Dairy Farmer February 2024

Youngstock

What should be in milk powder and why?

Pages 18-21 February 2024

Volume 71 Issue 2

BREEDING & FERTILITY Yields, pregnancy blood tests and cross-breeding Pages 30-39

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Highlights from this year’s LAMMA Show Pages 40-43

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ON FARM FEATURE Duchy College showcasing innovation Pages 10-12

MILK PRICES Pages 44-46

TIP OF THE MONTH: Use cow signals to inform management decisions – p16

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19/01/2024 09:31

ADVERTORIAL

From Fighting Fire to Igniting Progress: Your Herd Health Roadmap to Better Dairying

By Jan van Dijk DVM, PhD, MRCVS Veterinary Technical Manager – AHV UK & IRE Challenges to Profitability Against a background of falling milk prices, the British Dairy Sector has been under relentless pressure to become ever more efficient and ‘sustainable.’ The key factors constantly challenging cow profitability - namely infectious bacterial diseases (mastitis & metritis), infertility, metabolic diseases and lameness - have remained undiminished threats and are all interlinked.

For example, a cow suffering significant ketosis in early lactation is unlikely to have the energy to mount an effective immune response, is therefore more likely to show clinical bacterial infections in udder and/or uterus, which in turn will show up as ‘infertility’ when it is time to get her in calf again. If we truly want to prevent disease as well as optimise milk production, we will need to support the cow in a holistic way which goes beyond pushing back infectious bugs alone.

Unfortunately, the reality has been quite different. Taking mastitis as an example, preventative measures have focussed on the improvement of environmental cleanliness in cubicles and parlour. While these measures are important pieces of the mastitis prevention puzzle, with mastitis-causing bacteria invariably ubiquitous, it has proven impossible to improve cow cleanliness to truly preventative levels.

Udder infections occur frequently and there is a frequent buildup of bacteria within the mammary gland. Therefore, the older the cow gets, the more likely she is to harbour substantial bacterial loads which lead to a chronic high cell count animal and clinical mastitis.

The result is an extraordinary wasteful system, where farmers are witnessing ‘conveyor belts’ full of promising additions to the herd, ultimately crashing and then not responding to conventional treatment anymore either.

Furthermore, with bacteria becoming ever more resistant to these treatments, farmers are forced to reduce their overall use.

AHV’s Revolutionary Approach The reason bacteria accumulate in the tissues of animals is that they work together to form mucous layers, socalled ‘biofilm,’ which protects them from both the cow’s immune system and antibiotics. Within these layers, they can multiply freely and send bacteria out to infect more tissue, for example when the cow becomes stressed (immunocompromised).

Ten years ago, researchers at

the then-newly formed company Animal Health Vision (AHV) realised that we need to get rid of biofilm, and ‘cleanse’ tissues as well as the cow’s environment if we are ever to get on top of bacterial infections. Over the years, they perfected a radical new approach.

Longevity

First, in the lab, they discovered compounds able to destroy the biofilm of all bacteria commonly infecting ruminants and learned how to make these compounds available to cows in tablet form. Second, they added all minerals and nutrients needed to mount an effective immune response to their arsenal of tablet-based supplements. Third, they learned how to apply plant-based modulators of the immune system, facilitating a ‘strong-yet-not-destructive’ immune response. AHV now had the complete package to, for the first time, supplement cows in a truly preventative approach.

After confirming that their non-prescription supplements were highly beneficial to individual cows with developing metritis and mastitis in the field, AHV UK therefore developed so-called Herd Health Plans (HHPs). These plans are always underpinned by the three pillars of bacterial preventative health: 1) making existing ‘bacteria in hiding’ available to the cow’s immune system, e.g. by breaking down biofilm, 2) supporting rumen and liver with all nutrients needed to provide energy and protein for an effective immune response and 3) making sure the immune response does not become so powerful that tissue is compromised. Importantly, these nil-milk-withhold products can now be applied to ‘cleanse’ ruminant tissues routinely, thus preventing infections from becoming a problem.

Transformative Results and Sustainable Practices Three bespoke HHPs have been developed. The Transition and Fertility HHP focusses on supporting liver and rumen during the transition phase, supplying essential minerals around calving and cleansing out the uterus post calving, thereby optimally setting cows up for the next conception.

The Udder HHP similarly supports the cow during transition and cleanses the udder at the start and finish of each lactation, preventing the chronic high cell count conveyor belt. The Longevity HHP is an amalgamation of the two HHPs described. Biannually, AHV’s data team tracks and reports on progress booked, alongside ROI calculations, to HHP customers.

Herd Health Programme

Unlock optimum performance, lifetime milk yield and quality Healthier cows that live longer Unlock your herd’s genetic potential Improved herd profitability Increased lifetime milk yield and quality Decreased open days and improved conception rates Fewer udder, uterine and metabolic health challenges AHV proactively combat herd health challenges to keep more milk in your tank and more revenue in your pocket, visit us at www.ahvint.com Animal Health Vision UK Ltd 1610, Carnival Way, North Petherton, Bridgwater TA6 6GY 01769 772070 | www.ahvint.com

The first 6 herds received their annual progress reports in recent months; their summarised data can be found in Table 1.

All herds showed remarkable progress in fertility performance.

Apart from the benefits of cleansing the uterus and supporting the cow during transition, it appears that cleansing out the udder may also be beneficial to fertility performance, as well as yield (e.g., as cows which don’t have to fight mammary infections may be able to divert more energy towards Cows in herd Average

224

Range

75 to 550

‘production’). The recorded reductions in clinical mastitis rates on these farms is substantial and can be held against a background of vastly reduced antibiotic use for mastitis occuring over the same time frame.

Indeed, HHP clients report seeing their sick pens empty, freeing up time otherwise spent on treating sick animals. It appears AHV have developed a successful revolutionary approach, for the first time proactively and sustainably‘cleansing’ cows.

Concep.on Rate (1st service) + 9.3%

Days open Yield (kg/day) +1.2

Cases of clinical mas..s -16.2%

An.bio.c use for mas..s -74.8%

-28.0

+5.1% to +11.9%

-7.7 to -83.0

+0 to +5.8

-0 to -50%

-52% to -93%

Table 1: Change in average Key Performance Indicators on the first 6 Heard Health Plan (HHP) herds to mature to a full year on the Plan. Performance on the HHP was compared to that of the 12 months prior to the start of the HHP. Three herds were on the ‘Udder HHP’, three herds were on the extended ‘Longevity HHP’.

If you would like more information on how to get started on the road to better dairy herd health and profitability, visit AHV UK at Stand T38 at Dairy Tech, or find an AHV consultant in your area at www.ahvint.com/en p02_DF_February_2024.indd 1 AHV.indd 1

17/01/2024 11:09 11:08

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a word from the

editor

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by Dairy Farmer for the opinions expressed by contributors.

A

fter a 10-year wait, it looks likely that in the coming weeks we will start to hear more about a Statutory Instrument (SI) for the dairy supply chain, which will hopefully mean dairy farmers have access to a fairer playing field when it comes to milk contracts and pricing.

As ever, the devil will be in the detail, but after a decade of talk, I do hope this really is a tool that is fit for purpose and delivers that fairness and transparency which has been long promised.

In Glasgow in January, outgoing NFU president Minette Batters addressed the Semex International Dairy Conference for her final time and there seemed some relief from her that the SI was finally approaching the finish line.

There was a great deal of positivity at the confer-

ence, with several speakers, including Ms Batters, urging dairy farmers to come together and unite.

Also speaking at the conference, market analyst Chris Walkland was cautiously optimistic in his predictions for this coming year, and reassuringly his look ahead was more positive than his outlook was 12 months ago.

World Dairy Summit On a global level, the dial does seem to be moving in the right direction, and from my report from the World Dairy Summit (see page 28), you will see there was a great deal of optimism from speakers from around the world in terms of growing dairy consumption.

However, we will all need to wait and see how this plays out at a domestic level.

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What’s inside?

FEBRUARY 2024 VOLUME 71 8

DAIRY TALK

Updates from Claire Eastham and Ben Yates

10 ON FARM

Duchy College’s Future Farm showcases innovative dairy

14 DAIRY MATTERS

‘I feel like diversity is now firmly on the farming map’, says Liz Haines

16 VET’S VIEW

Cow Signals allows you to objectively observe your cows

18 YOUNGSTOCK

Milk powder: What should be in it and why

22 WORLD DAIRYING Large Ukrainian dairy farm battles to survive

26 CONFERENCE 28 GLOBAL

ISSUE 2

30 BREEDING & FERTILITY

A look at lifetime daily yields, blood testing for pregnancy and cross-breeding

40 MACHINERY

Highlights from this year’s LAMMA Show

44 MILK PRICES 48 MILK ANALYSIS 50 NEW PRODUCTS

Round-up of products and updates hitting the market

54 GOOD EVANS ‘If you are not selling milk you don’t have to pay a levy’

56 BUSINESS CLINIC

Brighter outlook for dairying than other sectors

58 RESEARCH

NEWS

Dairy contract legislation set to go before Parliament

A

ccording to the NFU and NFU Scotland, a Statutory Instrument (SI) to legislate for an effective dairy supply chain will go before MPs in February.

The news marks the culmination of a decade-long fight by farming unions and Dairy UK to secure Government regulation on milk contracts, farmers’ rights and pricing.

NFU dairy board chair Michael Oakes said: “It has been a long time coming, but we welcome confirmation last week from Defra that the dairy contracts SI will be laid before Parliament in February.

“We are still waiting on the detail and will review the SI once it is published to ensure it aligns

with the NFU’s work towards fairer, more transparent and collaborative supply chains.”

NFU Scotland’s milk policy manager Tracey Roan hailed the news as a ‘major breakthrough’ citing the adoption of an NFUS amendment to ensure the new rules are applied to both existing and new contracts, as opposed to just new, which was in the first draft, as a ‘major success’.

Transparency She said the union would now work hard to examine the SI to ensure it was ‘fit for purpose’ and that it delivered ‘fairness and transparency across the whole of the UK’.

Both Ms Roan and NFU president Minette Batters said the dairy SI could pave the way

Farmers face intimidation and delisting threats 22-23

56 4 DF Feb p4 5 6 News MB KJ.indd 2

World Dairying

Business Clinic

JFarmers who speak out

against unfairness in the supply chain face intimidation, bullying and delisting at the hands of processors and retailers, farming leaders have claimed.

Speaking before the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) Select Committee’s probe into fairness in the supply chain, sector heads from livestock, horticulture and dairy pleaded with MPs to intervene to prevent further pressure being placed on food production and a contraction of the sectors.

NFU dairy board chair Michael

Oakes was among those speaking of unfairness in the supply chain, which they said has led to 10% of dairy farmers planning to quit production in the future.

Suffering Mr Oakes revealed dairy farmers had suffered at the hands of those further up the supply chain and said many contacted the NFU anonymously as they were afraid of causing trouble or losing their contracts.

He said: “I have been at several of these meetings and nothing ever comes of what we say.”

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 09:32

NEWS

Holstein UK President’s Medal JScottish young farmer Alison Lawrie was announced as the winner of Holstein UK’s 2023 President’s Medal award at the Semex International Dairy Conference.

Prize Ms Lawrie, a member of the Scotland Holstein Young Breeders Club (HYB), wins a trip to the Royal Winter Fairy in Toronto.

Runners-up in the award were Tom Hull, of Lancashire HYB, and Will Horsley, of Border and Lakeland HYB. rFor more from the Semex conference, see p26.

It is believed the new regulations will give farmers a straightforward way to raise concerns about contracts.

for fairer terms throughout the whole of farming sector.

Mrs Batters said: “This is a blueprint for all those other sectors.

It is not a silver bullet, there is no silver bullet. But the legislation is now going to be laid.

Level playing field “It will be looking at existing contracts, as well as those contracts which will be made in the future.

This is about a level playing field.”

Ms Roan added: “Getting it

right for milk is hugely important. Successfully bringing forward statutory milk contracts into legislation could be the foundation for fairer contracts for all primary producers.”

Although Defra declined to comment on an exact date, it is believed the new regulations will also give farmers a straightforward way to raise concerns about their contracts and there will be clear rules put in place on notice periods.

We are still waiting on the detail and will review the SI once it is published MICHAEL OAKES

Online searches for Veganuary hit all-time low JSearches for ‘Veganuary’ hit an all-time low in January, with hunts for the meat-free month falling by 62%, according to latest figures.

Researchers at analytics company SEOtagg have observed what they term as a ‘significant shift’ in popularity, with a drop of about two-thirds in searches for the term during the first week of 2024 compared to the same period in 2020.

DE MA IN

GE

RMANY

FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p4 5 6 News MB KJ.indd 3

5 19/01/2024 09:33

NEWS

Milestone for carbon accounting standards

T

he long-awaited Defra report, ‘Harmonisation of Carbon Accounting Tools for Agriculture’, has been published providing guidance on appropriate standards for carbon reporting.

The new report seeks to achieve greater accuracy of outputs from carbon calculation tools and presents standards to comply with when carrying out farm-level carbon assessments.

As part of the project, 81 global carbon calculators were reviewed, with the report analysing in detail the six most relevant for UK farming.

Dr Emily Pope, managing director of knowledge and collaboration at Trinity AgTech, is optimistic about the impact of the report which denotes clear minimum standards for carbon accounting tools.

Unregulated She says: “Farm-level carbon accounting is currently completely unregulated meaning there is significant divergence in calculation methodology and the resulting information; this is reducing trust, stalling decarbonisation efforts and preventing proper recognition and reward.

“One of the report’s key recommendations is to adopt tools which

Dr Emily Pope welcomes Defra’s acknowledgment that the poor alignment of old tools to modern standards is restricting the ability of farmers to access incentives and requirements around emissions reduction.

present reliable data, in line with ISO standards 14064:2 and 14067 and the draft GHG Protocol Land Sector and Removals guidance which is supportive of the Science-Based Targets initiative.

“Most businesses currently doing carbon accounting in the UK rely on old tools which adhere to outdated standards, such as

PAS2050:2011, or methods which do not adhere to a recognised standard or protocol. These tools fail to represent the complexity of modern agriculture.”

Incentives Dr Pope therefore welcomes Defra’s acknowledgment that the poor alignment of old tools

to modern standards is restricting the ability of farmers to access incentives and requirements around emissions reduction.

She says: “The report identifies that there is one calculator which aligns with the standards endorsed

by Defra, that is Trinity’s Sandy navigation platform, denoted as calculator E within the report.”

Tom Bradshaw to run unopposed for NFU president JNFU deputy president Tom Bradshaw will run as the only candidate for the NFU president role, as Minette Batters steps down.

He said he would be ‘honoured’ to lead the union through this ‘continued period of change and volatility’.

He said: “I fully recognise the scale of the challenges and the

6 DF Feb p4 5 6 News MB KJ.indd 4

pressures your businesses are facing as well as the stark reality of the impacts of the cuts in Basic Payment Scheme and delays in delivery of Environmental Land Management scheme which combined has significantly impacted confidence.”

He said politicians needed to recognise the strategic importance

of food production and deliver on the words ‘food security is national security’.

He said: “I urge you all to unite, to influence the politics of tomorrow and make sure the new Government delivers the policy which underpins a thriving, profitable farming industry.”

Current vice-president David

Exwood will run for the role of deputy president. Upland forum chair Thomas Binns, dairy board chair Michael Oakes and upland farmer Rachel Hallos will stand for deputy and vice-president.

Crops board chair Matt Culley and South Wiltshire mixed farmer Mark Jeffrey will stand for vice-president.

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 09:33

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19/01/2024 09:51

Claire Eastham

DAIRY Talk

Claire Eastham farms with her husband Martyn in Dorset, where they milk 120 spring calving cows. After gaining knowledge and experience working for other businesses, the couple started their own dairy farming journey in 2015 by taking on a share farming agreement before progressing to their current county council farm.

“

We need to build in resilience to differing weather patterns where we can

H

appy New Year to you all. Although it probably seems like a distant memory, I hope you all enjoyed some quality time with your families over the Christmas period.

So 2023 has gone and, for many I have spoken to, it seems to have been a year to say good riddance to. We had a wet spring and three months of seemingly constant rain in the back end of the year.

Here we had 42 inches of rain – the wettest year in our locality since 2003. However, there were positives as a livestock farmer – the silage pits were filled and summer was not spent looking at brown fields, baked to a crisp.

As farmers, we can’t control the weather and we just need to build in resilience to differing weather patterns where we can (although mentally this can still be a challenge).

The concern now will be the wheat crops not drilled or sat with wet feet and what the feed price might do come autumn.

Here on-farm, we have done all of our bulk milk testing, which has resulted in no flukicide needed this year. We are also BVD clear and continue with IBR vaccination.

We are using the Animal Health and Welfare Review funding (£372 for dairy cattle) to do some BVD testing on youngstock and aim to work towards BVD-free accreditation.

Calm before the storm It is currently the calm before the storm when we commence calving again on February 11. We use this time to get caught up on paperwork jobs, including our budget, and consider what investments will be made in the next 12 months.

This year we’d like to install newer cubicles into the old shed and undertake some maintenance on the cow tracks.

We’ve applied for the Slurry Infrastructure Grant, although it is unlikely we will be successful and, even if we are, we would have to navigate a tenancy extension, but at least by applying we have given ourselves that option and might hopefully have time to decide.

We also have to plant the rest of the herbal leys this year, as we entered into the new Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) on November 1 and, credit where it is due, we had our first payment by November 9.

We are also currently undertaking some hedgelaying through an external contractor. In total, we have 2.5km of hedge to lay across the rest of this winter and next and,

8 DF Feb p8 Dairy Talk Claire Eastham MB KJ.indd 2

with the help of the SFI HRW1 hedgerow surveying option, will be able to easier identify what other interventions may be needed to improve our hedgerows.

I feel that hedgerows may be a helpful way in which farmers can increase biodiversity on-farm through better management and they can sequester and store carbon, without changes of management on the land they surround.

We dried off all our cows on December 20 in one big group with the help of our apprentice. He is with us each Wednesday and has been since the end of November.

We weren’t actively looking for anyone, but our boys’ headmistress asked us if we’d be interested as he’s a family friend and we were the only farmers she knew.

He’s keen, polite and not on his phone all day long, so we might be on to a winner. Yes, the odd heifer has run past him on the gate, but we’ve all been there.

Nothing has broken and the scraper tractor is slowly gaining speed as he gains confidence, which is the way it is meant to be (as opposed to being over-confident and straight into a steel). I think it will help to make an isolating job slightly less so.

Recently I volunteered for Farming Community Network (FCN) on one of two quiz nights we held in Dorset in January where farmers and rural workers can just come out for a couple of hours, have a meal and enjoy a short quiz.

It is an opportunity for everyone to get out of the house, off the farm and just socialise – helping with the age old adage ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’.

At FCN we deal with a variety of cases from family fallouts to farm accidents, loneliness and legal battles, so if you need someone to talk to, reach out on 03000 111 999.

The national helpline is manned 7am-11pm every day.

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:27

DAIRY TALK

Ben Yates Ben Yates manages Mells Park Estate, Somerset, where he oversees a 400-cow unit and manages the 405-hectare (1,000-acre) estate. Along with his wife and two sons, Ben has his own small herd of pedigree Holsteins under the Wowcow prefix. He joined the Holstein UK Board of Trustees in 2021.

“

This spring will be the first year where we get to assess some of the new Sustainable Farming Incentive schemes we have entered

I

am certainly glad to see the end of the long period of wet weather we have been enduring in Somerset since October, and we are currently enjoying a crisp dry spell.

We experienced flash flooding in our cattle shed with 40ml of rain coming down in three hours to welcome the New Year in.

The situation was trying to say the least.

The mild wet autumn has meant grass growth has continued and, on the first measure of 2024, it has created a nice grazing wedge to turn the low yielders out to as soon as the ground conditions allow us.

Most of the farm is south-facing dry land, so it should not be too long and should coincide with our serving window coming to an end.

The herd was established in 2017 and, only more recently, has moved towards being run as a tight autumn calving block supplying milk for a cheese contract. We aim to achieve high milk from forage and high components.

With growing the herd to fulfil the 400-cow number the system was designed for, we have purchased cows in the last few years, but hopefully now we will become self-sufficient, using sexed semen from bulls which will create the type of cow we are looking for.

The changes and investments we have made in our maternity unit and calf-rearing area have pushed our mortality levels to a minimum.

We had just one death between birth and weaning from 300 calvings over six weeks.

NEW WRITER

Busy It might have been a little busy, but the results prove how well our team worked together to achieve this.

The turn of the year sees us assessing our fertility, where we have achieved a 94% submission and a 50% pregnancy rate.

All figures are leading towards a 72% in-calf rate at six weeks, with sexed semen used in the first three weeks.

The purchase of a proven transponder system to help the aid of heat detection, among other

attributes, has proven its worth with timings for artificial insemination being a big part of this.

This spring will be the first year where we get to assess some of the new Sustainable Farming Incentive schemes we have entered.

Interesting With some mixed legume and herbal lays being introduced to the farm, it will be very interesting to see how these work with drought conditions on our light land and in the estate’s parkland.

With two sons at home aged 12 and 14, I was thrilled that at the top of their Christmas list was a clipping crush. This follows a successful show season for them with their calves and in handling classes last year at local shows.

The finale was at the Holstein Young Breeders (HYB) All Breeds All Britain Calf Show at Stoneleigh, where they thoroughly enjoyed working as a team with their local HYB club and making new friends from across the country.

We were lucky enough to find them a secondhand crush and the countdown is now on for the first show of the season. Hopefully, I’ll be able to retire from being their fitter soon.

FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p9 Dairy Talk Ben Yates MB KJ.indd 3

9 19/01/2024 09:54

The new system at Duchy College ensures cows have the space and comfort to express their natural behaviour and meet their genetic potential.

D

uchy College’s Future Farm in Cornwall stands out from the crowd with its translucent arched roof, side vents and automated feeding system.

It is an innovative design that places the cow at its heart, while also delivering on the college’s aims of creating a sustainable dairy system, explains Paul Ward, Duchy College project manager.

“The ultimate aim is to develop a milk production system for the future, so it needs to be sustainable in all ways; socially, environmentally and economically. And it does all of those things,” he says.

The building has a number of design features, including its temperature and humidity-controlled environment.

The building follows a Dutch design and has a multi-arched roof made of a synthetic, translucent material, which is designed to deliver

The Future Farm at Duchy College serves as a cutting edge educational facility which also aims to bridge the gap between innovative dairy practices and the next generation of farmers. Aly Balsom finds out more.

Duchy College’s Future Farm showcases innovative dairy plenty of light and air without the addition of radiant heat.

Farm manager Anthony Baggaley says the building is as close

to natural daylight as possible, which makes for a pleasant environment for both cows and staff.

Vents in the roof and side curtains

Production figures before and after moving to the Future Farm Old Duchy site

After move to new Future Farm building (November 2020) 8,300

9,070

Milk butterfat (%) 3.6

4.2

4.49

Milk proteins (%) 3.26

3.38

3.49

Yield (litres per cow per year)

7,900

Source: Duchy College

10 DF Feb p10 11 12 On Farm MB KJ.indd 2

Current performance (June 2023)

automatically open and shut based on the temperature and humidity in the shed.

“Even in very hot conditions it is noticeable how comfortable it is,” says Mr Baggaley.

The herd relocated to the greenfield site in November 2020. The system is in stark contrast to the old set up, which had won an award as a model farm in the 1970s. Mr Baggaley says the new system ensures cows have the space and comfort to express their natural behaviour and meet their genetic potential.

“When we moved, we were still

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:26

ON FARM Farm facts rThe farm is funded by AgriTech Cornwall (EU Regional Development Fund) and the Centre for International Excellence in Livestock rTotal area farmed is 240 hectares (593 acres), including equine and smallholding/animal care rThere are 186ha (460 acres) for dairy, including grazing, maize, grass silage and wholecrop rThe 220 cows average 9,070 litres per cow per year, at 4.49% butterfat and 3.49% protein

rThere are 4,166 litres of milk from forage produced per cow/year rMilk is supplied to Saputo rAverage somatic cell count of 120,000 cells/ml, and 10 cases of mastitis between calving and November rTwice-a-day milking through a 20:40 herringbone parlour rLate lactation cows grazed rAutumn calving from August to the end of November rHolstein dairy semen, and Aberdeen-Angus and Fleckvieh beef semen used

Take advantage of increasing grass growth!

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feeding the same amount but getting better production as every cow was getting their share. The milk went up nearly 500 litres,” he explains (see table), adding that the herd reduced slightly from 300 to 220 cows following the move.

Design The shed is designed with no deadends and flexible, plastic cubicles to reduce knocks on the cows. Segregation gates next to the parlour are also close to the calving pens, allowing easy, low-stress separation.

Mr Baggaley says: “It is nice to

have the calving facilities where they get milked. That is really good. It means you are not constantly moving cows around the farm.”

Conductivity meters in the parlour, activity collars and on-farm mastitis testing kits are all in operation with the view to picking up early signs of disease.

Mr Baggaley says: “It means you can pick up mastitis quicker than you can see it. It probably means we are picking it up one day ahead of physical signs.”

As a result, the team can get in early with udder mint and

FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p10 11 12 On Farm MB KJ.indd 3

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18/01/2024 11:27

ON FARM non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, with the aim of getting on top of the problem before antibiotics are used.

The farm has also just started trialling on-farm culturing. This enables the causal pathogen to be identified in milk samples from cows with early signs of mastitis. An appropriate treatment strategy can then be designed that will deliver the best results.

Disease Cow collars pick up any drops in activity or changes in rumination rates which can provide an early indication of disease. For example, a drop in rumination rate and increased lying times could be an early sign of a left displaced abomasum in fresh cows.

The herd is fed using an

Left to right: senior nutritionist for Mole Valley Feed Solutions Dr Robin Hawkey, nutritionist Pete Reis and farm manager Anthony Baggaley.

automated system which can mix and deliver multiple diets to different groups of cows in the shed.

Feed is stored in a ‘feed kitchen’

at one end of the building. There are four forage bays, which are manually loaded with blocks of forage. The system then automatically cuts off

The design of Future Farm places the cow at its heart, while also delivering on Duchy College’s aims of creating a sustainable dairy system, says Paul Ward, Duchy College project manager.

Carbon footprint trial JThe automated feeding system has helped facilitate a farm study which will asses how milk constituents and finances are affected by halving the carbon footprint of dairy diets.

One of the aims of the Mole Valley Farmers study is to show it is possible to achieve high yields and milk quality without the use of soya and its potential negative impact on the environment.

Cows will be fed two

12 DF Feb p10 11 12 On Farm MB KJ.indd 4

diets. The no soya, low carbon footprint diet has been formulated using Mole Valley Farmers’ Precision Nutrition software to deliver a 5% reduction in methane production, a 17% increase in protein efficiency and a 50% theoretical reduction in dietary carbon footprint.

This is all while targeting 42 litres fat and protein corrected milk per cow per day.

The first diet is a traditional, higher fibre diet with lower

starch levels and soya. The second is a low carbon footprint diet with high starch and low fibre levels, including higher levels of maize silage. This is balanced with a non-soya meal which includes prairie meal, beans and British-grown, rumen-protected rapeseed.

Several parameters will be monitored during the study, including milk quality, cow weight, body condition, fertility and blood profiles. Results are expected in spring 2024.

the required amount of each forage, which is then moved along a conveyer to the robot mixer.

The robot mixer then moves to the four mineral augers and two blend augers for filling, before moving to the relevant group of cows in the shed and automatically feeding the ration out along the feed fence.

Senior nutritionist for Mole Valley Feed Solutions Dr Robin Hawkey and nutritionist Pete Reis handle the nutrition for the farm.

Dr Hawkey says: “The biggest thing is the regularity of feeding, together with increased accuracy, better intakes and more consistent rumen pH. It feeds each group seven times a day.”

Although the system improves consistency and mixing accuracy, a recent breakdown has caused the team to reflect that, in hindsight, it would have been better to have designed the shed to allow conventional feeding with a wagon. At present, passageway width and gate location does not allow for this.

Efficiency However, when the system is running, Mr Baggaley says the whole set-up – which includes automatic scrapers – facilitates labour efficiencies.

“You often need another person to feed and scrape, but in this system you do not need that. It reduces labour so you have got more time to spend elsewhere, managing the cows,” he says.

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:27

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17/01/2024 10:56

DAIRY Matters ‘I feel like diversity is now firmly on the farming map’ This month, dairy farmer Liz Haines discusses her first visit to the Oxford Farming Conference, which this year saw speakers addressing the theme of diversity.

I

n early January I returned to the Examination Schools in Oxford for the first time since sitting my finals 15 years ago. It was a surreal experience to be sat in the beautiful halls again, surrounded not by rows of students in academic gowns, but farmers and industry professionals from around the country and the world, for the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC).

As a first-time attendee I was aware of its reputation for being a bit stuffy, a place where people with plummy accents and tweed jackets ponder the state of the agricultural industry.

However, this year’s theme was diversity, and because I am embarking on a Nuffield Scholarship on neurodiversity in agriculture, I was invited to feature in the opening film. It seemed like a good year to find out what the conference was really like.

I attended alone and tried to sit next to a different stranger during every session. Everyone I spoke to was friendly and open, and almost all of them had insights to share that were relevant to my Nuffield topic.

Liz Haines

14 DF Feb p14 15 Dairy Matters KJ MB.indd 2

Many offered to send information about work they were doing in the area, and others shared experiences of neurodiversity in their own families.

Glossy ‘diversity and inclusion’ pages can be found on the websites of many big businesses, with little real change behind the scenes. I can emphatically say that wasn’t the case at OFC. To see director Will Evans who came up with the theme, welling up as he described his pride in seeing such a diverse range of people talking and laughing at the event, was genuinely moving.

His efforts showed both in the line-up, which encompassed people from a range of ages, genders, sexual orientations, races, religions, farming systems, landowners, and tenants, and in the work the conference has put into its Inspire programme, scholarships and bursaries.

It’s true that tickets to the event are expensive, but I did feel the conference has genuinely attempted to make itself accessible.

My Nuffield colleague Dr Saba Erum Amir told me that she really benefited from the networking and public speaking skills training that she received through Inspire, and that she wouldn’t have been able to attend without the scholarship.

Highlight A highlight of the conference was the presentation

by Dr Awal Fuseini, senior halal sector manager at AHDB. His passion and enthusiasm were infectious as he explained why British farmers can’t afford to ignore the Halal market.

At the end of his presentation he thanked the conference for inviting him to speak and noted that someone from his background wouldn’t have been there in years gone by. I felt embarrassed on behalf of the industry that he felt the need to thank us – he was as worthy a speaker as any on the stage.

By giving fantastic advocates like Dr Fuseini a platform, the conference has hopefully shown a wider range of people that the industry welcomes them and wants to hear what they have to say.

It was also noted that the Oxford Real

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:32

Attendees at this year’s Oxford Farming Conference.

“

I felt embarrassed on behalf of the industry that he felt the need to thank us – he was as worthy a speaker as any on the stage

Conference (ORFC) was happening in tandem, and despite efforts to reach out by the organising committee at OFC, it had not been possible to collaborate. Attendees of ORFC pointed out that the high price tag of putting on an OFC fringe event excluded most of their grassroots audience.

Although I don’t know the details of the discussion, it does seem a shame that the two events weren’t able to establish some common ground.

The conference didn’t shy away from including opinions some would disagree with, including Christopher Brown, senior director for farming at Asda, whose views on assurance (to paraphrase, if you don’t like it, find another customer) did nothing to soften the image of supermarket buyers.

The message from Caroline van der Plas, party leader of the Farmer Citizen movement in the Netherlands, to cherish farmers, was well received,

but she made no mention of her party’s involvement with the far right.

Will Evans reminded us at the end the conference was a forum for people to listen and debate with respect, not just agree with likeminded people.

Positivity I left my rain sodden farm to attend the conference feeling trepidatious about the year ahead, and although there was plenty of talk about the climate crisis and food security, I came home brimming with positivity.

The only way we can solve our problems is by seeking answers from people who think differently and challenge the status quo. I feel like diversity is now firmly on the farming map, and I’m looking forward to adding to the conversation with my Nuffield study.

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15 18/01/2024 11:33

VET’S VIEW Applying Cow Signals to day-to-day farm management can prevent disease and ‘owneritis’, says Owen Atkinson, of Dairy Veterinary Consultancy. Anna Bowen reports.

C

ow Signals looks at cows ‘objectively’, says vet Dr Owen Atkinson.

And he explains that by doing this, farmers can improve health and productivity and notice issues which are easily overlooked when working with cows every day.

Cow Signals starts with a wide lens approach to the whole herd before looking at individual cows. A combination of checklists and scores allows objective evaluations and measuring against standard thresholds.

Dr Atkinson says: “Start off by watching the cows; what do you see? Are they evenly distributed through the shed? Are they eating? Lying down? Are there parts of the shed with more cows, or cubicles where cows are disproportionately standing up?

“Once you have made herd level observations you can zoom in to look at the behaviour and appearance of individual cows.

Look, think, act “This can be broken down into ‘look, think, act’. Start with observing, then think about what has caused the things you have seen and then reflect on what is good, what can be improved and how.”

Cow Signals allows you to objectively observe your cows be their social ranking, the Start off by feed space available, the design and management of their watching the cubicles, dead ends or narrow cows; what do passageways. will notice what you see? Are they we“You call ‘intention movements’, evenly distributed which is the lifting of a leg but not moving forward, swaying through the their neck or dropping a front leg but not following through shed? with lying down.

DR OWEN ATKINSON Dr Atkinson recommends using Cow Signals’ six freedoms of pasture as reference points for evaluating the herd.

He says: “When housed, whether permanently or for winter, are your cows able to access the six freedoms of pasture?

“These are feed, water, light,

Light

Cubicle comfort index

JLight is important to cows for both cyclicity and feed intakes and can be objectively measured with handheld tools and phone apps, says Dr Atkinson.

“Cows have good night vision and do not require artificial light to get around in the dark.

“Feed intake is maximised with long periods of daylight.

However, cows need both light and dark to cycle properly, so constant light is not beneficial.

“Ideally, cows need 16 hours

16 DF Feb p16 17 Vets View MB KJ.indd 2

air, rest and space, and together contribute to overall health.”

Another key observation, he says, is waiting cows; cows which are neither eating nor lying down.

Dr Atkinson says: “There are lots of reasons why cows might be waiting. This could

“You are looking for no more than 15% of cows to be waiting at any point.”

Although the reasons for waiting cows will vary, space can be a starting point, says Dr Atkinson.

He says that Holstein cows need 10sq.m per animal, which can include cubicles and other lying areas. Access is also important and pinch points such

of daylight [equivalent to more than 200 lux] and eight hours of night [under 50 lux].

“This is not always relevant; housed spring calvers can manage with fewer hours of daylight. Conversely, autumn calvers will need to have the day extended with artificial lights to maximise fertility.

“Robots tend to have lights on at night and farmers should take care that it is not polluting lying areas as this could be having a detrimental effect.”

JHoused cows spend up to 12 hours lying down, so providing correctly sized cubicles with comfortable beds is key, says Dr Atkinson.

Optimum lying times ensure good feed conversion and reduce the risk of lameness, driving performance and welfare.

Percentage “Count how many cows are in contact with a cubicle, then count how many are actually

lying down. The percentage of cows lying down is your cubicle comfort index,” says Dr Atkinson.

“The target is 85% and by working this out across the shed you can compare areas. If there are places where cows are less keen to lie, steps can be taken to work out what is stopping them. This could be as obvious as the wrong size or not enough bedding or more subtle like differences in ventilation.”

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 09:40

VET’S VIEW

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MAKING SENSE OF BEHAVIOUR MONITORING AND MILK YIELD Understanding how each individual cow, heifer or calf is faring in terms of their general well-being, reproductive status and milk quality is critical to ensuring the dairy herd is performing to its maximum potential.

Cow Signals starts with a wide lens approach to the whole herd before looking at individual cows.

as narrow cross-overs and dead ends should be avoided.

Dead ends Dr Atkinson says: “Waiting cows are not lying down or eating, which means that ultimately there could be issues with

lameness or acidosis. You do not necessarily need to build a new shed; dead ends can be resolved with creative use of gates and, in some cases, taking cubicles out can create more benefits to cow flow than problems with fewer lying spaces.”

Feed JHolstein cows need around 65cm of feed space, says Dr Atkinson, but this alone is not a good measure of intake.

He says: “Routine body condition and rumen fill scoring are ways to assess whether cows are eating properly.

“Housed cows will eat for five hours a day in about six meals. Management factors can reduce the number of meals, although overall feed intakes will be comparable and can impact rumen pH.” When scoring cows, Dr Atkinson stresses the importance of looking for cows

which fall outside the accepted range, as having a large number at either end of the scale indicates there is a problem.

Lactation Care should be taken with the lactation stage. Stale cows should have a body condition score of 2.5-3.5 and a rumen fill of 4.

Dr Atkinson says: “Cows which are too fat have difficulties calving, too thin and they will struggle to get back in calf and be at risk of lameness through having smaller fat pads in their feet.”

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SenseHub neck and eartags monitor the behavioural habits of dairy cows, heifers and calves to identify tell-tale signs of fertility, stress, health and dietary-related issues.

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The SenseHub® Ecosystem also includes milk flow sensors and somatic cell count sensors which analyse milk quality as each cow is being milked. The SenseHubTM Dairy In-Line MilkPlus Sensor measures yield, fat, protein, lactose, blood and conductivity, while the SenseHubTM Dairy In-Line Somatic Cell Count Sensor provides individual somatic cell count results within two minutes of the start of milking.

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Data from these sensors – which can be installed alongside any milking parlour type or brand – is then automatically displayed as easy to understand graphs and reports in the SenseHub® app, which makes it simple for herd managers to keep a close watch on milking trends and milk quality of individual cows. Animals can also be monitored on a group basis to guide longer term planning of the herd.

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For more information, visit www.msd-animalhealth-hub.co.uk/farmers/livestock-monitoring

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17 19/01/2024 09:40

YOUNGSTOCK Knowing what ingredients should be present in a milk powder is key to assessing its quality as the quantity and origin of ingredients can impact calf performance. Katie Fallon reports.

Milk powder: What should be in it and why?

U

nderstanding the ingredients on milk powder labels, and what they relate to in terms of quality can be a challenge.

However, knowing what ingredients should be present and in what quantities can be key to assessing the quality of a milk powder.

UK sales manager at Bonanza Calf Nutrition, Selina Field, who completed her masters degree on the quality of milk powders and the UK’s recommendations for calf milk powders, says it is useful for farmers to understand what the ingredients translate into in terms of quality.

She explains that due to rapid advances in nutrition over the past 50 years, milk powder labels are no longer an indication of quality, but more a recording of how it was made.

Therefore, a basic understanding of what ingredients should be

Farmers should be aware of which ingredients should be in milk powders for optimal calf growth.

present, in what quantity and, in some cases, the ingredient source and manufacturing process, could help farmers to assess the quality of their milk replacers.

Ms Field explains crude protein, crude fats and oils, crude fibre and crude ash are the key ingredients for farmers to be aware of.

Milk proteins J Ms Field explains it is the type of protein rather than the quantity or inclusion of protein which indicates quality, as manufacturing processes can affect protein digestibility.

She says: “The four best milk proteins are skim milk protein, buttermilk milk protein, whey milk protein and whey protein concentrate.

“There are others available, but they tend to have gone through extra manufacturing processes and cannot always be utilised by the calf.”

Ms Field says a calf will digest skim milk most efficiently due to it being the closest composition to cow’s milk.

The next best milk protein to digest would be buttermilk protein due to the milk fat globule membrane clotting easily in the calf’s abomasum.

After buttermilk, whey milk protein would be the next best in terms of digestibility says Ms Field. This is due to whey milk protein being a by-product of the cheese making industry and manufacturing processes potentially impacting its nutritional properties.

She says: “With skim milk powder you get more bang for your buck, whereas whey has had all of its caseins and curds taken away for cheese making.

“Whey milk protein is a good source of protein and sugar, but it can also contain derivatives of other milk proteins which have been heavily manufactured, such as whey permeate.”

She explains that while whey permeate is cheap, it is poorly digested by calves due to manufacturing processes.

The type of protein and fat in the milk can affect calf digestion.

18 DF Feb p18 21 MB KJ KF.indd 2

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 10:47

YOUNGSTOCK Temperature JThe temperature at which proteins are heated during processing will also affect their quality, says Ms Field.

Milk proteins originally destined for the food industry will have been heated in high temperatures to remove bacteria. As a result, the proteins are denatured which means they cannot clot in the calf’s stomach as required.

“When rennin in the abomasum mixes with low heattreated milk protein or cow’s milk, it creates a curd which slowly breaks down casein proteins which are fed into the small intestine.”

If proteins have been subject to a medium or high heat, the curd will not form and the caseins will flow into the small intestine at a rapid rate, predisposing the calf to

nutritional and infectious scour.

“A farmer could be thinking that they are feeding good skim milk powder and cannot understand why they are having scour or looseness in calves.”

Ms Field explains the temperature in which milk proteins have been heated to is not displayed on the label and can only be found by contacting the manufacturers directly.

“High heat is good for food production because it is heats all of the nasties out, but it means the whey fraction of the skim is damaged which effects the curd as it does not coagulate, resulting in less natural microflora, and a harder protein for the calf to digest.”

So, the temperature will dictate both price and quality, with low heated milk proteins more expensive.

Crude protein, fats and oils, fibre and ash are key ingredients in milk powders.

Crude protein JCrude (an ingredient in its raw or unrefined state) protein within a milk powder can include both milk and vegetable proteins, says Ms Field.

However, milk proteins,

particularly in the first four weeks of life, are considered the optimal source of protein, due to a calf only being able to utilise milk protein efficiently in the first 28 days of life.

Continues over the page...

FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p18 21 MB KJ KF.indd 3

19 19/01/2024 10:47

YOUNGSTOCK Vegetable protein JCrude protein in milk powders can also come from vegetable proteins including hydrolysed wheat protein, pea and soya flour.

Hydrolysed wheat protein is often considered as one of the better vegetable proteins to include, says Ms Field, as while others will contribute to the overall protein content, they can cause antinutritional effects.

Four weeks When looking at the best proteins to use, she advises farmers to use a milk powder with the highest milk protein they can afford, especially in the first four weeks of life.

“Post 28 days, when the calf is physiologically starting to produce starch-digesting enzymes in abundance and is changing from a monogastric to a ruminant, is when vegetable proteins can be utilised.”

In terms of the optimal levels of crude protein which should be present in a milk powder, Ms Field says out of the 39 milk replacers analysed during her masters degree, there was a variation in protein levels from 19-28%.

“In terms of what a calf can utilise, I would say something in the middle of that figure would be the most seen and the most optimal, as long as there are good quantities of milk proteins in there.”

Crude fat and oils JFats and oils are referred to as one ingredient in milk powders and can come from a range of sources — palm oil, coconut oil, linseed oil, rapeseed oil and sunflower oil.

The most common sources are palm and coconut, says Ms Field, who advises using a milk powder with a range of fats from multiple sources, as it creates a blend for the calf to digest. She says palm oil used in isolation is undigestable

for calves, therefore palm and coconut oil should be included together as a blend.

“One fat type is not better than the other as long as it is quality, and it has been emulsified with the protein properly.”

She explains fat is carried into milk powder either on the skim or on the whey and poorly emulsified fat-filled whey can create fatty lumps during mixing which leaves a greasy residue on buckets.

Temperature is also an

Crude fibre and ash JThe fibre levels displayed on a milk powder label are an indication of vegetable protein content, therefore a level of zero or as close to zero as possible is considered optimal, particularly within the first four weeks of life.

Content Ash levels are reflective of the mineral content within the milk powder, including calcium, phosphorus and sodium.

It is not necessarily a dictator of quality and an ash content of between 6-9% is common says Ms Field.

“Calcium, phosphorus and sodium are naturally occurring in milk powder with quality, low heat-treated ingredients, but if farmers do see that any of these have been added, that should ring alarm bells as it is no substitute for those that occur naturally.”

While understanding what the ingredients in milk powders

20 DF Feb p18 21 MB KJ KF.indd 4

relate to in terms of quality and calf development is important, Ms Field says farmers should not forget the value of calf performance in determining whether a product is working well or not.

“Calf performance is far more proof in the pudding than what is on the label.”

And while good quality milk powders are important for calf development, the importance of quality colostrum, transition milk and dry feed should not be discounted.

Optimum “It is about starting on a good foundation of a healthy calf, with optimum amounts of good quality nutrition, as much milk protein as you can afford and transitioning that calf on to quality dry feed, water and straw or hay which will push any calf on, if they have had good colostrum and transition milk.”

As well as a good quality milk replacer, calves also need to have access to dry feed and fresh water to promote rumen development.

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 10:48

More information on calf nutrition is available from calfchat.com

indicator of fat quality, but in terms of water temperatures when mixing rather than heat treatment during processing.

Higher mixing temperatures highlights poor quality fat content, which will likely be made of reject raw materials says Ms Field.

While a milk powder with a higher fat content may be considered better, Ms Field says research shows that for every percentage increase in fat content in milk replacer, there

is around a 11 grams per day decrease in dry feed intake (Hill et al. 2009). She explains calves which are satisfied on fat from milk powder are less encouraged to eat concentrate feed.

“A good milking animal is one that has a diverse rumen population and the only way to do that is by getting them to consume dry feed and fresh water which ferments, so the earlier you can get a calf to do that the better.”

While a high fat content might mean calves have shinier coats and are fleshier animals, it does not reflect what is going on in the rumen and can prolong the weaning process.

The recommended fat content is from 17-25% and caution should be given to how many grams of milk powder are being fed to the calf per day. An optimal amount per head, per day would be between 750g to 900g.

UK sales manager at Bonanza Calf Nutrition Selina Field.

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FEBRUARY 2024

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15/01/2024 16:37

21 19/01/2024 10:48

WORLD DAIRYING UKRAINE One of Ukraine’s biggest dairy farms, situated just 60km from the war’s front line is battling a number of daily challenges to survive. Chris McCullough reports.

Large Ukrainian dairy farm battles to survive

U

nder constant shelling, the staff at Promin Agricultural’s dairy farm fight power shortages, lack of labour and logistical challenges to keep the farm operating.

The farm, located in the Mykolaiv region in south Ukraine, runs 8,600 Holstein dairy cattle in total, of which 3,360 are milking cows.

On top of the dairy enterprise, the farm has a large pig herd and operates its own feed mill.

Serhiy Yasevin, director of Promin dairy farm, says: “We have been developing the farm for almost 30 years.

“Promin Agricultural is a family farm, the history of which began in the 1990s with the unification of four farms of 50 hectares each, which later joined neighbouring farms.”

The dairy side of the farm started off with 50 cows in 2004 and has steadily expanded since then.

Currently, the daily milk production is 125 tonnes at 3.15% protein and 3.5% butterfat.

Mr Yasevin says: “We milk three times per day using two rotary milking parlours; one parlour has 80 stalls and the other 60 stalls.

Promin dairy farm is located near Mykolaiv only 60km from the Russian front line.

“The 80-stall rotary was built in 2016 and that was the first rotary installed in Ukraine. Due to current issues with the war affecting the processor collecting the milk, we deliver it with six milk trucks of our own.”

Cows are housed in three sheds, with two of the sheds holding 1,000 cows each and a third, built in 2022, holding 2,300 cows, usually the high producing group, freshly calved and dry cows.

Mr Yasevin says: “The new barn measures 97m wide and 356m long

DF Feb p22 23 MB KJ.indd 2

“That is why we built our own feed mill. Every day, 150 tonnes of feed are prepared for dairy cows and we have four feed-mixers working simultaneously, making up to 30 mixes per day.”

Around 1,000 calves are kept in igloo housing and are fed 12 litres of pasteurised milk per day for up to 80 days with 1.5kg of grain each.

This produces a liveweight gain of around 900g/day and a weaning weight of 105-120kg.

KERSIA’S MASTITIS CONTR B

The farm breeds Holstein heifers for sale throughout Europe and Asia.

22

and is equipped with 114 fans. In that shed we use freshly separated solid manure at around 60% moisture as bedding, produced by six automated screw separators next to the cowshed.”

The farm works with Semex and Alta Genetics to achieve its breeding strategy, selecting bulls for 60% productivity, 20% fertility and 20% health.

Mr Yasevin says: “Around 75% of cows and heifers are inseminated with sexed semen. Over the past 12 months, we have added 1,610 heifers into our herd.

“After defeating the Russian occupiers, we plan to breed and sell embryos.”

Mr Yasevin says that before the war, the farm was well-known in Ukraine, and in Asian countries due to its strong reputation for breeding quality heifers.

He says: “We use enough sexed semen to produce replacement heifers for our farm and meet the demand for heifer sales.

BIOLAC• FOAMING

Generators During the war, the farm has continued to milk the cows and deliver it to the processor, thanks to the farm being equipped with generators, fuel reserves and its own trucks. Several batches of raw milk • were delivered to the Pervomaisky milk canning plant that supplies • the Armed Forces.

The war has affected the supply • chain of agricultural goods and services in Ukraine, particularly • veterinary medicine.

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AVAILABLE AS: 25L, 200L & 1000L (IBC)

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UKRAINE WORLD DAIRYING Farm facts rPromin Agricultural is a member of the Association of Milk Producers of Ukraine and is owned by Oleksandr Mykolayovych Ostapenko rThe farm extends to 7,000 hectares (17,297 acres) rThe business employs more than 350 workers The farm has two rotary milking parlours for its 3,360 milking cows.

Mr Yasevin says: “When medicines ran low, we sent one of our staff on a bus tour to Kyiv and Dnipro to pick up more supplies.

“We also gave up sexed semen for five months, because we could not sell the heifers or increase the herd in war time. At least the bulls were less costly to rear and were easier to sell.

“Our main problem at the moment is trying to find a market for our grain. We have a lot of last year’s harvest left over, and are always on

the phone trying to sell. There is also a problem with finding staff. Out of our 350 people employed we lost 40 mobilised to the Armed Forces.

“Now we have to recruit people from neighbouring villages, organise mini-buses to bring them to the farm and take them back home, and repair roads. Finding a replacement for a qualified milker or tractor driver is not an easy task.”

He adds that the farm’s electricity bill for the last two months is around

Serhiy Yasevin

six million hryvnias (£130,000).

He says: “This is not the end, tariffs will increase. And our needs are growing, because the production capacity is increasing.

“For example, when we put another cow shed into operation, it will need an extra 400 kWh.” In the future, the farm is considering building its own biogas plant to create its own energy from the abundance of manure it produces.

Mr Yasevin says: “Pre-project

calculations have been made, which show that it is possible to obtain up to 800cu.m of biogas per hour from the available raw materials and generate up to 2mWh of electricity.

“This is quite enough to meet our own needs. The biggest challenge now is the war and the intensifying terrorist attacks of Russians on energy infrastructure and also drones and rocket attacks on objects such as grain storage facilities and infrastructure of river ports.”

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DF Feb p22 23 MB KJ.indd 3

18/01/2024 11:32

• • •

P C A V C

GO

D

NEW ZEALAND VET’S VIEW In his latest article, vet Rory Dean, talks about how his farmers in New Zealand are starting out on their cow technology journey, and the impact this has on his job.

‘This can be rather embarrassing for the vet’

I

t seems that, suddenly, as if overnight, Northland farmers have accepted cow wearable technology. After spending time on my client’s farm where 950 cows are milked, I was shocked to see cows not wearing the latest hi-tec wearable – the cows looked so naked.

Exaggeration aside, it never fails to amaze me how quickly change can happen in our industry. If you would have informed me that more than 10% of the cows under my care would be adorned with collars that monitored reproductive behaviour patterns, rumination time, provided virtual fencing and sent alerts for health issues when I graduated (not that long ago) I would have laughed the comment off.

Dairy farms are now, increasingly, huge pools of data. As I’m sure many readers are aware, these collars work by monitoring movement and rumination principally; the fencing function comes from GPS. A mild drop in rumination and increase in movement are typically picked up as heat activity, and the

animal is presented for insemination. Initially, this can seem bizarre for dairy farmers used to skillfully picking up heats by spotting subtle rub marks, scrutinising tail paint and investigating sexually active groups in the paddock.

My client phoned me up in a triumphant mood after, with much hesitation, putting faith in the collar and presenting a cow for insemination that had no obvious signs of heat.

The heat alert had been triggered by a change in activity and the experienced AI technician told my client that it was indeed on heat.

I love sharing these little wins with my farming clients; most collars pay back their initial investment between one and two years down the track due to improved reproductive efficiency and reduced labour cost.

There has been teething issues, obviously. Typically, these collars are able to pick up a sick cow before it appears ill, even to the most experienced of stockpersons and

About the vet JRory Dean is a selfemployed large animal veterinarian who practices in the Kaipara region of Northland, New Zealand.

After graduating from Edinburgh in 2015, he has spent most of his practicing career in rural NZ, and holds a postgraduate diploma in agricultural science, as well as membership with the Australia and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists.

24 DF Feb p24 25 Vet's View MB KJ.indd 2

with the most rigorous checks.

This can be rather embarrassing for the vet, I have learned.

In the beginning, I would attend a health alert and find very little wrong with the cows I was examining. I ruminated over cases that had spiked alerts and wondered if I was losing any notion of clinical skill that I had, and worried I was becoming inept.

Now, I just encourage these proactive farmers to follow a basic protocol for each of these cows, and the reduction in antibiotic treatments has been pleasant to see.

I spoke to a group of farmers recently about looking beyond the chemical and considering the wider picture of parasite management

Heavy rains The heavy rains of winter have eased, with the potential for drought now looming in the North. With the low payout, this may make for some difficult decisions over summer.

Many of my clients saw a poor response from urea fertiliser this season due to very wet conditions, and a reduction in usage means less grass available.

Worryingly, one of the larger operations I look after (1,550 cows) has decided to graze paddocks locked up for grass silage.

Supplemented feed is essential during summer up here; not only does it provide nutrition during a drought, but it reduces risk from facial eczema, a horrible disease derived from the omnipresent pithomyces fungus.

With the absence of in-shed feeding on a number of local farms, there is a reliance on strong pasture growth.

We are well in to mating for the dairy herds now, and this has been going predictably poorly on farms

with little supplement. I worry that we are going to see some low sixweek in-calf rates coupled with a lot of empty cows.

On a more positive note, the ‘red’ mobs of cows receiving antibiotics have dwindled to a few cows as the rain abates.

I’ve found time to sit down with some of the local dairy farmers to discuss health planning for next season, especially those clients who have struggled with animal health through spring. This work is stimulating and I enjoy seeing a good plan come together.

While I spend some time contemplating the huge benefits of modern tech, a local beef farmer and I found ourselves battling an age-old problem recently.

After buying four-day-old calves from a local farm and rearing them through a particularly nasty rotavirus outbreak, the calves began coughing. With the lack of housing over here, we don’t see much bacterial bronchopneumonia at all.

James Herriot wrote of battles with lungworm, and that is what

RORY DEAN

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 13:19

In New Zealand the heavy rains of winter have eased, with the potential for drought now looming in the North.

NEW ZEALAND VET’S VIEW we have been trying to manage over the last few weeks.

Regrettably, a perfect storm emerged with a high pasture burden, a missed worm drench and susceptible, weak calves. Typically, we saw a few deaths in the mob of 80 after the drenching as the calves tried to cough up the dead worms killed by the effective drench.

Pleasantly surprised However, I was pleasantly surprised when the farmer showed me the calves after examining a finishing bull with skin disease. We are blessed with modern therapeutics and I often think we should be more grateful than we are. The calves had glossy coats, they skipped happily in the paddock, there was no residual cough, ready for sale.

Globally, we live with the constant, very real threat of resistance to the modern chemicals we use, and we need to be increasingly aware of this going forward.

I spoke to a group of farmers

recently about looking beyond the chemical and considering the wider picture of parasite management.

Like any other health issue, we do better when we adopt a holistic view of the disease process. What is the calf’s immunity like? What is the parasite burden of the pasture? What is the drench resistance pattern on that farm? Are we drenching cattle, sheep and deer effectively?

Away from the technical stuff,

it’s that time of year when we start planning staff Christmas events and leave. The recent sunshine and warmth have seen a few smiles crease the worn faces of the local cockies (farmers) after a long, wet winter of frowns. These smiles have grown with the increasing confidence coming from the recent global dairy auctions.

Fortunately, I managed to get a day off and visit Sydney on a long

weekend with my father and family.

This was a great trip; the Australian weather really turned it on for us.

While we aren’t fortunate enough to have the variety of cultures on our doorstep that might be present in the UK and surrounding Europe, the metropolitan life of Sydney seems a long way from the rugged lifestyles of those on the other side of the Tasman, in West Coast Northland.

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FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p24 25 Vet's View MB KJ.indd 3

25 18/01/2024 13:20

CONFERENCE The outlook for 2024 and the need to unite to educate the public were just some of the topics discussed at this year’s Semex International Dairy Conference held in Glasgow. Katie Jones reports.

Are milk price prospects looking up?

A

t last year’s Semex International Dairy conference, market analyst Chris Walkland had little trouble predicting the demise of the high milk price, which subsequently played out in 2023.

Speaking once again at this year’s conference, Mr Walkland said this year’s milk price prospects were ‘harder to call’.

However, gone was the undertaker’s black coat and top hat he donned when taking to the stage at last year’s conference when he mourned the downfall of Mr ‘High Milk Price’ and instead Mr Walkland said his 2024 outfit of a white tailed coat signalled slightly better news and ‘reawakening’ rather than a funeral.

He said: “Last year there were

some real low-lights; milk prices dropped by 30 per cent, the gap between aligned and non-aligned widened again, cheese had a brutal year, costs stayed stubbornly high and cash evaporated.”

He said he believed that overall 2024 would be better than 2023.

He said: “Milk prices are closing in on breakeven. But is Mr ‘High Milk Price’ back? Maybe, but probably not back as his full self. Instead, we might have to put up with Mr ‘Higher Milk Price’ this year.”

He explained this was due to some positive news in terms of market demand and some negative news on milk volumes.

Top of the table He said: “Dairy products were at the top of the table for food inflation in January 2023, but they are now

Chris Walkland at the recent Semex International Dairy Conference.

at the bottom. And according to Arla, retail sales are continuing to pick up after the turnaround in quarter three. So it is good news on consumption and demand.”

However, he added it was not good news for demand recovery across the board, with mozzarella in particular still down.

Mr Walkland said: “Milk volumes in Europe were down, but now according to some reports they are climbing quite alarmingly, particularly in the big producing

nations of France and Germany, and that is a worry.

“In the UK, we have gone from being considerably lower in daily production, compared to last year, to positive.

Concern “This is a concern; the UK volume situation is putting a dampener on new year expectations. So we have got a bit of positivity on demand, but a bit of negativity on volumes at the moment.”

Getting farming into the classroom JCambridgeshire farmer Tom Martin spoke about the importance of connecting with the consumer and highlighted the ‘Farmer Time’ initiative as being a positive way of getting farming into the classroom.

Mr Martin, a mixed farmer, who returned to the family farm having spent 10 years working in the film industry, said it was more important than ever that farmers were able to remind the public that they should be proud to buy British.

He said: “We, as farmers, are the

26 DF Feb p26 Semex MB KJ.indd 2

answer to so many questions that society is asking. And while the public have never been more divorced from where their food comes from, they have also never been more interested in farming. People are fascinated by what we are doing.”

He said that farming provided a huge number of ‘learning opportunities’ for the public, but farmers needed to ‘get out of their caves’ in order to deliver this.

He suggested that farmers could talk to local groups or schools about

their farms, or if they did not like to public speak, he suggested involvement in Open Farm Sunday.

He said: “If you are not really a people person, how about writing in your local parish magazine?

“Or perhaps you could put up signs around your fields telling people what you are doing.”

He also highlighted the Farmer Time initiative, which he launched in 2017, and now links 1,000 farmers to 1,000 school teachers.

He said: “The farmers involved

video call the teacher and their class every two or three weeks using their smart phone and can explain what is happening on-farm.

Involvement “This means that 2.5% of the school population will have some involvement with farmers during their school education.”

He said this gave children the opportunity to discuss ideas, ask questions and gain an understanding of the issues farmers face every day.

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 09:35

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p27_DF_February_2024.indd 1

17/01/2024 10:57

GLOBAL

Katie Jones’ attendance at the World Dairy Summit in Chicago was sponsored by the International Dairy Federation and was facilitated by the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists.

Despite the challenges being faced by the dairy industry, speakers at the International Dairy Federation’s World Dairy Summit in Chicago said the future for dairy was bright. Katie Jones reports.

Positive global outlook for dairy consumption

C

hanges to populations and economic growth will mean that over the next decade dairy products will have the largest rate of consumption growth among all food categories, said Dr Lee Ann Jackson of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development in France.

Speaking during a session addressing the economic outlook for dairy, Dr Jackson said these consumption increases would inevitably be seen to varying degrees around the world.

“India and Pakistan in particular are expected to see a huge increase in consumption over the next decade in comparison to the rest of the world,” she told delegates.

“The latest consumption data for 2022 suggests that, globally, dairy has a consumption of about 14kg per capita. This is expected to rise to 15.7kg by 2032.”

In contrast, consumption of fresh dairy products was expected to decline in the EU and North

America, while cheese consumption in North America was expected to jump to about 20kg per capita in North America by 2032, from its current level of 17kg.

Dr Jackson said: “EU projections for cheese consumption suggest a moderate rise from just over 13.5kg to just below 14kg per capita, while increases in cheese consumption elsewhere in the world is much smaller.”

Mary Ledman, global sector strategist at Rabo AgriFinance, said

this change in dairy demand over the next 10 years would be driven by a change in population demographic.

Population growth “The most significant driver of greater dairy consumption is population and income growth in developing countries, especially those with a dairyconsumption culture and regions with government-supported dairy

consumption programmes,” she said.

In particular, she highlighted India, Pakistan, China, Brazil and Mexico as countries where demand would increase due to changes to population and incomes.

However, she added that countries such as India and Pakistan were largely self-sufficient, and therefore the impact on global trade would be limited.

She said China was set to become a ‘big player’ within the dairy industry.

“Here, we are seeing consumption per capita increasing, but this is not because of population growth like has been seen in China in the past, but instead will be down to per capita consumption growth.”

She said it was noteworthy that China’s population was actually forecast to decline by 9.3 million during the next decade, but despite this, dairy consumption still had significant potential there.

In particular, she said China’s ageing population would change the type of dairy product that would be consumed.

is growing because of product innovation, and the need for people to buy not just for nutritional benefits but also for the social attributes of particular products,” he said.

As an example, he said a recently launched alcoholinfused latte sold over 5.43 million cups on its first day of sales, generating a first day revenue of USD$13.72m (£10.81m). This, he said, was

due to the product’s social media campaign.

However, he also said that China was not a major player in terms of dairy imports due to its increasing domestic production. In 2017, China produced 30 million tonnes of milk, and this figure rose to almost 40mt in 2023.

Cost of production is high, but the industry is highly subsidised and herd size in

China is fairly large, with herds over the 1,000-head mark not uncommon.

By 2025, the aim is that 75% of all farms in China will have more than 100 cows and efficiency will be increased due to improved breeding and cow nutrition.

He said: “Self-sufficiency will increase, but that does not mean China will stop buying from the rest of the world.”

Over the next decade, dairy consumption is expected to increase in India and Pakistan.

Dairy in Asia JDespite starting from a low consumption base – less than 5kg per capita – there is huge potential to grow dairy consumption in Asia said YiFan Li, head of dairy for the StoneX Group in Singapore.

He said liquid milk consumption was already increasing ‘significantly’, and China was seeing good demand for cheese.

“Liquid milk consumption

28 DF Feb p28 Global KJ MB.indd 2

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 10:49

®

Look after your mental health

Farming is not just a job – it’s a way of life and is often an incredibly rewarding profession, but it can also prove incredibly challenging at times.

92%

of farmers aged 40 and under believe that poor mental health is the biggest hidden problem faced by farmers today

1 in 4

people in the UK experience poor mental health at some stage in their lives

98 %

of farmers believe that promoting good mental health is crucial in the battle to keep farmers safe and save lives

Remember, you’re not alone – find help here If you, or someone you care about, needs help, then don’t hesitate to contact the organisations below for practical advice, guidance and support:

The Farming Community Network A network of volunteers from the farming community and rural churches providing pastoral and practical support to help people find a positive way through their problems. fcn.org.uk / 03000 111 999

Mind Provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393

RABI: The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution Provides financial support for farmers in times of crisis such as illness, bereavement or events beyond their control. rabi.org.uk / 0808 281 9490

The DPJ Foundation Spreading awareness in the agricultural sector by offering training on poor mental health and its impact. thedpjfoundation.co.uk / 0800 587 4262

Yellow Wellies Helps to raise awareness of farm safety among young farmers with their Mind Your Head campaign and provides links to helpful resources. yellowwellies.org / Farm_Safety_Foundation@nfumutual.co.uk

YANA: You Are Not Alone Provides unique support and advice for the wide farming community from sympathetic GPs and counsellors. yanahelp.org / 0300 323 0400

Supporting the UK farming community kwfeeds.co.uk p29_DF_February_2024.indd 1

17/01/2024 10:59

BREEDING & FERTILITY A look at the traits to select if you want to achieve the highest lifetime daily yield, more detail on blood testing for pregnancy diagnosis and how one farm is using cross-breeding to its advantage.

Smart software cuts ketosis

D

uring an ambitious push to grow his enterprise, herd manager Chris Gowen has been trialling new ketosis risk alert software to reduce disease instances and maintain productivity.

In the heart of the Pewsey Downs, Wiltshire, Mr Gowen oversees a herd of pedigree Holsteins alongside farm manager Neil Ridgway and seven other members of staff.

Part of the Rothschild family estate, the 1,142-hectare (2,822-acre) mixed farm is currently home to 750 milking cows, with 550 followers, alongside 2,000 breeding ewes.

A shift in cow management in 2022 saw an increased focus on

overall cow health and welfare, with the idea that this attention to detail would lead to increased productivity as the herd grew.

After significant investment, the farm’s rotary parlour was replaced by 12 Lely A5 Astronaut milking robots, while stocking rates were reduced with new cubicles.

Focus And one of the farm’s key areas of focus is correct management during the transition period.

Mr Gowen says: “A smooth transition period is a key target area for us, as it underpins the rest of the cow’s lactation for both health and productivity.

“Keeping the cows at the correct body condition score

[BCS] is a crucial part of the transition ‘jigsaw’ and the robots have played a key role in that.

“As cows are weighed every time they are milked, we are able to monitor the change in their condition and feed accordingly, so they maintain a consistent BCS. Robots analyse the ratio of milk fat to protein, as anything over 1.5 is a key indicator for an increased risk of ketosis.”

In addition to careful monitoring of BCS, the team also administers monensin boluses to any cows identified as at risk of developing ketosis.

The boluses are given and remain in the rumen to alter the cow’s microbial gut populations to favour the production of propionic acid, which increases the amount of glucose available.

32 LIFETIME DAILY YIELD Which traits are important?

36 CROSSBREEDING Cows to suit the farm

38 PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS Blood testing as a viable option

To further help the team identify individuals at risk of developing the condition, Mr Gowen has been trialling the new Ketosis Risk Alert software from UNIFORM-Agri, which has been developed in conjunction with Elanco.

He says: “Once we have a confirmed pregnancy, the software will look at historic data, such as previous milk fat to protein ratio and the animal’s history, as well as current risk factors, to analyse the likelihood of ketosis and will create an action list.”

Risk factors flagged by the

Chris Gowen oversees a herd of pedigree Holsteins alongside farm manager Neil Ridgway and seven other members of staff.

30 DF Feb p30 31 Software MB KJ.indd 2

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:35

0,2%

BREEDING & FERTILITY

8% 65%

..................A potential threat to your farms

79%

Have you heard 1 of/2Q Fever?

With more than one out of two herds testing positive for Q Fever (in some areas of the UK), farmers can no longer afford to ignore this disease1,2

38%

70%

79%

71%

73%

73%

67%

59%

61%

67%

The values per country indicate the percentage of herds that tested positive to Q fever. Herd prevalence was determined by ELISA or PCR on bulk tank milk3.

............................................................... Coxiella burnetii: Born to create trouble

Cattle are mainly infected by breathing in air particles contaminated with the bacteria.

Via inhalation

Infected cows, even if asymptomatic, shed C. burnetii mainly through birth or abortion products, but also in vaginal mucus, faeces and milk4.

Faeces Birth and abortion products

A disease that has the potential to have significant impact on livestock health and production.

Via ingestion

Milk

Via blood (ticks)

C. burnetii is highly resistant in the environment6

Do you recognise these signs?

Abortion

Weak newborn

Infertility

Tick faeces 586 days

Chris Gowen has been trialling new ketosis risk alert software.

software include the cow having three or more calvings, a dry period of more than 70 days, a calving interval of more than 480 days and an age of first calving of over 27 months.

Benefits Mr Gowen says he has already seen the benefits of using the new tool.

“We have been able to take a more targeted approach to ketosis prevention and therefore have seen the number of clinical cases of ketosis fall into the single digits.

“We have also seen the number of retained foetal membranes fall from 6% to 4.6%, while milk yield has risen from 9,000 to 11,000 litres.

“We are now giving monensin

DID YOU KNOW ?

A smooth transition period is a key target area for us, as it underpins the rest of the cow’s lactation

Stillbirth

Soil

5 months Retained placenta

Meat at 4°C > 1 month

Milk ambient T° 6 months

Premature calving

If you are seeing these signs in your herd without an obvious cause ask your vet about Q fever and diagnostics DID YOU KNOW?

CHRIS GOWEN

• Q Fever is endemic in GB dairy herds1

boluses to the identified at risk cows, which ultimately saves us time and money thanks to a smooth transition with no dip in milk yield.”

• It is also a zoonosis, risking the health of those working with livestock

rA calving interval longer than 480 days (adjustable) rA production of more than 14,000kg in the last lactation (adjustable) rTransitional diseases in previous lactations The tool will then produce a list of ‘at risk’ cows, with an explanation of why each animal has been chosen.

• Coxiella b. can be carried on the wind3,4,5

• It causes reproduction and fertility issues to cattle, sheep and goats2

• It is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetti • Infection is generally via inhalation but also via faeces, milk and vaginal mucous

Ketosis Risk Alert JThe tool analyses farm data to identify cows with risk factors associated with ketosis, although the parameters can be adjusted depending on management choices on-farm.

Risk factors include: rThree or more calvings rA dry period longer than 70 days

Dust 4 months

C. burnetii is able to travel up to 11 m carried by the wind and infect other herds in the process5

Faeces 11 to 18 days

Metritis

FEBRUARY 2024

31

• Coxiella b. is persistent, surviving up to 5 months in soil6

Speak to your vet about diagnosis and vaccination if you are concerned about Q fever.

This information was provided by Ceva Animal Health Ltd, makers of Coxevac®

www.qfever.co.uk

References 1. Velasova M. et al. 2017. Herd-level prevalence of selected endemic infectious diseases of dairy cows in Great Britain. J. Dairy Sci. 100:9215–9233 2. López-Gatius F., Almeria S., Garcia-Ispierto I. (2012) Serological screening for Coxiella burnetii infection and related reproductive performance in high producing dairy cows. Research in Veterinary Science Aug. 93 (1) 67-73. 3. Hawker JI. et al. 1998. A large outbreak of Q fever in the West Midlands: windborne spread into a metropolitan area? Commun Dis Public Health. 1998; 1:180–7. 2. Tissot-Dupont H, Amadei MA, Nezri M, Raoult D. Wind in November, Q fever in December. Emerg Infect Dis. 2004 Jul;10(7):1264-9. doi: 10.3201/eid1007.030724. PMID: 15324547; PMCID: PMC3323349. 4. Nusinovici. 5. Clark et al, 2018. Airborne geographical dispersal of Q fever from livestock holdings to human communities: a systematic review and critical appraisal of evidence. 6. Welsh et al., 1959. Q fever studies. XXI. The recovery of Coxiella burnetii from the soil and surface water of premises harboring infected sheep. Am. J. Hyg. 70 : 14–20.

Ceva Animal Health Ltd, Explorer House, Mercury Park, Wooburn Green, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0HH Tel 01628 334056 COX07AD

DF Feb p30 31 Software MB KJ.indd 3

18/01/2024 11:36

BREEDING & FERTILITY

L

ifetime daily yield (LDY) is a key performance indicator (KPI) for many producers, providing a measure, not just of milk production but of health, lifespan and fertility too.

Striving to be among the top herds for this KPI demands close attention to management, but just like other traits, LDY can also be improved through breeding.

But with no actual genetic index for this parameter, which traits should be prioritised in genetic selection when aiming to breed replacements with the highest LDYs? A new study by AHDB has answered this question, by looking into the genetics of the sires of close to 575,000 of the UK’s Holstein cows.

By analysing the genetic makeup of these sires and their daughters’ actual performance, it is possible to identify the top 10 components of sires’ Predicted Transmitting Abilities (PTAs) most strongly linked to LDY. In this study, LDY was calculated as the total lifetime kg fat plus protein produced for every day a cow was alive, including her rearing period.

Marco Winters, head of animal genetics for AHDB, which has undertaken the study, says strong links have been demonstrated between LDY and many genetic traits.

He says: “It comes as no surprise that the number one link with actual LDY is the UK’s

A new study by AHDB has looked into the genetics of the sires of close to 575,000 of the UK’s Holstein cows.

Recent research from AHDB has revealed the top 10 traits to prioritise in genetic selection if lifetime daily yield is one of your key performance indicators. Ann Hardy reports.

Maximising lifetime daily yield national breeding index, Profitable Lifetime Index [£PLI]. “£PLI is formulated to breed cows which are productive, healthy, fertile and long-living,

Lifetime daily yield (kg fat plus protein per day of life) Protein (kg) Fat (kg) Lifespan Milk (kg) Mastitis Somatic cell count Lameness Advantage Fertility Index

0.7

0.6

0.5

0.4

0.3

0.2

TB Advantage 0.1

those which are older at first calving, do not get back in-calf very quickly and have poor longevity.

A high yielding cow which does not make it to her third lactation because of poor health or fertility will have a lower LDY than a cow which reaches her fifth lactation but with a lower average yield per day.

0

JLifetime daily yield (LDY) is the average kg milk or kg fat plus protein production over every day a cow has been alive, including her unproductive periods.

Cows that start milking at a young age have a short calving interval and are healthy enough to last several lactations, will have a much higher LDY than

DF Feb p32 34 Lifetime yield MB KJ.indd 2

and these are exactly the traits we also need in high LDY cows.”

In fact, the correlation between

£PLI

Lifetime daily yield

32

£PLI and LDY is 0.6 (see graph, below), on a scale on which 1 represents a perfect relationship and 0 represents no link at all.

He says: “This demonstrates a pretty strong relationship between LDY and £PLI and gives an indication that £PLI should be the primary selection trait for anyone with an eye on increasing LDYs. “A much higher correlation certainly would not be expected, as £PLI is designed to maximise profit and also includes other aspects of profitability, such as feed efficiency, which are not captured by LDYs.”

Continues over the page...

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BREEDING & FERTILITY UK average and best lifetime daily yields JThe UK’s progress in key performance indicators is monitored through a periodic study, undertaken at Reading University on behalf of NMR. This showed the average (median) lifetime daily yields in the 500 herds participating was 13kg milk/day in 2019.

The top 25% of herds produced 14.9kg/day and the best individual herds exceeded 20kg/day. The average has increased by 2.5kg since 2010, with annual increases every year since 2013.

A different dataset, used

by AHDB, shows a similar average figure for 2019,

but the average (mean) had risen to 14kg milk/day by 2022.

However, the genetic analysis undertaken in the study cited in this article used kg fat plus protein per day of life rather than kg milk,

for mastitis and cell counts to improve these traits.”

Fertility also plays a vital role in the ability to stay in the herd for longer and maximise production, both in achieving a 24-month or earlier age at first calving and maintaining a tight calving interval, so minimising time spent in late lactation or dry.

The number 10 index of about 50 traits assessed is TB Advantage.

Mr Winters says: “Sadly, we know TB affects survival of our cows and it is both troubling and gratifying to see it so high on this list.

“But it is reassuring to see the index can play its part and make

an impact across the national dairy herd and this analysis shows that it also specifically helps improve LDY, which undoubtedly results from its relationship with lifespan.

“This serves as a useful reminder that it is possible to breed improved disease resistance into your cows, which – in the case of TB – is expected to result in fewer reactors and lower numbers lost through compulsory culling.”

He says the analysis as a whole emphasises the importance of farmers identifying their breeding priorities, choosing their breeding indexes accordingly and understanding the impact their choices will have.

In our study, we used fat and protein kg as we feel it is more appropriate in the present market MARCO WINTERS

34 DF Feb p32 34 Lifetime yield MB KJ.indd 3

since most contracts today are based on solids rather than volume.

In 2022, this kg fat plus protein average was about 1.14kg/day, up from about 0.7kg/day in the 1990s.

Lifetime daily yield (kg fat plus protein per day of life) 1.2 1 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

The study also reveals which other traits should be considered as priorities when striving to increase LDY, which are also shown on the graph.

This starts with PTAs for kg fat and kg protein, both of which are understandably important predictors of LDY, and slightly higher than volume of milk, which appears lower in the list.

Mr Winters says: “LDY has historically been expressed in litres of milk per day of life, but in our study, we used fat and protein kg as we feel it is more appropriate in the present market.

“So, it is hardly a surprise that milk solids are important influencers, with kg fat at 0.48 and kg protein at 0.5 indicating their moderately high correlation with LDY.” Lifespan Index is also moderately correlated with LDY and, unsurprisingly, it was also by far the best predictor of how long a cow will live.

Beneath the direct production and lifespan traits, those linked with health and fertility – the main reasons for culling – also play their part.

Mr Winters says: “Mastitis, cell counts and lameness have an obvious effect on survival and milk in the tank, through impairing its production.

“And it is worth a reminder at this stage that negative indexes should be selected

Priority He says: “LDY may not be a top priority for every producer as it overlooks some environmental and efficiency traits, such as Feed Advantage. But these traits are included in £PLI, which we would always recommend as the primary selection index for commercial, year-round calving herds.”

However, he warns commercial producers not to be sidetracked by minor traits, which have little impact on outcomes such as LDY or profitability.

He says: “Our study revealed much smaller relationships on average between LDY and some of the other indexes, with traits such as teat length, fore udder attachment, foot angle or even central ligament and chest width having little, if any – and sometimes even a negative – correlation with LDY. Proxies “In days gone by, we may have used some of these indexes as proxies in the hope of achieving better traits for longevity and production.

“But large datasets, such as the one we have used here, reveal exactly which PTAs will give what result. This should give producers more confidence in selecting precisely the traits they need, leaving no need to use proxy traits, with such an abundance of indexes available.

“For instance, if you are striving for a profitable herd then breed for £PLI. And if LDY is something you are keen to target, then you can still choose £PLI, but may increase the emphasis on Lifespan Index and kg fat and protein, while also considering the all important measures of health and fertility.”

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BREEDING & FERTILITY A three-way cross is proving the winning formula for one family dairy enterprise. Dairy Farmer reports.

D

riving high milk solids production from grazed grass and quality forage is the linchpin of the Warnock family’s autumn-calving dairy enterprise.

Last year their herd averaged 595kg of milk solids per cow from an average cow bodyweight of 580kg.

They believe sourcing VikingGoldenCross cows which thrive in their pasture-based system has been key to unlocking much of this potential.

The autumn block system is a departure from John Warnock’s previous all-year-round calving herd.

After dispersing his herd of Holsteins in 2015 due to rock-bottom milk prices, John spent a six-year stint contract farming pure Jerseys.

But when his son Jack decided to return home to Eastfield Farm, Coulter, Lanarkshire, they settled on a hybrid between the two systems in which Jack had cut his teeth.

Jack says: “I went to New Zealand in 2018 and saw a lot of simple, spring-calving systems. It was labour extensive during summer and I liked seeing cows at grass.

“Then I worked for two-anda-half years on an intensive farm

Small cows deliver punchy milk solids on grass-based dairy milking three times-a-day where you can control a lot more. Autumn calving was the best of both worlds.”

An autumn block also suited the farm’s grass-growing climate. The farm is situated 750ft above sea level, which can delay spring grass growth and result in bitterly cold winters.

It also knitted well with the farm’s existing sheep enterprise, spreading family workload between spring lambing and autumn calving.

Indispensable John’s wife Margaret and daughter Megan are both indispensable to the business – they rear calves and Megan relief milks on weekends around her job as a vet nurse.

VikingGoldenCross were sourced from Denmark by Chris Stone from Viking Genetics as in-calf maiden heifers.

The VikingGoldenCross is a

three-breed rotational cross-breeding programme combining the complementary breeds VikingHolstein, VikingRed and VikingJersey.

Heifers were bought in three groups and calved from August to December 2022.

John says: “We considered buying New Zealand cross cows, but they did not have the yield potential.

Also the solids production on the VikingGoldenCross cows are higher.”

Another appeal was Denmark’s high health status, with the animals certified free from TB, Johne’s disease, IBR and BVD. During mating last season, the best heifers were bred to sexed semen for six weeks, with the remaining animals artificially inseminated to British Blue before they ran with high-health Aberdeen-Angus sweeper bulls.

To make breeding decisions simpler, calves are identified by using tags at birth based on the breed of their dam. VikingHolsteins are put to VikingJerseys, VikingJerseys to VikingRed and VikingRed to VikingHolstein.

Following 16 weeks of mating

in 2022, only 6% of animals were not in-calf.

The Warnocks concede the calving period is longer than they would like, but explain this has been dictated by the fact that animals were sourced in three batches.

Freezing (-17degC) temperatures last winter also hindered conception rates, but the aim is to reduce the calving block.

John says the VikingGoldenCross stock have a docile nature and are easy calving.

Twins He says: “They are nice cows to work with. We have calved 230 heifers and we only had to assist six, and three of those were twins.”

Tom Benson, the farm’s consultant, says one of the biggest benefits the breeding system offers is the abundant production of high-quality milk at a low cost.

This is helping them maximise returns on their solid-based contract with Yew Tree Dairy.

Their rolling 12-month yield is 6,744 litres at 5.05% butterfat and 3.52% protein – the equivalent of

Farm facts r121 hectares (300 acres) owned at Eastfield Farm rAverages 1,200ml of rain annually rMilks 234 VikingGoldenCross cows rMilking through a Fullwood 16/32 swingover parlour rFeeds 2.2 tonnes of concentrate per cow per year, including parlour feed and blend

rSells milk to Yew Tree Dairy rYields 30 litres a day at 5% butterfat and 3.8% protein rSomatic cell count of 83,000 cells/ml and a bactoscan of 24 r600 Blackface and pedigree Bluefaced Leicester (crossing type) ewes are kept on 18 miles from Eastfield Farm, on hill land which extends to 567ha (1,400 acres)

The Warnocks (left to right): Jack, Megan, Margaret and John.

36 DF Feb p36 37 Small cows MB KJ.indd 2

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:47

BREEDING & FERTILITY To reduce housing costs this winter, in-calf heifers are being outwintered on forage rape.

7,940 litres of energy-corrected milk.

Tom says: “This is tremendous for heifers which are largely in their first lactation.”

He says it is essential herds adjust for energy-corrected milk to get a fairer comparison of production.

Tom says: “I monitor all my herds this way now, because otherwise you are not comparing apples with apples. At current daily yields of 30 litres, the feed rate will not look so good, but it takes energy to produce this quality.”

Feeding revolves around simplicity. Cows are paddock grazed from March until October, weather permitting, across some 59 hectares (146 acres), with surpluses removed for silage.

The Warnocks aim to take four

cuts annually. Last year, 14ha (35 acres) of wholecrop was grown after grass.

During harvest, silage is layered with wholecrop in the clamp. Last year’s three cuts averaged 11.6ME, 16.8% crude protein with sugars of 3.86%.

During winter, cows are fed silage, wholecrop and a blend. The feed rate is running at 0.31kg of concentrate per litre of milk, with milk from forage currently averaging 12 litres per cow.

This year, in-calf heifers have been outwintered on forage rape to reduce housing costs.

Now in their second season, the Warnocks are looking to finesse their system by reducing their calving block to 12 weeks and have 80% of animals calved within the first eight weeks.

They would also like to reach 8,500 litres, although they believe this is attainable with current performance.

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BREEDING & FERTILITY

E

arly pregnancy diagnosis in cattle using blood sampling is not conducted in the UK. Yet, in North America, it is a popular tool used to identify early on any cows which are not in calf.

Pregnancy-specific protein B (PSPB) is only produced by the placenta of a growing foetus in all ruminants and is present in the pregnant animal’s blood.

It can be used as an early indicator of pregnancy in dairy cows as early as 30 days post-service.

The tool has been used widely in North America since the late 1990s, but has yet to take off in the UK. Welsh project However, an EIP-funded project in Wales in 2021 assessed its practicality on four dairy farms in Carmarthenshire, with a total herd size of about 1,700 animals.

The study found it was a useful, inexpensive and proactive tool which can be used for early pregnancy diagnosis, resulting in better pregnancy rates.

The farms worked with vet Dr Sotirios Karvountzis, of Mendip Vets, who has recently taken up a veterinary position in Advanced Reproductive Technologies in Canada.

The project focused on the blood test instead of milk pregnancy diagnosis, known as pregnancyassociated glycoproteins (PAG), due to evidence to suggest the accuracy on that test improves later in pregnancy.

This is due to the low concentra-

Could blood testing to detect early pregnancy in dairy cows ever take off in the UK like it has in North America? Sarah Alderton takes a look.

Benefits of early pregnancy diagnosis via blood tests tion of PAG in milk early in pregnancy getting ‘locked up’ by milk solids and the potential, therefore, for a false negative result.

Cows on each farm were split into two groups – one group was diagnosed by ultrasound scanning and the other by blood tests.

PSPB was found to be 94% accurate and ultrasound was 95% accurate in predicting a positive pregnancy result. Also, PSPB was 87% accurate and ultrasound was 86% accurate in predicting the negative result.

Pros and cons The project identified the pros and cons of both pregnancy diagnosis methods.

Dr Karvountzis says: “Ultrasound scanning is a relatively quick method to get a reliable result. It also allows vets to identify multiple pregnancies, sex of the foetus and the stage of pregnancy.

“The disadvantage of this method is operator experience, as there is

Dr Sotirios Karvountzis says the ultimate result is one of ‘win-win’ for all parties involved.

evidence the scanning result improves with training and years of practice.

“Also, for non-vets, only a Defra-approved trained operator can conduct an ultrasound scan. The selected animals must also have their daily routines disrupted, as they are kept in a pen before or after milking, waiting to be examined.

“PSPB, however, allows for a trained farmer to collect the samples at any time, minimising disruption to the animal. Because the test can be used earlier in cattle to diagnose pregnancy, a vet can then ascertain why they are unable to conceive and administer appropriate treatments.”

Dr Karvountzis says the ultimate result is one of ‘win-win’ for all parties involved – the veterinary surgeon, the farmer and the cow.

He says: “The animal’s behaviour and productivity are inhibited minimally, so the farm enterprise can save money and the veterinary surgeon can continue their involvement and oversight of the herd with

a higher focus on what really matters – the causes and treatment of infertility in the dairy herd.”

However, he adds because the collection of a blood sample falls under the remit of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, the person taking the blood sample must be trained in the procedure by their own vet.

Hywel Watkins, who farms at Pantglas, Llanfynydd, was one of the four farms involved in the project.

At the time, Mr Watkins, who farms his parents, ran a herd of 370 autumn-calving pure-bred Holsteins. He says PSPB testing benefited the business, as it was stress-free for them and the cattle.

Mr Watkins says: “Cattle now do not have to wait and it is more convenient and as accurate as scanning.”

At the time of the project, Dr Karvountzis offered PSPB blood testing through his veterinary company, Mendip Vets.

However, since moving to Canada, that service is no longer available through his company

The farm enterprise can save money and the veterinary surgeon can continue their involvement DR SOTIRIOS KARVOUNTZIS

38 DF Feb p38 39 Blood tests MB KJ.indd 2

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 09:38

BREEDING & FERTILITY

In the Welsh project, cows were split into two groups – one group was diagnosed by ultrasound scanning and the other by blood tests.

and he is not aware of anywhere else in the UK offering the blood test currently.

Dr Karvountzis says: “It is a shame

this service is not more widely available, as there are benefits for cows and farmers. In North America, this service is used all the time.”

Breeding technician Marty Wever, from Alberta, Canada, has been using PSPB blood tests in a test known as Biological Pregnancy Result Yes No (BioPRYN) for the past 17 years.

He is breeding 2,000-3,000 head of cattle a year across 20-30 farms. His primary focus is two dairy herds which he services daily.

He says he would not be without the technology because of the test’s ability to pick up open cows early.

Mr Wever says: “It is a huge tool as I have to ensure cows get pregnant. If you have an open cow for 30 days, you could have bred her again in that time. Every cow open after 60 days is costing $3 a day – that is an expensive cow.

“We have cows for a reason; to produce milk and we need to get them in calf as soon as possible to get them back into lactation.

“My breeding programme lives and dies by the test.”

Mr Wever takes samples from cows 27 days after service.

He says: “I am using the test to identify those open cows so we can get them recycled and bred again. By looking at the hormone level, I can tell if they have reabsorbed or are just open. Any cows not pregnant will be served again within a 10-day time frame.

Reabsorption “I would not want to ultrasound test so early as I have seen too much reabsorption when manipulating inside too early in pregnancy.”

Instead, he uses ultrasound scanning at 60-90 days to verify a heartbeat and identify if cows are carrying twins, for example.

He says blood testing is also very time-efficient, as he can collect 20 blood samples in just 10 minutes.

The test cost is also relatively cheap at $5 (£3.94) a sample.

He says: “We are on a quota system here, so we must keep the milk coming in. I think it is a huge advantage to the producer and we can pull samples on our fine schedule.”

FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p38 39 Blood tests MB KJ.indd 3

39 19/01/2024 09:38

MACHINERY LAMMA SHOW The UK’s largest machinery show opened its doors on January 17-18, with crowds looking to get the first view of new machinery innovation from leading manufacturers. James Huyton, Jane Carley and Ellie Layton look at some of the eye-catching kit from the event.

LAMMA highlights

Kioti K9 UTV JKIOTI’S new K9 2410 UTV features an upgraded continuously variable transmission to give a 50kph road speed plus speed-proportional electric power-steering and an engine brake as part of the standard spec. It retains the 1,007cc Kioti diesel engine used in other 2400 models.

The 2410 is available with either a climate-controlled factory fit cabin, a ROPS frame with door, windscreen

and canopy options, or a retrofit field cabin.

As standard, the K9 2410 is available in Kioti red, with the option of green.

Independent wishbone suspension is aimed at improving its performance on rutted or undulating ground.

The polyurethane-lined tipping bed with electric assist has a capacity of 500kg, cab comforts include a rubber floormat and seat headrests.

McHale ProPel tedder JMcHALE presented its new ProPel range of tedders, consisting of the mounted M6-770, which has six rotors with a working width of 7.7 metres and the eight-rotor 10.2m trailed T8-1020.

A central pivoting point on the ProPel M6-770 connects the headstock to the chassis for effective re-centring on slopes and reduces the machine overhang.

The trailed T8 tedder is coupled to the tractor by a two-point linkage headstock.

By pivoting the machine behind the headstock, it can follow very closely behind the tractor to navigate difficult to

40 DF Feb p40 43 Machinery LAMMA KJ MB.indd 2

access areas. McHale tedders have 1.54m-diameter rotors that are equipped with seven tine arms, supporting double hooked tines for a clean, even lift and distribution of crop.

The angle and height of the rotors can be adjusted if required.

The optional headland management system allows the tedder to operate at full working width at all times as the crop is deflected away from the edge of the field to allow for easy raking.

When operating in hay, it can also indicate which areas have already been tedded.

Pottinger Jumbo 8000 wagon J POTTINGER showed the Jumbo 8000 forage wagon, with a range of three models with DIN volumes of 40cu.m, 47cu.m and 54cu.m.

These models are capable of handling torque of 3,500Nm and up to 500hp for high throughput and feature a hydraulically floating 2.3-metre pickup to handle larger swaths.

The 65-knife chopping

system gives a theoretical chopped length of 25mm for faster distribution and compaction of the crop in the clamp.

The Autocut automatic knife sharpening system can be used on these machines, despite the 25mm knife spacing, and is electro-hydraulically driven for reduced sharpening times.

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 10:50

LAMMA SHOW MACHINERY Trioliet Triotrac X-Range JTRIOLIET introduced the Triotrac X-Range self-propelled diet feeder, equipped with a cutter loader system with cutting heights up to eight metres and 32cu.m capacity.

The X-Range is powered by a 270hp FPT engine which slides out of the chassis for servicing and has four-wheel steering allowing the 14.5m-long unit to crab up to the clamp side where space is restricted.

Twin augers with 22/25mm

Case IH Farmlift

flights are fed from the front conveyor via an auger with heavy duty planetary drive; a 1m wide conveyor feeds to either side.

The use of a rigid cutting system rather than a milling head is said to preserve the clamp face.

The height-adjustable operator cab lowers for transport or raises to give an improved view of both the head and the mixing tub.

JCASE IH has updated its Farmlift telehandler range and showed the 742, which offers a lift capacity of 4.2 metres with a maximum lift height of 7m.

Power comes from a 146hp 4.5-litre FPT Stage V engine and with 6X3 powershift transmission through the range.

Hydraulic performance has been improved with 160 litres

per minute output for faster cycle times and a suite of new hydraulic features including return to position, bucket shake and adjustable boom response and shuttling. A redesign of the engine hood aims to improve visibility, while a new seven-inch colour screen displays machine settings and acts as a monitor for the optional rear camera.

More LAMMA show coverage over the page.

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MACHINERY LAMMA SHOW

Merlo Turbofarmer 30.7 Kubota telehandler JAFTER a successful foray into the wheeled loader market with its RO range and smaller machines from partner Tobroco, Kubota now offers a compact telehandler.

The KTH 4815-2 lifts 1.5 tonnes and has a maximum lift height of 4.8 metres at 1.6m wide and 1.8m tall it should appeal to pig or poultry or glasshouse customers.

Power is supplied by a 44hp Stage V Kubota engine, with a hydrostatic drive to Carraro axles, and 25kph maximum speed.

Versions range from a ROPS model which at 2.6 tonnes is light enough to go on a trailer, but the company expects the full cab, air-conditioned model to be the most popular in the UK. A range of linkages are available.

JMERLO showcased the new Turbofarmer 30.7, the successor to the P32.6 model.

It operates at two metres wide and 2.1m high, which can be lowered further to 1.9m high with the Low Cab option.

The Turbofarmer 30.7 is powered by a 100hp Deutz TCD 4-cylinder Stage V diesel and offers 7m reach and a threetonne lift capacity. It features EPD-managed hydrostatic drive

with a maximum speed of 40kph and the optional CS Cab Suspension can be specified to enhance comfort over rough terrain or potholed roads.

Performance load-sensing hydraulics complete with flow-sharing are standard, giving the operator the ability to make simultaneous multiple boom movements at once, such as when mucking out or loading bales.

Holaras maize leveller JNORFOLK machinery importer AgVantage has added Holaras clamp loading equipment to its range for 2024.

The Holaras maize leveller helps to distribute harvested maize on the clamp quickly and efficiently, avoiding trailers stacking up waiting to unload.

The hydraulically operated leveller spreads maize across

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the clamp surface using folding sideboards to push crop across the surface. Slots in the frame maintain a good view of the clamp from the tractor seat and the levelling boards have replaceable edge wear strips.

Operating widths are from three to 5.3 metres, with versions for front or rear mounting and for wheeled loaders.

JSPREAD-a-Bale launched a new option to its M range of straw spreading machines.

Called the ST (Side Throw), the header allows side discharge of straw to the left or right, or forwards and can be fitted to any Spread-a-Bale model.

The header, which has been specifically designed for buildings with narrow

access doors and passageways from two metres wide, features one vertical rotor offering a longitudinal spread of 1m wide and up to 7m throw.

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LAMMA SHOW MACHINERY JCB Teleskid updates JNEW Stage V versions of JCB’s 270 and 270T Teleskid models were shown to UK buyers for the first time, and feature powertrain and cab updates loader.

The new models are powered by the JCB DieselMAX 430 engine delivering 74hp with more torque output, and greater fuel economy.

In the cab, a 177mm display provides quicker and easier

access to more machine settings; operators can select maximum forward and reverse speed, acceleration rate and power management settings.

Other features include electro-hydraulic auto bucket levelling when both lifting and lowering the boom and improved visibility forwards, to the left side and upwards, achieved by cab structure changes.

Can-Am Outlander JTHE Can-Am Outlander 500 and 700 (HD5 and HD7) ATVs made their UK debut.

The entry level Can-Am Outlander BASE PRO HD5 T features an all-new 40hp Rotax engine, along with 330mm ground clearance, 260mm

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Other noise reduction features include the addition of nylon bearings to reduce metal-on-metal contact for easy handling.

As previously with IAE there are a range of optional extras which can be added.

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JIAE launched its 800 series range of cattle crushes at the show this year.

The range welcomes four new crushes and has been in development for three years, with four designs differing in configurations of the yokes, auto and manual locking and bodies aimed to meet the needs of all customers.

IAE claims this range is its most feature-packed, largest and quietest crushes yet which

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44 DF Feb p44 45 46 Milk MB KJ.indd 2

MILK prices Arla starts the year with a bang JFollowing its 1 euro cent/kg (8p/kg) increase for December, Arla Foods’ milk price has certainly started 2024 with a bang, with the co-op lifting both its on-account milk price for both conventional and organic milk by 3c/kg (2.6p/kg) for January.

The company reports retail sales continue to pick up after the turnaround in Q3 last year, albeit slightly weakening after Christmas seasonal demands were fulfilled.

The increase of 4c/kg (3.4p/kg) over two months should give Arla owners some confidence that their milk price is getting back to competitive form, although the company is keen to moderate enthusiasm, downgrading its market forecast from one of positive back in late November last year to one of being stable at the time of this latest price announcement back at the end of December.

Pricing schedule Additional changes have been brought in from January to simplify the pricing schedule for UK owners, with the ‘One Collection Scheme’ ending its five-year term with many owners, as well as the replacement of the traditional volume bonus, with a logistics supplement, taking our

manufacturing standard litre* up 3.08ppl to 39.18ppl.

This price includes the guaranteed minimum supplementary payment for the first half of the year holding at 1.29p/kg (1.329ppl), while the Sustainability Incentive increases slightly to 1.42p/kg (1.463ppl).

Our liquid standard litre* increases by 2.9ppl to 37.58ppl, including subtle increases to the level of premium for the Sustainability Incentive to 1.361p/kg (1.402ppl) and the guaranteed minimum supplementary payment unchanged on 1.239p/kg (1.276ppl).

Organic The 3c/kg (2.6p/kg) increase pushes our organic manufacturing standard litre price up by 2.96ppl to 46.5ppl, while our liquid standard moves up 2.78ppl to 44.61ppl.

The company has also increased its non-owner Directs price for the second time this year. Following the 0.8ppl increase for January, our manufacturing price increases by a further 2.66ppl for February to 36.13ppl, while our liquid price increases by 2.52ppl to 34.63ppl following the 0.76ppl increase the previous month.

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:59

Milk price analyst Stephen Bradley on the latest milk industry developments.

BUYING LIVESTOCK? SPREAD COSTS & PAY MONTHLY

Somerset cheesemakers maintain the pressure JOnce again, most liquid milk processors, having paid a premium above the Arla milk price for some time, decided to hold at their current levels for February.

The Arla increase seems for now to have had a more positive effect on the manufacturing side of the industry. Milk buyers for cheese, some of whom having not lifted their price from January, decided February was time to make a start.

First Milk is in this group, with an increase of 1ppl to take our manufacturing standard up to 37ppl, with the co-op’s Haverfordwest Tesco Cheese Group receiving the same increase to 38.5ppl.

South Caernarfon

Creameries also made its first move of 2024, with a February increase of 1.25ppl, taking our price up to 35.25ppl.

Parkham Farms also increased by a penny, its first move of 2024, increasing its price to 38.25ppl.

The UK’s number one Cheddar maker, Saputo Dairy UK, decided to hold DCD’s price supplying Davidstow for February, after its increase of 1ppl for January.

Belton decided the same outcome and the Somerset cheesemakers failed to disappoint, with Barber’s pushing on with another 1.02ppl increase to 38.20ppl, closely mirrored by neighbour, Wyke, which increased by 1.04ppl to 38.29ppl.

TSDG cost of milk production JThe latest Tesco cost tracker update puts the cost of milk production within the Tesco Sustainable Dairy Group milk pool as rising 0.69ppl to 42.42ppl.

This level includes the added adjustment of 0.7ppl from the impact of applying October 2023 to March 2024 feed, fertiliser and

fuel prices to the annual cost tracker.

Actual feed and fuel prices are reported as having moved higher, while overall fertiliser costs are slightly lower due to lower P and K prices. Within the tracker, annual variable costs are put at 23.19ppl, with overheads of 15.7ppl and depreciation of 2.83ppl.

* Our Liquid standard litre is 4%b/f & 3.3% protein, for our Manufacturing 4.2%b/f and 3.4% protein and in both cases Bactoscans of 30,000/ml & SCCs of 200,000/ml, with Thermodurics of 500/ml, 1mltrs/yr on EODC (max vehicle accessibility) based on level supply and therefore, before seasonality, (but includes the winter premiums paid in NI) as well as monthly profile adjustments, balancing charges, capital deductions or annual/part annual growth incentive schemes or supplements not directly linked to dairy market price movement.

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FEBRUARY 2024 DF Feb p44 45 46 Milk MB KJ.indd 3

45 18/01/2024 11:59

MILK PRICES Latest milk prices from

LIQUID PRICES (4% b/f & 3.3% prot) Muller Milk Group – M&S E&W Muller Milk Group – M&S Scotland & NI Muller Milk Group – Waitrose Muller Milk Group – Tesco Arla Foods – Tesco Muller Milk Group – Sainsbury’s Arla Foods – Sainsbury’s Muller Milk Group – The Co-op Dairy Group Muller Milk Group – Muller Direct Blackmore Vale Dairy Crediton Dairy Muller Milk Group – Muller Direct (Scotland) Freshways Dale Farm GB (Kendal) UK Arla Farmers – Morrisons (Grazing) Yew Tree Dairy UK Arla Farmers – Tesco UK Arla Farmers – Morrisons Paynes Farms Dairies UK Arla Farmers Grahams Dairies Meadow Foods Lakes Meadow Foods Dale Farm NI Simple Average Simple Average (excl. retail contracts)

Sept’23 4.0/3.3 Before Seas’lty

Oct’23 4.0/3.3 Before Seas’lty

12mth Ave Nov’22 Oct’23

Diff Oct’23 v Sept’23

Latest Confirmed Milk Price

(i) 46.00 45.74 45.30 41.83 41.58 40.55 40.43 39.79 37.00 38.03 37.00 36.79 36.00 36.43 35.36 36.00 35.16 35.13 36.00 33.74 36.00 34.00 34.00 31.43 37.89 35.57

(ii) 46.00 45.74 45.30 41.83 41.58 40.89 40.77 39.91 37.00 37.00 37.00 36.79 36.00 36.18 35.45 36.00 35.25 35.22 35.00 33.83 36.00 33.00 33.00 33.73 37.85 35.43

(iii) 50.18 50.14 47.82 44.46 44.21 43.79 43.67 43.49 43.13 42.55 42.17 42.00 41.83 41.80 41.77 41.58 41.57 41.54 41.25 40.15 39.83 39.54 39.54 37.99 42.75 41.03

(i) v (ii) N/C N/C N/C N/C N/C 0.34 0.34 0.12 N/C -1.03 N/C N/C N/C -0.25 0.09 N/C 0.09 0.09 -1.00 0.09 N/C -1.00 -1.00 2.30 -0.03 -0.14

(iv) 44.80 44.54 44.05 42.42 42.17 40.61 40.45*** 39.84 36.50 37.00 37.00 36.29 35.00 35.91 39.20 36.00 39.00 38.97 35.00 37.58 35.00 33.75 33.75 35.73

MANUFACTURING PRICES (4.2% b/f & 3.4% prot) First Milk – Haverfordwest Tesco Cheese Group 38.35 38.35 44.14 N/C Barber’s Cheesemakers 37.79 36.14 42.95 -1.65 The Fresh Milk Company – Level Profile ‡ 37.51 37.51 42.86 N/C Saputo Dairy UK – Davidstow 37.50 37.00 42.83 -0.50 Wyke Farms 37.77 36.11 42.81 -1.66 First Milk 36.85 36.85 42.64 N/C Wensleydale Dairy Products 36.79 35.84 42.54 -0.95 Parkham Farms Tesco 37.25 37.25 42.45 N/C The Fresh Milk Company (Lactalis) 36.94 36.94 42.29 N/C UK Arla Farmers 35.12 35.21 41.79 0.09 Belton Farm 36.05 35.30 41.61 -0.75 South Caernarfon 34.75 34.00 41.25 -0.75 Arla Foods – Direct Manufacturing 32.67 32.67 40.60 N/C Leprino Foods 34.00 34.00 40.08 N/C Dale Farm NI 32.42 34.72 38.94 2.30 Simple Average 36.12 35.86 41.99 -0.26 Simple Average (excl. retail contracts) 35.86 35.56 41.78 -0.30

38.50 38.20 36.99 36.50 38.29 37.00 37.00 38.25 36.42 39.18 36.30 34.00 36.13 36.00 36.72

‘B’ Price Indicators StoneXMilkprices.com UKMFE (gross) 31.55 35.39 35.05 3.84 *StoneXMilkprices.com UKMFE (net) 27.52 31.12 30.77 3.60 **Delivered spot milk (net to the producer) 31.69 34.80 3.11 Notes to table

Prices for both Liquid & Manufacturing tables paid for a producer sending 1mltrs/yr on EODC (max vehicle size accessibility) with Bactoscans of 30,000/ml and SCC’s of 200,000/ml with Thermodurics of 500/ml. Excludes capital retentions or AHDB levies, profile adjustments from level supply, seasonality, balancing and A&B price schemes (includes the winter premiums paid in NI). Excludes annual / part annual growth incentive schemes or supplements not directly linked to dairy market price movement. Liquid price for milk contains 4% b/f and 3.3% protein. Manufacturing price for milk containing 4.2%/b/f and 3.4% prot. All prices for non-aligned prices are before monthly retail supplements. (i) Sept’23 prices before seasonality or B pricing (ii) Oct’23 prices before seasonality or B pricing (iii) Table ranked on simple rolling 12mth average of monthly prices Nov’22 to Oct’23). (i) v (ii) The difference Oct’23 compared with Sept’23. UK Arla Farmers hold for Sept’23 includes the 1.185ppkg Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.24ppkg (1.277ppl) based on our liquid std litre. UK Arla Farmers hold for Sept’23 includes the 1.236ppkg Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.29ppkg (1.329ppl) based on our manufacturing std litre. UK Arla Farmers 0.09ppl increase from Oct’23 includes 1.359ppkg (1.400ppl) Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.24ppkg (1.277ppl) based on our liquid std litre. UK Arla Farmers 0.09ppl increase for Oct’23 includes 1.417ppkg (1.460ppl) Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.29ppkg (1.329ppl) based on our manufacturing std litre. First Milk price includes 0.5ppl Member Premium accrued as a 13th payment paid Apr’24. First Milk Haverfordwest Tesco Cheese Group includes 2ppl retailer premium averaged as 1.5ppl based on seasonal profile. Fresh Milk Company price before Morrisons monthly cheese supplement (payment made in Nov’23 of 0.029ppl for supplies Jul’23 to Oct’23). MMG Direct price includes 1ppl Premium paid quarterly in arrears to Direct/Organic farms meeting specific Müller Direct criteria (Quarterly payments started from Apr’22). Crediton Dairy price includes FarmMetrics Scheme Bonus of 0.5ppl paid monthly. South Caernarfon price includes flat 0.4ppl annual member bonus paid monthly. ‡ Price includes 12mth average rolling profile fixed at 0.57ppl. * UK Milk Futures Equivalent (UKMFE) net to producer includes 5% processor margin and allowing 2.45ppl ex-farm haulage Sept’23 and 2.50ppl for Oct’23 + milk testing. ** Ave delivered spot milk net to producer allows 3ppl covering haulage + milk testing and margin. *** Price for Feb’24 with reporting to end as suppliers switch to Müller. (iv) UK Arla Farmers hold for Nov’23 includes 1.359ppkg (1.400ppl) Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.24ppkg (1.277ppl) based on our liquid std litre. UK Arla Farmers hold for Nov’23 includes 1.417ppkg (1.460ppl) Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.29ppkg (1.329ppl) based on our manufacturing std litre. UK Arla Farmers 0.85ppl increase for Dec’23 includes 1.359ppkg (1.400ppl) Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.24ppkg (1.277ppl) based on our liquid std litre. UK Arla Farmers 0.89ppl increase for Dec’23 includes 1.417ppkg (1.460ppl) Sustainability Incentive and forecast 13th payment of 1.29ppkg (1.329ppl) based on our manufacturing std litre. UK Arla Farmers 2.90ppl increase for Jan’24 includes 1.361ppkg (1.402ppl) Sustainability Incentive and Guaranteed minimum supplementary payment of 1.239ppkg (1.276ppl) based on our liquid std litre. UK Arla Farmers 3.08ppl increase for Jan’24 includes 1.42ppkg (1.463ppl) Sustainability Incentive and Guaranteed minimum supplementary payment of 1.292ppkg (1.331ppl) based on our manufacturing std litre. Dale Farm NI 2ppl Winter Premium paid for Oct, Nov & Dec. Fresh Milk Company price before Morrisons monthly cheese supplement (payment made in Nov’23 of 0.029ppl for the 4mths Jul’23 to Oct’23). MMG Direct Premium for Direct/Organic farms meeting specific Müller Direct criteria confirmed as 1ppl for 2024 and paid quarterly, Apr’24, Jul’24, Oct’24 & Jan’25. All prices are before any additional monthly retail supplements. Milkprices.com cannot take any responsibility for losses arising. Copyright: Milkprices.com

46 DF Feb p44 45 46 Milk MB KJ.indd 4

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 11:01

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Markets cautious as milk volumes seemingly soar

T

he markets have started the year in a nervously neutral mood, with milk volumes ramping up unexpectedly in key regions, which has seemingly taken the wind out of sellers’ sales.

Despite food inflation falling and some positive news on retail sales from the likes of Arla, there is still much talk about

a lack of demand, making this a supply-driven market. And currently it looks as if volumes are increasing, not decreasing.

Although EU butter started the year marginally positively for German and Dutch origin, there was a fairly large drop for French origin, which took the average price down to €5,550 (£4,780).

The traded price is said to

be less than this now though, with traders putting the spot market for butter as low as €5,300 (£4,555) and less for Eastern European origin.

Going rate In general, €5,450-€5,600 (£4,684-£4,814) is the going rate. Cream is up to as high as £2.10/kg.

On powders, German food

Latest AMPE and MCVE JThe latest AMPE figure for December is 37.96p, which is up fractionally on November.

UK farmgate price vs. AMPE vs. MCVE (in ppl) 60 55

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After an allowance for a margin and additional supply chain costs, the farmgate equivalent would be about 34p. MCVE is at 38.07p, before costs and a margin, up over 1.5p.

The farmgate equivalent is also about 34p after costs.

45 40 35 30 25 20

MCVE

15

Defra price

AMPE

10 Dec Jan 22 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan 23 Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Farmgate

NOTE: Includes costs and processor margin

50

Bad start for futures JThe futures have not had a good start to the year. EU butter futures tumbled for March to June contracts in the second week of the month, compared to the first week, and were down by an average of €250/tonne (£215/t) to an average price for the next six months of €5,565 (£4,783).

They were at €5,750 (£4,942) at the start of the year. There are now no contracts higher than €5,600 (£4,813).

Losses To compare, May’s contract price was at €5,900 (£5,070).

The losses reverse all of the recent gains and take

the average price back down to mid-December levels.

EU SMP prices have increased modestly this week, but are still down €90 (£77) on a month ago to an average of just under €2,600 (£2,235).

Together, butter and SMP convert into a milk price of 34-35p.

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 10:20

MILK ANALYSIS GDT starts the year with a rise JThe GDT Index for the first auction of the month on January 2 was up by a modest 1.2% across all contracts and periods, compared to 2.3% previously.

The average price settled at $3,363 (£2,635), which was actually down on a direct basis compared to the previous auction.

The commodities convert into an approximate UK milk price equivalent of 32p, which

Despite food inflation falling, there is still much talk about a lack of demand, making for a supply-driven market.

is up nearly 1p on the previous auction.

The current UK premium over the GDT is averaging 4.4p over the last three months, for example, and 5.7p over six months, taking the indicating UK price up to 36-38p between now and June.

The predicted season average for New Zealand farmers remains about 30p.

Last 12 months GDT in ppl (excluding UK premium) 34 32 30 28 26 24 22

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butter and SMP quotations results in a farmgate equivalent of about 35p, with the traded market lower than that.

The cheese market looks to be stable to positive. UK mild Cheddar is stable at about £3,650, with mature prices on the up to £3,850.

Feb

grade SMP fell €80 (£69) to €2,575 (£2,213), French food grade fell nearly twice that to settle at €2,530 (£2,174), with Dutch down €40 (£34) to €2,510 (£2,175). But again, the traded market is seeing bids come in at lower levels than that.

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NEW Products This month’s new products features a new methane-reducing feed additive, a new post-calving supplement from Nettex, a partial soyabean meal replacement and a bespoke training service launched by MSD Animal Health to help farmers and vets make better use out of their current monitoring systems.

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Methane-reducing feed additive

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ovaer, a methane-reducing feed additive produced by dsm-firmenich, has recently received approval for use in the UK, having received EU approval in April 2022.

It marks the first authorisation by the UK for a feed additive with a targeted environmental benefit.

The product has been proven to effectively and immediately reduce methane emissions in cattle, with average reductions of 30% in dairy cows and 45% for feedlot beef cattle, without any impact on intakes, production or cow health.

Bovaer works by targeting the rumen micro-organisms responsible for methane production and is

completely broken down in the cow and is not found in milk, meat, urine or manure.

The feed additive can be incorporated into dairy minerals

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Post-calving support supplement JNettex has launched a new supplement suitable for dairy and suckler cows struggling to recover post-calving, which provides energy, hydration and nutrient boosts.

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Partial soyabean meal replacement JUFAC-UK has launched a new partial soyabean meal replacement for dairy diets, called cholymet, which improves yields, solids and feed conversion efficiency, while reducing reliance on imported soya by at least one-third.

The product includes a balanced combination of essential amino acids and choline, to improve milk production efficiency, protect the environment, increase profitability to the producer and reduce total dietary protein.

Balancing rations with essential amino acids in the presence of choline can also help feed cows to their genetic potential, minimising metabolic disorders and helping reduce negative energy balance in early lactation.

Precision feeding with cholymet can improve nitrogen utilisation efficiency, reduce nitrogen emissions and enable the substitution of soya with locally produced protein sources. rMore information from 07771 843 208, or david.turnbull@ufacuk.com

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69 53 17/11/2023 11:04 14:24 19/01/2024

GOOD Evans ‘If you are not selling milk you don’t have to pay a levy’

T

This month, Roger Evans talks about the changes going out of milking has brought, and also discusses the perils of letting sheep farmers rent his ground.

“

Two years ago they would have ploughed and then drilled. Following machinery fashion is an expensive business 54 DF Feb p54 55 Evans MB KJ.indd 2

his dairy farming is a funny old thing. Throughout my life it has been the big bills which have been a bit of a stretch. Now we are not selling any milk it is the little bills, the ones you took for granted, things like heating oil and car insurance, which have become the big bills.

It is true that we have the pullet rearing enterprise, and that is ticking over quite well, but most of the money we seem to make goes into gas to keep the sheds warm.

It is true that we still have a parlour and a milk tank, but who would buy a herd of cows as things are today? I do not want to be a prophet of doom, but I think things are about to get worse.

There might be a General Election this year and, in my opinion, cheap food will start turning up from all over the world as the Government tries to bring inflation down.

Farming will bear the cost of that. Tough.

And anyway I don’t think the land we have left would support more than a flying herd of about 60 cows, and where is the future in that? It is probably hundreds short of where it needs to be.

TB status We went out of milk because we lost most of the land we were farming (and renting) and the timing of our exit was dictated by our TB status. Both factors were beyond our control. I suspect that what happened to us will happen to a lot of people.

Milking cows at present might not be the best place to be, but believe me, not milking

cows is not clever either. I hope our family never has to go through something like that again. That is why if we ever went back into milk it would be a flying herd and there probably wouldn’t be much attachment to the cows.

I could tell you a lot of other stuff, but it is best not to as it is a bit current, but be sure I will tell you eventually. One thing this recent experience has taught me is that we might need to stick together in the future and share what goes wrong so someone else doesn’t make the same mistake.

Surplus grass One thing I can share with you – and if you live on the Welsh borders you probably already know this – last year we have had surplus grass. Some we let for mowing and that was okay, but some we let for grazing and that wasn’t so good.

My sheep deal was meant to only be until the end of September, but at the end of October the sheep were still yet to go. We had plans for this year, but the extended presence of the sheep has impacted them.

From making plans comes hope and our family could do with some hope just now. People who keep a lot of sheep are a law unto themselves. They never answer the phone and you can rarely find them. The only places you can ever find them is at a sheep sale for obvious reasons, but mostly to value other people’s sheep.

They go to every funeral they possibly can because they like free sandwiches and cake.

I could write one of my sarcastic letters, that would upset him, but that would not be wise, not while there is money outstanding.

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:53

Upon delivering more sheep, the owner says he ‘has nowhere else to put them’, but that is hardly our problem is it?

There aren’t many pluses to being forced out of milk and, at the moment, the only one I can think of is this: if you are not selling milk you don’t have to pay a levy.

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t resent this. It’s not much money, but over a lifetime I bet it mounts up.

I tried to get on the levy board when it was known by a different name and at the interview I said I would like to cut the levy by half. I was soon shown the door and my interview lasted about 10 minutes. “You are not what we are looking for.”

Now I see the levy board is looking for an increase. Remember it has always been a cosy place to give well paid jobs to your pals. The dairy farming press is full of stuff about how relevant the dairy levy board is. A bit of humility would help.

I don’t know anything about regenerative farming, but I feel like I should. So when I came across an article on it I read it. After I had read it I was still none the wiser, so I read it again. I still don’t understand it, so I have to decide if it is just me possibly going mad or is it just this year’s fad?

As I have been about on my travels I am yet to see one of those big min-till drills about. I know there’s some about because I have heard talk of them.

Expensive What I have seen is people working up stubble with the machines they already have and drilling into them. Two years ago they would have ploughed and then drilled. Following machinery fashion is an expensive business.

The year I started farming, while I was building a parlour, I grew a field of spring barley. When I had removed the corn and the straw I disced up the field and worked some grass seeds in. That was a sort of min-till.

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55 18/01/2024 11:54

BUSINESS CLINIC The short-term outlook for dairy farmer was discussed by speakers at this year’s Oxford Farming Conference. Cedric Porter reports.

A brighter outlook for dairying than other sectors

D

airy producers may be starting 2024 in a more positive mood than some of their other farming counterparts.

That was the message from Mike Houghton, of Andersons Farm Business Consultants, at a breakfast meeting in Oxford to coincide with the two conferences held in the city during January.

He said: “The market has

responded quite rapidly to reduced global supply and prices are rising again.

“We expect averages to be back to 40ppl by the end of the financial and milk year in March.”

Market horizon While the market horizon may look a little brighter, there are still some fundamental legislation and support issues which will take shape in 2024 that

There are still some fundamental legislation and support issues which will take shape in 2024.

could have long-term implications for the UK dairying industry, according to Mr Houghton.

He said: “Many dairy farmers are adopting a wait and see attitude when it comes to possible emissions regulations. It could mean the need to spend thousands on new slurry stores and that could be a make or break moment for many, with some deciding to exit the industry. It seems inevitable that there will continue to be fewer larger producers.”

That trend should mean greater availability of people with dairy experience to fill in labour gaps, said Mr Houghton, but the industry continues to struggle to fill vacancies, despite significant pay rises in the last two years.

He said: “Employment packages which include more time off, benefits and housing support are becoming increasingly important, while holding on to staff is absolutely vital.”

Barbara Dunning was earmarked for compulsory purchase to build the M6 motorway.

Rather than giving up, the couple applied to run a service station and won the bid, going into business with a local baking family.

of more than £130m a year and employs 1,300 people.

Sarah Dunning told the conference that the service stations source local produce, which has an appreciative audience among the wide range of people who use them.

She said: “People want value, but they also want quality and something different, which provides opportunities for local farmers.

“Two of our most popular products are from local dairies.

There is Jess’ Ladies Organic Farm Milk, which supplies us with milk, yoghurt and kefir, and Hobbs Dairy Gelato, a short-life ice cream which people make a special journey for.”

Seizing opportunities JThe Oxford Farming Conference heard from two businesses where dairy operations are key to wider success.

Jimmy Shanks’ family has been milking cows at Standhill Farm, near Hawick, Scottish borders, for more than 50 years.

In 2009, Mr Shanks undertook a Nuffield Farming Scholarship on alternative energy. He decided that either a wind turbine or a biogas plant would be a good addition to the farm.

Applications attracted local opposition with the turbine turned. The biogas plant did get approval, but connecting to the grid proved difficult. That led

56 DF Feb p56 Biz Clinic MB KJ.indd 2

him to think outside the box and invest in a 1.6-hectare (four-acre) greenhouse to produce tomatoes.

The farm is still the only tomato producer in Scotland supplying major supermarkets. Mr Shanks still milks cows, with both enterprises supporting each other.

However, the number of staff has gone from four to 40 and debt has fallen from a high of £3.5 million as the investment took shape to £500,000.

One business which cites very strong relationships with dedicated farm suppliers as a reason for its success is Westmorland Family.

It was born out of an event which has destroyed many other farms. In the 1960s, the Cumbrian farm of John and

Farming operations Tebay Services, along with Cairn Lodge services in Scotland, Gloucester Services and truck stops are now run by daughter Sarah, with her sister Jane running the farming operations.

The service stations have won many awards and are still a destination for many.

The business has a turnover

FEBRUARY 2024 18/01/2024 11:54

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17/01/2024 15:23 15/01/2024 07:54:05

RESEARCH

S

cientists are aiming to unlock the potential of clover and other legumes to reduce the use of fertiliser and emissions from livestock agriculture, thanks to a £3.3 million UK Government grant.

The grant will be used to fund the Nitrogen Utilisation Efficiency – Legume (NUELeg) project, where scientists from the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University will work with industry partners to look at the ability of red and white clover and another legume, Bird’s-foot trefoil, to improve the productivity of livestock while reducing reliance on chemical nitrogen fertiliser.

New legume varieties have been developed by Germinal and Aberystwyth University which are more resilient to grazing by cattle and sheep and extreme weather, due to climate change.

Bird’s-foot trefoil contains compounds called tannins, which can reduce methane emissions by cattle and sheep.

Researchers will be working with commercial farmers in the NUE-Leg project to maximise its benefits.

The project will look at how to best take advantage of the natural ability of legumes to fix nitrogen, reducing reliance on chemical nitrogen fertilisers.

The research will include

Governments around the world have rightly said we need to reduce our reliance on nitrogen fertilisers PAUL BILLINGS

58 DF Feb p58 Research MB KJ.indd 2

Researchers will be working with commercial farmers in the NUE-Leg project to maximise its benefits.

Unlocking clover’s potential to reduce fertiliser usage on-farm trials to identify how to support farmers to reach net zero targets.

Dr Christina Marley, of IBERS, says: “This project could really help cut the use of fertilisers and agricultural emissions.

“The aim is to make the most of the ability of clovers and other legumes to increase nitrogen levels naturally in UK grasslands.

“We are really looking forward to working together with livestock farmers to understand how best to use these new legumes within real farming systems.

Adaptations “There is so much potential in these adaptations to some of our native plants, as we, as a society, undertake a wider collective effort to tackle climate change.”

Welcoming the Defra award on behalf of NUE-Leg Project partners, Paul Billings, of Germinal, says: “Governments

around the world have rightly said we need to reduce our reliance on nitrogen fertilisers.

“We need a solution. Legumes such as white and red clovers grown with grass can fix nitrogen from the air, but with no emissions.

“A current grass sward with a good clover content could fix on average 100-150kg of nitrogen/hectare/year. The clover will use about 75kg of this for itself.

The rest is available to the grass.

“But what if we could maximise the capacity of clovers to fix nitrogen by ensuring we have enough clovers which can persist in the sward and match them with the right soil microbes and the right nutrition?

“We also need to wrap this up in a management approach which supports farmers and gives them the tools and information they need to make this work in a commercial setting and make a profit.

“This is what we want to achieve with Project NUE-Leg. We want to achieve a three-fold increase in the capacity of clovers to fix atmospheric nitrogen up to 300kg nitrogen/ha/year and thereby eliminate the need for chemical nitrogen fertilisers.

“This project has the potential to be truly transformative for grassland farming in the UK and globally. It could be a game-changer in both cutting emissions and in supporting farm profitability.”

Partnership The NUE-Leg research project is a partnership between Aberystwyth University, Germinal, Origin Enterprises, the James Hutton Institute, Agrecalc, Linking Environment and Farming, Dovecote Farm, Pilgrim’s Pride, Muller UK and Ireland and the Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock.

FEBRUARY 2024 19/01/2024 13:12

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