Irish Farm Business - Vol 1 Issue 2 Autumn/Winter 2014

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EXPANDING GRASS DRY MATTER PRODUCTION ON FARMS

BUSINESS PLANNING FOR AN EXPANDING DAIRY FARM

DON'T LET WEANLING PNEUMONIA DRIVE YOU INSANE!

>> SEE PAGE 24

>> SEE PAGE 48

>> SEE PAGE 36

IRISH

Farm Business Volume 1 Issue 2 Autumn/Winter 2014 Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

DAIRYING

DAIRY LIFE

PROFILE:THE CREMIN BROTHERS IN LIMERICK

A CASE STUDY ON MILK QUALITY

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Foreword/Contents/Credits IRISH

Farm Business DAIRYING

Volume 1 Issue 2 Autumn/Winter 2014 Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

18 CREMIN BROTHERS – A CASE STUDY ON MILK QUALITY

Foreword

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rish Dairy Farming is expanding at an incredible rate. Given the year that we are having it is being well–supported by the weather (most silage pits are full) and grass growth has been consistently good through the season so far.

In this edition,we explore the need for re–seeding in order to achieve maximum yield from your fields over a number of years.We also have a feature on cash– flow management for an expanding herd over a five year period. Cash–flow can be very difficult to manage particularly if something goes wrong like disease in the herd so always ensure you have a buffer for such an event. It is necessary that the existing farm base is being run efficiently as it is this production unit that will ultimately have to pay for the cost of expansion.

In our new Farm Focus section, we visited the Cremin Bros near Newcastlewest in County Limerick who have combined two herds to create a larger herd of approx 200 cows.This gave them the opportunity to build a new milking parlour with ancillary holding pens etc.

We trust that you will find their method of operating interesting and helpful.

Also in Animal Health we look at respiratory diseases in cattle which are prevalent coming into winter so prevention and cure can to be tackled.

The short–term challenge for dairy farmers is to plan for farm business expansion towards 2015.With the countdown to the removal of EU Milk quotas well–advanced and an increase in milk production also anticipated, Irish Farm Business will provide a voice for the Dairy Industry with a quality and informative publication.

Irish Farm Business is published in both Print and Electronic format with the latter available for download to Computer, iPad and Smartphone.

We trust you enjoy reading this edition as we embark on exciting times for dairy farming in Ireland.

Irish Farm Business travelled to Limerick to meet Patrick and Danny Cremin.

24 EXPANDING GRASS DRY MATTER PRODUCTION ON FARMS The removal of the milk quota will mean higher feed requirements, writes Michael O' Donovan, Grassland Science Department,Teagasc, Moorepark.

30 INFECTIOUS BOVINE RHINOTRACHEITIS

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Replacement heifers are the building blocks of the future herd. Emer Kenny, Teagasc, Moorepark reports.

36 DON'T LET WEANLING PNEUMONIA DRIVE YOU INSANE! Every autumn as weanlings are housed, both vets and farmers know there is a risk that they will develop pneumonia over the following weeks, writes Charles Chavasse.

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Editorial: Denis Lane Advertising: James Small Design: John Barrett Production: Emma Meade

42 STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE SUCCESS – THE RIGHT COW TO DRIVE PERFORMANCE Genetics,grassland management and financial planning are widely acknowledged as the three pillars for profitable dairy farming in Ireland (Teagasc,2013). Andrew Cromie reports.

48 BUSINESS PLANNING FOR AN EXPANDING DAIRY INDUSTRY For dairy farmers the removal of milk quotas provides a very exciting opportunity to grow their dairy business.

Laurence Shalloo,Teagasc, Moorepark reports.

52 CUBICLE DESIGN

52

The Publishers, Irish Farm Business

Enquiries:

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) is caused by bovine herpesvirus–1(BHV-1) and is recognized as one of the major cattle diseases of economic importance.

32 WINTER FEEDING OPTIONS FOR REPLACEMENT DAIRY HEIFERS

Until the next time………

Publishers: Denis Lane and Robert Heuston

Features

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Contributors: Michael O' Donovan, Grassland Science Department, Teagasc, Moorepark. Emer Kenny,Teagasc, Moorepark.

Charles Chavasse BVMS MRCVS | Area Veterinary Manager, Livestock Team, Zoetis.Andrew Cromie, ICBF. Simon Hennessy, Grasstec Group. Laurence Shalloo,Teagasc, Moorepark.Tom Duffy, Cow Comfort Ltd. (Mayo Mats).

Photography: Hugh Lane

Tom Duffy of Cow Comfort Ltd. (Mayo Mats) provides advice on Cubicle Design.

54 FARM DESIGN Taking time to plan the design of Farm Infrastructure can save several thousands of Euro, writes Simon Hennessy, Grasstec Ltd.

Profiles 22 CLAAS 34 CALOR GAS 40 CRUMB RUBBER LTD. 46 TEGRAL 58 AGRIHEALTH Distribution: Easons, Newspread,WNS Published by: Select Media Ltd, 26 Clare Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Tel. + 353 1 6622266 Fax. + 353 1 6624981 Email. info@selectmedialtd.com

All material contained in this edition is copyright of Forestry and Energy Review 2014 and may not be reproduced or electronically stored without the permission of the publisher. However items may be freely reproduced provided the source is acknowledged. Content and views expressed in the publication do not necessarily represent those of the publishers.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS

This will give visitors the opportunity to inspect the modes of operation of the systems in detail.The focus will be on different solutions for feeding grass and maize silage, as well as hay/straw and HANOVER, NOVEMBER 11th–14th,2014 mineral feed or feed concentrate. Both the mixing operation and The world’s largest trade fair for professional animal production, delivery of the mixture to the feeding table can be followed.

EuroTier 2014, will be held at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover Alongside the technical demonstrations, information islands will be from November 11th – 14th,2014. So far 2,100 exhibitors from 49 set up on the topics of “animal welfare”,“environment”,“costs” and countries have already booked stands. Half of the exhibitors come “feeding management”, staffed by experts from the sectors of from outside Germany, the largest contingent once again hailing from consultancy, science and research, and industry. the Netherlands with 163 companies. High exhibitor participation is For further information visit www.eurotier.com also already evident from France (129), China (109), Italy (84), Denmark (67), Spain (59), the United Kingdom (46), Belgium (45), Austria (45), K DAIRY DAY Turkey (40) and Poland (35).“These registration figures are roughly GET PREPARED FOR WINTER at the same high level as for the record event two years ago”, stated SHROPSHIRE, SEPTEMBER 17th,2014 EuroTier project manager Dr. Karl Schlösser.

UK DAIRY DAY OFFERS A WEALTH OF “Automated cattle feeding – From silo to rumen” OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUSINESS AND LEARNING The use of automatic feeding systems is advancing in dairy cattle, The inaugural UK Dairy Day, organised by Holstein UK, CIS and young stock and beef bull husbandry. But what degree of automation CDI, offers dairy farmers a timely opportunity to do business ahead is expedient? Answers to this question will be provided by a EuroTier of the autumn and winter, at the same time as allowing them to pick –Special “Automated cattle feeding – From silo to rumen”, which is up the latest information on breeding, feeding and herd management being established together with exhibitors in the open–air section of from a wide range of trade exhibitors and seminar speakers. the Exhibition Grounds.The different technical solutions will be UK Dairy Day, which takes place at the International Centre,Telford, presented in a practical environment here, with live demonstrations. on Wednesday September 17th, has been timed to coincide with the large number of purchasing decisions being made as herds head towards the winter housing period and the increased feed and associated input requirements this brings, explains event organiser Simon Gee of Holstein UK. "The strength of support from trade exhibitors has been tremendous, with a clear demand for a dedicated dairy farming event at this time of year in a central location."

Alongside a wide range of trade exhibitors will be a superb line–up of seminar speakers covering a range of topics, including cow health, planning for the future and life after milk quotas, with seminars taking place under three themes;The Farm,The People/Team and The Cow. “The Cow area will focus on key health and management issues, such as foot trimming, maximising cow longevity and the economics of measuring profit,” explains Mr Gee. DairyCo's Marco Winters will also be speaking on the topic of genomics, bringing dairy farmers the latest information to help them make informed breeding decisions.

For further information visit www.ukdairyday.com

EUROTIER: THE WORLD’S LEADING TRADE FAIR FOR ANIMAL PRODUCTION

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NEWS

2015 'ANIMAL HEALTH AND MILK QUALITY ISSUES AT FARM AND INDUSTRY LEVEL' DATE: JANUARY 2015, LOCATION: HORSE & JOCKEY, THURLES, CO. TIPPERARY Animal health problems can be disastrous at farm level and issues around milk quality can be devastating in the market place. This seminar will look at animal health issues particular to expanding dairy farms, and will discuss the risks related to expanding through buying in stock.

The seminar will also assess how our industry stands in relation to diseases that have the potential to be problematic from an international marketing point of view, and if the risks associated with these are likely to increase as expansion occurs.

COLLABORATIVE FARMING OPTIONS FOR DAIRY FARMING DATE: JUNE 2015, LOCATION: MULLINGAR PARK HOTEL, MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH Post milk quotas the most limiting factor for pasture based dairy systems will be availability of grazing land for use in milking blocks.

Currently less than 20% of agricultural land is used for grazing dairy cows but the majority of agricultural land is potentially suitable for dairying and is currently being used for enterprises that are much TEAGASC UPCOMING EVENTS lower in profitability than dairying. For historical and social reasons 2014 AND 2015 land mobility in Ireland is very low with less than 0.5% of land traded LABOUR MANAGEMENT OF EXPANSION annually.This seminar will discuss options to facilitate the use of DATE: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14th, 2014 LOCATION: DUBLIN (HOTEL TO BE CONFIRMED) more land in dairying that could benefit both the land owner and the dairy farmer.It will also identify key policy changes required to encourage Spring calving pasture based milk production can be the most labour efficient system of milk production, however there is a period such activity.

For further information visit www.teagasc.ie of acute labour demand in early spring associated with compact calving and calf rearing. This acute labour demand will increase as herd sizes increase post quotas and will be exacerbated during the NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS expansion process as farmers’ project manage the expansion phase. SEPTEMBER 23rd – 25th, 2014, RATHENISKA, The combined effects of expansion may lead to significant stress on STRADBALLY, CO. LAOIS the farm operator and subsequently impact negatively on both the The National Ploughing Championships, Europe’s largest outdoor farmer’s health and viability of the business. This seminar will outline exhibition and agricultural trade show returns in September. The event the key logistical challenges of managing expansion and larger dairy attracts an average of 1,350 exhibitors and over 200,000 visitors farm operations and identify the critical factors that minimise the stress annually. on farmers and ensure a more sustainable expansion.

For further information visit www.npa.ie

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NEWS

MASTERVET BOLUS RANGE Helping replenish necessary trace minerals during times of increased demand.

BENEFITS OF BOLUS USAGE: Precise administration, every cow gets the same amount Less labour, More economical, No wastage G Not dependent on appetite (sick cows eat less) G Can help to prevent deficiency diseases including (grass tetany), in addition to increasing milk yields, improving growth rates and reducing the incidence of still births.

G G

MASTERVET HIGH TRACE BOLUS: Can help to prevent problems with health and fertility in dairy and suckler cows G Contains copper, cobalt, selenium, zinc and iodine.

G

MASTERVET DRY PLUS BOLUS G Provides additional trace minerals required for dairy cattle during the dry period.

G For use in combination with Mastervet High Trace Bolus during the drying off period.

G Contains cobalt, selenium, zinc, iodine and manganese.

MASTERVET JUNIOR PLUS BOLUS G Provides a steady stream of trace minerals to help optimise growth rates of young stock.

G Contains copper, cobalt, selenium, zinc and iodine.

MASTERVET CALCITOP BOLUS G A fast dissolving calcium supplement for dairy and suckler cows at the first signs of calving.

G Can help to prevent calcium deficiency and reduce the risk of milk fever.

G Each bolus contains 20g of calcium G Contains Vitamin D

MASTERVET MAGNITOP BOLUS G A slow release magnesium supplement for dairy and suckler cows during the grazing season.

G Can help to prevent magnesium deficiency and reduce the risk of grass tetany.

G Each bolus contains 40g of magnesium For further details contact CAHL on 059 9151251 or visit www.cahl.ie

K.E. LIQUID SOLUTIONS K.E. Liquid Solutions based at the Water Shop Kilkenny Mart Cillin Hill Business Complex, Kilkenny is a one stop shop for all your water and waste water needs. e supply and fit all types of water pumps, from bore holes to booster pump systems, complete parlor and yard wash down systems, MDPE water piping and fittings, concrete troughs and accessories.

We also supply and fit all types of dirty water systems designed to customer requirements, and with our 3 wheel travelling irrigator, dirty water can be spread up to a mile from its source.

We are the Green Crop Agents for Ireland and supply a large range of slurry mixers from open lagoons to over ground storage tanks and also offer the award winning sepcom slurry separator and umbilical slurry systems. We also supply and fit all types of drinking water treatment and sewage treatment systems.

As water is currently a major talking point, we can design and install rain water harvesting systems to suit your needs. We can offer storage tanks in Precast Concrete, Polyproplene and the flexi storage tank, the cheapest and safest way to store your liquid with sizes from 20,000 litres to 500,000 litres.

Call Martin Kells today with your requirements on Tel: 085 1216471 www.keliquidsolutions.com or email: keliquidsolutions@gmail.com

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NEWS

GRASSLAND AGRO’S REVOLUTIONARY NEW SLURRY FERTILIZER ENHANCER

enis Hegarty milks 190 cows at Coole West, Carrignavar, Co. Cork. He started using levels in slurry can improve by up to 19% using Actiglene. On–farm Actiglene immediately after trials have shown that extra N in slurry can result in an extra 1 ton the cows were housed last of dry matter yield per hectare. year. Denis explained how Denis stated that he spread it on silage paddocks the day after easy it was to use the product: harvesting and got an immediate response.“The weather was too “I apply the Actiglene evenly dry to apply chemical fertiliser in the form of CAN, so the only over the slats every couple option available to me was to go in with slurry, the Nitrogen and of days at a rate of one 25kg Sulphur appears to be more available to the plant with the Actiglene bag per 50 cows per week. treated slurry” said Denis.

The product is safe to The absence of ‘crusts’ in slurry treated with Actiglene minimises handle so it can be easily agitation time, saving on tractor ‘wear and tear’ as well as diesel applied manually from the when pumping.This results in a more even uniform application bag.The first thing I noticed eliminating unnecessary sludging and burning of grass. is how it prevented a crust Recent awareness generated by the National Farm Safety Campaign forming on the slurry. has highlighted the inherent dangers that slurry gases pose to both This meant less agitation farmers and machinery operators. and a more uniform liquid slurry that was easier to handle. It also Actiglene has been shown in trials to reduce Hydrogen Sulphide gas breaks down the organic matter on the slats maintaining a in slurry by up to 80% and Ammonia by up to 52%. hygienic and clean environment for the animals” said Denis.

Denis also noticed a reduction in odours when spreading the Actiglene Actiglene is a blend of marine calcium, bacteria, clay particles and a treated slurry, this is important in terms of safety and nuisance smells. seaweed extract that acts as a bacteria activator. It increases the total For further information visit www.grasslandagro.ie and available Nitrogen in slurry by 39% and 62%, respectively. Sulphur

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LAUNCH OF THE UNIFORM APP NIFORM–Agri Europe’s leading Dairy Management Software Company has this month launched UNIFORM 5 the next generation of Herd Management software.

UNIFORM 5 includes the new farmer friendly UNIFORM–App that allows you to access your Cow Records,Action Lists and Vet Check reports away from the office PC using your Smartphone or tablet. Data is easily transferred to and from your PC using a Wi–Fi connection with your Smartphone or Tablet so the UNIFORM App allows you to access your cow records and enter information anywhere on the farm without a permanent Wi–Fi connection.

UNIFORM 5 provides intelligent reporting tools on Milk Production, Herd Health, Fertility and Costings all designed to highlight performance to help you manage better.This is all backed up by our experienced Helpdesk.

If you are looking to upgrade your old program to the next generation of Herd Management software, or if you are looking for a system to link to your automated milking parlour please call us on 00441823 322504.

We can easily arrange an online demonstration to show you the benefits of using the UNIFORM program.

For further information please visit our website www.uniformagri.com to see our demonstration movies.

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NEWS

TEEMORE ENGINEERING NOW EXPORTING TO AUSTRALIA www.teemoreengineering.com

Co Fermanagh–based Teemore Engineering has recently completed its first export order to Australia. Comprising 520 of the company’s Elite Cow Cubicles,the customer was Studleigh Dairy in New South Wales.Teemore’s Nicky Johnston takes up the story.

“T

he initial contact between ourselves and the management team at Studleigh was facilitated by a member of the farm staff, who hails from Northern Ireland. After that it was a case of agreeing the specification for the cubicles required and the price.

Our website helped tremendously in allowing the customer assess the quality and scope of the products that we manufacture and distribute.

“Our input was part of a major investment programme undertaken at the farm. We are currently exporting our product ranges to the other parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland. But this is the first time that we have ever secured an order from as a far away as Australia.

“The team at Studleigh organised the shipping of the cubicles to Australia: we did everything else.”

Teemore provides a specialist engineering service, developed to meet the specific needs of farmers that require livestock housing solutions.The company manufactures and supplies a standard range of livestock equipment as well as offering a bespoke design service.

Nicky Johnston again:“One of the most satisfying aspects to the work undertaken with Studleigh Dairies was the fact that our equipment is as relevant to milk producers in Australia as is the case here in Northern Ireland.The other pleasing dimension to it all is the reality that the worldwide web crosses all borders. We have spent a lot of time developing the company website over the past year or so.And this investment is now starting to pay off.”

Nicky concluded:“The involvement with the team at Studeigh allowed us to get a feel for the optimism that currently exists within Australia’s dairy sector. And I think this also bodes well regarding the prospects for milk production in this part of the world.”

For further information visit www.teemoreengineering.com

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COMFORT SLAT MAT’S GREEN FLOOR GETS TO GRIP WITH WET SLATS

constantly wet surfaces, essential to the health and wellbeing of the animals as well as aiding with increased productivity.

COMFORT SLAT MATS knew there had to be a solution to the “wet floor” issue which is the cause of so many problems for cattle and farmers. What stopped existing floors from drying? The fact that they were flat and needed indentations for grip which as a result retained liquid on the surface. It was then that COMFORT SLAT MATS hit upon the innovative idea – Why not have a curved smooth floor? A curved floor promotes the animal waste away from the floor creating a dry, clean environment and by using the animal’s weight this could create a flat surface when walked upon which then returns to a curved surface to displace waste.

Once they had solved the wet floor problem, they worked on OMFORT SLAT MATS are the manufacturers of the internationally creating a long lasting, air–cushioned core which facilitated “grip” of the hoof within the floor. After five years of research patented, award–winning “GREEN FLOOR SYSTEM” which and development,THE GREEN FLOOR SYSTEM was launched. creates a healthier and more profitable environment for cattle Since then,THE GREEN FLOOR SYSTEM has been installed in and farmers. over 3,000 farms across Europe and its use in dairy installations When faced with solving the problem of the harsh concrete is growing year on year. slatted flooring for beef and dairy cattle COMFORT SLAT MATS For further information listened to farmers and listened to the cattle. Farmers wanted a contact: COMFORT SLAT MATS safe, long lasting floor, and the cattle needed a soft, dry, clean T: 00 353 1 8643494 non–slip floor.

E:sales@comfortslatmats.com Other flooring products on the market addressed the “soft” issue www.slatmats.com to some degree but could never adequately solve the issue of

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NEWS THE DAIRY COW COMFORT LTD SERVING INDUSTRY IN THE UK In 1988 Tom Duffy,with a farming background and honours degree in chemistry, started what is now known as Mayo Mats by Cow Comfort Ltd.

he Mayo Mats are known and respected worldwide. Tom states that the first mats are still functioning perfectly and at shows he often uses a list of his customers of 15–20 years ago. He says “anyone can show off new product”. He likes to show off how good his oldest mats are and how happy the farmers are with them.

Tom’s background has played a major part in the company’s success. Growing up on a farm Tom trained to be a teacher after he completed his degree. His role (especially in the earlier years) was one of teaching rather than selling. He said “if I can manage to teach a farmer the benefits of having cows on good mats instead of concrete then I have created a sale for some future date”.

In 1992,Tom started experimenting with matting slats.This had never, before, been done anywhere in the world. It did not take long for him to confirm his theory about the benefits of getting beef cattle and suckling cows off the concrete slats.

On the Mayo slat mat suckling cows are lasting longer and beef cattle are gaining substantially more weight than they could ever do on concrete.

At the present time Cow Comfort is doing business in several countries including Europe, USA, South America, Canada and Japan.

For further information Tel: 097 82057

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AND IRELAND FOR OVER 60 YEARS www.kilco.co.uk

ilco (International) Ltd was founded in 1953 and is a family run business based in Lockerbie, Scotland, with a further manufacturing unit in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Kilco offer a broad range of TRIED TESTED TRUSTED biosecurity, animal health, food and beverage hygiene products.

They remain at the forefront of innovation by producing these first class products for distribution to over 60 countries worldwide in their state of the art GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Approved facility.

Kilco’s ongoing research and development programme means that they can offer this unrivalled range of products to their customers and keep one step ahead of their competitors.

Kilco's commitment to this industry ensures that the welfare of animals and avians are catered for in this climate of high demand by consumers for safer and humanely reared food.

K

To find out how you can improve the profitability of your business, just give us a call on +44 (0)1576 205480 or visit www.kilco.co.uk

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

LEADING PRODUCTS FOR THE PROGRESSIVE FARMER DELVOTEST: ON–FARM ANTIBIOTIC RESIDUE TESTING

AVALKSAN AND THERMOKLENSE SANITERS, DETERGENTS & DESCALERS

The importance of testing for antibiotics on–farm, prior to the collection of the bulk tank, is well known.

Detection of antibiotics residues in milk will result in milk being rejected and heavy fines & penalties imposed on the farmer. Prevention of detection is therefore a key concern for all farmers.

Carbon Group manufactures an extensive range of branded caustic, chlorinated and chlorine free dairy–farm detergents under the “AVAL” brand.

The Delvotest® developed by DSM and available direct from Carbon Group through most Co-op Stores nationwide and also through regional agents, is the ‘Gold Standard’ in milk testing. It is used by farmers and dairy processors in Ireland and worldwide, for the detection of inhibitory substances and checking milk for payment purposes. Most of the big milk processors set very high standards to guarantee the antibiotic-free quality of their milk.As such, the majority of creameries in Ireland rely on Delvotest to safeguard this.

Simple to use, with either the standard 3 hour test or the rapid 5 minute test, the tests can be performed at any stage in the milk processing chain from the individual cow to the factory silo.

To get started all you need is 1) starter kit which includes the heater and timer together with some tag markers and 2) a box of test which come in either 25 or 100 tests.

For further instructions on use go to www.carbon.ie/ food-ingredients

Carbon Group has the ‘chosen market leader’ product for non foaming detergent/ sterliser for machine & bulk tank circulation cleaning, called AvalKsan.AvalKsan is IDEAL for; maintaining low TBC counts,ALL temperatures, cold or hot washing, it is approved

by Teagasc, it is formulated for application on milking machines, automatic bulk milk tanks and manual cleaning of bulk tanks and is also phosphate free.

Carbon Group also have a descaler and sanitiser product called ThermoKlense, to be used in the final rinse stage. It is Biodegradable (won’t taint your milk) and is particularly effective in the maintenance of low TBC and thermoduric bacteria.

Products are available in 25 litre and 205 litre drums and you can purchase them from Dairygold & Kerry Co–op Stores or please contact Carbon Group directly on 021 437 8988, email: sales@carbon.ie We are always interested in speaking to possible distributors for our Agricultural products, so please do not hesitate to call if this is something you may be interested in.

For more product information please visit our Carbon Group website www.carbon.ie

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CREMIN BROTHERS – A CASE STUDY ON MILK QUALITY Irish Farm Business travelled to Limerick to meet Patrick and Danny Cremin.

chains and pulleys which is simple but effective.The machine is not Patrick and Danny Cremin are farming together in Killeedy a parish loaded with technology. There is however an Automatic washing system which allows for consistent washing of the plant. Milk recording is near Newcastlewest County limerick. carried out every six weeks with removable milk metres.

They started as two separate herds and got quota in that way on a leased farm.They decided that working two milking parlours was not the most efficient way of working and combined forces. Having a HERD They have a 200 cow herd as noted above which is effectively a closed milking time for 200 cows in about an hour allows them to keep up herd.This year they are also carrying 41 bulling heifers and 73 heifer their training with the local hurling club! calves.The bull calves go after two weeks. Sometimes the Jersey They have two blocks of land, 73 hectares on the home farm which Cross calves are sold at a low price but this is seen as simply a result is the milking platform and 70 hectares on the outside farm. of the farming type adopted. This is a dairy farm where the breeding Farm partnership decisions are made for a heifer calf and not a bull calf.

Farming Block 73 hectares Outside farm 70 hectares SILAGE 200 cows The brothers harvest their own silage with a Strautmann Wagon and EBI of Herd 180 can average approx 30 acres per day by this method having their own loader. Patrick says the belief now is that silage cut at this length Quota 188,000 gallons (one to one and a half inches) is more palatable for animals and results Closed Herd in better digestive health.

41 Bulling Heifers

INTRODUCTION

73 Heifer calves Bull calves go after 2 weeks.

GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

The objective of Grassland Dairy farming is to use as much grass and as little meal as possible.The farm was yielding 11.5 tonnes per The parlour is a 26 Unit Herringbone with two men operating the hectare (DM) per year rising to 13 tonnes as reseeding is progressing. pit.A lot of emphasis was placed on the design of the parlour which The farm has been 90% reseeded over the last four years.P and K levels are tested every two years. can be described as New Zealand style.When not in operation it The farm is walked every week and a full Grass wedge of each appears very open, but as Patrick says ‘with 200 cows around you paddock is completed.The Kingswood and pasturebase packages are and a fast milking time you won’t be cold’.The roof is quite low used to store and analyse this data.This measurement of the grass will compared to other parlours but then the sides are relatively open.

The key factor is ‘cow–flow’.When milked the cows can go straight determine the fertiliser spreading plan and meal supplement feeding during the following weeks. Spraying for general weeds is done where out, no right angle turns or walls to contend with or slow them down.They have a ‘drafting system at the front of the parlour run by necessary with a full clear–off on reseeding.

PARLOUR

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ANIMAL HEALTH

MILK QUALITY

Drying off: Use teat seal + tube. Both teat seal and tube are used with a view that the seal is very important. Price may not be the main determining factor…quality is important.

G Health status:Vaccinate for BVD, Lepto, Salmonella and Blackleg G Worms and Fluke: dose twice G California Milk test: 4days after calving (every cow).

See other panel G Somatic cell count.Work very hard to get a good score, culling if necessary.

G Lameness: Not such an issue because of breed.

Danny and Patrick won Top Award for a Spring Milk Herd in the National Dairy Council & Kerrygold Awards 2012.

This is proof of their attention to detail in milk improvement and general hygiene.The only automated part of the parlour is the cleaning and rinsing system which allows for continuous cleaning of the plant.

Somatic cell counts can cost farmers thousands of euro each year if not monitored and controlled.Over 300/400K it could affect the price received from your processor. Over 150k it is costing money in terms of milk yield.A count below 100k is very good.The Cremins average

“The objective of Grassland Dairy farming is to use as much grass and as little meal as possible.The farm was yielding 11.5 tonnes per hectare (DM) per year rising to 13 tonnes as reseeding is progressing.The farm has been 90% reseeded over the last four years. P and K levels are tested every two years” SCC for the month of July was 81 which is excellent for a 200 cow herd.All cows are tested with the CMT (California Milk Test) four days after calving before the milk hits the tank.This practice then ensures that cows that have any issues with SCC following the dry period are picked up on straight away and are treated accordingly.

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Milk recording results are then monitored throughout the year and if an individual cow is regularly showing up with high SCC even after treatment then she is culled from the herd.

CALIFORNIA MASTITIS TEST Also known as: California Milk Test — CMT

INTRODUCTION BREEDING The cows in this herd are jersey x friesan.They are hardy animals and about 50kgs on average lighter than friesans.

AI is used for seven weeks and then a stock bull for 3–4 weeks to tidy up.The insemination is done in–house and administered towards the end of the heat period.The two stock bulls used are beef bulls; an easy calving Angus and an easy calving Whitehead.

PARLOUR 26 Unit Herringbone 2 men in pit G Dairymaster G G

A SUGGESTED PROTOCOL TO USE IS

Emphasis on cow flow (ease + speed) Drafting system with chains and pulleys.

G Parlour itself is relatively standard with a huge emphasis on hygie.

G

Category Negative

Discard the first two squirts of milk (foremilk) Milk approximately 1–2 squirts into each well of the paddle corresponding to each quarter G Tilt the paddle so equal amounts of milk are in each well G Add equal volumes of the test solution G Shake the paddle to ensure mixing of the milk and test solution G Interpret viscosity and colour changes The advantages of this test are that it is cheap, simple and rapid. It also gives an indication of individual quarter infection status which may be missed by four quarter composite sampling.The disadvantage is the poor sensitivity of the test and the relatively subjective interpretation.

Using the scoring system, if a trace or higher is considered positive, approximately 90% sensitivity can be attained.

CMT has many on farm applications for management of subclinical mastitis. On farms that don’t do individual somatic cell count (SCC) recording, a CMT can be used to screen the herd after a high bulk tank SCC result.Cows identified as positive can then be treated.The CMT can also be used to monitor known problem cows, assess the efficacy of treatment of subclinical infections, and identify cows for treatment at drying off if selective dry cow therapy is used.

G

NZ STYLE LAYOUT G

The California Mastitis Test (CMT) is a qualitative cow side test for detecting subclinical intramammary infections (IMI) in cows.

The test works by using a detergent which lyses the somatic cells present in the milk and denatures any DNA present.This reaction increases the viscosity of the mixture,the extent of which is correlated to the number of somatic cells present. Some commercially available test solutions have a pH indicator present (bromcresol purple) which means the mixture will change from a red to a purple colour if the pH is high which is often seen when mastitis is present.Although several commercial solutions are available, many farms use normal detergent (“fairy liquid”).

G

Score 0

Description of reaction Mixture of milk and test fluid stays unchanged and can easily be shaken

Weak positive /trace

1

Mixture is slightly mucous but can still be shaken

Positive

2

With movement of the mixture an unmistakable mucous formation can be seen.

It is still possible to tip a small portion of the mixture out.

Strong positive

3

Jelly-like, mucous consistency is formed and is difficult to shake the mixture.

It is no longer possible to tip out and surplus liquid.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

NEW FLEXIBLE ARION 400 CLAAS has completely redeveloped the ARION 400 tractor range and in recognition of the broad range of tasks that tractors of this size are used for, instead of the three models previously, the ARION 400 range has now been expanded to six models.

or each of these models a number of specifications and cab options are available, including a new unique and striking PANORAMIC cab, which sets a completely new standard for cab visibility.

The PANORAMIC cab features a one piece windscreen, that is joined to roof pane without a crossbeam.This gives the operator an unrestricted 90 degree field of vision over a front loader and gives the cab a large feeling of space.

The new design for the ARION 400 features a ‘wasp waist’ design to the bonnet, which allows a tight turning lock for maximum manoeuvrability.The ARION is built around a solid cast frame with integral oil sump.Where the ARION is to be used with a front loader, the brackets can therefore be bolted directly on to the engine frame and transmission, and a front linkage can be fitted to the front chassis.

F

FPT POWER The new ARION 400 range, which vary from 90hp up to 140hp, is powered by a powerful and fuel–efficient 4–cylinder, 4.5 litre FPT turbocharged and charge–air cooled engine.

MULTIFUNCTION CONTROL LEVER The QUADRISHIFT transmission and other main operating functions are controlled using a new multifunction control lever.This is designed so that all the gearbox functions can be controlled using a thumb–operated rocker switch.

Depending on specification, the new multifunction control also incorporates controls for the headland and linkage controls, can be used to operate ELECTROPILOT proportional electronic spool valves, or a front loader in either FLEXPILOT or ELECTROPILOT modes.

HYDRAULIC CONTROL OPTIONS The range of hydraulic options available for the new ARION 400 again reflects the varied uses that these tractors will be used for.

Three different open centre hydraulic circuits available with flow rates of 60 litres/minute (l/m), 98l/m or a twin pump system with flow rate of 57l/m for the control systems and a second of 41l/m for the rear linkage, which can be merged if required. Finally a 110l/m load–sensing hydraulic circuit is also available with optional Power Beyond, which is a first for this size of tractor.

“Depending on specification, the new multifunction control also incorporates controls for the headland and linkage controls, can be used to operate ELECTROPILOT proportional electronic spool valves, or a front loader in either FLEXPILOT or ELECTROPILOT modes” To uses the combination of SCR technology and a diesel oxidation For the front of the tractor, a fully integrated 2.8 tonne capacity catalytic converter (DOC/ Oxicat) to meet TIER 4 emissions regulations, CLAAS designed front–linkage is available that requires no side and all the components are housed under the bonnet so they don’t reinforcement.A factory fitted front 1000rpm PTO is also available, restrict driver visibility. as are connections for 3– and 7–pin sockets, plus one hydraulic spool and one free–flow return line.

ARION

460

Horsepower (ECE R120) 140

450 130

440 120

430 110

420 100

410 90

The engines have no boost, so provide full power is always available at all times, and are governed using a CLAAS engine management system designed to provide optimised engine performance curves.

Drive to the axles is through the well–proven 16 forward/16 reverse speed QUADRISHIFT transmission.The four powershifts and four ranges can either be changed manually without needing to use the clutch or, alternatively on CIS models, there is also the option for QUADRACTIV in which gear and range changes are all made fully automatically.

22

CAB In addition to the new PANORAMIC cab, the ARION 400 is also available with a conventional cab built on a 6–pillar design.The ARION 410/420 is also available with a low profile roof with or without a transparent sunroof.This low profile roof has an overall height to the top of the cab of about 2.5m on 34 inch tyres.This is one of the lowest on the market for this size of tractor,making it ideal for situations where height is restricted.The ARION 400 can also be used with the full range of CLAAS EASY electronics systems, including TELEMATICS. CLAAS GPS PILOT, S7, S10 and other control terminals can all be easily mounted on a frame above the control console, and the tractor is fitted with cab and rear ISOBUS connections.

For further information visit www.claas.co.uk or Tel: +44 (0) 1284 763100

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

EXPANDING GRASS DRY MATTER PRODUCTION ON FARMS Next year will herald the first year in over 30 years that dairy farmers can produce milk freely without milk quota restraint.That means for many farmers that more cows will be managed on farms which will mean higher feed requirements, writes, Michael O’Donovan, Grassland Science Department,Teagasc, Moorepark.

that it can grow high levels of grass. Perennial ryegrass content will reduce at low nutrient levels, while annual meadow grass (weed grass) G Reseeding levels in Ireland are too low and need to increase is highly prevalent at low ph levels. Many paddocks have very low substantially levels of perennial ryegrass and are placing pressure on the farm as a G Reseeding is a medium term investment on grassland farms whole to grow grass.

G The appropriate stocking rate for a farm is that which matches the farms grass DM matter production The results of approximately 50 dairy farms dry matter (DM) G The range in paddock grass DM matter production within farms is production in 2013 is shown in Table 1 from Pasturebase Ireland. On far too large average across these dairy farms, the average level of production was 12.2t DM/ha.While these farms were stocked at 2.7 LU/ha the range in grass production was too high at 10.7t DM/ha.The existence of INTRODUCTION such a range illustrates the necessity to reduce the variation of DM When investigating the huge expansion which has taken place in New Zealand, this has come at a cost of their competitive advantage. within the farm.

Another aspect of the results is the relatively low levels of grazing The biggest challenge that lies ahead for Irish dairy farmers is to been achieved on some farms – the level of grazings been achieved maintain as low a cost base as possible. For dairying to be successful illustrate the amount of grass been utilized by grazing stock, with a consistent margin needs to be generated from the farm enterprise. more years of data accumulating, it is expected that this average will A key cornerstone of such a system will be increasing the level of increase. grass DM production on farms, otherwise the cost of carrying extra stock will place to much burden on the farm systems and income.

Table 1. Total dry matter production (t DM/ha) from 50 dairy farms When deciding the stocking rate for a farm to carry, this decision can from PastureBase Ireland grass recordings in 2013 only be based on the growth capacity of the farm.Very simply the higher the growth capacity of the farm, the higher the stocking rate it can carry. Presently, too many farms are under producing grass, the good thing is that this problem can be corrected easily.

Reseeding will play an important role for farmers who ultimately want to grow as much grass as possible. Ireland has disappointing RESEEDING METHODS AND MANAGEMENT reseeding levels (approx. 2%), this can easily double in the coming Table 2 shows the main reseeding methods employed at farm level years. In recent years we have seen a decline in soil fertility nationally. from a survey carried out by Teagasc a few year ago. Generally, Soil fertility and reseeding are separate improvements at farm level ploughing is still a popular method of reseeding, however minimal and farmers should not confuse one with the other. Reseeding is the cultivation techniques do have there advantages due to stone issues replacement of unproductive swards across a farm, while maintaining and topography on farms.When farmers were asked how they have soil fertility is ensuring the farm is at a level of pH, P and K status sown grass seed, a lot of farmers do this part of the reseeding process

SUMMARY

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING Table 2. Effect of Stocking Rate and Quota Category on seedbed preparation, sowing methods and seeding rates used by surveyed participants when reseeding

themselves, obviously as a mechanism to keep contractor costs to a minimum. In the future, minimal cultivation techniques will become even more popular.

CONVENTIONAL RESEEDING (PLOUGHING) Ploughing helps the drainage of the soil profile, but involves a lot more cultivation passes in the reseeding process. It provides the basis for a sound seedbed and a more level surface. Deep ploughing is only a wasted exercise in today’s climate as too many important soil nutrients are buried too deep.As with all methods, after ploughing the The effect of reseeding method has been investigated at Moorepark. objective is to develop a fine, firm and level seedbed. If the tilt is too Figure 1 shows that, when compared on a proportionate basis to rough, grass seed will be lost too deep into the soil and will not be ploughing set at 1.0, the disc method was equal in terms of grass able to germinate.When ploughing, its important to soil test the production with the one pass method slightly behind at 0.94 and the newly ploughed ground, as this is the source where the new swards direct drill method at 0.87.With all these process the seed bed was soil fertility will emerge from. fine and firm irrespective of method used.

MINIMUM CULTIVATION Most minimal cultivation techniques involve spraying the existing vegetation – the seedbed is then prepared using shallow cultivation equipment. Soil disturbance is minimised so the more fertile soil remains at ground level for use by the young seedlings as well as

THE BEST PRACTICE PROCEDURES WITH THESE INDIVIDUAL METHODS IS SET OUT AS FOLLOWS G Ploughing – Plough/Spread lime/land level/spread fertilizer/One pass with seed/Roll

“Ploughing helps the drainage of the soil profile, but involves a lot more cultivation passes in the reseeding process. It provides the basis for a sound seedbed and more level surface” better support for both machinery and animals at the early stages of pasture establishment.This is a fast and simplistic method of reseeding. It is important pre cultivation that the sward is grazed tightly, if minimum cultivation techniques are to be used. Surface trash will not be buried, some surface trash will remain and as this thrash (dead organic matter) decays it releases organic acids which may inhibit seed germination.Applying about 2 ton of lime/acre before cultivation will help neutralise this effect.With minimum cultivation more weeds may appear making the use of post emergence spray even more critical.

G Discing and One pass – Disc (2/3 passes)/Land Level/Spread lime and fertilizer/One pass with seed/Roll

G One pass – Sperad lime/One pass (twice) with seed (on second run)/Spread fertilizer between one pass runs (if possible)/Roll

G Direct drill – Spread lime + Fertiliser/Roll

Figure 1. A comparison of reseeding methods in terms of grass production potential.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING Frequent grazing of the reseeds at approx 1400kg DM/ha over the first year post establishment will have a beneficial effect on the sward.The aim is to produce a uniform, well tillered sward. Particular care is needed during periods of wet weather as damage to newly established swards can have long term detrimental consequences as it gives weed grasses an opportunity to invade. If at all possible newly reseeded swards should not be closed for silage in their first year of production, freshly reseeded swards are difficult to preserve and the shading effect of heavy grass covers does reduce tillering of the new grass plants.

Table 3. Management of New Reseeds

TURNAROUND TIME The target turnaround time in which to get a reseed back into production should be <60 days. Generally farmers are slow to reseed pastures because they view that paddocks are out of production for too long.The time that the sward is out of production can be minimized by cultivating 7–10 days after spraying the old grass off – this is a major failing at farm level waiting too long after spray off to cultivate.

There is no need to wait beyond the time outline above.

WEED CONTROL The best time to control docks and all other weeds is after reseeding.

Using a post emergence spray, seedling weeds can be destroyed VARIETY CHOICE before they properly develop and establish root stocks. Established weeds can seriously reduce the yield potential and economic lifetime When reseeding farmers will have to differentiate if the reseeded paddocks will be specifically for grazing or silage or have dual of the reseeded sward. purpose roles. Grass varieties can now be differentiated on their To ensure that a post emergence spray can be applied reseeding should be targeted for the spring when establishment conditions are performance in either grazing or silage protocols.The two most much more suitable and the opportunity for weed control is guaranteed. frequently used recommended lists available in Ireland, from DAFM The post emergence spray should be applied approximately 5–6 weeks (www.agriculture.gov.ie) and AFBI (www.darni.gov.uk), see Table 4 (spraying when grass is at the two leaf stage) after establishment before for varieties documented in the DAFM 2014 recommended list. Both lists have an intensive grazing and intensive silage protocols in place. the first grazing takes place.

For farmers, the use of Recommended list varieties is important. In 2014 the Pasture Profit Index (PPI) was launched (a more complete GRAZING MANAGEMENT OF RESEEDED SWARDS PPI list will be available in 2015) which ranks varieties on their overall Care needs to be taken when grazing newly reseeded swards (Table profit to the grazing system (www.agresearch.ie/moorepark/ 3).The sward should be grazed as soon as the new grass plants roots pastureprofitindex). are strong enough to withstand grazing (root stays anchored in the The objective of the Pasture Profit Index (PPI) is to simplify the ground when pulled). Early grazing is important to allow light to the selection of grass varieties, by applying economic values to the traits base of the plant to encourage tillering. Light grazing by animals such of importance within a grass based production system, from this as calves, weanlings or sheep is preferred as ground conditions may farmers can identify the suitability of varieties to their particular still be somewhat fragile depending on establishment method used. grazing system.

Grazing new reseeds with larger animals can create high levels of It is important that farmers use the best possible varieties available. tiller pulling.The first grazing of a new reseed can be completed at Progress in grass breeding is slow and using low performing varieties pre grazing yields of 600-1000kg DM/ha.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING only defeats the purpose of trying to increase DM production on farm. It is important that farmers put some thought into the varieties that they are to use in the new swards.

SOME KEY POINTS ARE LISTED BELOW WHEN CHOOSING VARIETIES. Key points when formulating a grass mixture G Decide what the end use is – grazing or silage – formulate based on this G Focus on the key traits (sub indices in PPI) increase the proportion of the cultivars with the key traits G Minimum inclusion of 3 kg of an individual cultivar G No more than three to four cultivars in a grass mix G Sow 35 kg/ha (14 kg/ac) of seed G Less than 7 days range in heading date between cultivars

GRAZING SPECIFIC MIXTURES G Cultivars exhibiting high simulated grazing yields in Recommended Lists G High seasonal growth G Cultivars with high digestibility values G Use 35-50 per cent tetraploid cultivars in mixtures on dry soils G Use 15-20 per cent of highly persistent tetraploids on heavy soils G Medium leaf white clovers for dairy cows/cattle, small leaf white clovers for sheep

SILAGE SPECIFIC MIXTURES, E.G. 2–CUT SYSTEM G Cultivars which exhibit high silage yields (especially first cut) in Recommended Lists G 40-50% tetraploid (less on heavy soils) G Ensure proximity of heading dates

Table 4. 2014 Irish Recommended list

Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine 2014 Grass variety Recommended List from General purpose protocol (GP) and Frequent cutting protocol.

DMD – Dry Matter Digestibility

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

INFECTIOUS BOVINE RHINOTRACHEITIS (IBR)

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) is caused by bovine herpesvirus–1(BHV-1) and is recognized as one of the major cattle diseases of economic importance. Because BHV–1 can infect a number of tissues in the body, there are five distinct disease syndromes.

INTRODUCTION

Coughing Milk Reduction G Discharge of fluid from nose and eyes G Inner nose inflammation G Inflammation of the pink of the eye G Loss of appetite G Abortion G G

In addition to causing respiratory disease, BHV–1 can cause conjunctivitis (red eye), infectious pustular vulvovaginitis or balanoposthitis (IPV; genital disease in both females and males), abortions, and encephalitis (brain infections). In newborn calves, the virus can cause generalized systemic infections. BHV–1 has also been suggested to be the major viral pathogen involved in the development of the complex respiratory disease syndrome IBR is commonly observed and may be associated with eye called ‘shipping fever’. Consequently, the respiratory disease infections (conjunctivitis), abortions or secondary bacterial form, alone or in combination with other pathogens, causes infections. Although all ages and breeds of cattle are susceptible heavy economic losses among confined cattle due to reduced weight gain, cost of treatment and death loss. Factors influencing to IBR, the disease is most common in calves over six months of age, at which time the immunity received through the dam’s the type and severity of the clinical syndromes caused by BHV–1 colostrum declines and the exposure to the virus increases. include the strain of virus, dose and route of exposure, the Outbreaks usually occur in fall and winter when large numbers immunological status of the host and environmental influences of susceptible animals are mixed together and confined in like management practices. feedlots.

Subsequent to primary BHV–1 infection, the virus establishes BHV–1 is highly contagious, specifically under circumstances latent infection in nerve tissue, meaning that the animal is then whereby susceptible calves are in close contact. Consequently, infected for life. It can be reactivated by factors like stress, inclement the virus may spread very efficiently under conditions of crowding. weather, transport, or calving, and re–excreted. Although carrier Additional factors contributing to the high incidence of IBR infections animals generally do not develop fever or clinical disease following include high stress levels due to weaning and transport, as well virus reactivation, they may shed large amounts of infectious as the simultaneous exposure to multiple pathogens.Transmission virus in nasal and other secretions. Thus, reactivation of latent virus is thought to be responsible for the survival of the virus in occurs through nasal secretions, saliva and aerosol droplets containing the virus. Outbreaks of disease occur through introduction of cattle populations. infected animals into a herd or by reactivation of latent virus already present in calves, which then spreads to newly arrived, WARNING SIGNS susceptible animals. An outbreak of IBR usually lasts for two to G Raised temperature for approximately 4 or five days four weeks.

G Strained Breathing/ loud and heavy

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CLINICAL SIGNS The respiratory form (IBR) is by far the most significant and economically important manifestation of BHV–1 infection, specifically in feedlots. Acute IBR is characterized by a combination of clinical signs like rapid breathing, inappetence, temperatures of 40–42°C (104–108°F), coughing, nasal discharge, foamy salivation, open–mouth breathing, tearing, severe inflammation of the nasal passages (red nose) and tissue surrounding the eyes (conjunctivitis), and loss of weight and condition.The course of an uncomplicated IBR infection lasts 7 to 10 days.

However, IBR may have several sequelae.The infection in calves 4–6 months of age has resulted occasionally in meningitis, with signs indicating central nervous system involvement, and cows may abort, particularly if exposure occurs between 5.5 and 7.5 months of gestation.

Frequently, IBR is followed by secondary bacterial infections, like Pasteurella haemolytica, which results in severe pneumonia and, sometimes, death.

Although infrequent, IBR can occur in young calves and cause either severe respiratory disease or fatal systemic disease and rapid death. Neonatal IBR infections probably occur due to lack antibiotic to reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections. of maternal immunity and are complicated by a number of During an outbreak it is not advisable to introduce susceptible management factors (nutrition, stress, other diseases). cattle.Animals of unknown vaccination status should be vaccinated In unvaccinated, susceptible populations, IBR commonly affects immediately upon arrival and housed separately from the rest of 20 to 30% or more of exposed animals. Although the mortality the animals.

“Outbreaks of disease occur through introduction of infected animals into a herd or by reactivation of latent virus already present in calves, which then spreads to newly arrived, susceptible animals. An outbreak of IBR usually lasts for two to four weeks” rate due to uncomplicated IBR is low, averaging from 1 to 2%, secondary bacterial infections may lead to severe pneumonia and death. Whereas reduced weight gain is the major economic loss among beef calves, losses in dairy animals are usually due to reduced milk yield, abortion and disease in newborn calves.

Mortality is mostly the result of secondary bacterial infections in both beef and dairy cattle.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Since there are no antiviral agents commercially available, treatment of IBR is symptomatic. During an outbreak of IBR, sick animals should be identified and isolated. Depending on the severity of the disease, infected calves may be treated with a broad–spectrum

PREVENTION AND CONTROL Prevention and control of IBR is mainly dependent on development of immunity, which occurs following natural exposure or vaccination.

Vaccination is recommended as soon as passive immunity in calves has disappeared, usually around four to six months of age.

The timing of vaccination is at least as important as the choice of vaccine. Since maximum protection does not generally occur until approximately three weeks after vaccination, calves should be vaccinated two to three weeks before weaning at which time they start to be at risk of infection.

A single vaccination will reduce the severity of disease, but not provide complete protection. It is recommended to re–vaccinate upon arrival in the feedlot and again 60–70 days post–arrival if disease is observed at that time in the feeding period. In cow/calf herds and dairy herds, replacement heifers should be vaccinated at five to six months of age and again at least two weeks before breeding.

CONCLUSION IBR, which may predispose cattle to potentially fatal bacterial pneumonia, is a major cause of economic losses to in cattle.

Vaccination has been the most important strategy to prevent and control IBR infections in cattle. For vaccination to be optimally effective, the timing is critical such that the animals are sufficiently protected upon entry into a high–risk situation.Therefore, animals should be vaccinated at least three weeks prior to confinement, as well as immediately afterwards, because two doses of any of the currently available vaccines are needed for complete protection.

Once highly effective novel ‘marker’ vaccines become commercially available, these vaccines should be used, specifically for bulls to be sent to artificial insemination units and cattle destined for export.

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GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT – FORAGE CROPS

WINTER FEEDING OPTIONS FOR REPLACEMENT DAIRY HEIFERS

Replacement heifers are the building blocks of the future herd. Making sure that target weights are achieved at key time points during the rearing of replacement heifers results in greater overall farm profitability, writes Emer Kennedy,Teagasc, Moorepark.

urrently, the approximate cost of rearing a replacement heifer is €1,486.This includes a cost for an initial value of the calf and a charge for land and labour.When these costs are excluded the cost is €805. Heifer rearing is the second largest expense in the dairy system, accounting for approximately 20% of total costs.This equates to quite a substantial investment, especially when the removal of milk quotas is considered and dairy farmers will face a more competitive environment with increased milk price volatility and, hence, less stable farm profitability.Ensuring the best possible development of replacement heifers is critical and, although it needs to be accomplished at low cost, heifer performance should not be compromised.

Optimum performance from the dairy herd is influenced by realising target weights at key points, such as at mating start date at 15 months of age (MSD) and pre–calving. In practice, heifer rearing receives low priority on Irish dairy farms and achieving target weights is neglected by many. Reduced levels of management will result in a lesser profit, as heifers may calve later than 24 months, be underweight and produce less milk compared to more well managed heifers.

grazed in–situ ranked as the cheapest alternative to grazed grass and was considerably cheaper than grass silage in a recent Teagasc study.

Kale tends to have a low neutral–detergent fibre (NDF) concentration, suggesting that feeds with a higher NDF concentration (>500 g/kg DM) – such as grass silage – may need to be offered in order to avoid acidosis.A short–term (20–day) indoor feeding experiment conducted at Teagasc Moorepark examined the effect of feeding a 100% kale diet in comparison to varying combinations of a kale and silage diet.The results of the experiment reported that feeding a 100% kale diet did not reduce rumen pH below 6.0 nor did it induce acidosis.Thus, 100% kale feeding treatments were introduced to the experiments.

DIET OPTIONS DURING THE FIRST WINTER

G Outdoors offered 70% kale and 30% grass silage bales (70K);

C

THE DIETS INVESTIGATED INCLUDED: G Indoors offered ad libitum grass silage and 1 kg DM

concentrate/day (S1); G Indoors offered ad libitum grass silage and 2 kg DM

concentrate/day (S2); G Indoors offered ad libitum grass silage only (SO); G Outdoors on an out–wintering pad offered ad libitum grass silage and

1.5 kg DM concentrate/day (OWP); Over the past number of years experiments have been carried out at G Outdoors offered 100% kale (100K) Teagasc Moorepark to investigate the effect of offering different over– Table 1. Effect of diet on weight gain at different periods (kg/heifer/day). winter diets on heifer weight gain. Results have shown that the winter diet offered to heifers significantly impacts the weight gain achieved (kg/heifer/day) SO S1 S2 70K 100K and their realisation of target weight at MSD. Winter weight gain 0.30 0.44 0.65 0.47 0.48 However, feed costs account for approximately 80% of the total variable costs associated with costs of production. One of the methods Weight gain from 0.68 0.89 0.88 of reducing feed costs in particular, is by sourcing lower cost feeds. Kale turnout to breeding 0.86

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GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT – FORAGE CROPS The Moorepark experiments have shown that considerable variation exists in the weight gain achieved from different diets offered over the winter (Table 1). Kale has a high feeding value (1.05 UFL – similar to early spring grass; one UFL is defined as the energy contained in one kg of air dry standard barley); consequently heifers can achieve high levels of weight gain at a relatively low cost. Similar levels of weight gain can be achieved with grass silage and concentrate diets. Silage only diets support weight gains of approximately 0.30 kg/heifer/day.Therefore, heifers should be well ahead of target at housing if silage only is being used during the winter as 0.30 kg/day is insufficient weight gain to achieve target weight at MSD for heifers that commence the winter period at or below target weight.

WHICH FORAGE CROP TO USE?

the S1 heifers (261 kg).Thus, over–winter weight gain was least for the S1 heifers (0.38 kg/heifer/day) when compared to all other treatments which were similar (0.53 kg/heifer/day).There was no difference in the turnout body condition score (BCS) for the five winter feeding treatments.

EARLY TURNOUT Regardless of diet offered over the winter, similar weight gains are achieved when heifers are turned out to grass in spring.Weight gains achieved post–turnout are higher than that achieved during the winter.

This clearly indicates that heifers should be turned out to grass as soon as possible, as they can gain up to 1 kg/heifer/day at grass compared to <0.70 kg/heifer/day while on their winter diet (Table 1). Consequently, heifers have a greater chance of attaining their target weight with early turnout.

Another experiment was completed to establish if there were differences in weight gains achieved from three different forage DIET DURING THE SECOND WINTER crops and more conventional diets. The diets investigated were: Many studies have shown a positive relationship between body weight at calving and first lactation milk yield.An experiment was G Indoors offered grass silage and 1 kg DM concentrate/day (S1), undertaken to: investigate the effect of winter diet on pre–partum G Indoors offered grass silage and 2 kg DM concentrate/day (S2),

“Regardless of diet offered over the winter, similar weight gains are achieved when heifers are turned out to grass in spring. Weight gains achieved post–turnout are higher than that achieved during the winter” G Outdoors grazing forage kale (cv. Maris Kestral) in conjunction

with grass silage bales which were offered as 30% of the diet (K), G Outdoors grazing forage rape (cv. Stego) in conjunction with grass silage bales which were offered as 30% of the diet (R), G Outdoors grazing a rape x kale hybrid (cv. Red Start) forage in conjunction with grass silage bales which were offered as 30% of the diet (H).

At turnout there was no weight difference between heifers from the S2, K, R and H treatments (279 kg) but all treatments were heavier than

weight gain of replacement dairy heifers, and, establish the effect of pre–partum feeding treatment on post–partum milk production performance.

THE TREATMENTS WERE: G Indoors offered a silage only diet for the duration of the experiment

(SO), G Indoors offered silage and 2kg concentrate/day for 46 days followed

by a silage only diet (SC), G Outdoors grazing forage kale in conjunction with grass silage bales at

an inclusion rate of 30% in the diet (70K), G Outdoors grazing a 100% forage kale diet (100K).

Daily weight gain was similar for the SC and 70K treatments (1.10 kg/heifer/day) over the winter period, weight gain was lower for the SO treatment (0.96 kg/heifer/day), and weight gain was further reduced on the 100K treatment (0.78 kg/heifer/day).At the end of the winter period BCS was greatest for the SO and SC animals (3.47), significantly lower for the 70K animals (3.25) and lowest for the 100K animals (3.09).There was no difference between treatments in cumulative milk yield (3656 kg) or milk solids yield (273 kg) for the first 29 weeks of lactation. Milk composition was similar between treatments; average lactation fat, protein and lactose concentrations were 4.10, 3.38 and 4.70%, respectively.

Average body weight throughout the first 29 weeks of lactation was also similar between treatments (439 kg).Average BCS of animals from the 100K treatment was lower (2.86) than that of the SC and SO animals (3.00) but was not different to the 70K animals (2.93).There was no difference in average BCS between the SC,SO and 70K treatments (2.98).

IMPLICATIONS This series of studies outlines the weight gains that can be expected from a number of winter diets offered to replacement dairy heifers.The diet offered should however ensure that heifers attain target weight at key time points,e.g.,MSD and pre–calving.Thus,heifers should be regularly weighed and an appropriate diet chosen for the winter months during both the first and second winter to ensure that lifetime performance is optimised when they reach the lactating herd.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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DON’T LET WEANLING PNEUMONIA DRIVE YOU INSANE!

Every autumn as weanlings are housed, both vets and farmers know that there is a risk that they will develop pneumonia over the following few weeks. On some farms it is almost inevitable and on other farms outbreak occurrence is dependent on variables such as the year in question, the weather and/or the source of the animals, writes Charles Chavasse.

t has been said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing time and time again and expecting to get a different result.And that is frequently what we do with our weanlings every year! There are times when weanling pneumonia could almost drive farmers insane due to stress of both the huge work load and obvious increased financial burdens; the cost of treatment and dead weanlings.Additionally the less obvious but even larger financial cost of poor thrive due to subclinical disease in the entire group should not be underestimated. So what is happening?

I

THE TRIPLE CHALLENGE TO THE LUNGS When we group animals and house them, their lungs and respiratory system face 3 principle challenges; 1. Dust and poor air quality 2. Lungworm or hoose 3. Infection with viruses and bacteria.

If the effects of all of these can be minimised, the animals will have a good chance of avoiding respiratory disease and will continue to thrive as they adapt to the winter feeding regime.

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Animals will perform at their best when they are in clean fresh air, like they experience outside. In a housed situation the air will always be dustier and of poorer quality, but there is a huge variation from farm to farm and even from one house compared to another on the same farm.

The small dust particles cause small amounts of damage and irritation to the lining of the airways. We all know this, as if we even spend a brief period inside a dusty environment we will cough and splutter and the effect may stay with us for some time after we have gone outside.

Housed cattle do not have this opportunity so it is beholden upon us as vets and farmers to make sure that cattle housing is adequately ventilated but not drafty. The latter can cause a drop in performance as the animals then have to burn up energy, that could go towards growth, just to keep warm.

Good ventilation is about both the design of the shed, the stocking density and the type of animals that are being housed.

It is essential that there are both adequate inlets for fresh air to enter a building and outlets, for stale air and the viruses shed by

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING animals, to leave the building.A common problem is that buildings are adapted from machinery sheds etc. to house cattle/weanlings and they are not modified appropriately for their new use. Often sheds for young cattle are too high and the animals cannot produce enough heat to drive the stale air to the top of the building where the outlets are. As a result the air just circulates within the “airy” building and no fresh air enters.

PRE–HOUSING WINTER DOSE

has persistence for at least 4 to 5 weeks, so that any worms that are picked up after this pre–housing dose are killed off.This approach means; • The dose does not need to be repeated during the housed period.

• The lungs have had a chance to heal prior to housing so are at optimal function at housing • The weanling is housed with a “clean set of lungs” and the animal thrives better as it had a worm free burden during its last month at grass.

In the late summer and early autumn cattle pick up worms as they graze pasture. By this time many worming programs no longer offer persistent cover and although, the burden of worms may be quite low in some situations, commonly every animal will become infected with some level of worm burden (both lung worms and stomach worms).

Traditionally, cattle are dosed at housing to clean these worms out and to ensure that their thrive is maximised on the expensive Infective lungworm larvae on the pasture winter feeds. Having killed these worms off, the lungs, in the case of hoose worms, will still need to heal.

It is the same as when we have a bad cut on our hand, we can The wind pipe of a dead quickly stop the bleeding, but we then need to wait for the skin to weanling full of adult lungworm heal itself which takes 2 to 3 weeks. Once the lungworm have been killed it can still take the lungs 2 to 3 weeks before the surface Many of these persistent doses are also effective against lice. Lice fully repairs and can function properly as a breathing system, and also do not survive for more than 2 or 3 weeks off cattle so an effective pre–housing treatment means by the time cattle are housed in the to fight off other pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.

Lungworm cause damage to the lungs in their own right but they autumn, there are no lice left to infect the house.

Normally small numbers of lice survive on cattle during the also make it easier for secondary invaders such as viruses to cause summer and if left untreated they will multiply up in the early infection. Dosing animals a month before housing with a persistent winter to be a significant itchy problem by Christmas. wormer kills off the worms and also allow the lungs time to heal However, treatment with a product with persistency of greater while cattle are still outside in the clean air, before their lungs have to face the challenges of dust and all the viruses and bacteria that than 3 to 4 weeks, kills all the lice and the larvae as they emerge from the eggs/nits. build up just after housing.

The pre–housing winter dose can therefore control stomach & This practice is a relatively new concept and is known as the lungworm and lice. pre–housing winter dose. It is important that the wormer used

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VACCINATION AGAINST VIRAL PNEUMONIA

that had had a chance to heal from the damage caused by the hoose worms but the antibodies and other defences against viruses would also be in place to fight off these inevitable challenges.

WHERE DO THE VIRUSES COME FROM? While animals are outside they will acquire infections from other carrier animals that are shedding the viruses into the environment and may not be showing any signs of disease.

Because the air is clean and the animals are suffering minimal stress, they have the ability to shrug off these infections and build up some immunity to them. But at housing time, because animals are housed close together, they encounter heavier Intranasal vaccination infection levels and are frequently stressed, which lowers their Traditionally as animals are brought in and housed, as well as defences. being dosed they are also vaccinated against viral pneumonia.

Additionally because they are often mixed with another group However, farmers who fill feedlots in the early autumn know that of animals, they are exposed to viral infections that they have not if they can dose and vaccinate and then turn cattle out for a few previously experienced. weeks they will see less pneumonia.

We see the same situation every September when our children When an animal is vaccinated it needs to make antibodies.This go back to school; they are all healthy while out in the fields and does not happen instantly and can take as little as 5 days for some play grounds during the summer. of the intranasal vaccines but as much as 4 to 6 weeks for some Then they get cooped up in a stuffy classroom, with or without of the inactivated viral vaccines.The vaccine procedure could stress (depending on the class teacher!) and the various bugs and viruses get shared around so that 2 –3 weeks later there is easily be combined with the pre–housing winter dose, thereby plenty of sneezing and runny noses! ensuring that not only would the animals have a clean set of lungs

“Traditionally as animals are brought in and housed, as well as being dosed they are also vaccinated against viral pneumonia. However, farmers who fill feedlots in the early autumn know that if they can dose and vaccinate and then turn cattle out for a few weeks they will see less pneumonia”

Aerosol created during intranasal vaccination

So this autumn how about not going “insane” with weanling pneumonia, but doing something different and getting a better result.

Tackle the triple challenge of lungworm, viruses and poor air quality, and house cattle with a clean set of lungs; • Carry out a pre–housing winter dose about a month before housing, using a persistent dose.

• Vaccinate for viral pneumonia at the same time.This should cover RSV, Pi3 and IBR. • Assess the buildings to make sure they are adequately ventilated for the type and number of animals that will be housed.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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STRATEGIES FOR SUSTAINABLE SUCCESS –THE RIGHT COW TO DRIVE PERFORMANCE

Genetics, grassland management and financial planning are widely acknowledged as the three key pillars for profitable dairy farming in Ireland (Teagasc, 2013).Andrew Cromie reports.

BACKGROUND

Since its initial introduction, the EBI has continued to develop as more information on traits, costs and assumptions became available to the ICBF and Teagasc teams.The net effect has been to develop a dynamic breeding tool that is being updated on a regular basis, with the overall objective of ensuring that Irish dairy farmers are always breeding animals that are some 5 years ahead of their current requirements.

Looking at the latest weighting for traits in the EBI (Figure 1) indicates a wide range of traits in the index, including female fertility traits (with a relative weighting of 35%), milk traits (31%), calving traits (9%), cow maintenance (7%), beef output (9%), health and disease traits (3%) and management traits (4%). It is expected that 1.

EBI DEVELOPMENT The EBI was first introduced in 2000, following extensive research, the relative weighting on “cost of production traits” will continue to increase in the future as costs continue to increase within the farm discussion and consultation with the Irish cattle breeding industry.

Its introduction followed a period of sustained decline in the fertility gate, relative to the value of dairy output. performance of the national dairy herd throughout the 1990’s, when 2.

INDUSTRY UPTAKE IN EBI due to the rapid importation of North American genes, average calving Genetic trend analysis is the best way to evaluate uptake in the EBI, interval of the national dairy herd increased by some 20 days, from as it captures uptake by both AI companies (through their dairy AI 375 days to 395 days (based on first to second lactation calving offerings to farmers) and by farmers through their semen purchasing interval). New genetic evaluations for calving interval and survival decisions and/or use of natural service sires. Looking at data from were quickly developed (Olori, 2002) and these were weighted, Figure 2 indicates a rapid increase in EBI over the past 10 years, with together with milk production traits, into an overall profit index the trend even more notable for the last 5 years, where the average (termed the EBI).This index then replaced the previous RBI, which gain in EBI terms has been some €15/year.This is a remarkable level was a relative breeding index, with 100% weighting on milk output of genetic gain, especially when one considers that prior to 2000 traits.The economic values were calculated based on data from the there was no gain in key profit traits, due to the fact that genetic Teagasc Moorepark Dairy Systems Model (Berry, 2011), with the gain for milk solids was effectively being negated by associated initial relative weighting on fertility traits being 30%, compared to declines in female fertility performance. It wasn’t until the EBI was 70% for milk production traits (Figure 1). introduced in 2000, followed by the G€N€ IR€LAND national breeding program in 2005 and genomics in 2009, that we started to Figure 1. Relative emphasis of traits in the EBI from 2000 to 2014. achieve a rapid increase in genetic merit for key profit traits.As a consequence, we are now achieving a balanced improvement in both milk solids output and fertility performance, reflecting the high relative weighting of these traits within the index.

In this paper we will review the development of the Economic Breeding Index (the EBI) since its introduction in 2000. We will examine industry uptake in the EBI, based on genetic trend analysis and then examine its role in helping farmers more accurately breed and select dairy herd replacements. In addition we will discuss one of the newer breeding technologies that is revolutionising Irish cattle breeding, genomics and postulate as to how this technology will be utilised in the future by growing numbers of dairy farmers.

Figure 2. Genetic trends in EBI, milk solids and fertility sub index for females born during the period 1996 to 2013.

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3.

DOES THE EBI WORK?

With such a high level of genetic gain under way (Figure 2), it is prudent to ask as to whether the EBI is actually delivering “on the ground” in terms of improved phenotypic performance for farmers and the industry. In answering this question, we will examine data from the ICBF database, with the specific objective of establishing whether dairy heifers selected on the basis of parent average EBI have performed better than average animals for key profit traits such as milk solids and fertility.

In answering this question, we have extracted data from the ICBF database for herds involved in the Dairy Efficiency Program (some 6000 herds in total).A total of 95,395 heifer calves born between 1st January 2008 and 30th June 2008 were included in the analysis.

Animals were grouped into five categories based on parent average EBI (20% of available EBI records per group), with the top EBI grouping having an average EBI of €123.9, with €42.8 coming from milk sub-index and €65.4 coming from fertility sub-index (Table 1).

This compares to an average EBI for the group of animals of €76.5 and €21.7 for the low EBI group. In addition there were 4,361 animals with no EBI. Parent average EBI (as opposed to actual or latest EBI) was used to form the basis of the comparison (EBI’s were taken from the January 2010 evaluation, when the animals were all still un-calved), as that index is then independent of the animals subsequent performance. In this sense it is the most accurate indicator of the value of EBI in helping to predict the future performance of an animal.

Table 1. Average EBI, milk and fertility sub-index, by EBI group*

Another way to assess the performance of high EBI animals relative to lower EBI animals is to establish what % of animals have achieved a specific target in relation to milk production performance.Assuming that the ideal heifer calved at the target 22–26 months, and has now started her third lactation, a target level of minimum performance should be 1000 kg milk solids produced in the animal’s life-time (kg fat + protein). Of the 95,395 involved in the analysis, some 36% have reached this overall target (34,601 animals in total), with 44% of the high EBI group having achieved this target compared to only 23% for the low EBI group.

Table 3. Number of animals that have produced 1000 kg milk solids,

by EBI group.

Expressing the milk production performance figures in absolute terms (Table 4), indicates that the high EBI group of animals had an average age at first calving of 25.4 months, calving interval (1st to 2nd) of 390.6 days and milk solids of 1047 kg.This compares to 27.9 months, 411.7 days and 1051 kg for the lower EBI group.Whilst the lifetime milk solids (for lactations 1 -3) seems at variance with results from Table 3, the results can be explained due to confounding between higher levels of concentrate supplementation and herd EBI level.

Table 4. Comparison of female fertility and milk performance, by EBI group.

In evaluating relative performance each EBI group was then assessed for a number of key profit traits including; (i) number that had calved a first calf, (iii) number that had calved a first calf at the target of 22Breaking the analysis presented in Table 4 into spring calving and 26 months of age, (iii) number that were now in their third lactation, winter calving herds separately, indicates that that the high EBI (iv) number that had produced a target of 1000 kg milk solids (fat group of animals yielded an additional 93 kg milk solids when kg + protein kg). assessed based on performance within spring calving herds only Looking at average fertility performance for the group of heifers indicates that off the 95,395 animals in the analysis, 83.7% had a first (Table 5). Average fertility improvements were maintained at 2 calving, indicating that some 17% of dairy heifer never reach calving months in terms of age at first calving and 10-15 days in terms of calving interval. due to a combination of infertility and/or other health and disease traits. Of the heifers that reached calving (79,876 in total), 57,565 (or Table 4b. Comparison of female fertility and milk performance for 60.3% of total heifers) calved at the target 22 to 26 months and Spring calving herds, by EBI group.

61.1% of the total animals had now started their third lactation.

Looking at the performance of the high EBI animals relative to average or low EBI animals indicated that, on average, high EBI animals had consistently better female fertility performance for each of the criterion evaluated. In fact, looking at arguably the most informative female fertility criterion (% animals with a 3rd lactation record) indicates that for every 100 high EBI females born in Spring 2008, 65 high EBI females had started their 3rd lactation, compared to only 52 low EBI animals.

The net effect of the above analysis is to clearly demonstrate the Table 2. Average female fertility performance, by EBI Group. value of having EBI information when making breeding, selection, purchasing or culling decisions on the farm.The most striking and obvious example is the farmer who is entering dairying or expanding his dairy farm business through the purchase of additional stock.To make this decision without knowledge of the EBI of the individual animals being purchased is a serious error of judgement (even after acknowledging the fact that such information has low reliability when expressed on an individual animal basis). However, in the same way as dairy farmers have become accustomed to using teams of bulls when using AI, the principle also applies when breeding or

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING purchasing dairy stock.The bottom line is that farmers should consider the parent average EBI information of dairy heifers when selecting or purchasing breeding stock to enter the herd, as these will generate more profit in the future through a combination of improved fertility performance and increased milk solids production.

4.

an examination of the relationship between parent average EBI and genomic EBI for the 1168 animals in the above analysis has indicated a correlation of 0.71 between the two indexes. Another way to express this difference is to compare the number of animals that change grouping when evaluated on the basis of parent average EBI compared to genomic EBI (Table 7).

THE ROLE OF GENOMICS?

Genomics is a tool that is now widely used in the context of bull Table 7. Comparison of number of animals that change group based breeding decisions on Irish dairy farms (some 60% of total dairy on parent average or genomic EBI* inseminations used in Ireland this year were to young genomic bulls). However, its uptake in the context of female breeding decisions has been very slow, with only a small number of dairy farmers genotyping their heifers, as a means of more accurately identifying potential dairy herd replacements. Given the title of this talk (“strategies for sustainable success in the context of dairy cow breeding”), is this justified? In helping to answer this question we will again revert to data from the ICBF database, through an examination of milk solids and fertility performance of animals genotyped since * Full dataset used, 1455 animals in spring and winter calving herds. the introduction of the ICBF “genomics for females” service in 2010.

Since then a total of 8,988 dairy females have been genotyped, of Using the above dataset, only 143 of the animals that ranked in the which 1,168 were born between 1st January 2008 and 30th June top 20% based on parent average EBI, were also ranked top20% when 2010 and have completed a first lactation in spring calving herds. evaluated on the basis of genomic EBI (49% of the “expected”animals).

Again breaking these animals into percentile groups based firstly Extending this to the top two categories of animals increases the on parent average EBI, indicates that, on average higher EBI animals success rate to 74%. had improved female fertility performance (as with the previous This suggest that a high proportion of valuable animals (in terms of analysis). However, there was little difference in milk solids production genomic EBI) are potentially being lost by dairy farmers that have in the first lactation reflecting the fact that; (i) differences in genetic surplus dairy heifers, as the general approach is to select a % to be merit for milk solids were small (€24 between top and bottom EBI kept as dairy herd replacements (generally 50% of the available groupings), and (ii) unlike previous analysis, this comparison was stock), with the remainder then being sold. based on first lactations only the benefits of better milk solids The above analysis would strongly suggest a change in this approach is performance more generally accrue over the lifetime of the animal). justified. Given the cost of genotyping a dairy female (€30/animal), the cost:benefit of genotyping all available heifers and then selecting Table 5. Comparison of female fertility and milk production the best on the basis of genomic EBI is easily supported based on performance, by EBI group* improved phenotypic performance in the first lactation alone, never mind over the animals life-time.

Whilst some farmers will see this as a large up-front investment (on average 30 replacement heifers/year * €30 = €900), a revisit to the opening statement of this paper regarding the key pillars of profitable dairy farming in Ireland (genetics, grassland management and financial planning) is critical.

At a time when dairy farmers are constantly examining ways to improve the financial performance of their dairy farm, a switch to large scale adoption of this new genomic technology (for the Repeating the analysis based on genomic EBI rankings indicates a identification of replacement females) is now necessary.There are significantly different outcome. For example, whilst the difference in additional advantages from a parentage verification perspective fertility performance was maintained (and indeed further improved), (which typically runs at 10-15% in most commercial dairy farms), as the higher EBI group (based on genomic EBI), also had improved milk well as related national benefits through increased genetic gain for solids performance when compared against lower EBI contemporaries the industry and the removal of unfavourable recessive genes from (+16.6 kg fat + protein). the national cow population (e.g., BLAD, CVM etc).

Table 6. Comparison of female fertility and milk production performance, by EBI group*

5.

SUMMARY

The benefits of better breeding are now widely acknowledged within the Irish dairy breeding industry, as evidenced by latest genetic trends within the national dairy herd. Furthermore, independent analysis of parent average EBI in relation to subsequent animal performance fully supports this uptake and should act as a catalyst for further uptake.

The new catalyst will come in the form of the application of genomic technology in the selection of dairy herd replacements.

Initial analysis from ICBF indicates substantial cost: benefits for The reason for this difference is that the genomic EBI is using farmers and the industry. Given the success of EBI in generating additional information on the animals own DNA (in addition to parent average performance) to more accurately identify animals additional profit for Irish dairy farmers and the wider industry, we that are expected to have improved performance in the future.This should encourage rapid adoption of this new technology on our dairy farms, and in doing so add another significant chapter to the EBI is reflected in the average EBI reliability for parent average EBI indexes (~30%), compared to ~50% for genomic EBI indexes. Indeed story.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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For more information, please call +353 (59) 86 31316, Profile6R is renowned for its long life span, which is anticipated email info@tegral.com or log on to www.tegral.com in excess of sixty years and guaranteed by Tegral for thirty years.

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AGRIBILD® PLUS Tegral Agribild® Plus is still Ireland's most popular roofing and cladding product for animal housing and farm buildings. It offers the highest grade of zinc coating available on the market and has an advanced protective coating that provides excellent corrosion and scratch resistance. It is available in two unique colours, Curragh

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

BUSINESS PLANNING FOR AN EXPANDING DAIRY INDUSTRY

Milk quotas will be removed on the 1st of April 2015 after being in place for 31 years. For dairy farmers within the Irish dairy industry the removal of milk quotas provides a very exciting opportunity to grow their dairy business, increase profits and to grow the overall net wealth. Laurence Shalloo,Teagasc, Moorepark Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Fermoy, Co. Cork reports.

owever the fact that dairy farmers will not be restricted from producing milk does not mean that they should produce the additional milk.The stark but realistic reality is that while some dairy farmers will substantially increase their profit and wealth through expansion, others will be endangering their overall business by producing more milk.This article seeks to go through a step by step approach to firstly setting goals, secondly discussing metrics for evaluating business performance, thirdly discussing risks associated with the business and fourthly a case study of expansion for a dairy farmer currently milking 70 cows who is planning to increase to 120 cows is discussed.

H

are not clear.The requirements for income now and in the future will change due to changes in family situations and the reduction of the real value of income due to inflation.These goals should be revisited from time to time, thus ensuring that the direction of the business is going to result in the achievement of the correct objectives. Currently within the dairy industry there is a significant focus on expansion. Dairy farmers have reacted and there is a significant increase in dairy heifer calves been born on the farm now when compared to 6 years ago. A question that all dairy farmers that are expanding need to ask themselves centres on why they are expanding? If they are unable to answer the question they urgently need to sit down and to start setting goals.

SETTING GOALS When planning a journey in the car the first step in the process is deciding where you are intending to go. Within any business the same principle applies.The first step in the business planning process should centre around setting goals for the dairy farm business.The goals should be centred on the requirements for income from the farm now and in the future, goals around cow numbers and hectares farmed, and how much personal/family time is required away from the farm. All of these components should be incorporated to form a vision for your future on the farm.

This should be completed before any expansion is contemplated, as it is difficult to achieve a set of objectives if those objectives

48

METRICS FOR EVALUATING BUSINESS PERFORMANCE A number of metrics should be used when evaluating whether expansion makes sense for the overall farm.These include profitability, return on investment, return on equity and overall cash flow.

While most farmers are used to metrics like profitability and overall cash flow, farmers are generally unfamiliar with terms like return on investment and return equity.While evaluating the potential from any investment in the overall business, these metrics should be included in the evaluation process. Return on investment (ROI) is a performance measure used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment or to compare the efficiency of a number of different

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING investments. In order to calculate ROI, the benefit (return) of an investment is divided by the cost of the investment; the result is expressed as a percentage or a ratio.

THE RETURN ON INVESTMENT FORMULA: Gain from Investment - Cost of Investment ROI = Cost from Investment In the above formula "gains from investment", refers to the profit obtained from the investment of interest and the cost of the investment is the financing costs (interest). Return on investment is a very popular metric because of its versatility and simplicity.That is, if an investment does not have a positive ROI, or if there are other opportunities

management determine whether the business is able to cope with changes in the external environment and changes within the business. Identifying the factors that put the business at risk should create opportunities to develop strategies to manage the key risks.

There are many risks to the business.These include financial risks (milk price, feed price, fertiliser price, interest rates, etc) and weather risks (summer 2012 and spring 2013)), both of which affect the viability of the business.There may be other risks that are relevant depending on circumstance and locations.

As a dairy farm expands, the risks per se do not change but their effects on the dairy business do change and the probability of events occurring increases (e.g. likelihood of a feed deficit increases at higher stocking rates).

The reasons include higher levels of borrowings, higher cash demands, increased animal numbers, increased grazing intensity and greater likelihood to be purchasing animals into the herd.

“A number of metrics should be used when evaluating whether expansion makes sense for the overall farm.These include profitability, return on investment, return on equity and overall cash flow” Evaluating a risk on a farm should take into account the effect of the risk and the probability of the event occurring. For example, the spring of 2013 caused a reduction of approximately 1 t DM/Ha in herbage production.This resulted in a significant shortage of fodder on many farms. In monetary terms if replacing this feed shortage with forage and concentrate (50:50), the net cost would Return on equity is defined as the amount of net income returned correspond to €265/Ha.The effect of this reduction in profitability as a percentage of shareholders equity. Return on equity measures a is similar to a reduction of milk price of 2.5c/l for the average farm. how much profit a company generates with the money shareholders The probability of an extreme milk price reduction, however, is much greater than the probability of an extreme weather event. have invested.

The combination of a number of risky events together can create an environment that makes farm survival difficult.

ROE is expressed as a percentage and calculated as: When developing the farm business the focus should not be to Return on Equity = Net Income/Shareholder's Equity protect against all risks, but rather to identify the key risks that put the business at risk, to identify the contributing factor that RISK IDENTIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT increases the likelihood of that risk affecting the business, and to Uncertainty is a fact of life. It creates a business environment develop mitigation strategies that reduce the farms exposure. A that provides both opportunities and threats. Risk can be both number of risks are identified and analysed for a typical Irish dairy positive and negative.There cannot be a business environment farm in Table 1. without risk.The important question is how much is the business Each farm will be different in this situation and each individual “at risk”, or how vulnerable is the business to the external pressures farmer should complete an exercise similar to this. (weather, milk price, input prices etc). Risk identification and risk with a higher ROI, then the investment should not be undertaken.

A target set out for ROI is dependent on the individual and the level of risk associated with the investment. A general guideline figure is that a target return on investment should be set at 5% above the costs of funds (interest rate).

Table 1 Identification of risks, threats, contributing factors and mitigation strategies for a typical Irish dairy farm.

RISK Milk price

THREAT High

CONTRIBUTING FACTOR High Costs High bank debt Expansion phase

MITIGATION STRATEGY Reduce cost base Fix milk price Build cash reserve Milk solids concentration Drainage Building a feed reserve Good farm infrastructure Match stocking rate to demand with feed reserve

Poor Weather – Wet

High

Impermeable soils Two weather events together Poor grazing infrastructure Stocking rates too high

Poor Weather – Low temperature in spring

High

Calving date too early Old permanent pastures Two weather events together

Building a feed reserve Develop reseeding strategy

Animal disease

High

Poor bio-security Purchasing of animals Lack of health screening

Bio-security protocols Closed herd Herd testing Vaccination

Interest rate

Low

High borrowings High use of overdraft facility

Match debt levels to efficiency Cash reserve Fix interest rates

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING in this situation centres on investments to increase grassland productivity (reseeding, P&K fertiliser and lime).

This combined investment has the potential to increase the grassland productivity by over 4t DM/Ha in this case study farm.

In this situation there will be a requirement to reseed 20 Ha (€750/Ha), spread lime on the rest of the milking platform (€3,000), spend €180/Ha on P and K fertiliser (€ 8,100), add 500 m of roadways (€8,000), add 50 new topless cubicles (€400/ space), (slurry storage is adequate), replace the milk tank and add 4 units to the current 12 unit milking parlour (€50,000) (including TAMS grant), revamp the water system costing €9,000, fencing €2,500, purchase of the additional dairy cows €70,000 and a contingency of €25,000. In this case study the total costs associated with the additional 50 cows was €210,600. It was assumed that €170,000 of this would be borrowed with the remainder coming from savings and from the sale of the beef enterprise.The base After completing the process outlined in Table 1, the risks milk price included in the budget was 29.5cpl, with sensitivity identified to have a high threat for the farm should be addressed. analysis carried out at 25.0cpl.Table 2 provides the returns for Investment should be targeted to deal with the risk, and should the case study farm and includes both cash flow and profitability encompass both the contributing factor and the mitigation strategy. projections.

The financial projections included in table 2 suggest that this FARM CASE STUDY farm can grow at this pace, generating returns on investment of In this section we evaluate the potential from a farm currently greater than 10% for the increased investment, while at the same milking 70 cows on a 45 Ha milking platform (35 Ha owned and time generating positive cash flows and bringing significantly 10Ha leased on a ten year lease) with 15Ha that is 3 miles away. more hired labour into the system, thus creating more free time.

The overall farm is generating €50,000 per year (including a However the cash flows that are generated are very much dependent single farm payment of €15,000) in net income and operating a on the farm dramatically increasing grass growth and the base small beef finishing system.The farmer involved has sat down milk price being 29.5cpl.The farm is generating approximately and written his goals for the farm. He has decided that he wants 2cpl in surplus cash with all cash commitments made (including to increase the income that he generates from the farm annually bank (capital and interest)) and family drawings.Therefore if the to €75,000, wants to get a return for any investment made on the farm was to be hit with a milk price of 25cpl for a year there farm of greater than 10%, wants to increase the amount of weekends would be a cash deficit of approximately €15,000. As part of the that are free from the farm to look at other farm or non–farm planning process strategies to deal with this potential risk should related investments and to finally maximise the potential from be developed.The other main key concern centres on the farm the milking platform. growing 14t DM/Ha/year.

Once the objectives have been set, the next step is to decide on While the farm has the potential to grow this grass and an what the carrying capacity of the farm is in relation to dairy cows. investment has been included to ensure soil fertility and sward This farm has a mainly free draining soil with less than 30% of type is not a constraint there will be a requirement for an up the farm that could be classified as being heavy.The farm has the skilling of grassland management by the operator. On this farm potential to grow 14 t/DM/Ha of grass, which would correspond an external block reduces the pressure placed on the milking to a potential carrying capacity of 2.7 LU/Ha whilst utilising less platform and can be used to supply some of the winter feed if than 0.5t of concentrate per cow per year.Therefore in this situation required, part of the risk management strategy. the farm will expand from 70 dairy cows to 120 dairy cows.

Overall this farm has the potential to dramatically increase the Once it has been decided what the number of cows will be on net worth of the farm owner through expansion. However if the the farm, the next step is to evaluate the expenditure required to potential is to be achieved it will be dependent on the investment facilitate the expansion. In this farm situation there is a significant associated with expansion being minimised, focus to be placed on requirement for capital expenditure on top of the investment increased grass growth and utilisation and finally a risk management required to increase livestock numbers.A key focus of the investment strategy to be put in place around the key farm risks.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING Table 2. Financial projections for the case study farm expanding from 70 to 120 cows.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

CUBICLE DESIGN Cows have been housed in a loose house cubicle system for over 50 years. One would imagine that this would be more than enough time for the system to be perfected.

However this is not the case, writes Tom Duffy of Cow Comfort Ltd. (Mayo Mats).

(often referred to as the neck rail or head rail) to do a dual function, it does not suit the cow, to have a steel bar running across her space @ 5’6” from the tail end of her bed. In this position it resulted in forcing cows to stand with their hind legs down on the passage. In very recent years changes have come about in the positioning of this stabilising bar.The fact that it is being changed is proof that it was not correct.

The issue here is the fact that the bar supports the cubicle better when it is furthest from the head wall but this benefit to the cubicle strength is totally detrimental to the cow’s well being. In recent years cubicle beds have also been made longer.This is a very welcome change to all cows.With the longer cubicle, (approaching 8’0) it is possible to get acceptable results, by raising its height from what used to be 45” to 50”/52”.When the bar is 18” from the head wall it leaves 6’6” from the bar to the end.When compared to the here are still contradictory opinions as to what is the ideal 7’ bed this extra foot for the cow complete with the extra height cubicle system. Part of the reason for this is the fact that in some cases the farmer puts his/her desires before those of the gives a reasonable result.Also by putting an obstacle on the ground at approx 5’7”/5’8” from the tail end it complements the control cow.The farmer likes to have the tail end of the beds clean, so he/she keeps the cubicle bed short enough to achieve this aim.The mechanism. As stated earlier it is a compromise. The cow may prefer cow, on the other hand, likes to have a long cubicle which will give not to have this obstacle (known as a brisket board) in her way but ultimately it guarantee’s her maximum lunging space for getting up her ample lunging space for getting up.When a cow has a cubicle with adequate lunging space she is likely to lie some distance away and it goes a long way towards keeping the farmers happy by from the tail end and, consequently, soil the end and, more seriously, minimising the amount of dirt at the tail end of the bed. All of the above coupled with a reasonable width (3’8”– 3’11”) and a slope of deny herself the lunging space for getting up. In my experience much of the debate focuses on what cubicle to use i.e. what type of approx 5?” in the 7’9” – 8’0 length results in much happier cows. My structure to use as a division between each 2 cows.Will it be “Newton belief is that if the length, width, slope and bed are correct then the cubicle division “type” is not as big an issue as it often commands Rigley”,“Dutch comfort”,“Cantilever”,“Dorsden”,“Mushroom”, etc.

– at the expense of the other issues. I have already discussed the Very often the more serious aspects are not discussed or are not importance of length and slope.The width has also gone through a seen as being as important as they actually are. For example a cubicle house having beds @ 6’9” long is extended to cater for more transition in recent years.

Hundreds of thousands of euro have been spent on widening old cows.This extension ends up with new cubicle beds @ 6’9” long in cubicles which were 3’6”– 3’8” x 6’9” long.These cubicles were order to “match up” with the old ones.

For many years cubicles were bedded with saw–dust, straw, sand or made bigger in the wrong direction.They ended up @ 4’1”/4’2” x 6’9” which often resulted in small cows turning around in them. combinations of same.This traditional bedding system did not lend For a small fraction of the cost of widening cubicles ( old ones itself to putting a slope in the direction that the cow liked, because often cut at ground level and discarded) they could have simply been this would facilitate the smooth transition of the same bedding into the passages.The beds were generally flat.Any observation of cows lengthened and in so doing been made very attractive to the cows – in a field will reveal how much they like to lie facing a hill.You will no more getting up like horses. also observe that they get up by leaning gently forward and while THE ONLY REMAINING ISSUE IS THE BED still on their knees they get the back legs fully up.That is nature’s This should be heat insulating, non–slip, and appropriately soft for way.Why then do cows get up on the front legs first when in cubicles? These cubicles must have basic flaws in their design.The the cow. It must also be hygienic, long–lasting, and economical for the farmer. Anyone who examines the records of the last 26 years type of division (cubicle type) has little bearing on this. It should therefore be clear that a proper cubicle system involves getting lots will quickly establish which product best ticks the above boxes. of aspects right.

T

WHAT IS A PROPER CUBICLE? A proper cubicle must cater for the cow’s needs and the farmer’s needs.Therefore it is a compromise and as such will not give either the cow or the farmer everything that either would ideally like to have. It must be sufficiently long for the cow to be able to get up ”naturally” (not like a horse).This length must have controls which will minimise the dirt on the tail end and simultaneously force the cow to lie in a position which will afford herself lunging space for getting up later.

The stabilising bar on the Canti–lever is often used as this control mechanism. While it may suit the farmer for this stabilising bar

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

WET SEASONS RAISE TRACE ELEMENT DEFICIENCY RISK The unprecedented wet weather of the past two winters may have leached trace elements from soils and could be to blame for poor fertility and low performance in ruminants.

s a result, experts say trace element deficiencies are likely to be widespread this year. James McCulloch of bolus specialists Agrimin Ltd, says soluble trace elements might have been washed out of the ground by rain.

“There is a question of availability [of trace elements] because of poor root development and soil compaction, with roots unable to get through waterlogged soil and access nutrients.”

Deficiencies of the main trace elements – zinc, cobalt, iodine, copper and iron – are associated with a weak immune system,poor metabolism, infertility and pregnancy problems.

Recently there have been a high number of farmers reporting fertility problems suggesting that some farmers might unknowingly have a trace element deficiency.

“Farmers may not suspect a trace element problem because of all the other issues they're experiencing [such as poor nutrition]. It is not the first thing that springs to mind.” Says James.

Most vets will now strongly advise farmers to get blood samples completed to test for trace element depletion in livestock.

Every year is going to be different, so it is always a good idea to take blood samples from animals to assess their trace element status.A more accurate assessment of trace element deficiency is to conduct a liver biopsy, which gives an insight into the level of reserves of trace elements such as copper and selenium.

Samples should be taken at critical times in the production cycle, including mid–pregnancy for beef cattle and sheep and at peak production in dairy cattle.

An alternative is to look at nutrient levels in the soil and foage.

Nutritionists warn farmers shouldn't rely on historic knowledge of trace element levels in soils or forage as results will vary considerably from year to year.

Signs of trace element imbalance are fairly easy to spot and can most often be successfully managed by using a bolus, administered orally the bolus stays in the reticulum and erodes over a period of 180 days providing a steady and consistent supply of nutrients to the animal.

Recently, dairy farmers in Ireland have reported some lower than expected conception rates. In many cases, after investigation, a lack of iodine is contributing to the problem and some are making plans to bolus their herds to ensure intake over a six–month period during calving through to mating.

A

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

FARM DESIGN

Taking time to plan the design of Farm Infrastructure can save several thousands of Euro, writes Simon Hennessy, Grasstec Ltd. INTRODUCTION:

GRAZING PLATFORM:

As the abolition of milk quotas on April 1st 2015 approaches many farmers around the country are deciding to enter into milk production. Currently we are working with quite a number of farmers who intend to change their system of farming and to enter milk production.A lot of the interest is coming from farmers who presently run suckler herds.These farmers have recognised that an efficient farm design will reduce labour costs and improve efficiencies. One such example is a farmer based in the South East of the country who is transferring from a suckling enterprise.

In this article we will explain some of the key principles that help establish a modern and efficient grass based dairy farm in terms of grazing infrastructure and farmyard design.

As part of the Grasstec service the farm is mapped using GPS surveying equipment to accurately determine how much farm land is available.

A map similar to Figure 1 is produced highlighting the actually size of each field in its existing layout.

FEATURES OF THIS FARM INCLUDE G

Adjusted area of approx 126 acres or 51 hectares

G The main block of land is located across the road apart from two acres adjacent to the yard

G

The existing farmyard is located to one side of the road

Figure 1: This map shows the existing layout of the farm.

G There is little room for expansion of the farmyard on the current side of the road

G Facilities in the yard are basic but would suit calf rearing and calving in the spring

G No internal farm roadway exists on the farm. Access is from field to field.

G Water trough layout consists of 1 trough per field with insufficient supply to support a herd of milking cows.

As part of the planning process of setting up or expanding a dairy farm one needs to consider some of the following; G What is the cow carry capacity of the farm?

G Can the farm grow sufficient tonnes of dry matter to support the cow numbers you plan to milk?

G Do you know how many tonnes of dry matter that your farm can grow? The majority of farms don’t know and are only guessing.

G Most farms we work on plan to carry 2.5 to 3.0 cows per hectare depending on the farm and its location.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING Figure 2: Proposed New Layout for Grazing Infrastructure on the farm

Figure 3: Proposed water trough system for the farm

Once the farm is mapped we produce several options on maps FEATURES OF THE NEW WATER SYSTEM detailing the various ways in which the grazing platform can be G Each paddock has one trough located within each paddock. divided.

Troughs are not shared with adjoining paddocks Figure 2 shows the proposed layout which was chosen by the farmer after consultation with Grasstec about the various options G The source of the water is supplied from a well on the farm we produced. which is pumped to a large reserve tank at the milking parlour in the new farmyard.

FEATURES OF THE NEW GRAZING INFRASTRUCTURE G Initially the farmer is planning to milk 125 cows and in time expand to 150 cows

G With hedges in place field sizes are fixed so we have to work with areas provided.

36 hour paddocks are created. 125 cows will require close to 5 acres for 3 milkings.

G

G As the herd expands the paddock will revert to 24 hour paddocks.

G

A network of farm roads are planned which are shown in red.

G Multiple access points are provided to paddocks where possible.

G Cows can enter a paddock through one gap and can leave the paddock through another gap

G Parallel paddock wires are created which are conducive to stock movement and machinery operation.

G From the reserve tank the water is pumped from a dedicated pump located in the plant room of the milking parlour.

G The pump for the troughs is interconnected with the pump that is used to wash out the floors of the milking parlour. With this interconnection if one pump fails the adjoining pump can be used to supply the troughs

G A looped water system is in place. When water leaves the pumps it can go left or right at a “T” fitting and supply all the troughs. o Loop water systems allow for 40 to 50% increased flow rates with the same water pipe compared to non looped systems

o Water pressure at troughs is more consistent with looped systems.

G Troughs should never be laid on roadways as it disrupts cow flow dramatically.

G Concrete troughs are a better option than plastic in terms of durability

G

High flow water valves are essential for fast delivery of water

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NEW FARMYARD LAYOUT A decision was made to construct a new farmyard across the road from the old farmyard. Calving and calf rearing will be carried out in the old yard.

The new yard will feature a new milking parlour, cubicle housing for the milking herd, silage pit and associated slurry storage.

Similar to the farm map, as part of Grasstecs service we survey the proposed site or the existing farmyard with surveying equipment.

Once the farm yard has been surveyed we produce several drawings detailing the various development options. As herd numbers increase over the coming years maintaining good cow flow is a critical part of the functionality of a farm yard. At Grasstec, we aim to offer layouts which will facilitate good cow flow.

FEATURES OF THE NEW FARMYARD G

The yard is designed with the following characteristics o The milk truck can enter the yard independently without having to cross where cows move o All livestock movements are localised to one side of the yard o Feeding of silage in the winter period can happen independent of milking o The cubicle shed can be expanded by pushing forward towards the direction of the old yard

Figure 4: Proposed Layout of Farm yard

This farmyard has been designed with future expansion in mind.This is the way every single farm yard should be built. If cash flow is a restricting factor when building a new farmyard it is important to be able to build it in phases and add cubicles or extend collecting yard once milk is being produced. It is important to remember a milk producing system is not going to go from a standstill to top speed overnight.

CONCLUSION G With any future farm development to be under taken there are numerous options as to how one can create the necessary infrastructure.

G

Before starting a project, know where you want your farm to be in the next 5 to 10 years.

G

Set a target herd size that is appropriate for your farm.

G

Once the herd size is identified take time to plan all aspects of the project.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

INTRAHOOF–FIT – A SUCCESSFUL ANTIBIOTIC–FREE APPROACH FOR HOOF–PROBLEMS

Problems with claw health are an important cause of forced removals of cows from dairy farms.According to the GD Animal Health Service, the financial damage ranges from €100 up to over €300 per lame cow. the antibacterial action of the agent. Hoof–fit Gel heals the claw and the tissue around the claw, thus reducing the risk of new bacterial infections.

This highly–concentrated gel contains a strong adhesive, which prolongs its contact with the infection on the claw.

GROUP TREATMENT WITH HOOF–FIT Hoof–fit Liquid is suitable for both the individual and collective treatment of cattle with hoof ailments.Application using a low–pressure spray is the preferred method and gives the best results.

ROUTINE FOOTBATH TREATMENT Cows with a claw problem are always last to go through footbaths. By this stage the footbath is so contaminated that it no longer offers a solution.The Intra Bath helps solve this problem. It is designed to allow up to 60% of the manure to fall through the middle grill, therefore making it more effective than a traditional foot bath.The Intra Hoof–fit he losses can be mainly attributed to the fact that lame cows eat Bath Liquid,which can be best given in the Intra Bath,has been especially less, which soon reduces their milk production levels.The risk of developed for preventive treatments. nutritional deficiencies is also great.This makes lame cows more susceptible to other infections and fertility problems.

T

REPIDERMA FOR OPTIMUM SKIN CARE

The introduction of Repiderma expands Intracare’s successful Hoof–fit line.This convenient skin protection aerosol supplements the Hoof–fit In dairy cattle, digital dermatitis, also called Mortellaro’s disease or product line.The active ingredients are micronised chelated minerals Italian foot rot, is responsible for the most damage.This infectious claw which, in contrast to traditional minerals, can be absorbed much more inflammation is characterised by red,strawberry–like,glowing deformities easily by the skin. Because of this, Repiderma is not only active ’on’ the on the skin directly above the claw.The skin above the inter–digital skin, but also ‘under and within’ the skin. It forms a semi–permeable space is inflamed.This disease is extremely painful and affected animals protective layer thus protecting against negative external influences are very lame.The amount of conventional treatment agents such as but allowing oxygen to penetrate to help repair the skin. formaldehyde,copper sulphate,copper oxide and antibiotics used in the Repiderma is a user–friendly variant of Hoof–fit Gel and just like all agriculture sector causes major problems for animal and human.The the Hoof–fit products there is no withholding period. It can be used development of resistance pathogenic bacteria is a growing cause for concern. not only in the treatment of hoof problems but also in the treatment of udder cleft dermatitis and in the healing of dehorning wounds.

DIGITAL DERMATITIS IS THE BIGGEST PROBLEM

EFFECTIVE WITHOUT ANTIBIOTICS

In order to help dairy farmers maintain the hooves of their cows in optimum condition Intracare, a leading Dutch provider of sustainable solutions, have developed the Intra Hoof–fit range of products.These antibiotic free products were developed in close collaboration with dairy farmers, veterinary surgeons, farriers and cattle specialists and have been tested extensively in the field.All the products fully support medical treatment, if required.

These products contain copper and zinc (both have antibacterial properties) in an organic chelate form.This coated form is more stable and better soluble than conventional forms of copper and zinc, such as sulphates and oxides.This allows the active substances to better penetrate the core of the digital dermatitis inflammation. Zinc in chelate form and other skin care products,such as aloe vera,stimulate wound healing: the wound closes quickly.Antibiotic spray does not have this wound healing effect.The powerful bonding agents within the products allow the product to stay active, even when the cows are walking through manure after treatment.

STUDIES Intra Hoof–fit gel has been analysed and tested in a number of different studies. In a study of 205 hooves in 172 cows on 5 farms by the Dutch Animal Health Centre in 2011 by Holzhaure et al. IntraHoof–fit was analysed in a study on the curative effects of tropical treatments of digital dermatitis.A study by Relun et al. (2012) involves the use of Intra Hoof–fit in a study measuring the effectiveness of different regimens in the treatment of digital dermatitis on dairy farms.

The Intracare range of products is distributed in the Rep of Ireland by Agrihealth and is available to the public through most co–ops and independent merchants. Call Agrihealth on 047 71800 for more information.

References Holzhaure, M. Bartels, C.J. van Barneveld, M.Vulders, C. Lam,T. (2011) “Curative effect of tropical treatment of digital dermatitis with a gel containing activated copper and zinc chelate”Veterinary Record, 169: 555 Relun,A. Lehebel,A. Bareille, N and Guatteo, R. (2012) “Effectiveness of CURATIVE EFFECT WITH HOOF–FIT GEL different regimens of a collective tropical treatment using a solution of copper Intra Hoof–fit Gel is extremely suitable for the individual treatment of and zinc chelates in the cure of digital dermatitis in dairy farms under field severe hoof ailments.The gel also contains isopropanol,which enhances conditions” Journal of Dairy Sciences, 95:3722–3735

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