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We are giving one lucky person the chance to Win Big! Win a Beef Expo prize pot worth over £300. All you have to do to enter is email us with your name, address and contact details to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com with the subject line as 'beef expo competition' Competition is also run on Facebook and Twitter, and is open to NBA Members and Non NBA Members. Entries close on Wednesday 10th May, and a winner will be drawn at randon on Friday 14th May at 1:00pm. Winner will be contacted by email and a live notification will be posted on Social Media.
BEEF EXPO COMPETITION OPEN TO NBA MEMBERS AND NON-NBA MEMBERS
IMAGE CREDIT: BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY
CONTENTS
contents
EDITOR Chris Mallon National Beef Association Mart Green Tyne Green Hexham Northumberland NE46 3SG 01434 601005 chris@nationalbeefassociation.com
SPRING 2017 19
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DEPUTY EDITOR Tom Kinroy tom@nationalbeefassociation.com
41
CHAIRMAN David Thomlinson ADVERTISING ENQUIRES 01434 601005 07738 229752 nbamagazine@ nationalbeefassociation.com DESIGN, PRINT & PUBLISHING Kinroy Design, Yorkshire 01430 266068 hello@kinroydesign.co.uk www.kinroydesign.co.uk A National Beef Association Publication A specialist organisation open to everyone with an interest in the UK beef industry. Company No. 3678612
NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE SPRING 2017: Issue 3 NEXT ISSUE: SUMMER 2017 NBA/Kinroy Design give notice that no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior consent of the publishers. Every care is taken when compiling editorial and advertisements and the publishers can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions arising from publication. Views expressed and information contained in The National Beef Association Magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or of the National Beef Association who cannot therefore be held responsible for any reason arising therefrom. Neither the Association, the Publisher nor the Editors endorses any services or products advertised in this Magazine. Design/Images © 2017 Kinroy Design Printed on Sustainable FSC Paper Mix ISSN 2399-553X (Print) ISSN 2399-553X (Online)
38 REGULARS
CHAIRMAN REPORT CHIEF EXECUTIVE UPDATE GUEST WRITER - NEIL PARISH MP NEWS AND UPDATES BREED SOCIETIES NEWS GUEST VET - LEANNE FORD ANIMAL HEALTH REGIONAL ROUND UPS GIFT OF THE GAVEL - ALISTAIR SNEDDON
05 06 07 09 10 33 28/30/34/46 47 50
FEATURES
KING OF THE TERMINAL SIRE CHRONIC LIVER FLUKE - REDUCING PASTURE CONTAMINATION NBA BEEF EXPO 2017 EVENT PREVIEW IMPROVE FINISHING PERFORMANCE TRACE ELEMENTS AND FERTILITY REAPING THE BENEFITS OF BETTER GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT BARRIERS FACING NEW ENTRANTS WOODHEAD BROS MORRISONS CALF TO BEEF PROGRAMME THE CHANGING FACE OF THE STORE CATTLE MARKET Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER PARASITE CONTROL AT GRASS SCOTALND'S BEEF EVENT 2017
Limousin
Mon 1st May Stirling Mon 1st May Ballymena Sat 6th May Carlisle Sat 13th May Brecon
13 16 19 -27 28 30 34 36 38 39 41 43 47
2017 COLLECTIVE SALES Sat 14th October Carlisle Mon 23rd October Stirling Sat 11th November Brecon Fri 8th December Carlisle
Fri 16th June Carlisle www.limousin.co.uk THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
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MAKING BVD HISTORY EXPERIENCE THE LIVE VACCINE DIFFERENCE
Now that we’re moving from BVD control to eradication, and with BVD estimated to cost £40 per cow per year1,2, you’ll want a vaccine that is proven to deliver a full 12 months’ prevention of foetal infection after a single injection. Not only protecting against both types of BVD, but also proven to stimulate both antibody and cellular immunity3. Ask your vet for more information.
Dual protection made simple References: 1. Stott et al (2010) Vet J 185: 138–143 2. Stott et al (2012) IVJ 65:12 3. Roth (2016) WBC Dublin Proceedings *Proven to prevent the birth of PI calves caused by transplacental infection by BVDV for 12 months when Bovela has been used as recommended in the product label (SPC). Advice on the use of Bovela or other therapies should be sought from your veterinary surgeon. Bovela lyophilisate and solvent for suspension for injection for cattle contains modifi ed live BVDV-1, non-cytopathic parent strain KE-9: 104.0 –106.0 TCID50, Modifi ed live BVDV-2, non-cytopathic parent strain NY-93: 104.0 –106.0 TCID50. UK: POM-V. Further information available in the SPC or from Boehringer Ingelheim Limited, Vetmedica, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YS, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1344 746959 (sales) or +44 (0)1344 746957 (technical). Email: vetmedica.uk@boehringer-ingelheim.com. Date of preparation: Jan 2017. AHD9692. Use Medicines Responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible).
04
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
NEWS
CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME
BY DAVID THOMLINSON, CHAIR OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION DAVID THOMLIN
SON
Welcome to the Spring edition of the NBA Beef Magazine and what an important magazine this is for the NBA, containing the preview of the prestigious NBA Beef Expo 2017 to be held at Stoneleigh’s NAEC in May and the Beef Expo farm tours held on 17th May. This year’s tours will feature three exceptional beef farms; two finishing units and one suckler herd, a fantastic showcase of British Beef production. Whether you were a Remainer or Brexiteer, the Prime Minister has triggered Article 50 and we are leaving the EU. Currently that is all that is case in stone with everything else being up in the air. The NBA will be continuing to work hard to protect the interests of the beef sector by ensuring farm support remains after 2020, and that welfare standards are kept at a standard that is appropriate, fighting the case that imports must meet our standards and ensuring that our food supply is safe. Farm support must take into account the importance of food safety and security, as well as carbon capture, which includes funds for the future proofing of farms through capital investment and reflects the importance of farmers as stewards of the countryside. Our focus is now on the implementation of a world beating Food, Farming and Environmental Policy along with access to global markets. The NBA will be looking to limit red tape and ensure that there is access for the necessary labour to work in the UK. With so many decisions pending as the UK leaves the EU, this is a once in a lifetime moment for the beef sector. There is so much to do and get right and it is more important than ever to have your voice heard. With your continued support, we will lobby for an environment that enables beef farming to be profitable and sustainable. I am still lobbying for greater transparency within the beef trade to deal with the unfair practices which inhibit the potential for profit and create a lack of trust between the partners in the industry. Ideally, we at the NBA would like to see an extension of the Grocery Code Adjudicator to cover the primary producer but failing that, separate legislation to create transparency may be a working alternative.
ADVERTISE IN OUR SUMMER ISSUE OF THE OFFICIAL NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE #NBAMAGAZINE TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT THE NBA ON 01434 601005 / 07738 229752 OR EMAIL nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com
DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: FRIDAY 7TH JULY 2017 THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
05
CHIEF EXECUTIVE REPORT
CHRIS MALLO
N
CONTINUING PROGRESS
IN POLICY
BY CHRIS MALLON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION
The beginning of 2017 has been busy as ever at the NBA, with several consultations and successful campaigns. The NBA are taking a strong and proactive approach to Brexit, working hard to ensure the best outcome for our members and the industry as well as continuing with our ongoing work on price transparency, TB and welfare. The below report outlines our most recent work.
APPROVED FINISHING UNITS (AFUS) WITH GRAZING
THE NBA ON BREXIT
With changes to Approved Finishing Units with grazing in the pipeline, the National Beef Association called for a four year extension before any phasing out occurs which could cause 'serious welfare and cash-flow problems' for farmers. AFUs fall into two categories; with grazing or without grazing. AFUs with grazing are subject to rigorous biosecurity controls and testing regimes in order to minimise any threat to other cattle and wildlife. This includes specific fencing and statutory 90 day testing. AFUs have shown low incidence of reactors and are essential to ensuring the industry can exist in areas with a TB problem. Many dairy herds use native breed semen to increase the beef value of their stock, which will have an economic impact on both the dairy and beef sectors, resulting in native breeds becoming 'less desirable' amongst producers. It has been agreed to extend the notice period from 12 to 24 months from the point at which the first licence to cull is issued. Grazing AFUs outside of cull areas will of course continue to be licenced. The NBA TB Committee, chaired by Bill Harper are very pleased with the success of the campaign, however will be seeking a review of the extension in 18 months, maintaining pressure on the Government to provide a further extension to 48 months.
BREXIT DISCUSSIONS: The NBA continue to attend the meetings of the Brexit Livestock Group. We do however also have our own meetings separately with Government to discuss the specific implications for the beef sector, which we feel is vital to ensure that our voice is heard. We have met with the Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsom, and George Eustice, regarding Brexit and farm gate pricing. We covered the problem of border control in NI and the ROI, farm support, labour for the processing sector, the Grocery Code Adjudicator and farm price transparency.
CATTLE HEALTH BLUE TONGUE VIRUS (BTV) AND SHMALLENBERG VIRUS (SBV) PLANNING: Discussions have already started regarding BTV and SBV campaigns for 2017, SBV has already been detected in lamb post mortems in SW, SE and the Midlands of England. We will continue to contribute to these campaign discussions and do all we can to inform the industry of any significant increase in prevalence and action to be taken.
Next steps: • Repeal Bill Spring 2017- EU to National Law • Green Paper on UK Agriculture Spring 2017 • Food and Farming Bill Spring 2018 The NBA will be involved in the Green Paper consultation and plans to run meetings with members to discuss their views on the proposed changes as part of this process. EVIDENCE PRESENTED AT THE HOUSE OF LORDS: The NBA has given evidence to the House of Lords on welfare standards post Brexit, we see the present standards as an important selling point for our beef but are wary of any lift in standards. Britain already has some of the highest standards in the world and the industry cannot afford any additional cost. LIVESTOCK DATABASE: The NBA, alongside other industry stakeholders and Defra, are working towards a new improved future proofed livestock database. The importance of traceability has only increased as we enter trade negotiations and need auditable proof of our production. It is also hoped that the improved information source will aid in on farm decision making.
COMPLETED CONSULTATIONS The NBA has successfully completed the following Consultations: • Extension of Grocery Code Adjudicator • Supplementary Badger Cull • Welsh TB Consultation • Red Tractor Consultation
WINTER ISSUE COMPETITION
WINNER
ONE OF THE WINTER ISSUE COMPETITION WINNERS, CATHERINE BOON
Congratulations to the two lucky winners of our Winter Issue Competition, a year's free Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Membership sponsored by NSF Agriculture, which was won by Francis Catherine Boon, Beccles and Mr Philip Webber, Somerset. TO ENTER THIS ISSUES COMPETITION PLEASE SEE PAGE 15.
IMAGE CREDIT: ABERDEEN ANGUS CATTLE SOCIETY
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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
GUEST WRITER
NEIL PARISH MP
GUEST WRITER NEIL PARISH MP
CHAIR OF ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
It’s going to be an interesting next decade for the beef farming industry. From the growing impact of technology, to Brexit and the restructuring of farming support payments, the landscape of the British beef industry is certain to change. On the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, which I chair, we know that beef grading prices and changes to cattle payment grids have been top of the agenda lately. Many farmers had expressed concerns to me that changes to the grid had reduced bonuses on better quality cattle and increased penalties for heavier carcasses. Our Committee took evidence from farming representatives, the retail sector and processors on this issue and I can assure you we will continue to keep a very close eye on this. Farmers must not be short-changed.
regulations we share with our EU neighbours facilitates trade across our borders. In 2015, around a sixth of our beef produced went to export and 93% of those exports went to the European Union. That’s a staggering 92,000 tonnes, worth £320 million to the UK economy. Ireland and the Netherlands take the most significant chunk of these exports, importing 37% and 22% of this share respectively. But now that Britain is leaving the European Union, we are going to have to work out a new trading arrangement with them.
clear to our Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsom, and she has assured me that the food and farming industry will not be traded away in the upcoming negotiations. I will be making sure the Government keeps good on this promise. This year, the Committee will also be launching an inquiry on replacing the Common Agricultural Policy and designing a new bespoke support payments system for British agriculture. Following the Brexit vote, the Government made a guarantee of all payments up until 2020, which I wholeheartedly
I am determined that the food and drink industry – and great success stories like the British beef industry – are front and centre in the Brexit negotiations. I will not allow food and drink to be side-lined, whilst other industries like financial services and car-making get the Government’s primary attention. On this theme, the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee will be launching an inquiry into Brexit and trade for our food and drink sectors. I urge readers to keep their eyes peeled for the launch of this inquiry and to actually have their say. We will welcome all submissions so we can make the strongest possible recommendations to Government when conducting trade policy on food and drink. This is not just about trade with the EU, but how we do trade with the rest of the world too. I am determined that the food and drink industry – and great success stories like the British beef industry – are front and centre in the Brexit negotiations. I will not allow food and drink to be side-lined, whilst other industries like financial services and car-making get the Government’s primary attention. I have made this point absolutely
welcome. After that, however, we will need to design a new and improved domestic system. While this may be a period of upheaval for many beef farmers, it can also be a period of opportunity. Free from EU regulations and restraints, we will be able to create a tailored support scheme for farmers that better recognises our needs and environmental circumstances. It’s an exciting time for the beef industry and for everyone involved in food and farming. As chair of the EFRA Select Committee, I will be assisting the Government – as well as holding them to account – to ensure that we have the best possible deal in place for our beef farmers and the wider industry.
SPRING 2017 ISSUE 03
Society Stand at Beef Expo 2017 to find out why the Breed has seen such a resurgence in popularity.
EF
This issue's cover image is sponsored by The Hereford Cattle Society. Please visit the Hereford Breed
EID ST RWELL
IMPROVE FINISHING PERFORMACE AB VISTA SLOW
Tel: 01432 272057 Email: postroom@herefordcattle.org www.herefordcattle.org www.herefordbeef.org.uk
TERMS
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THE BENEFITS OF BETTER GRA MANAGEMENT SSLAND
TRACE EL EN TS AND PERFEM ORMANC
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GUEST VET
NEIL PARISH MPTER
WITH AN INTERES
T IN THE BEEF
AL MA GAZ
NEWS & INDUSTR Y
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INDUSTRY
INE FR OM
2017 BEEF EVENT PREVEXIEPO W
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ITIO NS
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As members of the National Beef Association, you will know better than anyone the challenges we face over the coming years – but also how best to deal with them. For instance, there has been a step change in the way beef is eaten in Britain in the past few decades. More than half of beef carcasses are now eaten as mince, instead of in joints or different cuts. As a former dairy farmer myself, I know how important it is that the farming industry adapts to modern tastes and ensures we have products that the public will keep coming back to time and time again. We have a great product and a great British beef farming industry too, but we also need the best possible framework for this industry to prosper. Inside the EU single market, we know that British beef faces zero tariffs. What’s more, the common
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COMPETITION
BREED SOC
NEWS UPDATESIETIES
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SPRING 2017
JOIN THE
TODAY AS A MNBA EM FOR ONLY £75BER (STUDENTS SEE PAGE 48£F40) MORE DETAILSOR
NORTHERN FARMER AWARDS: BEEF FARMER OF THE YEAR 2017 Elaine Vickers, of Long Myers Farm, East of Durham. Elaine works on a 970-acre enterprise with her father, Martin Sedgewick. Martin looks after the arable and Elaine is responsible for the cattle. 450 cattle finished each year, with stores bought in by Elaine from marts across northern England.
NEW LOOK FOR NBA BEEF SOUTH WEST EVENT The NBA South West’ specialist one day event is set to return to Westpoint Exeter on Wednesday 8th November 2017 with a new twist. The organising committee continue to develop the event and this year will be including classes for sheep. “Exhibitors have been asking for sheep classes, so we have decided to add prime lamb classes within the Primestock show” explained event Secretary Vicky Smith. "We are hoping to work alongside the National Sheep Association South West. With the inclusion of sheep it was felt a new name was also needed so “Agrifest South West” was born". “By doing this we will open up the event to another sector of the agricultural industry, and as West Country Beef and Lamb have been awarded the PGI status, it made perfect sense to add them to the event. We felt with the name Agrifest South West there will be no limits on what can be included in the future”. Kicking off the winter show season, the event’s Primestock show attracts pedigree and commercial exhibitors from across England and Wales. The 2017 schedule will also include breed classes within the already established Pedigree Calf show. In previous years there have been classes for Native and Continental Bull calves and heifer calves born in the year of the show, but again these classes have been very well supported and exhibitors have requested breed classes. The event will continue with the Yearling Bull of the Year competition, steak and burger awards, seminars, Cattle and now also Sheep handling equipment demonstrations and Breed Society area, which will now be open to Sheep Breed Societies. Agrifest South West – A festival of Quality Beef & Lamb production. For further information please contact Vicky Smith, NBA South West and Event Secretary Tel: 01884 861352 Email: natbeefsw@gmail.com
DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWS, INDUSTRY UPDATES OR INNOVATIONS YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH?
TB COMMITTEE REPORT
BY BILL HARPER NBA SOUTH WEST CHAIRMAN
Please contact The NBA Magazine on 01434 601005 or email your article to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com
The main thrust of our work in last quarter has been challenging DEFRA,s ability to change the rules within TB control areas after farmers have signed up, the first issue was trying to withdraw the AFU ( Approved Finishing Unit ) with grazing licences, After intense negotiation, we managed to get DEFRA to allow two further years of licences with a review as to TB levels in each area in 18 months. We are then moving on to look at the rules regarding Isolation Units as the reduction of AFU grazing units place enormous pressure on integrated production chains, with grazing as part of the protocols. A solution to this would be to allow calves from more than one source to go into an Isolation Unit as a group to then be tested twice to go clear and be able to graze. The current rule of only one source is prohibiting units being filled because very few farms have enough calves at one time to fill a unit. The second issue is the change to compulsory Gamma Interferon testing after breakdowns in cull areas, we are concerned that larger numbers of cattle will be taken, because of the severity of the test, than is necessary. Our key point here is that this was not the case when farmers signed up to the cull and DEFRA is changing the rules as it goes along which we believe is wrong after a contract has been agreed. Our next area of concern is in relation to large finishers being prevented from buying cattle after an isolated single TB case is found at slaughter, we need to work with DEFRA to find a better way of minimising risk but allowing large units to perhaps isolate the group where the animal came from and test them all, while still able to bring in cattle to other parts of these very large holdings. To this end, we are asking all major finishers to attend the Finishers Forum at the NBA Beef Expo in May to gather support for a more workable system that keeps cattle flowing to the abattoirs on a weekly basis by permitting the constant purchasing that is needed.
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
09
NEWS AND UPDATES
NEWS AND UPDATES
BREED SOCIETY NEWS
BREED SOCIETIES NEWS
RED POLL CATTLE SOCIETY
fed to weaned calves in their first winter. This is testament to the fact that the breed perform well on a forage based regime. Current herd sire is
Congratulations to the Underhills Herd of Pedigree
Canute Darwin, previous herd sire was Woldsman
Red Polls, owned and managed by Miss H.R.
Yaris who has left some very impressive daughters.
Philipson-Stow, Pendock, Worcestershire. The emphasis is to produce a true dual purpose The herd came first in the Red Poll Society’s
animal which not only has plenty of milk but
Southern Region Herd Competition in 2016, it then
also excellent beefing qualities as well. The Red
went on to become The National Herd Competition
Poll breed is ideal for this combining longevity,
Champion Herd, which was judged by Mr. Philip
fertility, easy calving, good milk yields, fine grained
Dale, Livestock Manager for P.A. Rackham Ltd,
tender beef, high carcase yield and being polled is
Norfolk. The herd consists of 30 breeding cows
generally of a good disposition and easy to manage
accompanied by the usual youngstock. Heifer
in a wide range of management and environmental
calves are either kept as replacements, however
conditions.
the majority are sold to other breeders as in-calf heifers and command a ready trade. Due to the longevity of the breed, replacement rates are below 10%. Male calves are usually castrated and sold as stores at weaning, however a few are kept entire to be reared as breeding bulls. The herd was founded as a dairy herd in 1946 by
HEREFORD CATTLE SOCIETY
late 1960’s.
HEREFORD CATTLE SOCIETY APPOINTS NEW PRESIDENT ROBERT THOMAS
Robert Thomas judging at the 2016 Hereford Spring Show & Sale
Robert Thomas, owner of the Risbury Herd of Herefords, has been elected President of the
Robert’s grandfather, Jack Thomas, registered
Society for 2017.
his first Hereford calf, Blossom, in 1916 when farming at Home Farm, Norton, Radnorshire. Jack’s
Rosemary’s father, Major G. Philipson-Stow. The herd remained a dairy herd until 2002 when it
Robert has been farming at Risbury Court close
son, Geoff, Robert’s father, continued to breed
was decided for a variety of reasons to convert
to Leominster in Herefordshire since taking over
Herefords first at The Rhyse in Lyonshall and later
to a suckler herd. All cattle are pedigree and can
from his father-in-law in 1985. Prior to that he had
with his brother Ivor at Merryhill. Later, Geoff
be traced back to the very early Herdbooks of the
farmed with his father and brother at Weston Court
re-established his herd at Weston Court along with
breed. Today the herd is the oldest registered herd
near Pembridge.
Robert and his brother Philip.
in the country. He has had a life-long involvement with the breed
On moving to Risbury Court with his wife Diane
Management is based on grazing in the summer
and remembers a wonderful year working with the
and children, Richard & Lizzie, Robert continued
and silage in the winter. Concentrates are only
Hereford herd at The Haven in Dilwyn back in the
breeding Herefords under the prefix “Risbury”. More recently he has concentrated on the beef market supplying pure-bred Hereford beef to numerous local butchers on a regular basis, not to mention The Old Court Hotel & Dining Room at Symonds Yat, South Herefordshire which has been serving Risbury beef for the last 10 years. His son Richard is now a partner in the farm, whose interests lie with his flock of commercial ewes, maintaining the farm’s standard cider orchards and growing a small acreage of cereals chiefly for home
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE UNDERHILLS HERD OF PEDIGREE RED POLLS, FIRST PLACE AND CHAMPION HERD
The herd came first in the Red Poll Society’s Southern Region Herd Competition in 2016, it then went on to become The National Herd Competition Champion Herd, which was judged by Mr. Philip Dale, Livestock Manager for P.A. Rackham Ltd, Norfolk.
10
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
use. Elected as Vice- President for the year is South West breeder, Jonathan Moorhouse “Cato Herefords” who farms near Taunton, Somerset along with his wife Rosemary.
SPRING 2017
BREED SOCIETY NEWS
BREED SOCIETIES, DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWS, YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH?
WELSH BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY
For your free article to be featured in the next issue please email your copy and any images to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com
SALERS CATTLE SOCIETY
price of the day was achieved by established Devon breeders, Messrs G Dart & Son from Great
Terence Pye of Rigel Pedigree, Yarm, North
Champson, Molland, Devon, who
Yorkshire, has been voted in as chairman of the
saw Champson Diamond 2nd sell
Salers Cattle Society of the UK, he takes over from
to 4,400gns to the National Trust’s
Rob Livesey, Melrose, Scottish Borders who now
Kingston Lacy herd in Dorset.
becomes President. Tom Walling of Selkirk takes the
Both bulls representing East of
role as Vice Chairman.
England herds achieved good prices; polled bull Tilbrook Hawk
Llechwedd Rhys 47th sold for 16,000gns January 2017
EXCITING NEWS FOR WELSH BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY EXHIBITORS AT THE ROYAL WELSH 2017
At the Council meeting held in September 2016, the first since the end of the showing season, the Welsh Black Cattle Society Council agreed to sponsor exhibitors at the Royal Welsh Show 2017. The Society is offering £100 per animal forward at the Royal Welsh Show, and it is hoped this will help towards costs, and encourage exhibitors. The Royal Welsh Show is one of the best opportunities to showcase the Welsh Black Cattle and it can also be a very enjoyable experience. Contact: S. Evelyn Jones, Breed Secretary: Telephone No: 01286 672391
The Salers breed is growing in popularity as farmers
from GM Hunter Ltd., Kimbolton,
look for cattle that are easy to manage. The Salers
Cambridgeshire sold to 3,000gns
are noted for their easy of calving; they mature early
to Helen Allan’s Whaddon Grove
calving at 2 without any difficulty; they wean a calf
Farm, Hilperton, Wiltshire, whilst
that fits market requirements; adapt to resource on
Colesden Samson from D&S Tutt,
the farm, its management and environment; have
Roxton, Bedfordshire, sold to
low annual maintenance costs and have a long,
3,100gns to Swell Wold Farm
productive life. Mr Pye is looking forward to the
Partners from Gloucestershire who also purchased
and Female Champion, Bollowal Queenie 34th sold
challenges ahead in the knowledge that the breed
Challenge Rex for 3,500gns from Mr John Gilson of
to new Devon breeder, Mr R Maxwell from Chelwood,
can meet the needs of the industry.
Wilpit Farm, Wellington, Somerset.
Bristol for 1,700gns. With 54 maiden heifers forward and all sold, the average held up at £872. Outside
DEVON CATTLE BREEDERS' SOCIETY
The Devon Cattle Breeders’ Society official Spring
Female Champion and Reserve both came from Jeff
of those shown, the highest price for maiden
Thomas’ Bollowal herd, St Just, Penzance, Cornwall.
heifers was achieved by Sally Martin’s Elmford
Bollowal Clara 29th, Reserve Champion, achieved
herd, Beaworthy, Devon, with Elmford Fancie 20th
the highest price for females at 2,000gns selling to
selling to 1,180gns to Clive Hartwright, Kirtle Lodge,
Tony Richards, Tregaminion Farm, Helston, Cornwall
Hungerford, Berkshire.
Show & Sale was held at Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Bridgwater on Thursday 23rd March 2017 with 86 pedigree registered Red Ruby Devons forward. The day saw brisk trade for bulls; all bar one of the 13 bulls offered for sale was sold and at £3,281 the average was up £880 on last year’s sale. Auctioneer, Derek Biss of Greenslade Taylor Hunt commented, “we were anticipating strong demand for bulls, both from within the breed and from commercial herds looking for an easy fleshing low input breed to meet the retail market’s increasing demand for beef finishers at around 360kgs.” Trade was brisk from the outset with first bull in, the Show Champion, Eastyard Fitzroy 2nd, bred by M&D Cowell, Eastyard Farm, Ashreigney, Devon, selling to 3,500gns to Mr Henry Rawson’s Larkbarrow herd from the Wellshead Estate on Exmoor. Reserve Champion, Colleton Rasputin, bred by S&G Phillips of Colleton Manor, Chulmleigh, Devon, sold to 3,400gns to join Mike William’s Werrington herd from Launceston, Cornwall. Highest THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
DEVON CATTLE BREEDERS' SOCIETY OFFICIAL SPRING SHOW CHAMPION EASTYARD FITZROY 2ND
Bred by M&D Cowell, Eastyard Farm, Ashreigney, Devon, selling to 3,500gns to Mr Henry Rawson’s Larkbarrow herd from the Wellshead Estate on Exmoor.
SPRING 2017
11
ADVERTORIAL
INTEGRATED BEEF SCHEME
WITH DUNBIA
An unwavering focus on health and nutrition across the supply chain has resulted in very impressive results coming out of the Dunbia Integrated Beef Scheme with an average growth rate of 1.04kgs/head/day during a 12 week rearing period and an average slaughter age and carcase weights (steers and heifers) of 14.2 months and 292kgs respectively. Add to this an ensuing reduction in antibiotic use and
health and subsequently production
the integrated scheme makes very interesting reading.
efficiency. Following the twelve week
Dr Ryan Law, Dunbia’s Agricultural Research Manager
rearing stage, the calves are moved to
who established the scheme, explains how these
finishing units where they are grown
results are being achieved: “The Dunbia Integrated
and finished either on a grazing plus system or a
Beef Scheme is a dedicated dairy origin supply
high forage indoor system. Whichever system the
chain, at the heart of which are strict nutrition and
finisher is set-up for, they must remain focussed on,
health protocols which we have developed to achieve
and committed to our health and nutrition protocols
higher welfare units and a more efficient rearing and
to maintain the growth rates and health status of the
finishing process. Our nutritional protocols are very
cattle. By doing so they should achieve an average
specific and start from when the calf arrives on farm.”
kill out of 292kg at 14.2 months of age.”
The programme itself is focussed on calf health and rumen development and incorporates a 3-stage
With a particular focus on immune competence, the
process. Stage 1, day 1-14 on farm, is focussed on
protocols used within the Dunbia Integrated Beef
delivering a highly digestible feed (Quickstart) that
Scheme have led to low rates of antibiotic usage
ensures the calf gets through the early stressors
on rearing farms, with some batches going through
Beef, it certainly offers an alternative to the more
associated with moving and settling into a new
antibiotic free.
traditional methods. “Dunbia’s Integrated Beef Scheme is proving to be very successful for both our
environment, Stage 2, day 15-70 on farm, is focussed on getting the rumen functioning properly (Papinbeef)
“Through our nutrition protocols and focus on health,
dairy suppliers, rearers and finishers. Plus it offers a
and Stage 3, day 71+, is focussed on maintaining a
we have reduced the need for antibiotics substantially
relatively cost effective entry into farming for young
healthy rumen (Econbeef).
with some of our farmers now reporting antibiotic
farmers. We have recently launched an Integrated
free rearing, which is almost unheard of within the
Beef with Wales YFC aimed at giving young farmers
industry,” continues Dr Law.
alternative enterprises on their farms. While it is
“This high quality, strategically targeted, feed
early days with this scheme, the protocols are proven
programme is crucial to enhancing calf health,” adds Dr Law. “We have trialled numerous feeds but found
So is integrated beef the way forward?
so we will look forward to some excellent performance
this combination the most effective in maintaining
For Helen Morgan, Dunbia’s Agriculture Manager for
data over the course of the next year.”
CASE STUDY Martin Edwards has been in the Dunbia Integrated Beef Scheme since January 2016 running a 250 calf enterprise. He takes in 125 calves every eight weeks while at the same time releasing 125 to finishers. Calves are weaned on farm by 4 weeks and are put on the three stage feeding programme of Quickstart from days 1 to 14, Papinbeef from days 15 – 70 and Econbeef from days 71 – 84. During this 84 day period, Martin is achieving daily average growth rates of 1.13kg/ head. In the last 500 calves reared, Martin used minimal antibiotics and achieved a mortality rate of 0.4% having lost just 2 calves out of this group.
If anyone is interested in the Dunbia Integrated Beef Schemes they should contact Helen Morgan hmorgan@dunbia.com 07812 665050
12
FEATURE
CHAROLAIS
KING OF THE TERMINAL SIRES The suckler system at Wester Rarichie featuring Stabilisers and Charolais was recently highlighted when hosting a workshop entitled ‘Profitable Breeding for the Future’ by SRUC. The event was held at Wester Rarichie, Fearn, Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands where Stewart Whiteford of JM Whiteford & Co played host to over 80 interested farmers. Mr Whiteford admitted that getting cows to be
given to just six cows. Heifers are calved at two years and £1,000 over the last two years. Mr Whiteford
profitable without BPS is hard work but he is heading
of age. Cows are kept for 10 calvings with their first,
states that the high health status of the herd
in the right direction. The key to this he says is herd
second and last to the Stabiliser and Angus bulls to
underpins its performance. He puts his money where
health, genetics and quality of feed. His simplified
produce replacements which are now hefted to the
his mouth is, giving his weaned calves a pre-sale
system uses three breeds, Stabilisers and Aberdeen
farm. After their second calving, they run with the
treatment of respiratory vaccines and wormers, plus
Angus, criss-crossed to produce replacement cows
Charolais for 12 weeks, being fed 1kg cobs/head/
an information package of sire, EBVs and feeding
and the Charolais as terminal sire.
day over the bulling period from August until early
regimes. Mr Whiteford works closely with his local
October, followed by draff fed on the field for the
vet on the herd health plan and says that the money
following six weeks.
he spends on vaccines is worth it. Stock is weighed,
With the aim of making the herd more easily managed, more cost-efficient and to utilise land that
primarily for the purpose of ensuring correct dosage
was not suitable for cropping, Mr Whiteford decided
These cows in the herd, which have run with
of vaccines. “My eye and the health programme is my
to ‘downsize’ from predominantly Belgian Blue cows
Charolais bulls, are out wintered on a hard standing
guide to performance.”
10 years ago and move to Stabilisers, which he
area with a building for shelter, having come off
considers to be the ideal suckler cow. “The Stabiliser
grass in November according to weather conditions.
In 2015, 44 Charolais x bullocks averaged £1,148.75
has proven dam lines, are not too heavy weight and
They are fed on ad lib silage and have access to
(276p/kg), 38 Charolais x heifers averaged £959.86
you can get bigger calves out of these smaller cows.”
straw from the bedding in the shed. The first and
(254p/kg), 21 Aberdeen Angus x bullocks averaged
he says. “The cows are very consistent and produce
second calvers and the oldest cows are housed
£1,045.71 (254p/kg) and 14 Stabiliser x bullocks
calves that are like peas in a pod, up to pens of 14.”
throughout the winter period. The herd aims for
averaged £1,045.71 (250p/kg). Prices were down
a moderate size cow (under 700kg) and rearing
20p/kg across the board in 2016 but with a tighter
For his terminal sire, Mr Whiteford has been using
percentage in 2015 was 95% which was helped by
calving and better performance, weights were up an
Charolais for nearly 40 years which, in his words, is
several sets of twins.
average of 20kg per head, a 5% increase. Most of the
‘the king of terminal sires’. He was firstly attracted
calves are repeat purchases, with the majority of them
by their fantastic length and has been buying his
From a health point of view, Mr Whiteford prefers
finding homes in Aberdeenshire. “I don’t push the
Charolais bulls from the same breeder since the early
that stock is outdoor on grass wherever possible,
calves so it gives the finisher plenty of scope to finish
1980’s, looking for bulls which are easily fleshed.
rather than housed which also adds to the simplicity
them as they wish, fast or slow, feed intensively or
He has bought privately for quite a number of years
interwoven in his system. “It’s a very simple system
graze them. The frame is there for them to work on.”
now, preferring to see them naturally grown and
to run, taking one person 50 minutes to feed the
‘field ready’, not over pampered. Bulls are the only
cattle, dropping one round bale to every 20 cows.”
“You can see why the Charolais x heifer is becoming
animals brought into the herd which are accredited
In September, calves are introduced to a creep
even more popular, with the ability to finish it at
for BVD.
ration of dark grains, barley and a mineral/vitamin
400kg yet a good finisher will still be able to meet the
supplement. They are weaned in March and sold
weight targets with Charolais x bullocks.”
The herd of 190 cows calve in the summer starting
through the live ring at Dingwall at 12 months of
on June 1st and in this last calving, assistance was
age, with 120 steers and heifers averaging 420kg
STEWART WHITEFORD WITH HIS CATTLE AT WESTER
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
13
ANIMAL HEALTH
CHRONIC LIVER FLUKE
REDUCING PASTURE CONTAMINATION While most farmers associate liver fluke with autumn and winter, and with acutely sick animals, it is important that we do not forget about fluke this spring, nor miss a key window to reduce the significance of this costly parasite on our farms. In the late spring and early summer all liver fluke
symptoms. This is vital in order to prevent the
massive benefits to flock/herd health and can help
infecting livestock are adults. Adult fluke live in the
pasture being seeded with fluke eggs, and to thus
prevent or reduce the incidence of sub-acute and
gall bladder and bile ducts of the liver, and cause
stop the mud snail from propagating and multiplying
acute fluke in the autumn and winter, as well as
chronic disease. They lay fluke eggs which pass out
the fluke problem.
chronic fluke the following spring.
may be sub-clinical which means that the animal
Appropriate Product Selection
This targeted approach will also help prevent
displays no symptoms. If symptoms of chronic fluke
Which product should be used to target chronic fluke
over-reliance on triclabendazole-based products in
are present they include;
in Spring? The correct product to use at this time of
the autumn. Triclabendazole -based products are
- Loss of condition,
the year is one which targets only adult fluke, as there
the only flukicides to cover all three stages of liver
- Emaciation,
should be no immature fluke infecting animals. It is
fluke including early immature and immature fluke
- Bottle jaw,
critical that only the adult fluke present are targeted
and therefore they are needed to treat and prevent
- Anaemia,
to reduce reliance on triclabendazole in the autumn
acute fluke disease caused by immature fluke in
- Increased susceptibility to other diseases.
and winter. The untargeted use of broad-spectrum
the autumn. Due to increased fluke levels they are
flukicides can contribute to the development of
being used more frequently and resistance to them
Chronic fluke can be diagnosed by detection of eggs
resistance, which is a critical issue for farming both
is building. Therefore targeting mature fluke in the
in the faeces, ELISA on the milk/blood to detect
in in the UK and further afield.
spring with an active ingredient which targets only
in the faeces. Worryingly chronic liver fluke disease
adult fluke has not just a positive effect on livestock
antibodies or faecal ELISA to detect fluke antigens. Postmortem can also diagnose liver fluke and clinical
Targeting chronic fluke in spring will prevent the
performance over the summer but can also have
signs can be suggestive.
summer grazing pasture being seeded with fluke
positive benefits for preserving the efficacy of other
eggs. Along with other control options such as
classes of flukicides and for preventing losses in the
drainage or fencing off of all wet land this can have
autumn.
Sheep and cattle can carry fluke with no obvious symptoms of disease so it is important to determine if your livestock are infected with liver fluke at this time of year. This has to be kept in mind throughout Britain as changing weather patterns bring warmer, wetter weather right across the country, increasing the prevalence of fluke outside the ‘traditionally wet’
Flukicides Ovicidal?
Age of Fluke Killed
Triclabendazole
x
2 weeks + (cattle), 2 days + (sheep)
Clorsulon
x
Adult
Active Ingredient
areas of the north and west. While it is obviously critical to rid stock of migrating fluke which are causing disease in the autumn and
Adult
Albendazole
Closantel
x
5 weeks +
Nitroxynil
x
8 weeks +
Oxyclozanide
x
Adult
winter, it is equally important to rid them of mature
Flukicides vary between brands so check the SPC data sheet for the product you intend to use or speak to your
egg-laying adult fluke which are not causing obvious
SQP/vet to ensure that the stage of fluke targeted and the withdrawal period are suitable for your system.
Use Medicines Responsibly. Noah.co.uk/responsible Date editorial prepared: Jan 2017. Endospec 10% and contains 100mg/ml albendazole, 1.08mg/ml selenium and 2.5mg/ml cobalt and is a POM-VPS medicine. Seek advice from your vet/SQP on appropriate product use
DO YOU HAVE ANY ANIMAL HEALTH OR PRODUCT UPDATES YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH? Please email your article to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com
14 10
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WINTER SPRING 2016 2017
COMPETITION
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SPRING 2017
15
FOOD
DEERSBROOK FARM AN ESSEX FAMILY FARM
BY TOM KINROY DEPUTY EDITOR, NBA MAGAZINE
Anna Blumfield and husband Phil Blumfield, with their two children, were handed down the family farm in December 2012, by Anna's parents Peter and Mary Hawes. Since taking on the farm they have introduced a single suckler herd of Sussex cattle. Deersbrook Farm is a family farm producing fantastic
and allow them to naturally grow up to 29 months,
British beef. In it's third generation, with the fourth
in line with UK Government guidelines. In 2015 they
growing up fast. Farming is a tough way to earn a
celebrated being high commended in the Field to
living but is one which the Blumfield's love and are
Fork category in the Fine Food and Drink Awards.
dedicated to; producing the best naturally delicious meat with the highest welfare standards that benefits Since taking on the farm, Anna and Phil have the livestock, environment and the consumer.
introduced a single suckler herd of Sussex cattle. Anna quoted, "We love the Sussex native breed as
Using traditional farming methods, cattle are turned
they thrive on pasture alone and have a lovely docile
out grazing on the meadows all year round. To
nature. As well as providing naturally flavoursome,
compliment this, hay, straw and silage are produced
tender meat for our customers". Since returning
by Deersbrook farm for winter feed and bedding.
to the family home, Anna has
Deesbrook keep their cattle to the highest welfare
started selling 100% pasture
standards and are farm assured by the Red Tractor,
fed beef from the farm gate, through farm shops and direct to
FACTFILE
restaurants. This also saw
LAND:
Pasture for Life Association.
them became Essex first 100% grass-fed cattle, certified by
41 hectares (100 acres) with grazing agreements across East Anglia
The home produced 100%
Join Deersbrook farm
STOCK:
certified grass feed beef is
in celebrating GBBW
350 continental suckler cattle, 55 pedigree
predominately from Deersbrook
on their meadows at
Sussex suckler cows
Native Sussex cattle. They are
the farm. Serving up
BREED:
reared on mature grassland to
the best of british
Sussex
provide a truly great tasting,
FINISHING:
nutritious beef. You'll find their
Continentals finished on cereals and soya at 23
beef to be a deep plumy red with
months. Sussex finished on 100% silage and hay
creamy coloured fat, showing that the cattle have
essential, please contact Anna on 01371 850671 or
at 26-29 months
lived on natural premium conditions. Deersbrook
by email deersbrookfarm@btinternet.com
MARKET:
allow the beef to dry age, maturing naturally on the
Continentals 400kg deadweight to supermarkets
bone for 28 days, to develop the flavour and texture
OPEN FARM SUNDAY: Come and discover
and Sussex at 350kg deadweight sold direct to
of the meat. Then their local traditional butcher
Deersbrook Farm on Sunday 11th June 2017 from
consumers.
prepares the vast range of cuts that they provide to
12am to 2.30pm. more information on the website
the public and restaurants.
www.deersbrookfarm.com
SUSSEX C AT T L E S O C I E T Y
beef from Deersbrook within a 3 course meal, paired with wine or beer. Booking is
GO SUSSEX FOR Profitability Economic Easy Management Quality Beef Production
16
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
FOOD
FOOD HEAVEN RUMP STEAK
BY LUKE FISHPOOL THE LEMONTREE, BISHOPS STORTFORD
Deersbrook farm rump steak with oyster mushrooms, baby vine tomatoes and peppercorn sauce. This recipe is one of Luke Fishpool of The Lemontree Bishops Stortford whom Deersbrook Farm supply with beef every week, delicious! INGREDIENTS 4 Deersbrook farm rump steak 250g Oyster mushroom 250g Baby vine tomatoes 1 Tbsp Green peppercorns 100ml Brandy
PREPARATION 30 MIN COOKING TIME 15 MIN SERVES 4
200ml Double cream 100ml concentrated red wine sauce
METHOD
Tomato & mushroom garnish
Pre heat the grill. Snip the baby vine tomatoes into smaller bunches, season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil and place on a baking tray.
Toss the oyster mushrooms with salt and pepper and olive oil, then place these next to the tomatoes. Place under the grill to cook.
Peppercorn sauce
Heat a sauce pan and add the green peppercorns and brandy. FlambĂŠ if your feeling brave or otherwise reduce the brandy until 1 tbsp remains.
Add the double cream and concentrated red wine sauce and simmer. Whisk and reduce until you've achieved a smooth sauce that coats the back of a spoon, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Cooking the steaks
Drizzle a little olive oil over the steaks. Heat a non stick frying pan until it starts to
smoke. Carefully place the steaks into the pan and leave them for 2 minutes
before turning. Allow the steaks to caramelise & drizzle a little more olive
oil over them if they are looking a little dry. Cook to your desired taste,
remove from the pan, season and rest for 5/10 minutes.
Presentation
Place the oyster mushrooms in the middle of the plate. Slice the rump
steaks and place on top of the mushrooms. Place the baby vine tomatoes
on top or tumbling off of the rump steaks. Sauce and serve with plenty
of chips and red wine!
HAVE A RECIPE OR FOOD STORY YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH? THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
17
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Admission £10 Under 16’s Free Main Sponsor
Commercial herd of 400 Aberdeen-Angus cross cows Farm Tour • Trade Stands • Beef Breed Exhibits • Practical Demonstrations • Seminar www.scottishbeefassociation.co.uk/scotlands-beef-event Features: Pre-book tickets, online trade stand booking Contact: natalie.cormack@btconnect.com or 01890 781006
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SPRING 2017
EVENT TIC ACCOMMODAKTETS AND DINNERION SEE INSIDE FRONT
COVER
EVENT PREVIEW NBA Beef Expo, the UK’s major annual event held on behalf of the British Beef Industry, will take place on Thursday 18th May 2017. The farm tours, always a key element of the event, will take place on Wednesday 17th May. Being Britain’s first major dedicated Beef Event post Brexit, there will of course be a focus on what this means for British Beef Farmers in terms of opportunities going forward. This is the first time that the Midlands have hosted this event for many years. The 2017 NBA Beef Expo will celebrate the very best that the British Beef industry has to offer, showcasing tremendous stock farms on the farm tours, and covering in depth all aspects of the industry itself. The NBA Beef Expo is considered a highlight of the Beef industry calendar for both pedigree and commercial breed societies to promote the quality of their cattle and visitors can expect to see some of the finest examples of British breeding anywhere in the UK. Bringing together the very best in British commercial and pedigree cattle, equipment, ground-breaking developments, and show classes for everyone involved in the industry, NBA Beef Expo is a celebration and exploration of everything British Beef has to offer.
18.05.17
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DATE FOR THE DIARY
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
SHOWCASING THE BEST OF BRITISH BEEF CATTLE
No fewer than 20 beef breed societies have reserved demonstration space to promote their breeds and it is anticipated that more than 200 cattle will be on display. The NBA Beef Expo is considered a major showcase for pedigree and commercial breed societies which want to promote the quality of their cattle. Thanks to this, the NBA Beef Expo displays some of the finest examples of British breeding anywhere in the UK. Farmers, exhibitors, agricultural companies and interested members of the public also use the annual event to network, do business and share knowledge, as well as seeing the crème de la crème of British beef cattle. “This must be the largest display of the different breeds of beef cattle ever seen in the Midlands and will give commercial beef producers a unique opportunity of assessing the merits of the different breeds,” said NBA Chief Executive, Chris Mallon. All breeds of commercial significance in the UK will be represented and will have breed experts on hand to discuss the particular advantages of their breed for commercial beef production. 2017 Beef Expo will also see the return of the National Commercial Cattle Show which brings together the highest quality commercial British Beef cattle from the length and breadth of the UK, all looking to take home a share of the £5,000 prize pot. This cattle show really is a true celebration of the British Beef industry and highlights the quality of breeding here in
CONFIRMED BEEF BREEDS TO BE REPRESENTED AT BEEF EXPO 2017 WILL BE: Aberdeen Angus Beef Improvement Group Ltd Beef Shorthorn British Bazadaise British Blue British Charolais British Limousin British Piemontese British Simmental British White Cattle Galloway Gascon Hereford Lincoln Red Longhorn Midland Blonde Club Red Poll Red Ruby Devon South Devon Sussex
the UK.
SLEEP EASY WITH SALERS In today’s world we are all looking for livestock which is cost effective and low maintenance. This is true of most of the Salers breeders in the UK and the reason why they chose Salers.
SLEEP EASY K E E P S A L E R S F O R E A S Y C A LV I N G T H E U LT I M AT E S U C K L E R B R E E D
Salers (pronounced Sa’lairs) originate in the southern half of the Massif Central in the Auvergne region of France. It has a rough and variable climate, and though higher (2,000-6,000ft), is very similar to our Lake District and the Highlands of Scotland and Wales. The Salers female displays excellent maternal qualities of fertility, milking ability, calving ease, hardiness and longevity. High percentage calf crops resulting from the inherent fertility of Salers are realised through early puberty, quick rebreeding and high conception rates, coupled with the breeds predictable calving ease and large pelvic structure. Further maternal advantage is realised through the Salers ability to wean a heavy calf and take care of herself. More kilograms at weaning result from the combination of good lactation and lean growth factors. Suckler cow herd costs are minimised through the breeds foraging ability, winter hardiness and minimal feet, eye and udder problems, Salers are known for longevity and “wearability” no doubt due to many of the factors stated, stress free calving, good feet and legs etc. Bulls are known for their ability to cover large numbers of females. Both dam and sire influence the weight and shape of the calf at birth, calves are relatively light, long and rather flat in shape, a feature which makes the Salers bull very popular for crossing with commercial and dairy heifers. www.salers-cattle.co.uk
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Smith Hill Farm Bower Slack Road Triangle Halifax HX6 3EZ
www.salers-cattle-society.co.uk
07903 626249 or 01422 820220 secretary@salers-cattle-society.co.uk
SPRING 2017
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
See what the breed can do for you at Beef Expo 2017!
BRITISH WHITE - THE SUPER SUCKLER YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF Once found mostly on the parkland of country estates, the British White is a breed which is now adapting itself to the needs of commercial suckler beef producers looking for an easy-kept, high-output cow for use with a terminal sire. Their mothering ability and feed efficiency have remained unchanged during the development of the modern breed and as a result, females are capable of producing heavy weaned calves at a lower cost to the farmer.
SUPER SUCKLERS
SPRING SALE Saturday 13th May 2017 Rugby Farmers Mart
Sale of pedigree British White cattle Ideal for use with a terminal sire 01400 230142 brtwhitecs@aol.com www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk
Beef finisher Paul Pennington from Bridgnorth in Shropshire has started utilising the breed’s efficiency for his own system: “We buy in, store and finish anything from dairy calves to cull cows to prime continental fat cattle, but to supply our local customers we needed something which had higher quality beef, and that was when we decided on British Whites. Throughout the process, we have come to realise that although, like many native breeds, the British White has all the traits for a niche market, they perform incredibly well on our commercial system. We try to out-winter most of the cattle and what is incredible to see is that in a bunch of stores, the commercials can either stand still in condition or go backwards, whereas the Whites actually gain weight - I’m really impressed with their ability to convert.” The BWCS breed stand will be in attendance at Beef Expo 2017 and welcomes all beef producers to come along and see what the British White can do for you. www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk
BEEF EXPO 2 TO HOST TH0E17 SOUTH DE PERFORMAVNON CHAMPIONS CE HIPS
SOUTH DEVONS' PERFORMANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2017 This year will see the National Beef Association host the the South Devons' Performance Championships within the Beef Expo event. Cattle will be judged based on both performance figures and inspection with entries from herds that are Breedplan performance recorded. Performance figures for bulls are accumulated in the ‘Quality Beef Index’ which includes carcase EBVs; and for heifers, the ‘Suckler Replacement Index’ is used which is weighted towards maternal characteristics. The South Devon breed originates from the South West and is the largest native beef breed. Originally dual purpose, until the 1960s where it evolved into purely a beef breed to compete with continentals. South Devons are renowned for their docility, maternal characteristics, milk yield, grazing conversion along with the meat quality and marbling characteristics of native cattle. Speaking about the event, Caroline Poultney the Breed Secretary of the South Devon Herd Book Society said “We feel that performance figures play a key role in the future of cattle breeding. As a society, we actively encourage herds to record performance to improve their herd selection process and improve sale prospects. The Performance Championships aim to celebrate those herds who are reaping the benefits of performance recording and showcase their quality cattle”. “NBA Beef Expo is an ideal venue as it is the only beef focused technical show in the country, with a specific target audience – commercial beef farmers who are keen to use every tool in the box to improve their own herd’s performance and profitability. We are also pleased to be sponsoring the farm tours including R G Elliott & Sons fantastic herd of South Devon cattle at their best, utilising grassland and forage to produce quality suckler herd replacement and stores.” www.sdhbs.org.uk THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
PERFORMANCE, DOCILITY, MILK, AND BEEF QUALITY
QUIETLY GOING PLACES!
The 8th NATIONAL SHOW of South Devons will be hosted by The Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge, Cornwall, 8th-10th June 2017
THE SDHBS IS DELIGHTED TO BE HOLDING ITS ANNUAL TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS WITHIN THE NBA BEEF EXPO AT STONELEIGH ON THURSDAY 18TH MAY 2017
SOUTH DEVON HERD BOOK SOCIETY, WESTPOINT, CLYST ST MARY, EXETER, DEVON, EX5 1DJ telephone: 01392 447494 email: info@sdhbs.org.uk
WWW.SDHBS.ORG.UK SPRING 2017
21
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
FARM TOURS AT BEEF EXPO 2017
TICKE AVAILAB FROM T WEBSIT
A diverse selection of beef farms all championing efficiencies in their relative sectors and showcasing the very best of British beef production.
The NBA are delighted to be visiting a fantastic variety of farm enterprises at this year’s Beef Expo farm tours held on the 17th May. Three exceptional farms have been selected, each championing efficiency in their relative sectors and showcasing some of the best of British beef production. The farm tours will commence at 09.00 from NAEC at Stoneleigh visiting the three farms throughout the day, returning to the NAEC for 17.00. The farm tour will also give visitors the chance to sample some of the Elliot’s delicious native beef with a hot beef lunch, prepared in their family butchery and served up on farm to visitors. Commenting on the farm tours, Chris Mallon, Chief Executive of the NBA stated “It is fantastic to be able to take beef farmers to visit such a diverse range of farms, giving a snapshot of the variety within our industry. We hope the tours act as a knowledge sharing exercise, allowing farmers to view new ideas in practise, some of which they can take home and apply within their own businesses. We would like to extend our thanks to the farm tour hosts for their kind hospitality in allowing the NBA to access their operations.”
Upper Heyford Farm, Tom and Roger Elliott
FACTFILE ONE
Technical performance: • 97% of calves born over 12-week calving period.
FARM: Tom and Roger Elliott R G Elliott and Son
• 96% of calves reared per 100 cows.
farm, deli and butchers shop
• Steers weaning at 375kg at 7-8months.
LAND: 1,350 acres of parkland and pasture
• Heifers reach 400kg at 15 months for bulling to calve at 2 years.
(1,300 rented, 50 owned)
• Profitable with no subsidies on the 1,300 acres of rented land.
STOCK: 300 suckler cattle, 700 pedigree and commercial sheep BREED: Beef Shorthorn, South Devon and Saler cross cattle. Saler, Angus and Shorthorn bulls. SYSTEM: Spring calving herd, producing replacement heifers and cows with calves at foot sold at farm gate as well as stores and finished animals to feed into the premium Morrison’s Shorthorn scheme. The business also runs a two successful butcher’s shops, one of which has now diversified into a deli.
ROGER AND TO M ELLIOTT CREDIT: LIZ SN AITH
Keys to success:
• Excellent grass management and control on feed costs restricting cattle feed to hay, straw and mineral licks thought the winter and utilising grass along with high quality calf nut to creep feed steer calves. • Investment in quality genetics, importing Australian and American genetics and selection of bulls within the top 10% bulls for milk, ease of calving and 200 day weights. • High health status with all pedigree cattle accredited in the CheCS Health Scheme and annual BVD checks run on young stock. • A strong background in butchery, and meat quality which has led to the creation of a flexible, market focused business, producing a quality product for a high-end market.
We firmly believe in native breeds. From our experience in butchery we believe too much emphasis has been put on conformation of cattle rather than eating quality. We aim to produce a premium quality product which gives our customers a great experience when they buy and eat our beef.
Upper Coton Farm, Mike, Jane and Charlie Wills
FACTFILE TWO
Technical performance:
Keys to success:
• Bulls steers and heifers achieving average
• Selection of young high conforma
FARM: Mike, Jane and Charlie Wills Upper Coton Farm, Northampton
growth rates of 1.6kg, 1.3kg and 1.15kg
12 months of age.
LAND: 700 acres of arable land
DLWG respectively, finishing at ages of 15, 17
• The family’s attention to detail is
STOCK: 1300 stores finished per annum
and 16 months.
price is calculated considering cu
BREED: High conformation (U-/U+ grade) majority Limousin cattle
• Cattle are sold at 3/4L reaching weights
• Utilisation of live markets for sou
SYSTEM: An approved finishing unit (AFU) holding 620-800 cattle at any one time.
520-580kg for heifers, 620-680kg for steers
of individual exceptional animals
The AFU finishes approx. 25 cattle a week, sold live through the Selby auction mart.
and 650-700kg for bulls.
• Use of home grown wheat, barley
Stores are sourced from livestock markets across Wales, Cumbria and Shropshire.
• Mortality <1% for the unit.
rations on farm at a minimum cos
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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
Tickets are now available, priced at £30 per person to include all transport. A combined ticket for the Farm Tours and 2017 NBA Beef Expo for NBA members is £35, and for non NBA members is £40. Bookings can be made online, under the visitor section, or by contacting the NBA Head Office on 01434 601005.
BERRYFIELDS FAR
M
Berryfields Farm, John Bell
FACTFILE THREE
Technical performance: • Calves enter the unit at 16 weeks (120-140kg) and leave the unit at 49-51 weeks (600kg) achieving DLWGs of 1.39kg per day. • Average FCRs of cattle finished on Berrystock feeding system are 6.48.
FARM: John Bell,
• Berrystock Feeds produce 45,000-48,000 tonnes a year of high quality.
Berrystock Feeds
UFAS accredited feed, 50% of which is used for Johns own cattle enterprises.
and Berryfields Farm,
Keys to success:
Daventry LAND: 980 acres of Arable land
• Adoption of a fully integrated supply chain from calf sourcing to the end
STOCK: 2,200 finished
processor, helping to achieve consistency and customer satisfaction.
steers per annum
• Continual development of feed rations through on-farm feeding trials
BREED: Black and white
which monitor feed efficiency and the results of which are used to
cattle supplied through
constantly improve the rations.
Meadow Quality
• Utilisation of a barley/wheat bank system using homegrown grain from
SYSTEM: An approved
Berryfields Farm and grain from other local farms helping to ensure supply
finishing unit (AFU).
and reduce risk.
Dairy bred calves are
• Incorporation of AGRI KING enzymes in rations to help further enhance
supplied on contract
digestibility and nutrient metabolism.
through Meadow
Meadow Quality will be presenting on the tour day alongside John Bell to
Quality. Calves are
explain the benefits of an integrated supply chain for all parties involved,
reared using specifically
and to highlight how this system is suited to new entrants wishing to become
formulated Berrystock
involved within the beef sector.
Feeds to finish the animals at of 600 620kg LW to supply into the Co-op and Lidl through Dunbia. The system relies on quality calves and efficient feeds to maximise FCR and profits.
Conformation in young cattle is key. If a calf that is less than 12 months old has achieved a weight of 400kg this indicates has it has a good Food Conversion Ratio (FCR) and is likely to do well on the unit. We favour live markets as it allows for the selection of individual exceptional animals, instead of batches of cattle that vary in quality. We calculate the efficiency and profit for each individual animal and repeatedly buy from farms whose stock perform well.
Farmers are always wary of cooperation, yet through working together in schemes such as this we are giving more power to the producer. This system champions consistency; buying uniform calves, feeding high quality accredited feed and producing uniform carcases with high meat quality, which is required to ensure consumer satisfaction. UPPER COTTON
ation (U-/U+) animals ideally, those that have achieved 400kg at less than second to none, in advance of purchasing animals an estimated buying
urrent feed costs, beef price, calf weight, age and conformation.
urcing and selling of cattle. This sourcing technique allows for the selection
s that will do well on the unit.
y and maize, by-products and minerals to blend quality grower and finisher
FARM
JOIN THE
TODAY AS A MNBA EM FOR ONLY £75BER (STUDENTS £4 SEE PAGE 48 F 0) MORE DETAILSOR
st per kilo DLWG.
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SPRING 2017
23
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
ETS BLE THE TE
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
THE RENOWNED
NBA CATTLE SHOW
SHOW CATTLE CLASSES: CLASS 1. Sponsor: NSF Agriculture Heifer by a Registered Native Sire CLASS 2. Sponsor: Mole Valley Farmers Steer by a Registered Native Sire CLASS 3. Sponsor: SAI Global Steer by any other Registered Continental Sire CLASS 4. Sponsor: Kinroy Design
All entries for the National Commercial Cattle Show (NCCS) are now in, and arrived thick and fast. There are a total of 11 cattle classes in the competition, with four championships and a supreme championship, and include classes for Native, Continental, British Blue and Limousin-sired steers and heifers. Also part of the schedule are baby steer and heifer classes, as well as the ever popular Young Handlers class. NBA Beef Expo brings together the highest quality commercial British Beef cattle from the length and breadth of the UK, all looking to take home a share of the £5000 prize pot in the National Commercial Cattle Show 2017. The winner of each class will be awarded £100, with section champions also receiving £100, and reserve £50. The Supreme Champion will walk away with a prize of £500, and reserve £250, whilst the Baby Beef Champion will receive £200 and reserve, £100. All Championship prizes are generously sponsored by Crystalyx.
Judging at the show are two highly successful beef industry stalwarts who are renowned for their pedigree and commercial cattle. Colin Phillips from Herefordshire will judge the Native and Continental classes together with the Supreme championships, whilst the Baby Beef classes, Baby Championship and Young Handlers will be judged by Mark Hallam from Derbyshire. Chris Mallon commented, “We are extremely proud of our British beef breeding in the UK, and the National Commercial Cattle Show is one of the highlights giving all visitors the opportunity to see some of the very best cattle in the industry.”
Steer by a Registered British Blue Sire CLASS 5. Sponsor: Showtime Supplies Steer by a Registered Limousin Sire CLASS 6. Sponsor: Hexham & Northern Marts Baby Steer (12 months & under) up to and including 425kgs by a Registered Sire CLASS 7. Sponsor: Utilitywise
CLASS 8. Sponsor: Woodhead Bros / Morrisons Heifer by any other Registered Continental Sire CLASS 9. Sponsor: J G Animal Health
CLASS 10. Sponsor: Limousin Cattle Society Heifer by a Registered Limousin sire CLASS 11. Sponsor: Askham Bryan College Young Handler, 14 years to 21 years
National Commercial Cattle Show Entries Guide available on the day
FARMERS WEEKLY AWARDS: BEEF FARMER OF THE YEAR 2017 Enter or nominate NOW for the Farmers Weekly Awards - awards.fwi.co.uk Are you a successful beef farmer with a vision for the future? If so then join the growing band of Farmers Weekly Award winners championing the British farming industry. The winner of this category will be producing high quality cattle to
Closing Date for Entries 30 April 2017. Awards Night 5 October 2017
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Heifer by a Registered British Blue sire
CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSOR
meet the ever-increasing consumer and environmental demands.
Baby Heifer (12 months & under) up to and including 425 kgs by a Registered Sire
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
FUTURE BEEF FARMER CHALLENGE AT BEEF EXPO
Forward thinking beef farmers are invited to take part as individuals or teams at the industry showcase event for our third year running. The NBA will be hosting the ever so popular competition, Future Beef Farmer in conjunction with AHBD. The competition is aimed at getting the younger
genetics and health, visiting trade stands of industry membership is £75).
generation more involved with important aspects of
experts to demonstrate their skills in each sector.
beef production, with questionnaires surrounding
Amy Fawcett, Knowledge Transfer Officer Beef
genetics, selection, health and nutrition. This year’s
NBA Director Chris Mallon said: “There really is
and Lamb , AHDB commented, “AHDB are very
hosts and sponsors for the relevant sections of the
no competition like the Future Beef Challenge
pleased to be running the competition again at this
competition are Farmskills and XLVets (health),
anywhere else in the UK and we’re delighted to
years' NBA Beef Expo, like the NBA we put a large
Berrystock Feeds (Nutrition) and AHDB Beef & Lamb host this competition at Beef Expo 2017. This
focus in supporting the next generation of beef
(genetics and selection). This year’s prizes included
competition is designed to challenge both, and
farmers coming through into the industry. We feel
1 years free membership for the NBA, FarmSkills
we are delighted that it is to become such an
the competition is a great way of showcasing the
training vouchers, Great Yorkshire show tickets and
integral part of our annual NBA Beef Expo.”
talent of our young farmers as well as acting as a
AHDB Beef & Lamb and FarmSkills goody bags.
knowledge sharing exercise. With some great prizes The competition comes as part of the National
on offer I would encourage all 16-36 year olds to
The winning team will be awarded the NBA’s Duke
Beef Association’s recent campaign to embrace
sign up and get involved.”
of Northumberland Trophy while the winner of
a new generation of beef farmers and the launch
the open class will receive the NBA Frank Momber
of their young member’s discount allowing those
To sign up to the competition please visit the
Memorial Trophy. Competitors will be judged on
with an interest in the beef industry aged 16-
website to download the booking form or register
carcass selection and their knowledge of nutrition,
25 to become a member for just £40 (standard
on the day on the AHDB Stand.
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SPRING 2017
25
BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW
SPECIALIST SEMINARS Beef Expo 2017 seminars provide NBA with a huge opportunity to further raise its profile and positioning by helping visitors to improve their enterprise’s profitability and sustainability by careful selection of topics. They offer advice, information and thought provoking ideas, the majority
TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM THE WEBSITE
of which can be taken home and implemented the following day. And they’re all free of charge. Time table may be subject to change. 9.30am ORGANICS Four short talks highlighting the benefits of adopting an organic system on farm. The session will be chaired by Peter Jones of the Organic Livestock Marketing Co-operative and will conclude with a Q&A session. - Liz Bowles, Head of Farming, The Soil Association Topic: The Benefits of Beef Production on Organic Arable Farms - Matt Johnson, Organic Beef & Sheep Farmer and Butcher Topic: Producing Organic Beef and Running a Butchers Shop - Tim Leigh, OLMC Finished Stock Marketing Manager Topic: Marketing Cattle to Maximise Returns - Wayne Copp, Organic Producer Topic: Farming North Devon Cattle 11.00am HEALTH Three topical health seminars, highlighting key health issues within the industry; BVD, Cryptosporidium and Chronic Liver Fluke, and the latest research available to help overcome such issues on a herd basis and as an industry. - TBC, Boehringer Ingelheim Topic: Why tag dead calves? Insights from the National BVD Survey 2017 - Dr Frank Katzer, Senior Scientist at Moredun Foundation Topic: Cryptosporidium in Cattle - Merial Vets, speaking on Liver Fluke 12.30pm FINISHER FORUM An exciting forum encompassing all aspects of finisher production from policy to production efficiencies. - Dr.Jamie-Leigh Douglas, Technical Support manager, AB Vista Nutrition Topic: Improving efficiencies to Champion Profitability - Bill Harper, Trustee Director of the NBA Topic: Policy changes for Finisher Units - Processor TBC, speaking on future beef supply 14.00pm BREEDING SEMINAR A forward thinking seminar looking into the future of cattle breeding. - TBC Mark Smith, Genus Beef Genetics - Alison Glasgow, Limousin Cattle Society Topic: Limousin Breeding Improvement Adding Value for Commercial Producers 15.15pm INTERGRATED BEEF SUPPLY Three industry leading speakers presenting the benefits of an integrated beef system followed by a Q&A session. - Matt Nightingale, CEO of Meadow Quality - John Bell, CEO of Berryfields Farm and Berrystock Feeds - Dr Amiee Hafla, Beef Nutritionist, AGRI-KING Ltd.
acidbuf
BEEF INDUSTRY DINNER The NBA Beef Expo - Beef Industry Dinner will be held on the evening of the 17th May in the Warwick Hall at Stoneleigh Park. This is a sit-down three course dinner with the best of British beef. A perfect opportunity to network with people in the beef sector. Tickets are priced at £40 and can be booked on the website www.beefexpo.co.uk DINNER SPONSOR
Beefing up profits for farmers
Driving Efficiency, Delivering Profitability
£38 mor e £20 bigg er
Smaller feed bill
acidbuf
A healthier rumen environment
£18 smal
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26
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cheque
ler feed bill £38 mor e pro per anim fit al
Higher revenue
Improves feed efficiency
By stabilising pH levels over 8 hours, Acid Buf helps to create an optimal rumen environment for microbes to function productively. The result of an enhanced rumen environment is greater feed
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profit
To increase farm profitability
efficiency. By increasing production by 5.4% from the same feed, Acid Buf can reduce the cost of production and increase farm earnings.
acidbuf
Please contact AB Vista for any enquiries. AB Vista (Ireland) Ltd, Unit 4, 211 Castle Road, Randalstown, Co. Antrim BT41 2EB T +44 (0)2894 473478 | E info@abvista.com | W abvista.com
25/11/2016 10:55
SPRING 2017
SPONSORED FEATURE
MEADOW QUALITY AND
BERRYFIELDS FARM Once you sit down with John Bell his highly infectious enthusiasm for the British Beef Industry is immediately apparent. John’s dedication to producing beef that has known provenance and is farmed through a systematic, consistent and repeatable approach is what he believes will keep consumers coming back to eat high quality, succulent British Beef on a regular basis. John has created his own totally integrated
loin and into the top with a good even 3/4L finish.
even certain dairy sires that produce calves that
beef system that takes a reared calf through to
John mixes all the feed himself again using one
outperform their contemporaries, all part of the
processing stage. The production “blueprint” that
standardised feed ration formulated by his own
plan to add as much precision to the farming
he replicates in large volumes all starts with a
nutritionist, that is fed to all animals on the unit.
system that John has built up to date.
reared black & white calf from the dairy industry
John also has a selective few local satellite farms
that Meadow Quality select on his behalf. This
that grow and finish cattle for him. They use the
provides even batches of Holstein Friesian calves
same tried and trusted formula which allows John
that are reared to pre-agreed age, weight and
to extend the number of cattle that he is then
health specifications.
able to market on a weekly basis. Cattle are also weighed and monitored regularly to ensure that
To ensure the repeatability element of the supply
they are growing at a rate in line with expectations
chain, calves come through one of four specialist
of 1.4-1.5kg daily live weight gain through their
Meadow Quality calf rearing units. These units
10-11 months at Berryfields.
are contracted to produce even batches of up to 60 calves at a time that reach c130 kg live-weight
Cattle are marketed in batches of 40 per week
when they move on to John’s near 1,000 acre
and by aiming for a 600kg live-weight finish,
Berryfields Farm unit in Daventry. The calves that
the average carcass weights the cattle
John then receives have been reared under one
regularly achieve are in excess of
health plan, overseen by one vet, and all reared
310kg with all animals being within a
using the same protocols for each calf. This creates
30kg spread from lightest to heaviest,
a near uniform group of stock for his team to work
to reach the same 3/4L finish. This
with. The next element of the chain is to grow
produces beef which is the same
these batches of calves through to finish. The
throughout in colour, texture, flavour,
target finish is 600kg live-weight at approximately
tenderness with the same very even
15 months of age. 10 to 11 months of this is spent
cover of fat, which suits the requirements
at John’s Berryfields farm.
of the processor and retailer markets. By then analysing the end results in
John finishes around 2,000 cattle per year on this
the system, John and Meadow Quality
system. The aim is to grow framey animals with
can look to make informed decisions
optimal fleshing on the shoulders, through the
about certain dairy unit suppliers and
Supporting British Beef Meadow Quality Calves
Weekly Calf Collections in both Shropshire & Wiltshire Twice monthly restricted collections BVD testing prior to movement on request Professional rearers providing a strong weaned animal to order
01789 734 100
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Meadow Quality Cattle
Large choice of processors to maximise returns On farm advice from a local member of the field team Store cattle bought and sold to our nationwide customer base Guaranteed payments
www.meadowq.co.uk
SPRING 2017
27
FINISHING PERFORMANCE According to a recent University of Milan beef finishing trial, replacing sodium bicarbonate with a slow release rumen conditioner can produce a significant 7% increase in growth rate plus a 5% improvement in feed efficiency. The change also reduced the incidence of bloat, lameness and aggressive behaviour. The trial was carried out over 130 days using
intensively finished cattle, such as bloat, lameness
126 Charolais bulls, growing from around 530 kg
and aggressive behaviour.”
further improvement in profitability.” According to Dr McIlmoyle, the gains in performance
LW to finishing at 750 kg LW. Cattle were housed in pens of seven, and fed an ad lib mixed ration
When completed, the trial showed that although
come from a more efficient rumen fermentation,
based on maize silage and brewers’ grains for the
average feed intake across the trial remained
the direct result of improved rumen pH when using
duration of the trial. “The only difference was that
the same for both groups, there was a significant
the slow release conditioner. Although sodium
the ration fed to half the pens also contained 80g/
increase in average daily gain from 1.57 kg/day to
bicarbonate has been used to control rumen acidity
head/day of a standard sodium bicarbonate rumen
1.65 kg/day for cattle receiving the slow release
for many years, it’s now known to achieve this by
buffer, whilst the others received 40g/head/day of
conditioner. As a result, feed conversion ratio
increasing rumen outflow rates, thereby reducing
the calcareous marine algae-based slow release
(FCR) – measured as the kg of feed required to
starch availability in the rumen and damaging feed
rumen conditioner Acid Buf,” explains Dr Derek
produce one kg of weight gain – improved from
efficiency. “Controlling rumen pH and preventing
McIlmolye, AB Vista’s Technical Director for GB and
7.36 down to 6.98 (see Table 1). No differences
acidosis is particularly important when feeding high
Ireland.
were recorded in carcass weight, confirmation, fat
starch – and high potential acid loading – finishing
score, or killing out percentage.
rations, and the gains in feed efficiency can be
Average feed intake for each pen measured daily, with all cattle weighed four times during the
Table 1 – Impact of slow release rumen conditioner on beef finishing (Source: AB Vista, 2016)
trial to determine growth rate. In addition, data
Sodium Bicarbonate
on carcass weight, confirmation, fat score and
Acid Buf
Difference +110g/day
killing out percentage was collected at slaughter. “To evaluate health, the cattle were inspected
Liveweight gain (kg/day)
1.57
1.68
twice daily by the research unit veterinarian,” Dr
Dry matter intake (kg/day)
11.51
11.52
ns*
McIlmoyle continues. “Temperament was assessed
Feed conversion ratio
7.36
6.98
-0.38
Bloat incidence
1
0
-1
Cases of lameness
5
1
-4
Aggressive behaviours
7
2
-5
by monitoring behaviour both during handling operations and at four separate times during the trial, each of which involved two hours observing the cattle in their pens. “The aim was not only to assess any improvement in feed efficiency and growth, but also to evaluate the potential
“A 110 g/day increase in growth rate for no extra
substantial,” he adds. “Just as important are the
impact on the typical problems associated with
feed intake – and minimal additional cost for the
reductions in bloat and lameness, both of which
slow release conditioner – is a substantial 7%
reduce cattle performance and increase costs,
gain in performance,” Dr McIlmoyle states. “In a
whilst a lower incidence of aggressive behaviour
commercial situation, that would potentially allow
can help lift growth rates by cutting wasted energy
cattle to be finished up to 7-10 days earlier. “Not
and stress.”
only would this reduce feed consumption for the finishing period by maybe 5-8%, but it would also
Although temperament appeared similar for
allow more cattle to be finished each year for a
both groups of cattle during handling, observing behaviour in the pens and noting incidence of fighting and mounting did highlight a difference. By day 120 of the trial, the 63 cattle receiving
For more information please email info@abvista.com or call +44 (0)2894 473478
www.abvista.com 28
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
* Difference not statistically significant.
SPONSORED FEATURE
SLOW RELEASE CONDITIONER IMPROVES
SPONSORED FEATURE
DR DEREK MCILMOLYE, AB VISTA’S TECHNICAL DIRECTOR FOR GB AND IRELAND
the slow release conditioner were showing clear signs of a reduction in aggressive behaviour, with just two incidences of fighting or mounting during the two hour observation period, compared to seven in the cattle fed sodium bicarbonate. “This change in behaviour matches anecdotal evidence from use of Acid Buf on-farm,” Dr McIlmoyle explains. “It occurs because of the bio-available magnesium in the conditioner, which likely has an overall calming effect on the cattle. “Taken together, these improvements can add up to a substantial lift in feed efficiency, margin per head and overall beef unit profitability. Given the current pressure on margins, it’s a potential increase in performance few can afford to ignore.”
CALLING ALL FINISHERS: 2ND – 4TH MAY AB VISTA ON-FARM MEETINGS MEETINGS START AT 6.30PM AND INCLUDE:
HOW TO IMPROVE FEED EFFICIENCY AND DAILY WEIGHT GAIN IN FINISHING BEEF NBA UPDATE ON CURRENT WORK INCLUDING THE LATEST BREXIT NEWS SITE WALK OF FINISHING UNIT/UNIVERSITY BEEF UNIT FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS
TUESDAY 2ND MAY SAM CHESNEY, BEEF FARMER AND DARD FOCUS FARM, KIRCUBBIN, NORTHERN IRELAND
ON-FARM MEETING
ON-FARM MEETING
ON-FARM MEETING
WEDNESDAY 3RD MAY HARPER ADAMS FINISHING UNIT, KINDLY HOSTED BY SIMON MARSH THURSDAY 4TH MAY OSGOODBY GRANGE, SELBY, KINDLY HOSTED BY DOUG DEAR
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
29
ADVERTORIAL
TRACE ELEMENTS
AND FERTILITY
BY DR ELIZABETH BERRY BVSC, PHD, MRCVS ANIMAX COMPANY VETERINARY DIRECTOR
While genetics have an influence on fertility, so does nutrition. Good fertility, energy and protein cannot be ignored and have to be considered in spring block calving herds, if grass growth is limited. Fertility issues can be complex and multi-factorial. Another influence on fertility is the trace element status of the cow. Trace elements are a fundamental component of multiple enzymes (compounds that control the speed of body reactions) and some hormones. They are essential for cell metabolism and many other body functions, including energy production, growth, reproduction and the nervous system. The common trace elements that can be deficient
documented as a cause of reproductive problems,
in cattle are copper, cobalt, selenium and iodine.
along with other conditions. Copper in excess is toxic
• weather – heavy rain can result in soil ingestion
Less common are deficiencies in manganese, zinc
and the amount added to their diet is controlled to
or rapid grass growth and lower levels of some trace
and iron. All can be responsible to some extent for
prevent this, but a high-yielding dairy cow that is fed
elements
fertility issues. A deficiency in trace elements will
to yield, can consume more copper in her diet than
• season – spring grass can be high in sulphur
result in a variety of subtle symptoms that are often
is ideal. Copper supplementation should be made
• interactions with other trace elements
not noticed until the deficiency is rectified. Cobalt,
following discussion with your vet and using as safe a
copper, selenium, manganese, zinc and iron are all
method as possible.
This means there is no guarantee that trace element status will be the same throughout the farming year.
involved in essential enzyme reactions and these have an influence on fertility, through functions
Cobalt is involved in crucial enzymes for energy
The demands of the cow at crucial times such as
such as normal cell turnover and growth. Iodine is
production and the prevention of anaemia. Cows
calving, can also result in a greater requirement for
essential for the production of the thyroid hormone
are able to use cobalt in their diet, using rumen
certain trace elements. With a system relying on
which determines cell metabolism.
bacteria, to produce vitamin B12 which is then
grass and cows at pasture, providing good access to
absorbed into the blood and turned into cobalt
reliable sources of trace elements can be challenging.
Cows that are not cycling due to poor body
enzymes. There is evidence that in cobalt-deficient
Traditionally, trace elements can be added to mineral
condition, anaemia or uterine infections, all of
cows, conception rates are reduced. Cows treated
licks, water supplementation or in a total ration
which can arise due to trace element deficiencies,
with cobalt also showed stronger oestrous, while
formulation. Some minerals are unpalatable in water
will also display decreased sexual behaviour.
in rams there is evidence of an increase in sperm
and mineral licks can attract other wildlife and possible
Fertility includes:
count. The detrimental effects of iodine deficiency
disease risks. Ensuring each animal has the right
• Egg development
in domestic farm animals have been recognised for
amount of trace elements every day, and avoiding
• Development of embryo
many years. This is manifested as the syndrome
toxicity, always have to be concerns. Drenches do
• Correct uterine function
of hypothyroidism, which historically has been
provide this option, but have to be repeated frequently
• Improved immune system
attributed to a primary deficiency of iodine in the
as they usually do not last longer than a few weeks.
• Implantation of embryo
diet. However, it is only relatively recently that the
• Improved expression of oestrus
effect of goitrogens has been established and more
The original Teagasc work with Phil Rogers and Les
• Decreased early embryonic death
recently still, that interactions with other trace
Porter from Animax on a slow-release leaching bolus
elements have been shown.
demonstrated that trace elements, in this case iodine, could be given in this form. It demonstrated positive
The early work on copper was carried out in Australia and some of the early work on selenium in the USA.
Selenium, as well as copper, can also be toxic in
effects in all types of systems, from fattening and
The work of Dr Phil Rogers, Teagasc and Dr Les
excess and the initial work on this trace element
breeding beef animals to dairy herds. A long-lasting
Porter, Animax founder and vet, was ground-breaking
focused on this toxic aspect. However, selenium also
leaching bolus can give a consistent dose of the
in the area of iodine and supplementation of this
has a vital role in immune function and the discovery
essential trace elements to the individual animal. By
trace element. It is impossible to list in terms of
that glutathione peroxidase (an enzyme) prevents
contrast, minerals given in the form of licks or buckets
importance the trace elements, and often if one
tissue damage from free radicals, was a major
which are added to a ration, will contain lower levels
trace element is deficient there can be an imbalance
breakthrough. The role of selenium in areas such as
of selenium in particular. This is because some trace
of the others. This should always be considered,
uterine function and reducing retained cleansings
elements can be toxic and unless the intake can be
as supplementing one element may then highlight
highlights how important this trace element is in the
controlled, individual animals can eat too much. The
a deficiency in another. However, copper is often
area of fertility.
leaching technology in Animax boluses allows some of
the first trace element considered in fertility issues.
The availability of trace elements can be
the highest levels of the essential trace elements with
Copper deficiency arises either due to a primary
influenced by:
a consistent release over the five to six months life of
lack of copper in the diet or due to tie-up of copper
• soil type – sandy soil versus heavy clay soil
the bolus. In summary, it can be seen that nutrition
by antagonists, molybdenum, sulphur and iron, or
• forage type – brassicas and clover which tie up
and trace elements are vital for optimising fertility in
a combination of both. Copper deficiency is well
iodine
dairy cows.
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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
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EDUCATIONAL THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
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GUEST VET
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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
LEANNE FORD
GUEST VET
GUEST VET
E
LEANNE FORDE PREVENTATIVE HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS IN BEEF CATTLE GOING OUT TO GRASS It is that time of year where grass growth is our focus. Farmers are itching to turn out their cattle and we are all in hope of dry weather and plenty of grass. Generally, when cattle are turned out we hope to see fewer problems. Most people are very aware of the challenge to livestock from gastrointestinal worms and liver fluke when at pasture. There is a lot of attention in the farm press given to anthelmintic and flukicide resistance and a more strategic approach to controlling these parasites. That said, there are still many other diseases we must consider. This article will touch on diseases which can be taken for granted but can have a huge impact on herd productivity if not managed. Lungworm: When we think about worm control,
as needles or concurrent fluke. Once an animal is
within the udder, regular stripping out is required
we often rely on pour-ons and drenches to control
infected treatment is likely to be of no value and
as part of the treatment in order to drain the pus
worm burdens. However, when it comes to
the animal will die. Cases of disease can be seen as
along with a course of injectable antibiotics and
lungworm, anthelmintics are not necessarily the
one animal or an outbreak of several in the herd. It
anti inflammatories. With such a poor outcome for
best answer to preventing disease. In fact, the
is also worth noting that these diseases can affect
this disease the associated risk of flies needs to be
use of anthelmintics to treat lungworm infections
the strongest animals. The vaccines are relatively
controlled.
in cattle has caused fatal clinical disease in adult
cheap and effective if administered correctly. If just
cattle. Thankfully, there is a more sustainable
one animal is prevented from death, it will cover the
Flies: Summer mastitis has been highlighted
solution for preventing lung worm disease in
cost of the vaccine. The vaccine requires an initial
here and associated with flies, but we must also
cattle. The gold standard approach to lungworm
course of two injections followed by an annual
remember that flies and other insects are a risk
control in cattle is through vaccination. The vaccine
booster pre turn out.
factor for many other diseases. This year we have had confirmed cases of Schmallenberg virus
available is an oral vaccine given to calves from 8 weeks old. Two doses are given four weeks apart
Summer mastitis: Summer mastitis can affect dry,
affecting our cattle, another disease spread by
with the second dose given two weeks pre turn out.
or lactating heifers and cows, as well as bulls. It
midges. With warmer weather becoming apparent
The vaccine contains lungworm larvae that cannot
is referred to as ‘summer mastitis’ or ‘august bag’,
in the UK the fly season is getting longer every year.
cause disease but initiate an immune response to
as it tends to occur in the late summer period.
Flies can also come overseas and survive in our
lungworm. The immune response generated to lung
Transmission of infection is via flies, which are
increasingly milder climates. With the re-emergence
worm is strong and long lasting so boosters are not
present in greater numbers in the summer. A
of Schmallenberg, we must be mindful that we are
usually required.
mixture of bacteria’s are often cultured from
at risk of other fly borne diseases coming to the UK.
cases but all result in a very severe mastitis with Clostridial disease: Clostridial diseases such as
multiple abscesses within the affected quarter. The
Fly worry can also affect the productivity of cattle
‘blackleg’ are one of the most common causes
majority of cases will cause permanent damage
too so make sure your cattle are fly free this
of sudden death in cattle at grass. Very effective
to affected quarters, resulting in loss of function
summer. There are many products and potions on
vaccinations are available to protect against
and in bulls it can affect long term fertility due to
the market for controlling flies. Pour on products
clostridial diseases, however, these vaccines
elevation in temperature and the close proximity
can be very effective if used properly. Problems
are often overlooked. There are several types of
to the testicles. In the worst cases it can be fatal.
with fly control arise when the follow up treatments
clostridial disease and they are generally associated
Treating cases in a suckler herd is time consuming
are not administered so stick to the duration of
with changes in land, use of dirty equipment such
and sometimes dangerous. Due to the abcessation
effectiveness stated on the label.
SUMMARY Although discussing disease can sound rather negative, we should see the positive in that all the diseases discussed are preventable. Although preventative treatment is perceived to have high labour and medicine costs, we must always look at the bigger picture and the added value. The labour of an orphaned suckler calf out at grass is a lot higher than an afternoon of vaccinating. Equally, lungworm vaccinated calves can prevent an outbreak of clinical disease in much older cattle when a lot more investment has been put into them. There are many infectious diseases that have not been discussed in this article, but please do not forget to keep up to date with IBR, BVD and Leptospirosis vaccinations during the turn out period. Speak to your vet to health plan for this year’s summer at grass. Bishopton Veterinary Group. Collection Points: East Cowton, Leyburn; Pateley Bridge; Easingwold, Ripon, York T: 01765 602396 E: farming@bishoptonvets.co.uk www.bishoptonvets.co.uk THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
33
ANIMAL HEALTH
REAPING THE BENEFITS OF BETTER GRASSLAND MANAGMENT
BY SARAH PICK SCIENTIFIC OFFICER. AHDB
An AHDB Beef & Lamb funded project is helping four English beef farmers boost their returns from grass. The beef from grass project which commenced in October 2015 has linked four mentor grassland beef and dairy producers with four beef producers who wished to significantly improve their current performance from grass and the rewards of such a relationship are starting to come to fruition. Working with the consultants Marc Jones (ADAS) and Charlie Morgan (Independent grassland
THE NETWORK OF BEEF FARMERS TAKING PART IN THE BEEF FROM GRASS PROJECT
specialist) alongside Simon Marsh and Kate
Name
Location System
Phillips from Harper Adams University, the beef
Graham Parks
Cheshire
Finishing 200 dairy bred beef cattle
from grass project is trying to demonstrate how
Andrew Crow
Shropshire
180 Stabiliser suckler cows, plus finishers
improved grassland management can boost profit
Matt Pilkington
Warwickshire
Grass-based dairy system
and animal performance.
Tim Phipps
Northamptonshire
136 Stabiliser suckler cows, plus finishers
Catherine Pickford
Somerset
Grass-based dairy system
The project has three specific targets for each
Matthew House
Somerset
122 Angus cross suckler cows, calves sold as stores
improver farm which affect profitability by cutting
Stephen Thorne
Devon
90 Angus cross suckler cows, calves sold as stores
the costs of production and by increasing output.
plus 150 dairy bred beef cattle
These are:
Rob Priest
60 Stabiliser suckler cows, plus finishers
Devon
1. A decrease in the number of days cattle are housed.
Grassland utilisation
2. An increase in stocking rates across the
There is huge potential to improve grassland utilisation in the UK. Utilisation is often below 50%
platform.
in a set stocked system but can be as high as 80% with good grazing management. Generally with
3. An increase in growth rate from grazing and
a strategy that gives grass a rest, so that stock are moved to another field, the yield will go up by
silage/forage.
around 20%.
A GUIDE TO EXPECTED UTILISATION ACCORDING TO DIFFERENT SITUATIONS
Importance of grass Grass rarely earns the respect it deserves as a
Strategy
Useable yield
Percentage
potentially high quality, ruminant feed. It is the
(t DM/ha)
increase
cheapest feed on farm at 6p/kg dry matter (DM)
Set stocking
6.0
50
4.3
compared to concentrates at 23p/kg DM and
Continuous (variable) 8.5
60
therefore when well managed it has the potential
Rotational 10.2 65
6.6 56%
to reduce input costs significantly.
Paddock 10.2 80
8.2 92%
Annual yield
Utilisation (%)
5.1
20%
APPROXIMATE COST OF DIFFERENT FEED TYPES
As part of the beef from grass project, the improver farms have been encouraged to implement rotational grazing.
Feed stuff
of the practice soon become evident. Teagasc, the Irish agricultural research body, found that for every hour spent
Cost (p/kg DM)
Concentrates 23
Even though this requires an initial investment in infrastructure, including fencing and water troughs, the benefits on grassland management, be it moving fences or troughs or measuring grass is worth â&#x201A;Ź100 (ÂŁ85).
Silage 12 Grass 6
Matt House, one of the beef from grass improver farms successfully increased grassland utilisation by 30% through
Forage crops
rotational grazing. This was achieved by splitting up the grass fields into smaller 2 hectare paddocks using electric
5-6
fencing. The 69 Aberdeen Angus cross cows and heir calves were moved every 3 days throughout the grazing The recent AHDB Stocktake (2016) report indicated
season. The calves were sold at 9 months of age at an average weight of 321kg/head which meant Matt managed to
that the top third of SDA suckler producers fed
produce 656kgs of beef per hectare solely from forage.
fewer concentrates with higher reliance on forage, resulting in lower costs per cow than the bottom
Grass growth
third. This trend is also replicated in beef store
The key to rotational grazing is to understand grass growth and availability. To do this, the improver farms take
systems where the top third of producers grazed for
weekly grass growth measurements using either a plate meter or compressed sward stick. This data is then
14 more weeks and carried more stock per hectare
imported onto a computer programme called AgriNet. This helps plan animal movements between the paddocks
than the average producers in the group. These
ensuring that livestock needs are matched with grass availability. For example, once a cow calves, AgriNet
small differences in forage utilisation can often
automatically increases the feed allocation for that cow from 10kg DM to 16kg DM which changes the time spent in
determine if a business makes a profit or loss.
each paddock for the whole herd.
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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
ANIMAL HEALTH COWS AND CALVES ROTATIONAL GRAZING, MATT HOUSE
YOUNGSTOCK OUTWINTERING ON RAPE AND STUBBLE TURNIPS, ANDREW CROW
COWS OUTWINTERING ON STUBBLE TURNIPS, MATT HOUSE
CURRENT GRASS WEDGE PRODUCED BY AGRINET, MATT HOUSE
The optimum daily grass growth is reached when the total growth is between 2,000 – 2,500kg DM/ha which equates to a height of around 8-12cm. Beyond this, the dying grass leaves deprive the new leaves of sunlight, leading to more leaf death and a decline in overall production. Grazing at the ideal point and resting swards when total grass falls below 1,250-1,500kg DM/ha (3-4cm) can improve grass utilisation, sustain sward quality and optimise performance. Reseeding Reseeding can be one of the most cost-effective on farm investments. Teagasc estimates that pastures with a low proportion of perennial ryegrass are costing
to reduce variable and fixed costs. For every extra
farmers up to €300/ha (£261) per year due to a loss
day a suckler cow or growing animal is out at grass
of grass DM production and reduced nitrogen (N) use
a saving of 60-90 pence per day will be made per
Matt House now implements a 100% out wintering
efficiency during the growing season. If your grass
animal. In a 100 cow suckler herd this equates to
policy, which has helped him reduce his cost of
sward consists of less than 50% improved species,
a saving of £2,520 per month. The current grazing
production. The 122 suckler cows and heifers, which
it is worth considering reseeding. In a perennial
period in the UK is 140 days, meaning that the
were due to calve in March, were outwintered on
ryegrass sward, clover has been shown to increase
average cow spends 60% of her lifetime indoors.
stubble turnips supplemented with round bales of
animal DM intake at grazing which can lead to higher
fields away from the water courses.
straw and hay arranged in situ. They were recently
liveweight gain. Additionally, clover has the ability to
Andrew Crow has successfully outwintered 111 320kg
fix atmospheric N, make it available for grass growth
steers and heifers on 10 ha of rape and stubble
and supply between 50 and 150 kg N/ha per year to
turnips this winter. The cattle were supplemented
Summary
the sward. It is recommended that the grass sward
with three bales of grass silage a day and averaged
The beef from grass project has highlighted the huge
consists of 20-30% clover to ensure the benefits of
0.8kg/day throughout the winter. The 120 spring
potential in managing grassland more effectively.
better performance are seen but levels aren’t too high
suckler cows and 53 autumn calving cows and calves
There is no doubt that optimising production from
so that bloat becomes a risk. As part of the beef from
have also been outwintered on deferred grazing.
grazed grass requires focus and commitment but the
grass project, Matt House reseeded some of his poorer
weighed and averaged body condition score 2.5-3.
returns, both in production and profit, will more than
paddocks with a long term dual purpose mixture
Deferred grazing is where stock is removed from a
containing white clover. This resulted in an increase
field so a supply of grass is built up, which can then
in grass growth from 9.8tDM/ha in the old grass ley to
be fed later in the year by strip or block grazing to
Each of the improver farmers will be hosting an open
12-13tDM/ha in the new grass leys.
ensure good utilisation. A back fence is used to keep
day in September 2017 where you can learn about the
the stock off the previously grazed areas to allow
performance of the cattle this summer.
When you have made the decision to reseed, it is
justify the effort.
recovery. To receive more regular updates on the projects
important to choose species which are listed in the England and Wales Recommended Grass and Cover
This system avoids the cost of having to make that
progression read the Grazing Club newsletter
Lists. These lists are drawn up after rigorous and
area of grass into silage or hay and the associated
available on the AHDB Beef & Lamb website or
independent testing for attributes such as yield, feed
cost of feeding it. It is best suited to free draining
alternatively follow #grazingclub.
quality, disease, persistence and seasonal growth patterns. With reseeding costing £180/acre (£450/ha), it makes little sense to save £5 or £10 by buying an inferior mix full of unlisted varieties. Buy the best and reap the rewards of higher yields, increased quality
CASTLE SCULPTURES
QUALITY LIVESTOCK SCULPTURES BY INDEPENDENT SCULPTOR JEAN FOWLER Numerous breeds of cattle and sheep in small Limited Editions which can be painted as your own animals.
and improved persistency. Outwintering As part of the beef from grass project, the improver farms have been encouraged to outwinter their cattle
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
01524 791488
info@castlesculptures.co.uk
www.castlesculptures.co.uk
SPRING 2017
35
FEATURE
BARRIERS FACING NEW ENTRANTS
BY OLIVIA MIDGLEY
Enthusiastic young people will be key to driving the food and farming industry forward as it faces the challenges of feeding a growing population and a new policy framework post-Brexit. But a new report has shone a light on the barriers facing new entrants. NBA reports. Barriers facing young farmers and new entrants trying
generating £11,900 in additional income per farm.
to get a foothold on the industry ladder are nothing
With increased market volatility and uncertainty post
new. A lack of access to land and finance, coupled with
Brexit, the report called for a more joined-up, cross
relatively few opportunities for older farmers to exit
Government, farming sector and finance framework
the industry and make way for new talent are issues
to ensure this economic potential does not remain
which have plagued the sector for decades. But with
untapped.
the average age of the British farmer reaching 59, one of the UK's banking giants has called for immediate
Ian Burrow, head of agriculture at NatWest, said:
action to address the gloomy trend. A new report
“Millennial farmers are a high tech, high skilled, highly
commissioned by NatWest and supported by the
motivated group who hold a realistic picture of farming
National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs has laid
in their heads and want a career on the land. “They are
bare the 'serious and unnecessary challenges' faced by
however, seriously constrained in a number of ways.
the country's new starters and set out a plan of action
With Brexit further heightening these challenges and
for the future.
increasing uncertainty, it is important we act now. Unless additional investment is secured, it is unlikely
THE BREXIT EFFECT EVEN before the EU membership decision was taken, the UK agricultural sector was already facing a series of unprecedented challenges, the report said. It highlighted accelerated globalisation, increasing price volatility, changing consumer preferences and expectations, increasing separation between food producers and the ultimate consumer, plus challenges brought about by technological change and innovation. But it also highlighted the opportunities on the horizon, with the UK having the potential to create its own policy framework for the development of agriculture and an enhanced ability to promote the ‘Britishness’ of food in domestic markets, the potential for new export opportunities and the potential for accelerated productivity growth via the introduction of new technologies. All opportunities which NatWest believes are ripe for young farmers’ pickings. “One of the key opportunities available to UK agriculture is the latent – and as yet not fully exploited – entrepreneurial dynamic that exists amongst the UK’s younger farmers, and the highly skilled, enterprising and tech savvy new entrants to farming that are expected to join the industry over the next decade or so,” the report added.
Results from the survey of 500 young farmers
that the economic potential these young people hold
highlighted the falling number of new starters
will be unlocked. Banks, Government, families, and
entering the sector each year, with those who have
communities need to come together to ensure today’s
and have successfully diversified our business, but the
managed to get a foot on the ladder being ‘held back’
young farmers receive the support they deserve.” The
reality is that many farmers are really struggling so
from pursuing diversification projects and achieving
bank has also called on the Government to set up a
there aren’t enough examples of successful enterprises
growth. However, the research findings also showed
new Cabinet Committee which is supported by a Better
to inspire young farmers. I think that beyond solutions
these millennial farmers held a huge economic
Brexit Farming Strategy Taskforce. Sheffield beef and
to increase profitability and productivity, everyone
potential and were driving significant enterprise
dairy farmer Eddie Andrew agreed more cross-sector
from families to Government should place a little more
trends in the agricultural sector. According to the
collaboration was needed to enable new entrants to
confidence in young farmers to enable them to realise
harvesting the future for young farmers report, almost
carve out successful careers. “This report shines a
their potential.” An NFYFC spokesman added: “The
20,000 new diversification projects – from leisure
light on many of the challenges we’ve experienced
report acknowledges a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’
and tourism, renewables, glamping, to bee keeping
first-hand in our farming business, said Mr Andrew,
to re-set policy and support - collaboration and careful
and viticulture - could be delivered by young farmers,
we have had to forge new ways of working to survive
consideration are key for future success.”
The study revealed key challenges to entering and succeeding in the industry: ‘Dead man’s shoes’ syndrome - limited succession opportunities, often combined with the complexity of family dynamics and intergenerational issues, pose a significant challenge for young people seeking a career in farming. Inability to embrace new farming models - despite 20 per cent of young farmers surveyed stating that they are looking for new ways to access farming such as share farming, with ever larger farms across the UK, this is proving difficult. Access to funding and varying levels of business skills – highlighted as obstacles to investment and growth opportunities, with 36 per cent of survey respondents saying they did not have access to sufficient advice and resources to develop their businesses.
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SPRING 2017
NEWS UPDATE
FARMER MEETINGS
OFF TO A FLYING START
REPORT BY ROSIE MCGOWAN NBA DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
The NBA has had a fantastic start to the year with two very successful farmer meetings in the Midlands and the North East. Each meeting had an impressive turnout of over 40. Our guest speaker, Steven Sandison a Nuffield scholar and suckler producer, gave a fascinating presentation on his work investigating the profitability of suckler herds across the UK, Europe and Canada, a topic well received by all. On the back of this success, we are excited to be
Our latest campaign to engage with the next
running eight meetings this spring across the UK from generation of beef farmers has set off to a great start
This year’s Beef Expo will for the first time also have a Members Area. Positioned looking out over the main
the first week in May. These include BVD workshops
with talks at Universities as well as the recruitment
show ring, the Members Area will have prime viewing
for suckler producers and AB Vista nutrition talks
of our first group of 16-25 year old ‘student’
of all the show action as well as tea, coffee and cakes
on finisher farms. Guest speakers will include, past
memberships. This focus will be continued at the
served throughout the day as a token of appreciation
Farmers Weekly Beef Farmer of the Year winners
Beef Expo 2017, with the return of the Future Beef
for our members support throughout the year.
speaking on their experiences and enterprises, and
Farmer competition which we will again be holding
several experts from the industry including beef
in partnership with AHDB. A fantastic competition
For more information on Farmer Meetings please
nutritionists and veterinary practitioners. We look
inviting young farmers to showcase their knowledge
email rosie@nationalbeefassociation.com or visit
forward to seeing many of you there.
across all aspects of beef production.
the NBA website.
BEEF STUDENT OF THE YEAR INAUGURAL BEEF SHORTHORN SOCIETY AWARD GOES TO QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY’S AND CAFRE’S ORLA KELLY
Orla Kelly, a second year student studying BSc (Hons) Agricultural Technology, at Queen’s University Belfast and CAFRE is the winner of the inaugural Beef Student of the Year award presented by the Beef Shorthorn Society. She received the £2,000 award, whilst the university she represented was presented with £1,000 towards a beef educational project. The three finalists selected from 16 entrants were
strategy helped to inspire my presentation. We’ve
approach to
Chris Freeman, studying MSc Ruminant Nutrition, at
agreed to reduce costs by making more from grazed
building a
Harper Adams University; Elizabeth Johnson, studying
grass and respond to the marketplace by swapping
sustainable red
BSc Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Food
a mix of continental cross cows for native breeds
meat sector
and Rural Development at Newcastle University and
which are gaining a premium in the finished market.”
requiring greater communication of knowledge and
Katie Landers, studying BSc Agriculture, at SRUC
Stuart Ashworth commented: “It was refreshing
ideas through the wider supply chain and from that
Edinburgh. Students studying agriculture were invited to see the passion each finalist had to share their
Beef Student of the Year, Orla Kelly with left, Beef Shorthorn Socie ty’s Geoff Riby and QMS’s Stuart As hworth
the selection of breeding stock and farm management
by the Beef Shorthorn Society to compile an essay
vision of a sustainable beef sector and challenge
practices that would deliver a profitable suckler
discussing the future of suckler beef production.
the industry going forward to – find and share best
herd.” Geoff Riby said: “The Beef Shorthorn Society is
Those producing the four top essays were invited
practice, present itself to the consumer and drive
pleased to make this new award – the first of its kind,
to make a presentation which demonstrated an
technical efficiency to deliver both economic and
which has identified some of the most motivated and
understanding of the industry, the challenges it faces
environmental benefits at farm and sector level. “In
forward thinking students within the beef sector. We are
post Brexit, and how farmers will need to respond.
making the difficult decision of awarding the prize
confident that the honours will contribute towards them
The judging panel featured QMS head of economics
to Orla, we recognized her slightly more holistic
achieving a successful career within the industry.”
services’ Stuart Ashworth and the Beef Shorthorn Society Director, Geoff Riby. “I’m thrilled to win this first time award,” said Orla who hails from a suckler beef and sheep farm in Downpatrick, County Down. “The process has helped me to grow in confidence, to share my ideas built on the knowledge I’ve gained both working on the family farm virtually all my life and at university and use that to progress my career, potentially as a consultant or working in the supply chain and new product development. “My family’s decision to change its suckler finishing enterprise THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
Silos Conveyors Feeders
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ADVERTORIAL
WOODHEAD BROS
MORRISONS CALF TO BEEF PROGRAMME
The Morrisons calf to beef programme is a partnership with Buitelaar International to deliver an end to end beef supply chain through our Woodhead Bros abattoirs. Dairy farmers from across the country deliver their continental dairy bred calves to one of six Buitelaar collection centres on a weekly basis. Calves are kept on one of the dedicated calf rearing units until they reach a minimum weight of 120kg. They are then vaccinated and sold to Morrison’s beef finishers at a fixed price with prepayment available where required. Derek Lewis is one of our calf to beef finishers and
calf to beef programme, and finished in around
condition, with the help of Woodheads buyer Jim
farms around 500 acres at Sallins Farm, Picklescott,
15 to 16 months, having come onto the farm at
Holden, who oversees many of the farms finishing
close to the Welsh border. The farm ranges from
4-5 months old. On entry, calves are left to settle
calves on this programme.
1,100 to 1,500ft above sea level and is split almost
for a few days, before being vaccinated for IBR,
50:50 arable to grassland.
and immunised with Bravoxin 10, as well as being
The programme works well for Derek as finding
wormed. All calves are turned out to graze, before
quality stores was proving difficult and he’s
The farm is family run, with Derek’s wife working
moving on to silage, bread and minerals in the AFU.
impressed with the consistency, conformation
the office and his four children all helping on the
Cattle are finished on a mix of barley, biscuit meal,
and health status of the calves being supplied. His
farm. Derek bought the farm 12 years ago, and was
molasses, minerals and silage.
cattle on the programme average R4L at 318kg ccw, making the majority eligible for a premium on the
new into farming, with a previous career in house building. Previously a dairy farm, it has now tripled
Derek selects finished cattle on weight and
Woodheads standard grid.
in size, and can house up to 800 head of cattle on the AFU, with about 400 grazing weanlings. Continental calves are purchased on the Morrisons
If you would like to become part of our supply chain finishing dairy bred continental calves, please contact: Jim Holden: 07831 555 076
George Clapham: 07970 372 944
Last year, 97% of all carcasses processed through the scheme were in spec, and Morrisons continues to work with each of our suppliers to improve their operations
38
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
FEATURE
THE CHANGING FACE OF THE
STORE CATTLE MARKET CHRIS DODDS
We talk to the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) about the changing face of the store cattle market in the UK and how livestock markets have adapted to then needs of modern agriculture. The LAA is celebrating the bicentenary of the first
APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) to develop
dictates the
registered livestock auction mart this year, so it’s
and implement the secure platform required for
number of beef
a good time to reflect on the changes within the
Orange Markets to operate and this has been a great
stores. The
industry and consider the future. There’s no doubt
success.
higher the milk
farming has changed significantly, and British beef
price, the more
farmers have adapted to new markets, new farming
“Another example is our involvement with AHDB in
likely dairy farmers are
methods and new marketing options. However,
developing the industry initiative, LIDEH (Livestock
to use sexed semen or dairy semen and this lowers
the livestock auction market is still at the heart of
Industry Data Exchange Hub). The importance of
the numbers of beef animals coming through the
the industry and plays a vital role in the process of
transferring data, especially animal health, has
market, having a huge knock on effect in later
selling beef cattle.
never been so relevant, and having an effective
months. This fluctuates and we plan accordingly for
process throughout the supply chain to upload and
these variations.
“Beef farmers work closely with the livestock
download such information should only increase
auction markets around the UK and have extremely
efficiencies. Key information on an animal’s health
“We also have to be aware of changing consumers
good working relationships with their specialist
and disease status could be shared at every level,
– the tide is turning and people now want to know
auctioneers,” explains Chris Dodds, Executive
throughout the supply chain. Being able to display
where their food is from and how it is produced,
Secretary, Livestock Auctioneers Association.
data such as BVD status, at the time of sale, is an
we have to make sure we are keeping up with these
“Despite the many changes in the industry, marts
area we will continue to encourage and develop and
changes and adapt. We are part of this process and
continue to be the most economical and efficient
I believe that when a system is up and running that
communication is vital to our customers to ensure
way to buy and sell, and I think this is particularly
it will offer great benefits to our industry.”
we all produce what the consumer wants. “You see this in the changing breeds going through the ring.
true for store cattle. Marts have had to adapt to new handling systems, ID processes and technology, it’s
Trevor Rowland, from Frome Livestock Auctioneers
Although we still have continental x cattle and some
a reflection of the industry’s robustness that they
in Frome, Somerset adds, “Over the years we have
Herefords, the prominent breed is Angus. We see
continue to succeed and thrive. “As an industry we
seen significant changes in the store cattle sector.
less Charolais (particularly from the dairy sector); a
have evolved together. I believe the store market is
Many smaller livestock markets have closed,
breed that was popular a few years ago and I believe
much more tuned into consumer demands than at
and the existing ones have had to work hard to
is a great store animal. The Angus demand has been
any other time. We are a market led industry, and
attract buyers and sellers; through providing
led by various retailers who pay a premium for the
now we are producing what is demanded from the
better modern facilities, ensuring all legislative
breed, and can be (providing all specifications are
end consumer. Farm systems reflect this and can be
regulations are enforced and continuing to build
met) up to 70p/kg higher than the other breeds.
seen in the feeding systems, the breeding decisions
strong relationships and provide a high standard
and the overall health and welfare of the animals.
of service.
“The progression within the store sector has been
“Currently we sell on average 800 store cattle
for trading these animals. For buyers you have
incredibly interesting, and there have been regional
every week, compared to around 400 a week a
a guaranteed selection of animals and the
variations on how marts have evolved and the
decade ago. In fact, the last 2 years have been
convenience of all in one location. For the sellers,
types of sales that are offered. The industry has
record breaking numbers for our market, in terms
especially if you have the good quality animals, you
seen many challenges, such as foot and mouth
of store cattle. One major contributing factor to our
have competition from buyers, are guaranteed your
and TB, but the marts have adapted to ensure the
increasing numbers is the development of Orange
money and it’s time and cost effective. Also, there is
industry has a marketplace for trading. “As an
Market TB Sales, an issue that massively affects our
a lot of loyalty to auctioneers who have supported
organisation, it continues to be vital that we are
region. Obviously, these can only be sold to AFU’s,
the farming industry for so long, lasting friendships
proactive in ensuring the marts can trade despite
LFU’s (Approved/Licensed Finishing Units), or
are made in the market place, a valued element of
the challenges our industry faces. TB is a classic
directly to those buying for an abattoir, but demand
any market day and one I believe will continue.
example. We have been instrumental in ensuring
continues to be strong and has been an important
that marketing systems are in place to allow TB
service for supply and demand of stores for our
affected herds to continue to sell their stock in an
large client base. “The other aspect that strongly
open and competitive forum, where a fair price
influences our store sales is the dairy sector. This
can be achieved, Orange Markets have facilitated
is a very big dairy area, and milk prices affects
that. We held long discussions with DEFRA and the
breeding decisions on the dairy herd, which in turn
“I am very positive about the future of store cattle auctions. The markets offer many advantages
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
The Livestock Auctioneers Assocation
Contact your local Livestock Market at
www.laa.co.uk SPRING 2017
39
Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER
©Stephen Garnett (background image) ©Rob Fraser (polaroid image)
30
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
criteria was that they had to be able to out winter. We felt this gave us three options, Highland, Galloway or Belted Galloway. We wanted something that was naturally polled, so that discounted the Highland and then we just felt the Belties had a bit of character and, ultimately, were nice to look at so we went with them! We've since realised that having a belt has practical advantages as the Belties are easier to see and count on a hillside and their ability to turn low quality forage into high quality meat is second to none. Your an approved supplier for the pasture for life scheme. Why do you choose to raise your Belties on pasture alone? From the very start we managed the Belties with no concentrate usage as we felt that controlling costs was paramount in a successful beef enterprise. The cattle were grazed extensively and it became apparent that if they were allowed to exhibit their natural behaviour they could, live, breed and produce without the need for concentrate usage. It wasn't until 2012 that we stumbled across the PFLA on Twitter and realised that we fit completely with their philosophy. We joined as members and have subsequently become approved suppliers. What’s the best part of your job? And do you have a favourite memory from work? This answer is different to what it would have been five years ago but nowadays heading out on to the tops on a Spring or Autumn day
Q&A
Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER
Why Belted Galloway? Part of the criteria of the LCP was that we had to choose a native breed but our own
WITH A BEEF FARMER...
NEIL HESELTINE
to check cattle who are coexisting alongside an increasing amount of plant, bird and wildlife in a habitat that
NORTH YORKSHIRE
the cows have helped to create is always a pleasure.
Neil was born and brought up in Malham
Since you started farming what has changed the most? Following on from the last question, I think my
at Hill Top Farm where his father and his
mindset has changed the most. Going through college and working on farms in the 80's and 90's was all about
parents had moved to in 1950. Neil studied
increasing production, quite often at the expense of the environment, but it has become apparent to me in
at Seale Hayne along with working on a
more recent years that maximising production isn't the key driver to profitability and that natural processes are
varying array of farms and selling animal
more important than I thought.
feed before returning home to farm full
What has been your best investment on the farm? The cattle themselves have not only been a good
time in 2002, mainly as a result of Foot
investment from a financial perspective but they have taught us so much in terms of what native breed animals
and Mouth. In 1987 the cattle shed was
are capable of given the right environment and the ability to express themselves, as a result we are now trying
converted into group accommodation,
to apply what we have learnt from the cattle to the sheep enterprise.
after which Neil was left with a flock of
What are the biggest challenges facing beef farmers? I feel it's critical for the industry and for the sake of the
400 Swaledale sheep. In 2003, as part
rural community as a whole to, at least, retain the number of beef farmers that we presently have. To achieve
of the Limestone Country Project (LCP),
this and to ensure that beef businesses are here for generations to come we have to be both environmentally
a conservation grazing scheme, Neil
and economically sustainable as without a combination of the two the industry has a finite lifespan.
reintroduced 19 Belted Galloway heifers
What do you think the Brexit vote means for British farming? It is becoming increasingly apparent that
and a bull which has risen to 120-130 cattle
Brexit will mean a reduction in support for British farming which, as the industry stands at present, will
on the farm at any one time.
undoubtedly see beef (and other) farmers go out of business unless they are willing to fundamentally alter their business model. In the short term this will be a hurtful and damaging process but ultimately this could
@hilltopfarmgirl
create more opportunities for young people and in the long term a more dynamic, healthier industry. Where do see beef farming in the next 5 years? I'd really like to see the British beef industry back playing to its strengths, that of producing high quality, native breed beef from a grass based system. For me this would require an increase in the number of smaller, family, mixed farms which not only produce high quality produce with great provenance but make a greater contribution to the rural community as a whole. This would enable the British beef industry to position itself in the global marketplace as the 'Farm Shop' of the World, being synonymous with top quality in every respect, as opposed to trading in the commodity market where we continually struggle to compete on price. What advice would you give to new entrant beef farmers? To be creative, be individual, and don't allow other people's expectations of you to be what defines your route. Finally, what's your favourite beef dish? I really enjoy cuts such as brisket and shin (pasture fed of course!) slow cooked in ale and beef stock. They have loads of flavour and are an affordable, quality choice. Often overlooked for the prime cuts but simple, wholesome food.
BELTED GALLOWAY CATTLE SOCIETY www.beltedgalloways.co.uk
2017 SALES
CARLISLE – SATURDAY 20TH MAY 2017 CASTLE DOUGLAS – FRIDAY 27TH OCTOBER
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
01896 820148
info@beltedgalloways.co.uk Housebyres Farm Melrose Roxburghshire TD6 9BW
SPRING 2017
41
AT GRASS
BY DR MARY VICKERS SENIOR LIVESTOCK SCIENTIST - BEEF, AHDB BEEF & LAMB
Worms are present on all cattle farms and can cause significant losses in performance and even death if not controlled. In the absence of grazing cattle, the majority of worm larvae that have overwintered on pasture will die by mid-July. In the meantime, cattle turned out in spring will have picked up infection and be shedding eggs causing a peak of contamination from mid-summer onwards.
SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR: Parasite
Signs of infection
Gutworm
Loss of appetite, scouring and poor body condition
Lungworm
Coughing, difficulty breathing, ill-thrift
Liver fluke
Loss of body condition, reduced growth rate and fertility, increased susceptibility to other diseases
As a consequence, the risk of parasite infection
hours before moving them to low risk pastures.
typically increases as the grazing season
This is thought to reduce the risk of spreading any
progresses. Generally, older cattle that have grazed
worms that are resistant to anthelmintics to the
The table below summarises some indicators
previously for at least two full (>4 months) grazing
new pasture where there would be low numbers
of parasite risk for beef cattle. Weather is also
seasons will have acquired immunity to gutworms
of non-resistant worms to compete with them.
important and will affect the speed of development
and lungworms, although immunity to lungworms
It is also possible to leave a few cattle in good
of infective larvae on pastures, with warm wet
is dependent on exposure and is of short duration.
body condition untreated when moving to low
conditions likely to favour their development and
risk pastures, again as a strategy to reduce the
increase the challenge.
development of resistance.
This does not mean that breeding cows and bulls do not suffer ill effects or even clinical disease from these parasites, but it does mean that the focus for parasite control should be on first and
ASSESSING RISK OF CATTLE INFECTION WITH PARASITES DURING THE GRAZING SEASON Risk factor
High
Medium
Low
second grazing season youngstock. It is also
FIELD FACTORS
important to realise that there is no effective
Age (grazing seasons (GS)) <1 year (first GS)
1-2 (second GS)
>2 years (adult)
immunity to liver fluke, and cattle of all ages can
Growth rate (<2 years old) <0.7 kg/day 2 months after turn out
0.7-0.8 kg/day
>0.8 kg/day
be infected and suffer losses. Control of gutworms should include consideration
Faecal worm egg count of >200 epg first grazing season cattle 2 months after turn-out
50-200 epg
<50 epg
Field type
Silage/hay aftermath
Newly sown,
of grazing strategy, good nutrition and effective use of anthelmintics. Grazing management is a key part of parasite control
Permanent pasture
ungrazed leys Grazing history Grazed by cattle Grazed by cattle 1-2 years < one year old within old within the last year last year
Grazed by adult cows and other species within last year
Grazing pastures have different levels of parasite
Sward height
<4cm
4-8 cm
<8cm
risk depending on how they were managed
Last anthelmintic treatment
<8 weeks
4-8 weeks
<4 weeks
previously. Low risk pastures are those that are newly established or have been reseeded. Fields
Snail habitats
Widespread
Patchy
Fenced off/none
Liver fluke diagnosed
Previous year
>5 years previously
Never
Lungworm diagnosed
Previous year
>5 years
Never
Grazing management is critical to promoting fast growth rates post-turn out, but it can also play an important role in parasite control.
that have not been grazed by cattle from housing until the middle of the grazing season (June/July) will carry lower numbers of infective larvae. This is likely to include silage or hay aftermaths. Grazing with or after sheep can also reduce exposure
Spring-born suckler calves
nevertheless be inspected daily as lungworm can
to cattle parasites, although it is important to
In a typical spring-calving beef suckler herd,
sometimes affect suckler calves before weaning.
remember that sheep can be infected with fluke
while calves are suckling their dams, there is little
As the grazing season progresses and the suckled
and increase the risk of liver fluke in cattle.
need to treat calves for worms as their relatively
calves consume more grass and less milk, then
low herbage (and hence larval) intake and the
they may pick up more parasites and will need
It is advisable to treat cattle and hold them on the
protective effect of the cowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk mean that
treatment towards the end of the grazing season or
pasture with infective larvae for a period of 48
parasites have little impact. The cattle should
around weaning.
42
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
(Source: adapted from COWS and Animal Health Ireland)
ANIMAL HEALTH
PARASITE CONTROL
ANIMAL HEALTH For more information please see the COWS website www.cattleparasites.org.uk Forecasts of current parasite risk can be found First grazing season cattle
clinical sign of lungworm infection is widespread
Dairy-bred calves or autumn-born suckled calves
coughing within a herd. Control can be achieved
have a much higher risk of worm burdens than
with anthelmintic treatments or vaccination.
The BRP Cattle and Sheep Parasite Control
spring-born suckler calves in their first grazing
Routine vaccination should be considered
Product Guide provides a comprehensive
season. These young cattle will be exposed to
for calves born into herds with an identified
list of products for the control of internal
parasites for the first time with no immunity.
lungworm problem.
and external parasites in cattle and sheep:
at www.nadis.org.uk/parasite-forecast.aspx
http://beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/wp-content/
Ideally they should graze on low risk pastures. The options for use of anthelmintics for these
Liver fluke control options
uploads/2017/01/BRP-cattle-and-sheep-
cattle is to either treat them for gut (and lung)
Neither cattle nor sheep develop immunity to
parasite-control-product-guide-180117.pdf
worms early in the season to limit pasture
liver fluke so it is import to control infection in
contamination or to ‘wait and see’ and treat when
all ages of stock. Control of liver fluke depends
treatment re-exposes them to the risk of infection.
signs of parasite infection emerges. If the latter
on the type of farm, the history of the herd and
Treatment at, or ideally after, housing is a good
approach is taken, it is important to monitor
should involve both the use of flukicides to
time to control liver fluke infection as reinfection
body condition, health and performance regularly
prevent disease and reduce contamination of
is avoided. Additional treatments during winter
using weigh scales or a weigh band and use other diagnostic tools such as egg counts to pick up on
pasture with eggs, plus grazing strategies to avoid may be required depending on the product heavily contaminated pasture, particularly at high used. Following turnout, cattle may benefit from
problems early.
risk times of year like Autumn. Infection pressure
treatment after 10 to 12 weeks to help reduce
depends on prevailing weather conditions and
contamination of pastures with fluke eggs.
Growth rates of first grazing season cattle six
varies year to year. Dose accurately
to eight weeks after turnout is a good indicator of exposure to parasites, assuming the calves
Most flukicides do not kill all stages of liver fluke.
It is important that cattle receive the correct
have access to good quality grazing. Sampling
It is therefore important to choose an appropriate
dose of cattle wormer. Both under-dosing and
fresh dung and analysing it for faecal egg counts
product and to administer it at the correct dosage
over-dosing can have significant implications.
around this time can also provide an indication
at the most suitable time according to the life
Over-dosing is costly, and avoidable, under-
of pasture contamination. When the egg count
cycle of the parasite. Triclabendazole is the only
dosing can lead to poor efficacy and an increased
is greater than 200 eggs per gram, it is likely
product effective against very early immature
risk of resistance. To ensure an accurate dose of
that cattle are at risk of clinical disease and
fluke, i.e. two weeks and older, through to adults.
anthelmintic is given, weighing each animal is
production losses.
It is used extensively to control fluke in sheep
recommended. Judging cattle weight by eye can
and, as a result, triclabendazole resistance
be very inaccurate and can lead to the adverse
Second grazing season cattle
has been reported in some parts of the UK. It
effects of under or over-dosing cattle.
The susceptibility of young cattle to gutworms
is very important that care is taken to reduce
during their second grazing season depends to
selection pressure where possible by only using
Summary
some extent on the exposure they experienced
triclabendazole-containing products when no
The key to parasite control is to manage the
the previous year. Lack of exposure to worms,
resistance is present and when no other option is
parasite risk in a targeted manner. Working
for example in late-born calves or beef suckler
suitable.
alongside the herd’s vet and SQP (Animal Medicines Adviser) will enable farmers to tailor
calves, may result in lower levels of immunity at the start of the second grazing season and
Most flukicides have no persistent activity and
their on-farm control strategy according to the
anthelmintic treatment may be required.
allowing cattle onto fluke-infected pasture after
pasture risk, and specific farming system.
Adult cattle Generally adult suckler cows do not require treatment for gutworms as they generate sufficient immunity to combat infection. Lungworm control options Symptoms of lungworm infection are most commonly seen in first-year grazing cattle in late
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summer and autumn, but can occur earlier in the year and in older animals. The most characteristic THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
SPRING 2017
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BEEF BREED DIRECTORY
BEEF BREED
DIRECTORY PERFORMANCE, DOCILITY, MILK, AND BEEF QUALITY
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SOUTH DEVON HERD BOOK SOCIETY WESTPOINT, CLYST ST MARY, EXETER DEVON, EX5 1DJ
0845 017 1027
secretary@longhorncattlesociety.com
CATTLE SOCIETY 133 Edgar Road Elgin Moray IV30 6UQ
01392 447494 info@sdhbs.org.uk Breed Secretary: Caroline Poultney
TICKING ALL THE BOXES:
t: 02476 696549 e: shorthorn@shorthorn.co.uk
WWW.SDHBS.ORG.UK
Breed Secretary: Debbie Dann 3 Eastgate, Stoneleigh Park Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LH
www.shorthorn.co.uk
CALVING EASE
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MILK = CALF GROWTH
Telephone +44 (0) 2476 696 513 information@britishsimmental.co.uk
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Smith Hill Farm, Bower Slack Road Triangle, Halifax HX6 3EZ 07903 626249 or 01422 820220 secretary@salers-cattle-society.co.uk
www.salers-cattle-society.co.uk
Lincoln Red Cattle Society Lincolnshire Showground Grange de Lings Lincoln Lincolnshire LN2 2NA
Tel: 01522 511395
www.lincolnredcattlesociety.co.uk
LUING CATTLE SOCIETY Mount Blair 10 Manor Gardens Blairgowrie Perthshire PH10 6JS
BREED SECRETARY UNA MACQUEEN
Tel: 01250 872897
secretary@luingcattlesociety.co.uk
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THE WELSH BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY 13 Bangor Street Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1AP S. Evelyn Jones Breed Secretary: Contact Telephone No: 01286 672391
THE BREED WHERE QUALITY COMES NATURALLY www.welshblackcattlesociety.com
Highland Cattle Society Patron: Her Majesty The Queen
Stirling Agricultural Centre Stirling FK9 4RN
A native breed for modern needs
Tel: 01786 446866
Dual purpose Easy calving Docile Good Mothers Longevity Commercialy viable in all situations
info@highlandcattlesociety.com www.highlandcattlesociety.com
Secretary: Liz Coates Tel: 01869 349132
secretary@gloucestercattle.org.uk
www.gloucestercattle.org.uk
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CATTLE SOCIETY
CONCORDE HOUSE 24 WARWICK NEW ROAD LEAMINGTON SPA WARWICKSHIRE, CV32 5JG
02476 696500 info@limousin.co.uk
www.limousin.co.uk
Avenue M, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire. CV8 2RG Tel: 02476 697222 Email: charolais@charolais.co.uk Get connected www.charolais.co.uk
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The Hereford Cattle Society Hereford House, 3 Offa St Hereford, HR1 2LL
British White Cattle Society
Meadow View, Kelby, Grantham, Lincs NG32 3AJ 01400 230142 brtwhitecs@aol.com www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk
Follow UK Herefords
01432 272057 www.herefordcattle.org www.herefordbeef.org.uk
British Bazadaise Cattle Society
BRITISH WHITE SUPER SUCKLERS
tel: 01666 860470 email: enquiry@bazadaise.co.uk
Devon Cattle Breeders' Society Blacklake Farm East Hill Ottery St Mary Devon EX11 1QA
Pond Farm, Charlton Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9DU
GET MORE MEAT MORE MUSCLE AND MORE PROFIT WITH EASY CALVING EASY CARE BAZADAISE CATTLE
Part of Farming's Future t: 01404 812800 e: dcbs@redrubydevon.co.uk
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THE MURRAY GREY BEEF CATTLE SOCIETY
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SUSSEX C AT T L E S O C I E T Y
Station Road, Robertsbridge East Sussex TN32 5DG
THE BRITISH BLUE CATTLE SOCIETY
Holme House The Dale, Ainstable, Carlisle, Cumbria CA4 9RH
01768 870522Â
info@britishbluecattle.org
SETTING THE STANDARD www.britishbluecattle.org
THE BRITISH PIEMONTESE CATTLE SOCIETY LTD 33 EDEN GRANGE, LITTLE CORBY CARLISLE CA4 8QW
LOOKING FOR PIEMONTESE CONTACT CRAIG MATKIN TEL: 07876 613221 TEL: 01773 550346
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09/03/2017 09:42 SPRING 2017
45
REGIONAL ROUND-UPS
REGIONAL round-ups IMAGE CREDIT: LONGHORN CATTLE SOCIETY
SCOTLAND All roads will lead to the Scottish Borders on Thursday, June 8, where the Stewart family will be hosting Scotland’s Beef Event 2017 on their farm of Fans, Earlston, Berwickshire. The event is being organised by the Scottish Beef Association, with Clydesdale Bank as major sponsor, and will focus on the efficient production of beef on a mixed farm. The farm is run by Douglas Stewart and his wife, Kelda, and stocking comprises 400 Aberdeen-Angus cows which are put to the Aberdeen-Angus bull, with all progeny finished on the farm. The farm tour by tractor and trailer will be a “must” for most visitors attending the event and Mr Stewart will be making himself available at fixed times during the day to meet visitors and discuss his farming policy. Demand for trade stand space has been excellent and most beef breeds will be mounting live cattle exhibits. Scotland’s Rural Minister, Fergus Ewing, will be attending to perform the official opening ceremony. Practical demonstrations will include a new weigh crate which automatically weighs cattle every time they drink water to help farmers identify under-performing cattle and ensure finished cattle meet specification. Q-box analysis technology in abattoirs has demonstrated huge differences in the slaughter weight and age of finished cattle. The crate has been developed by Innovent Technology of Turriff and is now being produced commercially by Ritchie of Forfar. The technology is being refined by installing cameras in cattle pens to capture three-dimensional images of the cattle to show the composition of the carcase and predict likely conformation, fatness and yield. Other demonstrations will include grassland and silage, female fertility, reed beds, physical herd performance overview and trace element awareness. The seminar is set to be a major attraction with a panel for four speakers with a wealth of experience behind them on the beef industry. The session will be chaired by local beef farmer and former NFU Scotland vice-president, Rob Livesey, and the speakers will be hill farmer, John Hamilton, of Aikengall, Dunbar, commercial Aberdeen-Angus breeder and Nuffield Scholar, Robert Fleming of Castle Sinissess, Glenluce, local farmer’s daughter and agricultural technologist (red meat) with Marks and Spencer, Anna PlayfairHannay, and Justin McCarthy, editor of the Irish
46 38
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
Farmers Journal, who has led the successful beef focus programme in Ireland which is now being introduced in Scotland by Aberdeen and Northern Marts. Other main sponsors include the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society, Ancroft Tractors, Scotbeef, Harbro and Harrison and Hetherington. Admission to the event is £10 and under 16s free. Further information available from the event organiser, Natalie Cormack at Natalie.cormack@btconnect.com or 01890 781006. SOUTH WEST The NBA in the South West has held a series of meetings around the region in the last two months explaining to farmers the progress of our Westcountry Beef PGI ( Product of Geographical Indication) project. We have helped the brand managers Meat South West promote the production of the product by, firstly, producing a DVD showing the provenance of Westcountry Beef PGI and its unique production system based on the long grass growing season in the South West and secondly by meeting with 250 beef farmers to encourage them to meet the criteria of more than 70% grass and forage fed steers and heifers, farmers meeting the spec self declare by ticking the PGI box on the abattoir's food chain information form. The processors told us at the meetings that they need more qualifying cattle to be able to take on more supply contracts with supermarkets and food service companies. While no premium is paid at the moment, it is interesting to see that the price differential between South West cattle and the North of England and Scotland is the lowest it has been for many years so we are benefitting in a wider sense. South West Beef Council members are also working hard on other fronts including ongoing TB work and preparations for our autumn event at Westpoint arena Exeter. Our animal health team are getting their teeth into the issue of Triclabendazole resistant fluke which we believe may be more prevalent than we thought, with more abattoir's now reporting on lungs and livers we are seeing more cattle that have been fluked showing live fluke presence, there are good tests available to find out if your fluke are resistant, speak to your vet for more details. We are pleased to welcome new members to our team and are pleased that Catherine Bloomfield has become one of our two Vice Chairs.
REGIONAL COUNCILS CONTACTS NORTHERN DAVID THOMLINSON - CHAIRMAN Carlisle CA1 2RS Tel: 07802 675799 Email: david@thomlinson.co.uk HELEN DOBSON - SECRETARY/TREASURER Hexham NE46 3SG Tel: 01434 601005 Email: helen@nationalbeefassociation.com MIDLANDS JOHN BELL - CHAIRMAN Northamptonshire NN11 5NP Tel: 07188 890320 Email: jjmeatgod@btconnect.com SOUTH WEST BILL HARPER - CHAIRMAN Devon EX22 6RZ Tel: 01409271376 Email: harpersholdings@btinternet.com VICKY SMITH - SECRETARY Exeter EX5 4LZ Tel: 07773 340008 Email: natbeefsw@gmail.com WALES CONTACT HEAD OFFICE Tel: 01434 601005 NORTHERN IRELAND JOHN SHERIDAN - CHAIRMAN County Fermanagh, BT92 1ED CHARLES CURRAN - SECRETARY Co Down BT34 4RH Tel: 07732 470762 Email: homesteadblondes@btinternet.com SCOTLAND NEIL MCCORKINDALE - CHAIRMAN Argyll PA34 4UU Tel: 01852 316282 Email: scammadale@hotmail.com DUNCAN TODD - SECRETARY Kilmarnock KA3 2TN Tel: 07734 812704 Email: duncan@agment.co.uk SPRING 2017
SCOTLAND'S BEEF EVENT
SCOTLAND'S BEEF EVENT 2017 The beef enterprise has turned full circle over the past 40 years on the farm of Fans, Earlston, in the Scottish Borders, which will this year host Scotland’s Beef Event 2017 on Thursday, June 8. The original herd of pedigree Aberdeen-Angus, which
command a higher price per kilo?” It didn’t take
Scheme and BVD accredited. Annual blood testing
had established a strong reputation selling pedigree
long for the Stewart’s to become convinced that the
for Johne’s disease since 2006 and the ruthless
bulls at the St Boswells sales, was phased out in the
Aberdeen-Angus breed ticked all the boxes. “This
culling of cows showing positive, has reduced culling
1970s when the Stewart family moved into commercial
is one of the best decisions we have ever made,”
to negligible levels, with a clear test in 2015. Two
beef production based on bought-in dairy cross calves
says Douglas. “We now have a more consistent type
positives were recorded last year and one this year.
crossed with Charolais bulls. But health considerations
of cow as we have more control breeding our own
The herd has been closed since 1997 and only bulls are
in the wake of the BSE crisis in the 1990s prompted
replacements rather than being dependent on the by-
bought-in.
the family to return to Aberdeen-Angus with a view
product from a dairy herd. “The Angus cows are more
to breeding their own replacement females and today
easily handled because of their better temperament,
A high standard of hygiene is maintained with dry cows
the suckler herd has been expanded to 400 home-
they have a shorter gestation period and fewer calving
and newly calved cows kept clean through the use of
bred Aberdeen-Angus cows which are now virtually
difficulties, fertility has been greatly improved and we
ample amounts of straw in well-drained buildings.
pure-bred.
no longer run the risk of buying in disease.”
Cows are moved out of dry cow areas for calving and
The beef enterprise, with all calves finished for
Great emphasis is placed on feet, udders and
usually within 24 hours of calving. A calf creep is
beef, except heifers retained for breeding, is an
temperament in the selection of females for breeding.
introduced in late August depending on grass growth.
important part of a highly efficient integrated farming
Heifers for breeding are treated well to get them big
Calves from first calved heifers are weaned at the end
enterprise covering a total of 2,430 acres on three
enough to put to the bull at 15 months of age. The strict
of September and cows in October. After weaning,
farms, including land rented for grazing and potatoes.
management regime and a ruthless culling policy has
cows are turned out for a few more weeks and are
Cropping includes winter oats, winter wheat, winter
resulted in a tight calving period with 92-93% of calves
usually housed for the winter by December 1. Cows
barley and spring barley with 350 acres devoted to
born in the first six weeks. As the potato enterprise
are wintered on silage and straw with any thinner cows
a specialist seed potato enterprise. High health seed
has expanded, autumn calving has been dispensed
getting some barley. Weaned calves are on silage and
potatoes are sold through the co-operative, Saltire
with and all cows now calve in the spring (April/May).
barley before gradually going on to an intensive cereal
Seed Ltd, to customers in England, Europe, Egypt
Cows are pregnancy tested in October and anything
diet in March/April for finishing. The herd is kept young
and other countries. The cattle utilise 468 acres of
not in calf is culled, with no second chance. All bulls
by culling cows at around 10 years of age when they
permanent pasture and 315 acres of rough grazing,
are semen tested each year – including young bulls
still have value and around 80 heifers are brought
with 120 acres of rotational grass twice-cut for silage,
before purchase – and a thorough examination of feet,
into the herd each year. All females are freeze branded
and provide farmyard manure for the arable crops
body condition, testicles and sheath is carried out
which is viewed as a major management tool.
which, in turn, provide barley for finishing cattle and
before turn-out to make sure they are in good working
straw for bedding.
condition. They remain out with the cows for only
“Cull cows are worth the same as 14 month old heifers
eight weeks. Mature bulls are run with 50-55 cows and
coming into the herd so it makes sense to replace
The beef enterprise is almost self-sufficient, with the
young bulls with around 20 cows. All 14 bulls on the
them before they become too old to put on flesh,”
only complete bought-in feed being High Mag Rolls
farm at present are from the nearby Wedderlie herd
Douglas explains. Bull calves are kept entire and, along
for the cows when they are turned out in the spring
of John and Marion Tilson and are bought privately,
with feeding heifers, are finished inside through the
and soya as a protein supplement for calves. This
with great emphasis being placed on maternal traits,
summer on home-grown barley. They are ready for
level of self-sufficiency is a fine example of how a beef
particularly calving ease and milk, as well as growth
slaughter at around 14-15 months of age and last year
enterprise can complement an arable enterprise, to
rate. “We buy the bulls in a leaner condition than you
averaged 392.6kg deadweight and achieve an average
the benefit of both. “The beef enterprise is integral to
can expect to buy at auction which means they are
price of £1367/head net (348p/kg). All finished cattle
our mixed farming enterprise and is profitable in its
ready to work, their feet are right and they last longer,”
are weighed before leaving the farm with the aim of
own right,” says Douglas Stewart, who manages the
says Douglas.
getting as close to maximum weight as possible within
once settled cows and calves are turned out to grass,
the processor’s specification and are marketed every
farming operation with his wife, Kelda, father, Graham, and children, Holly and Archie. “We aim to make the
The shorter gestation period of the Angus calf means
two weeks. Feeding inside has been adopted since
maximum use of the farm’s resources.”
that very few calvings are assisted. All assisted
2012 when the wet summer resulted in steers gaining
calvings are carefully recorded and given a score which
only 30kg at grass. A proportion of bull calves have
The reintroduction of Aberdeen-Angus at Fans, albeit
determines if the cows are to be kept or culled. In the
been kept entire over the years but over the past two
on a more commercial basis, came after much careful
best year so far, only 24 cows out of 400 required
years all bulls have been kept entire to take advantage
consideration. “We had a number of targets we wanted
assistance at birth and the vet was never on the
of faster growth rates and improved feed conversion
to achieve in breeding our own replacements,” Douglas
farm during calving. A calving percentage as high as
efficiency.
recalls. “Would the Angus heifers be big enough to
95% of cows put to the bull has been achieved some
calve at two years of age? Would they have enough
years which compares with 80-85% previously when
The name of the game at Fans is attention to detail.
milk? Would their temperament be ok? Would the
problems such as camplyobacter were common-
The high standard of management means the herd is
steers leave as much money as the Charolais crosses,
place due to sharing bulls and buying in replacement
profitable with built-in sustainability and well placed to
given that they were likely to be lighter but would
females. The herd is a member of the Premium Health
meet the challenges of the post-Brexit era.
THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
WINTER SPRING 2016 2017
47 37
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NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION
MEMBERSHIP
FROM £75 PER YEAR
The NBA is a highly committed charitable and is a proactive and important industry body. Our membership programme is integral to the long-term future sustainability of the association and the British beef industry. Since it's inception in 1999 the NBA has gone from strength to strength, and today, it remains the only dedicated voice for British beef farmers. The Beef industry has, and will continue to face many challenges, and through the revenue generated from you as a member the National Beef Association can ensure: That working on your behalf is a strong Management team and a Board who meets regularly to protect the industry and continually drive it forward. The continued engagement with the Government and Devolved Administrations to defend the interest of beef farmers across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The continued representations of Beef Farmer’s views and concerns in Government. We help to direct the course of future regulation, offer advice, overturn bad regulation and improve existing legislation. The British Beef industry is continually promoted and supported at all levels. That there are Regional Committees spread across the UK and Ireland - dedicated forums which hold regular meetings and events for members. We hope to welcome you as a member of the NBA in the near future, if you have any questions or require more information please feel free to contact the NBA Head office on 01434 601005 or by email at info@nationalbeefassociation.com
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GIFT OF THE GAVEL
GIFT OF THE GAVEL
ALISTAIR SNEDDON I have been an auctioneer in and around Derbyshire for almost 40 years which has given me time to observe and contemplate my lot. I do not come from a farming family, my people were
a farmers “harvest” and although as an auctioneer
if enough
doctors going back three generations and I blame
the opportunity to influence trade is somewhat
farmers sign
glandular fever and lack of ambition for my failure to
marginal, one feels the highs and lows very
up to their
follow the Sneddon tradition, but having been reared
personally and you are of course invariably judged
local scheme.
in a medical household I understand the importance
on your most recent result. It would be
of science in its most basic sense and have applied those thoughts to my career as an auctioneer.
I believe that farmers should support their local
a tragedy if,
ALISTAIR SNED
DON
market, if it deserves their business. This keeps the
having at long last been given the opportunity
Having attended The Royal Agricultural College in
community together and minimises travel time prior
to address the problem, that the opportunity is
the early seventies, I took “vacation employment”
to sale. I have great faith in the livestock market
missed because farmers are insufficiently motivated
in order to improve my chances of securing a job
as a valuable element of the rural community for a
to join in. One thing is certain, a post Brexit UK
upon leaving college. When I had completed my
variety of reasons. In simple terms the gathering
Government will be looking to save money on
professional exams, one of the senior partners stated
of a substantial “critical mass” of stock from a large
TB compensation and if farmers have chosen not
“Now that you have finished your education, you can
number of individuals, has great merit. It puts the
to help themselves, when the opportunity was
start to learn something” This approach evidently
small producer on the same footing as the large
there, I rather doubt if the powers that be will
worked, as I have progressed from “work experience
one and gives buyers the choice to pick from a
be sympathetic towards them. Times ahead will
student” to partner in Bagshaws and have ended up
broad selection. I am on record as saying that, the
be hard enough without having the problems
as Senior Partner in more recent years.
livestock auction is the one Farmers Cooperative
associated with marketing restricted stock.
that really works, probably because the farmers In recent years, I have become embroiled in matters
do not realise that they are cooperating with one
What has struck me over the years is the lack of
outside Derbyshire with a spell as National Chairman
another for mutual benefit. From an animal welfare
cohesion amongst farmers and the comparative
of the Livestock Auctioneers Association together
point of view, for stock to arrive in numerous small
weakness of the farming voice, when ranged against
with committee roles with NBA and NSA and CAAV.
consignments and then be marshalled for what
the might of the urban based media. Part of the
All these involvements have given me a glimpse into
might be a longer onward journey in large modern
problem is the unwillingness of farmers to commit,
the political world in so far as it affects agriculture
transport, minimises travelling times and stress.
whether to membership of organisations such as the NBA, NSA or NFU, where all farmers receive the
and the livestock industry in particular. Like many auction companies and of course a great
benefit of the lobbying that takes place, but which is
I have always been of the view that it was vital that
many farmers we have all suffered a massive loss
funded by those who actually pay a subscription.
as a company we did our best to maintain the three
of business from TB. What has become apparent
main tenets of the auction system:- 1. The best
in fairly recent times, is the Government’s attitude
The same concept is true of the Auction System.
possible price, achieved by open and transparent
to culling badgers, which has moved from many
Prices arrived at in the market are then used as a
competition. 2. Payment to the farmer on the
years of, not under any circumstances to, yes you
yard stick by all manner of others in the course of
day – less our modest charges. 3. The right for the
can, if you organise it properly and pay for it. I
trade. The fact that without someone using the
vendor to say no, if the price is not acceptable and
am not convinced that this change of heart is fully
market and paying their commission that data
the ability to take the stock home to offer another
recognised by all farmers, many of whom receive
would not be available does not register with some.
day. Something that very seldom happens, but is
their news from the urban based media. The
If you are one of those individuals who choose not
nevertheless important. I have always felt the great
established cull areas in the South West are likely to
to sell by auction, spare a thought for those who do
weight of responsibility that I was effectively selling
be replicated in other areas of the country, but only
keep the doors open.
I believe that farmers should support their local market, if it deserves their business. Alastair Sneddon - MRICS, FAAV, FLAA: Tel: 01629 812777
Mob: 07973 982441 Email: alastair.sneddon@bagshaws.com
Alastair is Senior Partner & Managing Partner at Bakewell and is responsible for Livestock Sales at the Agricultural Business Centre Bakewell.
50
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