Having colostrum accessible to calves is imperative to the colostrum feeding program. For reasons such as the cow cannot produce enough colostrum, Colostrum is of low quality, or the freshly calved Cow has not been milked within hours of giving birth. Calves are essentially born with little to no immunity. Therefore, the quality of colostrum is essential for disease prevention during the first weeks of a calf’s life.
Grassland management is often overlooked for new leys, but by prioritising weed control early during establishment, you will achieve cost-effective, long-lasting control, resulting in higher yields of grass.
Beneficial soil microbes play a critical role in the acquisition, ‘renaturing’ and transfer of soil nutrients into plants. Biofertilisers (microbial biostimulants) comprise living micro-organisms which, unlike traditional fertilisers multiply as they enter the ground, act to increase Nutrient Use Efficiency (NUE) of plants.
In a world where input costs are rising and soil health is rightly being championed, building soil biology is a very practical way to reduce fertigation and improve soil structure and carbon capacity.
Modern grass varieties have the potential to deliver superior yields and excellent feed values if managed correctly, with soil nutrition and pH being prioritised and maintained throughout the year.
Mares can be so rewarding, but also challenging, especially when you need them to perform. Why are mares so tricky and how can we help them? First and foremost, we must always remember our mares are ‘entire’, just like a stallion, they will always come with those hormonal challenges.
Pollinating insects are one of the most reliant modes of transport for pollen between plants. However, they are not only responsible for the pollination of plants, their responsibility extends to the food we eat, the beverages we drink, and some of the medicines we use. These pollinators are vital for life.
Last year’s relatively mild and dry autumn allowed many livestock farmers a welcome extension of the grazing season, which reduced some pressure on forage stocks following the summer drought conditions. Despite the extended grazing period, some farms have been rationing silage stocks this winter by supplementing diets with lower quality forages such as straw, whilst others have continued with their standard winter diets with one eye on spring.
Early scanning data shows rates are 20 to 30% lower than normal following grass shortages due to the drought, meaning it is important to pay particular attention to ewe nutrition to ensure as many healthy lambs as possible are born in the spring.
The transition period for a dairy cow is generally from 3 weeks before calving to 3 weeks post-partum. This period is extremely challenging for dairy cows, so managing this time correctly is vital to achieving optimum cow health and is heavily linked to the overall success of the farm. The successful management of the transition period can determine, future lactations, milk production and quality, calving ease, and longevity in the herd.
The Welsh Government opened another application window for farmers to apply for its Small Grants Efficiency scheme. The grant pays up to 40% towards the cost of a range of livestock related products. You can browse the list of eligible products in the handy table provided below, including farming equipment and technology to improve productivity. Fill out our enquiry form below to receive a quote of all the eligible products to fit your needs.
