Dairy Newsletter Autumn 2017

DAIRY

NEWSLETTER

AUTUMN 2017

TECHNICAL ADVICE TO DRIVE YOUR HERD’S PERFORMANCE

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: p.2

Market Update

p.3

Better Breathing for a Healthy Future

p.4

Getting Ready for Winter

p.5

A Lesson in Achieving Great Performance

p.6

Formulations and Quality Control at Wynnstay Feed

p.7

Heat Detection Using Progesterone Assessment

p.8 - 9 Restoring Calcium and Energy Balance Post Calving

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p.10

From Pre to Post Weaning: Transformation of the Young Calf’s Gastrointestinal Tract

p.11

Optimising Forage In Rations Using NutriOpt

p.12

Maximizing Starch availability from Maize Based Diets

p.13

Biosprint ® Live Yeast

p.14

Make Maize Count In 2018

p.15

Soil Health Helping Grassland Productivity

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

Our Dairy Team Dr Huw McConochie - Head of Dairy Technical Services m: 07771 740857 e: huw.mcconochie@wynnstay.co.uk @HuwMcConochie Steve Brown - Ruminant Feeds Product Manager m: 07774 855026 e: steve.brown@wynnstay.co.uk @sirbilly55

MARKET UPDATE

Dairy Specialists

Raw material markets The world has large crops and plantings in all the major grains and oilseeds and, although lower than the previous year, there is an excellent stock to usage ratio. These factors are already built into the current prices and recent small drops in US yield have started to push prices higher.

This, combined with the usual increases in the Northern Hemisphere as we progress through winter, probably preclude major downward pressure.

Iwan Vaughan - Senior Dairy Specialist - North & Mid Wales m: 07990 578548 e: iwan.vaughan@wynnstay.co.uk @maesmochnant Ken March - Dairy Specialist - South Wales & West Wales m: 07454 015610 e: ken.march@wynnstay.co.uk Mark Price - Dairy Specialist - Midlands m: 07876 824314 e: mark.price@wynnstay.co.uk @m_priceo

However, the input prices that go to make our feed blend and straights levels will continue to be dominated by three, what appear on the outside to be non-agricultural, factors.

Martin Hope - Dairy Specialist - South West m: 07502 311181 e: martin.hope@wynnstay.co.uk

i.e.

EU negotiations

Alasdair Taylor - Dairy Specialist - Shropshire/Borders m: 07766 302124 e: alasdair.taylor@wynnstay.co.uk

Foreign exchange Fund market influence The first two are inextricably linked. The world financiers and monetary experts believe that a ‘soft’ Brexit is better for the UK economy than a ‘hard’ one. Whatever our own individual thoughts in the UK on this, our exchange rate is mostly influenced by these people and that is their belief.

Therefore, any news coming out of the EU negotiations indicating an approach to what they perceive to be an amicable solution with lower trade inhibitions, will make sterling more attractive to world currency dealers and the £ will strengthen against the Euro and the Dollar - and obviously vice versa. This affects even such things as wheat and barley as a lower Pound promotes exports and increases home prices as we have seen in Sheep and Beef for example. A strengthening of the £ will reduce home produced cereal prices. Current confusion makes it impossible to predict which way this die will fall.

Calf Specialists Rebecca Davies - Senior Calf Specialist - South Wales m: 07881 093633 e: rebecca.davies@wynnstay.co.uk @richardscalf1

Eimear Diamond - Calf Specialist - South & South West m: 07881 379008 e: eimear.diamond@wynnstay.co.uk @diamondcalf1

Jess Charlton - Calf Specialist - Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire m: 07990 584740 e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk @charltoncalf1

Fund movements and triggered computer (with no Human input) buying dominate the US markets and thereby set the world prices. Fund trading can be enacted for nonagricultural movements in such things as GDP interest rates etc. Currently funds are long of the commodity markets and the trade belief is they are looking to add to this.

Millie Hendy - Calf Specialist - Somerset and Gloucester m: 07717 495746 e: millie.hendy@wynnstay.co.uk @hendycalf1 Sandy Wilson - Calf Specialist - West, North & Mid Wales m: 07879 841672 e: sandy.wilson@wynnstay.co.uk @petticoatcalves

Eric Thomas

Commercial Manager - Feed t: 01691 828512 e: eric.thomas@wynnstay.co.uk

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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

BETTER BREATHING FOR A HEALTHY FUTURE Calf pneumonia is one of the most common causes of illness and poor performance in housed calves from one to five months old.

A calf’s respiratory system is very vulnerable, their lungs only become fully mature when the animal is two years old. As a result, they have very little reserve capacity. In addition, the airways are relatively narrow, so they get easily blocked. Calf lungs are heavily segmented, and each segment has only one entry point for the airways. If this entry point gets blocked, the entire segment stops functioning. Respiratory problems can raise veterinary costs, reduce growth and increase loss of animals.

What to do if breathing gets difficult?

Act at the first cough! A prevention programme can only do so much, so it is important to recognise early signs of possible respiratory problems, like coughing or a runny nose, and take action fast.

Farm-O-San Pulmosure; a complementary respiratory health product that is formulated to help enhance animals breathing through the inclusion of eucalyptus oils, which increases mucus production and boosts mucociliary clearance of unwanted particles inhaled by the calf. It has a natural source of vitamin E and organic selenium yeast, which is there to help aid and support the immune function of the calf, leading to higher proportion absorbed by the animal. This product is available in many different forms such as; top dressing on feed, soluble inclusion in milk powders, molassed mineral buckets, and salt blocks.

Four ways to minimise the risk of respiratory problems A calf’s respiratory tract is vulnerable from four weeks onwards. Changing weather, high humidity, large differences between daytime and night-time temperatures and poor housing conditions can all have a negative effect on a calf’s airways. Inadequate ventilation, crowded housing, mixing calves from different sources, and transportation, may also contribute to respiratory problems. That is why it is important to manage environmental conditions and hygiene, boost your calf’s immunity and maximise their respiratory health.

1) Colostrum Management and Nutrition – ensure the calves get a sufficient amount of colostrum, this helps to improve their immune system in the first month. Aim for 4L of good quality, clean, colostrum within two hours of birth. Vital to maintaining health is providing calves with an adequate diet in the form of milk/milk replacer and starter feed, so they have sufficient calories for growth, immunity and maintenance.

It is important to recognise early signs of possible respiratory problems

2) Climate and Housing – avoid overcrowding and variation in temperature and humidity as much as possible and ensure sufficient ventilation. Prevent cold stress in young calves by keeping them out of drafts and off cold flooring, calf coats are very effective at keeping calves warm; alongside ensuring they have plenty of straw.

Get your FREE “Breathe-Easy”Pack...

3) Vaccination – consult your vet to make sure the calves are vaccinated against the most important respiratory pathogens.

• £10 discount voucher • Small sample to smell • Beanie hat • Pack of Airwaves Chewing Gum!

Please vist www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk/trouw-samples

to receive your FREE Pack Jess Charlton

Calf Specialist

m: 07990 584740

e: jess.charlton@wynnstay.co.uk

@charltoncalf1 3

RESPIRATORY

4) Avoid Stressful Situations – stress results in lower immunity, so avoid stressful situations whenever possible.

Consider a stepwise weaning programme and do not make sudden changes in the rations. Ensure each animal has sufficient space at the feeding fence. Avoid performing stressful procedures simultaneously, for example, do not dehorn calves at the same time as they are being weaned.

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

GETTING READY FOR WINTER Falling temperatures mean that calves will have less energy available for growth and for immune function.

To maintain targeted performance, they will require additional feed and management.

Dairy calves can grow at an average 0.8kg per day in their first few weeks under normal conditions, if fed sufficient levels of milk (900g of milk solids), alongside dry feed and water; that’s when the environmental temperature ranges between 15°C and 25°C, what’s termed the “thermoneutral zone” (see image).

Table 1: Increase in energy supplied by increasing milk powder oil content or feed rate.

Energy supplied/calf per day (MJ)

During their first three weeks of life, and when temperatures plummet to less than 15°C, calves start using energy from feed to keep warm. High risk calves, those with a difficult birth and twins, are more vulnerable and will feel cold at higher temperatures. In fact, daily energy requirements increase by up to 30% once the temperature drops below freezing.

20% oil, 22% protein

4L – 12.5% solids

7.5

7.8

4L – 15% solids

11.2

11.7

5L – 12.5% solids

11.7

12.2

Fig 1: Additional calf milk replacer required to maintain growth rates in cold weather, for a calf aged 0 to three weeks, or older than three weeks of age:

By their fourth week, they’ll be more robust and won’t feel the cold until about 0°C. However, high moisture levels and draughts will dramatically increase their susceptibility to cold stress. Draughts of just 5mph will make calves feel 8-10°C colder.

• Put in place a system to drain moisture • Provide plenty of deep straw bedding; it provides calves with a great deal of insulation and reduces body heat loss • Keep bedding dry and clean – much of the insulation value of bedding is lost when it is wet

Cold stress results in energy being diverted from growth to maintaining body temperature. Consequently, growth rates will fall and the calf will become more susceptible to disease since less energy is also available for immune function, meaning that calves are more susceptible to respiratory infections and scours.

3. Specific intervention measures • Provide calf coats • Provide an external heat source close to calves

Adopting the following three-point plan will help calves to cope in periods of very cold weather, avoid stress, and maintain daily liveweight gain.

Cold weather is yet another challenge that you can help your calves overcome if you feed for growth and make sure they are properly housed. Well grown heifers will remain on target to join the milking herd at two years of age and are more likely to lead long and healthy lives.

1. Feeding

LIVESTOCK MANAGEMENT

16% oil, 22% protein

• Make sure every calf receives adequate quality colostrum, by stomach tube or bottle, within the first few hours of life • Step up energy intake; this can be done by increasing the amount of milk offered per day, (see table 1).

Increasing the oil content of the milk replacer from 16% to 20% has a negligible effect on daily energy intake.

Table 1: Increase in energy supplied by increasing milk powder oil content or feed rate • Increase the level of milk solids by 100g per day for every 10oC temperature drop below 20oC to maintain growth rates (see Fig 1)

Steve Brown

Ruminant Feeds Product Manager m: 07774 855026

e: steve.brown@wynnstay.co.uk

@sirbilly55

2. General housing considerations • Reduce cold drafts whilst maintaining adequate ventilation. Provide effective barriers to drafts at calf level and places for the calves to shelter; plastic and timber are better insulating materials than concrete and steel 4

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

A LESSON IN ACHIEVING GREAT PERFORMANCE We arrived at Larson Acres farm on a damp windy Wisconsin morning, unaware that what we were about to see could change our perception of attention to detail forever.

At the door we were greeted by an elderly gentlemen by the name of Wendell Larson, whose two sons and daughter now manage the 2,400 head herd, averaging 54kg of milk and with a replacement rate of 26%. Through one of the two rapid exit milking parlours the cows are milked three times daily, where 50lb of milk per milking is the norm. In awe of this amazing performance Wendel is quick to point out that it is not down to what is in the bunk but solely to do with transition management, fertility, and attention to detail. “Keep your days in milk at 170 and your cows healthy, and the milk will come” said Wendell. It is something we all know, yet fail to unlock its power when our attention to detail in other aspects of the system fail to meet the required standard.

Achieving the performance they required would only be achieved if the staff were trained, motivated, and felt as if they were an integral part of the team

With regards to transition, no Goldilocks1 dry cow diet here; Simply one 45 days dry cow group fed 50:50 maize and grass silage, with a protein and anionic supplement premix and 2kg of straw. Dry cows are stocked at 85% in sand stalls up to the point of calving, at which time they are transferred to a calving pen and then on to a fresh cow group, again stocked at 85%. From the fresh cow group, the cows can be allocated to any group of cows since all cows are fed the exact same diet from calving to drying off. Fertility is so well managed and milk production so high that cows do not go over fat. In fact the farm only feeds two different diets to the herd; dry and lactating. On the day of our visit only two cows out of the 1,248 in the cross-ventilated barn were in the sick pen. Effective transition and fresh cow management was helping this herd achieve a staggering 75% conception rate to first service.

the heifers in each group and the absence of any coughing heifers.

Attention to detail was everywhere; forages were sent away for analysis every Monday and the feeder was responsible for ensuring that the computer controlling the feeder waggon always had the correct value for the forage dry matter. This ensured that feed delivery and the quantity of refusals was maintained consistently during the day, every day. All this ensured that the cows achieved exceptional dry matter intakes. Milking cows achieved a DMI of 4.18% of bodyweight and dry cows 2.2% of bodyweight.

Good cow comfort was easily achieved in the crossventilated barn which housed 1,250 cows. The fans along the one side of the wall ran continuously, providing effective air exchange and keeping air quality optimal. In summer the clean air entering the barn did so through a fine network of water chilled fins that cooled the air as it entered the building.

Minimising environmental stress was key to maintaining excellent fertility and a consistent 170 DMI.

Having reflected on the experience, my advice to anyone serious about embarking on a journey of performance improvement in their herd, is that no matter what the system, attention to detail is key in everything that we do but taking the staff, nutritionist and veterinarian willingly on the journey with you is essential to success.

Heifers calved in at around 600kg at 22 months having been fed a TMR ration from four months of age. It was not uncommon to have heifers peaking at 50-60kg of milk in their first lactation. The calf rearing barn was a series of pens and stalls which housed the heifers from weaning until they were pregnant. The first thing that was apparent in this barn was the consistency in the size of

Reference: 1 Dr. Nicole Janovick

Dr. Huw McConochie

Head of Dairy Technical Services m: 07771 740857 e: huw.mcconochie@wynnstay.co.uk

@HuwMcConochie 5

PERFORMANCE

Out of all the things that amazed me the most and really got me excited was the management’s approach to staff. Wendell described how his sons had embarked on a course in human psychology, as they understood from a very early stage of the farm’s development that achieving the performance they required would only be achieved if the staff were trained, motivated, and felt as if they were an integral part of the team. How often do we think in terms of a bottom-up and top-down approach to managing and decision making on our farms? At the end of the day success is reliant on our staff buying in to and executing what we want to achieve.

Without that, any top-down initiatives are dead in the water, causing frustration and friction between management and staff. When staff are involved and included in decision making and feel that the management are receptive to their ideas, thoughts and concerns - and that these are used to mould future policies - they are more likely to help ensure that initiatives are delivered successfully. Wendell was quick to point out that staff were integral in developing the standard operating procedures that ensured the herd was managed consistently in every aspect. Their participation ensured instant compliance.

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

FORMULATIONS AND QUALITY CONTROL AT WYNNSTAY FEED Wynnstay’s Formulations and Quality Control (QC) teams aim to ensure the feeds we offer are; high quality, cost effective, and achieve performance targets on farm.

Meet the team: Formulations

Both teams work closely together, with QC continually providing feedback

Julie Wright, Company Nutritionist, maintains the formulations and specifications of our Wynnstay feed ranges.

She works closely with the ruminant and monogastric product managers to ensure our products are of the highest nutritional quality.

Joe Makinson is also a member of the formulations team, processing and maintaining the ruminant blend formulations via our Trading department.

Quality Control Sally Davies is the Wynnstay QC and Compliance Manager who, along with Catherine Faulkner, our QC and Compliance assistant, and Ffion Jones, QC Technician, aim to ensure all Wynnstay finished feeds meet their specifications and physical quality targets.

Catherine and Ffion analyse our raw materials and finished feeds at our on-site lab in Llansantffraid; checking specifications and targets are met.

QUALITY CONTROL

Both teams work closely together, with QC continually providing feedback to the formulations team. This feedback allows our feed ranges to be optimised and updated using the latest information; enabling Wynnstay Feed to offer top quality products to our customers.

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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

HEAT DETECTION USING PROGESTERONE ASSESSMENT Most dairy farms use behaviour as the indicator of heat or oestrus, whether increased activity associated with oestrus is detected automatically by collars or pedometers, or by observation of typical behaviour.

Introduction Observation of changes in activity depends upon making sufficient time available, and depends on cows exhibiting the behaviour. A number of factors can reduce behavioural signs; including some types of housing and high yield, despite the cow cycling - leading to the term “silent oestrus”.

Activity is controlled by hormone activity, with the presence of progesterone (P4). It is possible to assess levels of progesterone to detect heat, either by automatic systems such as; Herd Navigator, or using manual systems such as P4 Rapid.

Can provide a method of heat detection that does not rely on overt behavioural changes

Oestrus cycle Whilst progesterone measurement can be used in numerous ways, the main use is to identify heat or oestrus. This is a period of time lasting two to three days within the cycle (typically 21 days), when the cow has low progesterone.

Before and after this period, progesterone levels fall and rise respectively, rapidly reaching a high plateau level for approximately 18 days between heats.

The diagram below shows the typical levels of the different hormones throughout the oestrous cycle.

21–24 days post-insemination return to oestrus can be assessed using P4 status: low P4 indicates return to oestrus having not held to the AI. Even when pregnancy has been established, there are still follicular waves at intervals, which can result in oestrus-like behaviour. Of course, AI during pregnancy is ill-advised and can result in infection or even abortion. True return to oestrus can be distinguished from follicular wave activity as the former is associated with low P4, whilst pregnancy has high P4.

There are various ways of using P4 as a tool to assist heat detection. In a recent study conducted by Bridgit Muasa, at the SRUC, P4 Rapid used three times weekly to detect heat had an 89.91% sensitivity and a 86.02% specificity, compared to 11.91% sensitivity and 92.69% specificity for Estrotect, a heat mount detector used according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Figure 1: The bovine oestrous cycle

Using progesterone as a tool for heat detection After calving there is a period of anoestrus as the reproductive tract returns to a non-pregnant state. Throughout this time the hormones do not cycle and progesterone remains low.

Anoestrus lasts for approximately 24-60 days and may be prolonged by; suckling; high milk yield; poor nutrition; poor body condition; time of year and uterine recovery. After the voluntary waiting period is over, weekly assessment of P4 levels over a three week period should show one low and two high (in any order) if the cow has started cycling. Assessment of P4 levels from 18 days after the low was detected will permit pinpointing of the next heat event. Artificial insemination (AI) on the second or third day of low P4, results in better conception rates than insemination on day one of low P4.

In conclusion, P4 assessment can provide a method of heat detection that does not rely on overt behavioural changes. It can be used as a stand alone or in combination with other systems.

Reference Muasa, B., 2017. Cow-side Reproductive Performance Monitoring Technologies in Dairy Cows. BSAS Conference, April 2017 Chester, UK.

Gareth Jones

Retail Range Development Manager e: gareth.jones@wynnstay.co.uk

7

HEAT DETECTION

P4 assessment can complement other heat detection methods, either to confirm P4 status where a probable heat event has been detected using activity or behaviour monitoring, or in the population of cows within the herd where oestrus behaviour is poorly shown or absent.

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

RESTORING CALCIUM AND ENERGY BALANCE POST CALVING With the autumn/winter calving season upon us, it is important to consider ways to keep cows healthy at this crucial time.

3) Negative energy balance. At the start of lactation, most cows enter into a state of negative energy balance which is often unavoidable, but we should aim to reduce the period of negative energy balance as much as possible. Negative energy balance occurs when energy output exceeds energy intake. To meet energy requirements cows will mobilise their body fat which could lead to other metabolic diseases, such as fatty liver and ketosis. To avoid these metabolic problems it is important for the cows to increase DMI as soon as possible post calving.

There are many challenges during the transition period but the biggest challenges can be the result of the metabolic changes that occur around calving and as the cow transitions into lactation. The main challenges are; trying to maintain hydration when water intake is reduced; mobilising calcium for colostrum and milk production; maintaining energy intake when dry matter intake is reduced.

Three important changes that occur during calving 1) Changes in fluid and electrolyte balance. Directly before and during calving, cows do not eat or drink, but during calving they can lose up to 50L of water and electrolytes.

This may make them listless, which reduces their dry matter intake (DMI) post-calving.

It is important for the cows to increase DMI as soon as possible post calving

WYNNSTAY REVIVA

2) Rapid increase in calcium demand. Colostrum and milk contain large quantities of calcium, so the amount of calcium a cow needs directly after calving increases dramatically. Their bodies try to meet this need by increasing the uptake of calcium from their diet and by releasing calcium from their bones. When calcium levels are low the cows may develop clinical milk fever which is severe calcium deficiency. However, there may also be cows in the herd with subclinical milk fever that do not show any visible signs, but can still have low blood calcium levels. These cows with low blood calcium levels are also at risk of decreased DMI.

Figure 1: Graph showing that cows treated with Reviva 80/20 had a higher blood calcium level post calving compared to the control group

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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

Wynnstay Reviva Wynnstay Reviva 80/20 is a complementary feed for cows with strong scientific evidence demonstrating the benefits in freshly calved cows. Reviva 80/20 is used to replenish water and mineral loss in freshly calved cows. It is rich in energy, using dextrose as the main energy source, electrolytes and calcium, and is extremely palatable. In a trial of 440 cows, when offered either control or Reviva 80/20, 95% of cows drank Reviva 80/20 without hesitation, vs. only 67% of cows drinking control.

Blood calcium levels and DMI post calving were also assessed in a further trial where cows were offered either 20L of warm water or 20L of Reviva 80/20.

While every cow offered Reviva 80/20 drank all of it, only 82% of the cows offered water drank all of it.

Results showed that there was an increase of about 1kg DMI per day for cows in the Reviva 80/20 group,

levels remained higher for the first four weeks post calving, this can be seen in Figure 1.

compared with those in the control group. Most significantly, blood calcium levels were higher in the 48 hours immediately post calving in the cows offered Reviva 80/20 and calcium

What do farmers think?

Martin Sharp,

Wolsty Hall Farm, milking 155 cows

For further information please visit www.farmosan.co.uk or contact your nearest Wynnstay representative or store.

9

WYNNSTAY REVIVA

“I first saw Reviva advertised a few years ago and decided to try it on our cows. We had problems with milk fever and because this product had calcium in we decided to use it. We use it on every cow after second calving and any heifers that have a difficult calving. Since starting to use it we have noticed a reduction in the number of milk fever cases however still cover our back and put a bottle of calcium in some circumstances. The cows are back on their feet quicker and eating. We have noticed a better start to lactation on the cows that have received Reviva. I find that a majority of cows take it well but it must be mixed at the correct temperature. We mix 10L of very hot water with the 1kg of Reviva and then top it up to 20L with cold water. It is easy to mix and smells nice.

The cows that do drink it, will completely finish the bucket.�

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

FROM PRE TO POST WEANING: TRANSFORMATION OF THE YOUNG CALF’S GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT The older the calf, the less permeable the digestive tract when weaning; lower permeability means lower chance of diarrhoea and other digestive issues, and a more resilient digestive tract.

What is the GIT?

in length and surface area of papillae. The rumen must also develop the capacity to absorb increased VFAs to use as an energy source. It is important to stimulate development of the rumen by increasing starter feed, however, evidence suggests that the rumen may not be ready to assume the primary role of nutrient absorption and metabolism before eight weeks of age, suggesting a later weaning age will be advantageous for the purpose of nutrient absorption. Permeability is also affected with these changes which will have an effect on susceptibility to disease.

The primary function of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is the digestion and absorption of nutrients. However, it also has a second function and this is to protect the calf and prevent microorganisms and toxins from entering the bloodstream.

Increases in GIT permeability can allow microorganisms to pass through the epithelium and enter into the bloodstream, causing diarrhoea and ill health.

Why is GIT development so important?

1. The pre-weaning period is a critical time when calves are most susceptible to disease 2. A good start to life can also set the tone for eventual high milk yields

Major changes occur at weaning where the calf is susceptible to stress and disease, but what causes this stress? Is it the weaning process itself? Or does age at weaning make a difference to alleviating that stress?

What changes occur at weaning?

Is it age or weaning itself? - Both!

Figure 1 details the changes that occur from pre to postweaning.

In a study carried out by Trouw Nutrition the effect of age at weaning on 14 Holstein bull calves was investigated. Half were weaned via a step-down process starting at day 35 and were fully weaned by day 42. The other half were not weaned. GIT development, permeability and function were studied in both groups of calves.

In the pre-weaning stage the rumen is undeveloped with very small papillae, although the abomasum is large which is where the primary site of digestion is. In the hindgut there is limited fermentation but it is where most glucose transport takes place.

Key findings from this study were that advancing age decreases the permeability of the GIT, which better enables calves to fight off disease, but biological changes in the digestive site that occur as a cause of the weaning process actually increase GIT permeability. This was most pronounced in the rumen, duodenum and jejunum, increasing susceptibility to digestive problems.

In the post-weaning stage there is rapid increase in growth and absorptive capacity of the rumen, particularly in the rumen papillae, with decreases in the abomasum. Changes in the hindgut that occur are decreased glucose transport and hindgut fermentation but increased permeability.

The process of weaning, results in milk being removed from the calf’s diet. This results in changes in the total capacity of the rumen from 30% to 70% of the entire GIT, with increases

In conclusion, it seems that weaning later so that calves are older, decreases permeability which could counteract and aid the inevitable changes that occur from the weaning process itself, rendering the GIT more permeable. Later weaning would protect the calves from GIT problems, including scours; one of the leading causes of calf death.

GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

Key Points • Diarrhoea and other digestive problems are the leading cause of calf death • GIT permeability could affect susceptibility to digestive problems • GIT permeability decreased with age • At weaning GIT permeability is increased, making calves more susceptible to digestive problems • Delayed weaning so calves are older could help better manage their challenge of weaning

Steve Brown

Ruminant Feeds Product Manager m: 07774 855026

Figure 1. Changes in the GIT pre and post-weaning (Meale et al., 2017)

e: steve.brown@wynnstay.co.uk

@sirbilly55 10

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

OPTIMISING FORAGE IN RATIONS USING NUTRIOPT Forage utilisation is the foundation of any profitable feeding strategy but with such wide variations in fibre, protein, and carbohydrate characteristics in forages, it is critical to have the models to quantify these factors.

Supplying the rumen with what it needs

The development of the NutriOpt model provides an opportunity for us to look at forages and their roles in diets differently. It has long been established that the traditional crude protein, D-value, and Non Digestible Fibre (NDF),

NutriOpt lets us exploit forage, leaving concentrates to balance the rumen. Rumen Degradable Protein (RDP) is well supplied with most grass silage based diets and hard to fully utilise; evident with high milk urea results. With traditional rationing techniques, it is very challenging to supply the rumen with enough carbohydrates to utilise that protein. With advances made using NutriOpt, there is more opportunity to achieve this improvement in efficiency. Dividing protein into Rapidly Fermentable Protein (RFP) and Total Fermentable Protein (TFP), goes a step further than just looking at RDP, so making it more obvious which type of protein needs to be added.

NutriOpt feed analysis gives detailed information on what will happen to the feed once fed

Dynamic Net Energy

Dynamic Net Energy (DyNE) is the total amount of net energy available to the dairy cow for milk production. It is the sum of energy in the nutrients that are being formed during fermentation and absorbed in the digestive tract (small and large intestine) including; volatile fatty acids, glucose, amino acids and fatty acids.

When there is a shift in site of digestion, this is reflected in energy content, hence the name Dynamic Energy. The evolution from Metabolisable Energy (ME) to this figure better displays the results of ratios and proportions of feed types added. Crucially, by calculating the Volatile Fatty Acid (VFA) production into this figure, formulation is more focused on maximising VFA production; improving efficiency of rumen function.

figures are far too vague to capture the best out of forage.

Have you ever had first and second cut samples that look the same on paper but when changing to second-cut, milk production falls? This is common when looking at crude figures and highlights the potential gains to be made from more accurate forage sampling and modelling.

One of the principals of NutriOpt is dividing carbohydrate and protein into rapidly, and slowly, fermentable fractions. This means we can provide more synergy between ingredients to balance the rumen more accurately. Interpreting this information means you can match the speed of degradation of products in the rumen, using supplementary feeding to plug the gaps.

Relationships between different factors

Maximising Rumen Fermentable Carbohydrates (RFC) to satisfy rumen microbial production, whilst maintaining rumen stability, is a key principal in NutriOpt. To achieve this balance, understanding fibrous portions of feeds and their digestibility rates is vital. RFC is the faster degrading proportion of total carbohydrates, so by looking at the balance between RFC and Total Fermentable Carbohydrates (TFC), we can better understand the gaps that need filling by supplementary feeding.

Reducing Diet Costs

Fibre

Maximising rumen function is a balance between fibre supply and acid load that is created by acidic feeds and rumen fermentation. Just looking at NDF is not good enough, as this figure contains everything from lignin (which is totally undisguisable) through to pectin which degrades relatively quickly in the rumen. The resulting effects on rumen function, health, and production, could be very different. There is a demand for all types of fibre within the rumen environment, but using NutriOpt Digestible Fibre, along with the Fibre Index, we can get the balance right; maintaining good rumen function without reducing intakes, glucogenic energy and, therefore, milk yield.

Mark Price

Dairy Specialist m: 07876 824314

e: mark.price@wynnstay.co.uk

@m_priceo 11

NUTRIOPT

Average first cut samples this year calculate to supplying maintenance plus 6L using the traditional ME calculations, but when using DyNE; interpreting the full picture of what would happen to silage once fed, the same silage has a potential of producing an additional 2L. This shows by using NutriOpt parameters, there is potential to get more milk production from the same forage. There can be cost savings to be made in concentrates fed also. Cheap commodities like; wheat, Soya hulls, and Nutritionally Improved Straw (NIS) can be mainstays in rationing when fully understood, and significant costs can be made on bought-in protein where forage protein can be utilised NutriOpt feed analysis gives detailed information on what will happen to the feed once fed, and when used to its potential provides an opportunity to improve feed margins on farm.

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

MAXIMIZING STARCH AVAILABILITY FROM MAIZE BASED DIETS In order to maximise profitability from the production of cow’s milk, farmers are increasingly focused on improving the efficiency of feed and animal production. One method to consider is the use of feed additives to optimise health and well-being.

Dairy farmers can achieve efficient milk production by investing in high quality genetics, but this can depend on good management and high quality rations. Evidence from trials and practical experience indicates that a reliable and cost-effective way of earning more profit per cow is through optimising feed with the right additives. This is important for farmers not only to ensure that milk production is profitable, but also to ensure optimal rumen health and well-being for cows.

From carrying out on-farm digestion analysis, we can evaluate the cows’ dung. Analysing digestion by muck sieving we can adjust diets accordingly, promoting good rumen efficiency and optimal rumen nutrient balance. The Nasco Three Sieve analyser is a fantastic tool to use, as it shows how well the cows are digesting the diet. Those herds with a high percentage of corn in the dung will be losing a high amount of potential energy, therefore, potential milk loss which equates to lost income.

To get the most from a dairy cow, you must get the most from the animal’s rumen. The rumen is the engine of milk production. RumiStar™ is a product that can get you a turbo charged engine and better profits. When you feed a dairy cow, you are feeding the billions of microorganisms in its rumen. Many factors affect the performance of the rumen, get them right and you will have more productive cows with better feed efficiency.

RumiStar™ is a cutting edge feed enzyme specifically developed for dairy cows. It increases corn starch digestion; increases energy supply and allows more milk to be produced from the same feed; greater feed efficiency and more income.

How It Works A pure amylase (an enzyme, found in saliva and pancreatic fluid, that converts starch and glycogen into simple sugars), it releases more of the starch energy in corn based diets. This provides more starch energy to the animal and also increases forage digestion. As a result, cows make better use of their total diet and can allow increased forage use, which reduces feed costs.

The rumen is populated by vital microorganisms that digest the diet. Fine tuning the rumen means maintaining these in an optimal state. This increases the energy and protein available to the cow from its feed. Sometimes the rumen needs a helping hand; for example, in order to extract a higher value from high starchy maize.

Where cows are fed RumiStar™ I have seen much higher corn digestion and overall forage digestion, and rumen fill has been very consistent. Results from the UK and rest of Europe can conclude a response in milk production of an extra 1.5-1.8 kg/cow. A significant rise in efficiency and financial returns have increased.

OPTIMISING DIGESTION

RumiStar™ is a cutting edge feed enzyme specifically developed for dairy cows RumiStar™ Benefits • Better adoption and utilisation of maize based diets • Better digestion of dietary starch and NDF • Glucogenic effect; higher blood glucose, important link to fertility • Better rumen health

Martin Hope

Dairy Specialist m: 07502 311181

e: martin.hope@wynnstay.co.uk

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WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

BIOSPRINT® LIVE YEAST On the market for two decades, Biosprint® is a unique strain of live yeast that puts the top on milk, generates extra live weight gain and is still growing strong.

Be part of the Biosprint® Success Story and Improve Efficiency!

Accepted for use in dairy, beef and sheep enterprises, Biosprint® can be used to improve rumen function and feed conversion efficiency.

The dairy cow feeding trials presented to the European Feed Safety Authority (EFSA) have demonstrated up to 2L of additional milk production per head/day. At current milk pricing, just 1L improvement in milk production would quadruple the investment!

Improves rumen function and feed conversion efficiency

Safe and simple to use, Biosprint® is available as a ‘farm mix’ or as an ‘add in’ to on-farm minerals, so can easily be incorporated into the diet.

Discuss the options with your Wynnstay Feed Specialist to find the best solution to improve efficiency in your dry and lactating cows and all classes of dairy heifers.

Biosprint® MUCL 39885 is a trade mark of Prosol.

Biosprint® Dairy How does it work?

Increased milk production

Yeast

Improved milk composition Bacteria

Stabilised pH

Biosprint® Boosts Milk Yields

BIOSPRINT®

Steve Brown

Ruminant Feeds Product Manager m: 07774 855026

e: steve.brown@wynnstay.co.uk

@sirbilly55

13

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

MAKE MAIZE COUNT IN 2018 In recent years there has been a trend towards dairy farmers including a higher percentage of maize in the ration; with many producers using around a 50-60% inclusion rate. Maize is recognised as an attractive home-grown forage option. As a feed, it is palatable, high in energy, starch-rich and has a good ME, all of which contribute to improved milk production.

Three top tips to consider for the 2018 season:

The overall feed quality of maize can be greatly influenced by the agronomy of the crop and attention to detail. A lot of time, effort, and money is invested in producing a good quality crop at harvest, therefore, it is important for growers to pay attention to the smaller details to maximise the nutritional value. From choosing the right fields through to clamp management, it can all make a difference to the overall cost-effectiveness and benefit to the business.

1) Starting from the soil Making sure that you select the right site to grow maize is a great place to start when looking at growing a successful crop. Maize does not like wet feet so ideally choose lighter, free draining land, which is less likely to have compaction issues. Maize has a deep rooting system so it would be beneficial to make sure the soil is deep enough for the roots to fully establish. With regard to field aspect, southfacing gives the best results by maximising sunlight hours and heat units for cob development.

Be ready to sow as soon as the soil temperature approaches 10ËšC and is steadily rising

In addition to site selection, it is also absolutely essential to know your soil. A basic soil analysis will provide details of pH, along with phosphate, potash and magnesium indices. Once you have this, you will be able to work with your Wynnstay Specialist to create a cost-effective nutrient management plan to ensure the crop receives all the nutrients it requires, without overspending unnecessarily.

2) Getting the timing right When it comes to sowing maize, in general, the earlier the better once the soil is warm enough! I would advise growers to be ready to sow as soon as the soil temperature approaches 10ËšC and is steadily rising; which is usually around the third week in April. However, as we all know the weather in spring can vary considerably from year to year. To make sure you are ready to sow as soon as the conditions are right, order your seed, starter fertiliser, and pre-emergence herbicides all at the same time; as early as possible and get them delivered well in advance. This will mean you have everything ready for the green light.

3) Selecting the correct variety

MAIZE

In the main, maize varieties destined for the Northern European market (which includes the UK) have been selected for high starch, high dry matter yield (DM) and early maturity, but recent advances in breeding have pushed the boundaries. In addition to these three key characteristics, a variety such as Reason from Limagrain has also been bred to display high cell wall digestibility.

This, when considered alongside the variety’s high DM and starch yields, produces an extremely high total ME yield per hectare, from a very early maturing variety, which also displays the added benefit of strong early vigour.

Reason is very early to mature (FAO 160) which means that growers are more likely to be able to harvest the crop under favourable conditions at the target 30-34% for both starch and DM.

Simon Pope

Wynnstay Maize & Crop Protection Manager m: 07990 578545

e: simon.pope@wynnstay.co.uk

14

WYNNSTAY AGRICULTURE

DAIRY NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2017

SOIL HEALTH HELPING GRASSLAND PRODUCTIVITY In order to be as productive as possible, most dairy units will look to use grassland forage, whether cutting or grazing, as a cost-effective way of reducing bought-in feed costs. As the milk price becomes more volatile and questions over subsidies arise post-Brexit, now, more than ever, producers are looking to maximise both the yield and nutritional value of their grass crops.

At Wynnstay, we use modern grass varieties to create grass seed mixtures which are high quality and productive.

However, after these have been sown, a good grassland nutrition programme will ensure that these mixtures reach their full potential.

Soil Testing – the key to knowing your soil The first thing to consider when looking at grassland management is whether you have a full understanding of your soil and its nutritional status. If the answer is no, then we would always advise soil sampling on a field-by-field basis. This will help to determine the pH of your soil, which is essential for nutrient availability, as well as the current levels of N, P and K, and other required nutrients.

Popular soil tests Standard Soil

• pH, available phosphorus, potassium and magnesium.

• Lime and fertiliser recommendations

Standard Soil and Organic Matter

• pH, available phosphorus, potassium and magnesium

Natural England Stewardship Scheme

• pH, P, K, Mg, total nitrogen using dimus method, organic matter through loss on ignition and textural classification

Broad Spectrum

• pH, available phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, zinc, sulphur, boron, copper, manganese, iodine, selenium and cobalt

• Lime and fertiliser recommendations. Additional organic matter result

(Other soil tests available)

Once you have an understanding of the nutrient picture for your grassland, your fertiliser programme can be more accurate, efficient, and cost-effective.

Soils sampling on a field-by-field basis

Dave Mitchell

Fertiliser Manager m: 07990 578543

e: dave.mitchell@wynnstay.co.uk

For more information on soil analysis and bespoke grassland fertiliser plans, speak to your local agronomist or Wynnstay’s Fertiliser Department.

15

SOIL HEALTH

Blanket fertiliser applications across all grassland field types can lead to over-spending, or more likely, inaccurate spending; where the grass crop doesn’t get the full benefit of the application. The most common example of this is when the soil pH is below the recommended levels. For peaty soils, the range is 5.0 to 5.5, and for mineral based soils, it is 6.0 to 6.5. If the pH of your soil falls outside these levels, nutrient uptake will be hampered and losses will occur.

For N applications, the loss could be significant as surplus N, which isn’t taken up, will be leached. Although, not as readily leachable, P and K will go unused by the crop until the pH status is correct. This means that expensive fertiliser applications will be wasted and the potential margin/ha reduced.

Contact us: Dairy Order Desk

t: 0808 168 7998 dairy@wynnstay.co.uk To find your local store visit

www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk Wynnstay Feeds Llansantffraid Office: 01691 828512 Carmarthen Office: 01267 231341 Rhosfawr Office: 01766 819066

Wynnstay Arable Seed: 01939 210777 Fertiliser: 01939 211266 Agronomy: 01939 210555 GrainLink: 01939 210500

For technical advice, product information or to request a quote visit

www.wynnstayagriculture.co.uk

For the latest dairy news and information, or if you are interested in receiving our Dairy Newsletter by e-mail please visit

www.wynnstaydairy.uk

Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the details supplied in this publication are correct, Wynnstay cannot be held responsible for any inaccurate information. Information contained within this publication should be used as a guide only, please seek specialist advice before purchasing. Photography and product images used within this publication have been used as a guide only.

Wynnstay (Agricultural Supplies) Ltd • Eagle House • Llansantffraid • Powys • SY22 6AQ Registration No. 5009019 Part of Wynnstay Group Plc • Eagle House • Llansantffraid • Powys SY22 6AQ Registration No: 2704051 Telephone: 01691 828512 • Fax: 01691 828690 • Email: info@wynnstay.co.uk • www.wynnstay.co.uk Registered in Wales and England Vat Reg No. 168 7221 87

@WynnstayGroup WN2530