairy cows and rears all female heifer replacements.

“I wanted to use a high performance, quality heifer milk replacer to achieve high growth rates and to break the link from feeding waste milk to my future dairy livestock.”

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Having entered the voluntary Johne’s disease pilot scheme in 2014, Andrew needed to use a milk replacer for all his replacement calves as a way to reduce and control the spread of Johne’s disease within his herd.

Feeding ProHeifer milk replacer assists in the control of Johne’s disease as it avoids the possibility of feeding contaminated milk to young calves. ProHeifer’s manufacturing process ensures a high level of safety and delivers a product which is consistent and free from contaminants. The Colliers have seen a dramatic improvement in dairy herd performance since entering the scheme and deciding to use a high protein milk replacer in ProHeifer.

“I am extremely happy with the performance of ProHeifer, the calves thrive well on it and I have no hesitation in recommending it to other farmers rearing calves.”

For more information on ProCalf milk replacers visit www.procalf.com or telephone Interchem 01 4518959.

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HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITY

WORKING AT HEIGHTS IN AGRICULTURE The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is concerned at the significant rise in the number of tragic deaths and serious injuries resulting from such work, particularly involving fragile roofing materials.

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ave you ever been tempted to climb onto a roof to fix a leak, replace a sheet of galvanise sheeting or clean and paint a shed roof? In the last number of years dozens of people have lost their lives in Ireland while carrying out work at height, some of those have been in the agriculture sector. Many more have suffered serious injuries, some resulting in permanent life-changing disabilities.

Before carrying out any work at height around the farm involving minor repairs on sheds, on buildings or on silos, you must ask yourself are you competent and have you the right equipment to carry out the work safely? Work other than very minor repairs is FURTHER INFORMATION considered “Construction Work” and the extensive legal requirements Code of Practice for Safety in Roofwork (available from www.hsa.ie) for construction work must be complied with.

Using Ladders Safely – Information Sheet (available from www.hsa.ie) Regulations for Work at Height are set out in the Safety, Health and RISK ASSESSMENT – WHAT COULD GO WRONG? Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations. 2007, Part 4 The risk of death and serious injury is so great from “Work at Height” (available from www.hsa.ie) that the law requires that a comprehensive site specific risk assessment must be carried out for all work at height regardless of duration.

Further guidance on minimum standards for roof cladding, side This risk assessment must be carried out by a competent person cladding and on the retrofitting of Roof Clear Sheets (Roof lights) and must identify all the hazards including the presence of fragile with Safety Grids is available on the Department of Agriculture roofing materials and must set out the controls that will be put in website (www.agriculture.gov.ie) place. The principal risk when working at height is falls, either from ladders, through fragile roofing materials or from unprotected CAUSES OF FARM DEATHS IN 2017 edges of roofs or other structures. In many cases, simple straight– forward physical protection measures can prevent falls occurring Cause Number deaths but too often a lack of foresight and planning results in the necessary Tractors/Farm vehicles 11 protection being neglected during this high-risk work.

Machinery, Equipment 1

FRAGILE ROOFING MATERIALS Due to the nature of agricultural buildings requiring light and air movement, many of the structures and materials used are fragile and not weight bearing.A roof is considered fragile if it cannot support

Animals/Livestock Falls from height Drowning, Gas Falling Objects Timber related (Forestry)

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“Always assume all roofing materials are fragile unless confirmed otherwise by a competent person” the weight of a person or where part or all of the roof can easily be broken or shattered. Most agricultural roofs are made either entirely or partly from fragile materials making carrying out any work at height on them a significant risk.Always assume all roofing materials are fragile unless confirmed otherwise by a competent person.

Children/ Young persons under 18yrs: Farmers aged 65 or over: Other Farmers: Other farm services:

PLAN A SAFE SYSTEM OF WORK

COUNTIES WITH FATAL ACCIDENTS IN 2017:

Carlow Cavan Clare Cork Donegal Dublin Galway Kerry Kildare Ladders: Ladders should only be used as a means of access or Limerick for work of very short duration when there is no other safer way Mayo of doing a job.

Meath Pat Griffin, senior inspector with the HSA says: “Most agricultural Monaghan roofs are made from fragile materials such as galvanised sheeting Offaly or perspex and working on these is extremely risky and should be Roscommon Tipperary avoided if possible. We are urging farmers to find ways to replace Waterford roof fixings from underneath using work platforms. If the work Westmeath can’t be done from underneath, use a mobile elevated work Wexford platform that allows access without having to stand on the roof itself. Also ladders, if used, must be tied or footed, to avoid slipping, Kilkenny Total

Measures include: Avoid having to go on the roof at all by adapting a method that allows profiled roof sheets or roof lights to be replaced from underneath using a suitable work platform – this may involve the use of adapted roof fixings, available from materials suppliers.

Ensure all the work areas and access platforms are fitted with guard rails. If this is not possible, install safety nets or air bags underneath the roof or use a harness system.

and should only be used for a short duration.”

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