As calf and youngstock specialists, we often discuss different rearing systems and technological advances that can help improve your current calf-rearing system. We work closely with a network of engineers to ensure the machine is installed in the right position, with alternative feed programmes in order to benefit your rearing system.
With the spiralling costs of fertiliser this year, more dairy farmers are looking at ways of increasing slurry or manure utilisation and growing more forage from less. Most farms appreciate the value of slurry and use it efficiently, but it is possible to further improve utilisation whilst increasing your farms forage utilisation or milk from forage figure – which is where the true value lies.
Wynnstay has a dedicated team of RAMAs, fully trained and legally qualified through AMTRA to advise, prescribe and supply certain veterinary medicines. In this blog, we meet Crystal Brick, Animal Health Sales Specialist covering the mid-Wales area.
Quality grass is a cost-effective part of feeding and regular reseeding ensures that the required nutritional value of the ley is maintained. In a year with soaring nitrogen costs and other inputs rising the production of high-quality forage is crucial. New leys can help deliver a 33% increase in yield in the first year compared to a typical old sward, and in a drought year this can increase up to 50%.
Improving the lifetime yield of a cow is a top priority in dairy businesses as we continue to improve efficiencies. This can be impacted from the moment a newborn heifer calf arrives, to when the animal enters the parlour at the start of its first lactation.
While there are lots of areas to focus on to set a heifer up for a healthy and productive life in the herd, I’ve narrowed it down to my top three areas to prioritise pre-calving.
The UK is experiencing more frequent heatwaves each summer, with temperatures reaching the highs of 30°C in the day and evening in-shed temperatures staying above 20°C, as a result cows will struggle and performance and fertility may be effected.
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight directly into electricity. By connecting to a farm’s electrical system, the energy produced using solar PV can be used to meet power demands including lighting and electrical farm equipment. Any surplus energy generated by the system can exported to the National Grid for payment. Alternatively, the system can be installed with a battery component, allowing excess power to be stored and used later, for example to support night-time operations.
Thinking of installing solar on your farm? While the benefits of a solar installation are plain to see for any agricultural business, there are some key considerations for anyone eager to progress with such a project.
The first step for any agricultural business seeking to undertake a commercial scale solar project is to contact a Solar Energy UK-registered installer, such as Caplor Energy, with an idea of what you’d like your project to achieve. The installer will work with you to understand your objectives, property assets and current and future energy usage levels to provide an initial determination of the feasibility of your project. Once this is done, a detailed assessment will take place including a site survey, energy and financial modelling and any planning and grid connection permission requirements.
The United Kingdom’s commercial solar power sector saw record growth in 2021, making it an incredible economic success story. In 2022 we are seeing record increases in energy prices and this is also prompting many business to explore ways in which to significantly reduce energy bills. Commercial solar panel systems, including agricultural solar, has a key role in the UK’s achievement of net zero by 2050.
