NBA Magazine Spring 2017 Issue 3

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SPRING 2017 ISSUE 03

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IMPROVE FINISHING PERFORMANCE

AB VISTA SLOW RELEASE CONDITIONER

CHAROLAIS

KING OF THE TERMINAL SIRES

REAPING THE BENEFITS OF BETTER GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

TRACE ELEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE GUEST VET

LEANNE FORDE

GUEST WRITER NEIL PARISH MP

2017 BEEF EXPO EVENT PREVIEW

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FOR EVERYONE WITH AN INTEREST IN THE BEEF INDUSTRY T H E O F F I C I A L M A G A Z I N E F R O M T H E N AT I O N A L B E E F A S S O C I AT I O N

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BEEF EXPO 2017 COMPETITION WE ARE GIVING ONE LUCKY ENTRANT THE CHANCE TO WIN BIG!

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We are giving one lucky person the chance to Win Big! Win a Beef Expo prize pot worth over £300. All you have to do to enter is email us with your name, address and contact details to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com with the subject line as 'beef expo competition' Competition is also run on Facebook and Twitter, and is open to NBA Members and Non NBA Members. Entries close on Wednesday 10th May, and a winner will be drawn at randon on Friday 14th May at 1:00pm. Winner will be contacted by email and a live notification will be posted on Social Media.

BEEF EXPO COMPETITION OPEN TO NBA MEMBERS AND NON-NBA MEMBERS

IMAGE CREDIT: BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY

CONTENTS

contents

EDITOR Chris Mallon National Beef Association Mart Green Tyne Green Hexham Northumberland NE46 3SG 01434 601005 chris@nationalbeefassociation.com

SPRING 2017 19

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DEPUTY EDITOR Tom Kinroy tom@nationalbeefassociation.com

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CHAIRMAN David Thomlinson ADVERTISING ENQUIRES 01434 601005 07738 229752 nbamagazine@ nationalbeefassociation.com DESIGN, PRINT & PUBLISHING Kinroy Design, Yorkshire 01430 266068 hello@kinroydesign.co.uk www.kinroydesign.co.uk A National Beef Association Publication A specialist organisation open to everyone with an interest in the UK beef industry.

Company No. 3678612

NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE SPRING 2017: Issue 3 NEXT ISSUE: SUMMER 2017 NBA/Kinroy Design give notice that no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior consent of the publishers. Every care is taken when compiling editorial and advertisements and the publishers can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions arising from publication. Views expressed and information contained in The National Beef Association Magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or of the National Beef Association who cannot therefore be held responsible for any reason arising therefrom.

Neither the Association, the Publisher nor the Editors endorses any services or products advertised in this Magazine.

Design/Images © 2017 Kinroy Design Printed on Sustainable FSC Paper Mix ISSN 2399-553X (Print) ISSN 2399-553X (Online)

38 REGULARS

CHAIRMAN REPORT CHIEF EXECUTIVE UPDATE GUEST WRITER - NEIL PARISH MP NEWS AND UPDATES BREED SOCIETIES NEWS GUEST VET - LEANNE FORD ANIMAL HEALTH REGIONAL ROUND UPS GIFT OF THE GAVEL - ALISTAIR SNEDDON

05 06 07 09 10 33 28/30/34/46 47 50

FEATURES

KING OF THE TERMINAL SIRE CHRONIC LIVER FLUKE - REDUCING PASTURE CONTAMINATION NBA BEEF EXPO 2017 EVENT PREVIEW IMPROVE FINISHING PERFORMANCE TRACE ELEMENTS AND FERTILITY REAPING THE BENEFITS OF BETTER GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT BARRIERS FACING NEW ENTRANTS WOODHEAD BROS MORRISONS CALF TO BEEF PROGRAMME THE CHANGING FACE OF THE STORE CATTLE MARKET Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER PARASITE CONTROL AT GRASS SCOTALND'S BEEF EVENT 2017

Limousin

Mon 1st May Stirling Mon 1st May Ballymena Sat 6th May Carlisle Sat 13th May Brecon

13 16 19 -27 28 30 34 36 38 39 41 43 47

2017 COLLECTIVE SALES Sat 14th October Carlisle Mon 23rd October Stirling Sat 11th November Brecon Fri 8th December Carlisle

Fri 16th June Carlisle www.limousin.co.uk THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

03

MAKING BVD HISTORY EXPERIENCE THE LIVE VACCINE DIFFERENCE

Now that we’re moving from BVD control to eradication, and with BVD estimated to cost £40 per cow per year1,2, you’ll want a vaccine that is proven to deliver a full 12 months’ prevention of foetal infection after a single injection.

Not only protecting against both types of BVD, but also proven to stimulate both antibody and cellular immunity3.

Ask your vet for more information.

Dual protection made simple References: 1. Stott et al (2010) Vet J 185: 138–143 2. Stott et al (2012) IVJ 65:12 3. Roth (2016) WBC Dublin Proceedings *Proven to prevent the birth of PI calves caused by transplacental infection by BVDV for 12 months when Bovela has been used as recommended in the product label (SPC).

Advice on the use of Bovela or other therapies should be sought from your veterinary surgeon. Bovela lyophilisate and solvent for suspension for injection for cattle contains modifi ed live BVDV-1, non-cytopathic parent strain KE-9: 104.0 –106.0 TCID50, Modifi ed live BVDV-2, non-cytopathic parent strain NY-93: 104.0 –106.0 TCID50. UK: POM-V. Further information available in the SPC or from Boehringer Ingelheim Limited, Vetmedica, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YS, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1344 746959 (sales) or +44 (0)1344 746957 (technical). Email: vetmedica.uk@boehringer-ingelheim.com.

Date of preparation: Jan 2017. AHD9692. Use Medicines Responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible).

04

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

NEWS

CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME

BY DAVID THOMLINSON, CHAIR OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION DAVID THOMLIN

SON

Welcome to the Spring edition of the NBA Beef Magazine and what an important magazine this is for the NBA, containing the preview of the prestigious NBA Beef Expo 2017 to be held at Stoneleigh’s NAEC in May and the Beef Expo farm tours held on 17th May. This year’s tours will feature three exceptional beef farms; two finishing units and one suckler herd, a fantastic showcase of British Beef production.

Whether you were a Remainer or Brexiteer, the Prime Minister has triggered Article 50 and we are leaving the EU. Currently that is all that is case in stone with everything else being up in the air. The NBA will be continuing to work hard to protect the interests of the beef sector by ensuring farm support remains after 2020, and that welfare standards are kept at a standard that is appropriate, fighting the case that imports must meet our standards and ensuring that our food supply is safe.

Farm support must take into account the importance of food safety and security, as well as carbon capture, which includes funds for the future proofing of farms through capital investment and reflects the importance of farmers as stewards of the countryside. Our focus is now on the implementation of a world beating Food, Farming and Environmental Policy along with access to global markets. The NBA will be looking to limit red tape and ensure that there is access for the necessary labour to work in the UK. With so many decisions pending as the UK leaves the EU, this is a once in a lifetime moment for the beef sector. There is so much to do and get right and it is more important than ever to have your voice heard. With your continued support, we will lobby for an environment that enables beef farming to be profitable and sustainable.

I am still lobbying for greater transparency within the beef trade to deal with the unfair practices which inhibit the potential for profit and create a lack of trust between the partners in the industry. Ideally, we at the NBA would like to see an extension of the Grocery Code Adjudicator to cover the primary producer but failing that, separate legislation to create transparency may be a working alternative.

ADVERTISE IN OUR SUMMER ISSUE OF THE OFFICIAL NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE #NBAMAGAZINE TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT THE NBA ON 01434 601005 / 07738 229752 OR EMAIL nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: FRIDAY 7TH JULY 2017 THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

05

CHIEF EXECUTIVE REPORT

CHRIS MALLO

N

CONTINUING PROGRESS

IN POLICY

BY CHRIS MALLON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

The beginning of 2017 has been busy as ever at the NBA, with several consultations and successful campaigns.

The NBA are taking a strong and proactive approach to Brexit, working hard to ensure the best outcome for our members and the industry as well as continuing with our ongoing work on price transparency, TB and welfare. The below report outlines our most recent work.

APPROVED FINISHING UNITS (AFUS) WITH GRAZING

THE NBA ON BREXIT

With changes to Approved Finishing Units with grazing in the pipeline, the National Beef Association called for a four year extension before any phasing out occurs which could cause 'serious welfare and cash-flow problems' for farmers. AFUs fall into two categories; with grazing or without grazing. AFUs with grazing are subject to rigorous biosecurity controls and testing regimes in order to minimise any threat to other cattle and wildlife. This includes specific fencing and statutory 90 day testing. AFUs have shown low incidence of reactors and are essential to ensuring the industry can exist in areas with a TB problem.

Many dairy herds use native breed semen to increase the beef value of their stock, which will have an economic impact on both the dairy and beef sectors, resulting in native breeds becoming 'less desirable' amongst producers. It has been agreed to extend the notice period from 12 to 24 months from the point at which the first licence to cull is issued. Grazing AFUs outside of cull areas will of course continue to be licenced. The NBA TB Committee, chaired by Bill Harper are very pleased with the success of the campaign, however will be seeking a review of the extension in 18 months, maintaining pressure on the Government to provide a further extension to 48 months.

BREXIT DISCUSSIONS: The NBA continue to attend the meetings of the Brexit Livestock Group. We do however also have our own meetings separately with Government to discuss the specific implications for the beef sector, which we feel is vital to ensure that our voice is heard. We have met with the Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsom, and George Eustice, regarding Brexit and farm gate pricing. We covered the problem of border control in NI and the ROI, farm support, labour for the processing sector, the Grocery Code Adjudicator and farm price transparency.

CATTLE HEALTH BLUE TONGUE VIRUS (BTV) AND SHMALLENBERG VIRUS (SBV) PLANNING: Discussions have already started regarding BTV and SBV campaigns for 2017, SBV has already been detected in lamb post mortems in SW, SE and the Midlands of England. We will continue to contribute to these campaign discussions and do all we can to inform the industry of any significant increase in prevalence and action to be taken.

Next steps: • Repeal Bill Spring 2017- EU to National Law • Green Paper on UK Agriculture Spring 2017 • Food and Farming Bill Spring 2018 The NBA will be involved in the Green Paper consultation and plans to run meetings with members to discuss their views on the proposed changes as part of this process.

EVIDENCE PRESENTED AT THE HOUSE OF LORDS: The NBA has given evidence to the House of Lords on welfare standards post Brexit, we see the present standards as an important selling point for our beef but are wary of any lift in standards. Britain already has some of the highest standards in the world and the industry cannot afford any additional cost.

LIVESTOCK DATABASE: The NBA, alongside other industry stakeholders and Defra, are working towards a new improved future proofed livestock database.

The importance of traceability has only increased as we enter trade negotiations and need auditable proof of our production. It is also hoped that the improved information source will aid in on farm decision making.

COMPLETED CONSULTATIONS The NBA has successfully completed the following Consultations: • Extension of Grocery Code Adjudicator • Supplementary Badger Cull • Welsh TB Consultation • Red Tractor Consultation

WINTER ISSUE COMPETITION

WINNER

ONE OF THE WINTER ISSUE COMPETITION WINNERS, CATHERINE BOON

Congratulations to the two lucky winners of our Winter Issue Competition, a year's free Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Membership sponsored by NSF Agriculture, which was won by Francis Catherine Boon, Beccles and Mr Philip Webber, Somerset. TO ENTER THIS ISSUES COMPETITION PLEASE SEE PAGE 15.

IMAGE CREDIT: ABERDEEN ANGUS CATTLE SOCIETY

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

GUEST WRITER

NEIL PARISH MP

GUEST WRITER NEIL PARISH MP

CHAIR OF ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

It’s going to be an interesting next decade for the beef farming industry. From the growing impact of technology, to Brexit and the restructuring of farming support payments, the landscape of the British beef industry is certain to change.

On the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, which I chair, we know that beef grading prices and changes to cattle payment grids have been top of the agenda lately. Many farmers had expressed concerns to me that changes to the grid had reduced bonuses on better quality cattle and increased penalties for heavier carcasses.

Our Committee took evidence from farming representatives, the retail sector and processors on this issue and I can assure you we will continue to keep a very close eye on this. Farmers must not be short-changed.

regulations we share with our EU neighbours facilitates trade across our borders. In 2015, around a sixth of our beef produced went to export and 93% of those exports went to the European Union. That’s a staggering 92,000 tonnes, worth £320 million to the UK economy.

Ireland and the Netherlands take the most significant chunk of these exports, importing 37% and 22% of this share respectively. But now that Britain is leaving the European Union, we are going to have to work out a new trading arrangement with them.

clear to our Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsom, and she has assured me that the food and farming industry will not be traded away in the upcoming negotiations. I will be making sure the Government keeps good on this promise.

This year, the Committee will also be launching an inquiry on replacing the Common Agricultural Policy and designing a new bespoke support payments system for British agriculture. Following the Brexit vote, the Government made a guarantee of all payments up until 2020, which I wholeheartedly

I am determined that the food and drink industry – and great success stories like the British beef industry – are front and centre in the Brexit negotiations. I will not allow food and drink to be side-lined, whilst other industries like financial services and car-making get the Government’s primary attention.

On this theme, the Environment Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee will be launching an inquiry into Brexit and trade for our food and drink sectors. I urge readers to keep their eyes peeled for the launch of this inquiry and to actually have their say. We will welcome all submissions so we can make the strongest possible recommendations to Government when conducting trade policy on food and drink. This is not just about trade with the EU, but how we do trade with the rest of the world too.

I am determined that the food and drink industry – and great success stories like the British beef industry – are front and centre in the Brexit negotiations. I will not allow food and drink to be side-lined, whilst other industries like financial services and car-making get the Government’s primary attention. I have made this point absolutely

welcome. After that, however, we will need to design a new and improved domestic system. While this may be a period of upheaval for many beef farmers, it can also be a period of opportunity. Free from EU regulations and restraints, we will be able to create a tailored support scheme for farmers that better recognises our needs and environmental circumstances.

It’s an exciting time for the beef industry and for everyone involved in food and farming. As chair of the EFRA Select Committee, I will be assisting the Government – as well as holding them to account – to ensure that we have the best possible deal in place for our beef farmers and the wider industry.

SPRING 2017 ISSUE 03

Society Stand at Beef Expo 2017 to find out why the Breed has seen such a resurgence in popularity.

EF

This issue's cover image is sponsored by The Hereford Cattle Society. Please visit the Hereford Breed

EID ST RWELL

IMPROVE FINISHING PERFORMACE AB VISTA SLOW

Tel: 01432 272057 Email: postroom@herefordcattle.org www.herefordcattle.org www.herefordbeef.org.uk

TERMS

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TRACE EL EN TS AND PERFEM ORMANC

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GUEST VET

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NEWS & INDUSTR Y

UPDATES

INDUSTRY

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2017 BEEF EVENT PREVEXIEPO W

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LEANNE FORDE FOR EVERYONE

THE OF FICI

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As members of the National Beef Association, you will know better than anyone the challenges we face over the coming years – but also how best to deal with them. For instance, there has been a step change in the way beef is eaten in Britain in the past few decades. More than half of beef carcasses are now eaten as mince, instead of in joints or different cuts. As a former dairy farmer myself, I know how important it is that the farming industry adapts to modern tastes and ensures we have products that the public will keep coming back to time and time again.

We have a great product and a great British beef farming industry too, but we also need the best possible framework for this industry to prosper.

Inside the EU single market, we know that British beef faces zero tariffs. What’s more, the common

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ISSUES I AT I O N

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COMPETITION

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JOIN THE

TODAY AS A MNBA EM FOR ONLY £75BER (STUDENTS SEE PAGE 48£F40) MORE DETAILSOR

NORTHERN FARMER AWARDS: BEEF FARMER OF THE YEAR 2017 Elaine Vickers, of Long Myers Farm, East of Durham.

Elaine works on a 970-acre enterprise with her father, Martin Sedgewick. Martin looks after the arable and Elaine is responsible for the cattle. 450 cattle finished each year, with stores bought in by Elaine from marts across northern England.

NEW LOOK FOR NBA BEEF SOUTH WEST EVENT The NBA South West’ specialist one day event is set to return to Westpoint Exeter on Wednesday 8th November 2017 with a new twist. The organising committee continue to develop the event and this year will be including classes for sheep. “Exhibitors have been asking for sheep classes, so we have decided to add prime lamb classes within the Primestock show” explained event Secretary Vicky Smith. "We are hoping to work alongside the National Sheep Association South West. With the inclusion of sheep it was felt a new name was also needed so “Agrifest South West” was born".

“By doing this we will open up the event to another sector of the agricultural industry, and as West Country Beef and Lamb have been awarded the PGI status, it made perfect sense to add them to the event. We felt with the name Agrifest South West there will be no limits on what can be included in the future”. Kicking off the winter show season, the event’s Primestock show attracts pedigree and commercial exhibitors from across England and Wales. The 2017 schedule will also include breed classes within the already established Pedigree Calf show. In previous years there have been classes for Native and Continental Bull calves and heifer calves born in the year of the show, but again these classes have been very well supported and exhibitors have requested breed classes.

The event will continue with the Yearling Bull of the Year competition, steak and burger awards, seminars, Cattle and now also Sheep handling equipment demonstrations and Breed Society area, which will now be open to Sheep Breed Societies. Agrifest South West – A festival of Quality Beef & Lamb production.

For further information please contact Vicky Smith, NBA South West and Event Secretary Tel: 01884 861352 Email: natbeefsw@gmail.com

DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWS, INDUSTRY UPDATES OR INNOVATIONS YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH?

TB COMMITTEE REPORT

BY BILL HARPER NBA SOUTH WEST CHAIRMAN

Please contact The NBA Magazine on 01434 601005 or email your article to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

The main thrust of our work in last quarter has been challenging DEFRA,s ability to change the rules within TB control areas after farmers have signed up, the first issue was trying to withdraw the AFU ( Approved Finishing Unit ) with grazing licences, After intense negotiation, we managed to get DEFRA to allow two further years of licences with a review as to TB levels in each area in 18 months. We are then moving on to look at the rules regarding Isolation Units as the reduction of AFU grazing units place enormous pressure on integrated production chains, with grazing as part of the protocols. A solution to this would be to allow calves from more than one source to go into an Isolation Unit as a group to then be tested twice to go clear and be able to graze. The current rule of only one source is prohibiting units being filled because very few farms have enough calves at one time to fill a unit. The second issue is the change to compulsory Gamma Interferon testing after breakdowns in cull areas, we are concerned that larger numbers of cattle will be taken, because of the severity of the test, than is necessary. Our key point here is that this was not the case when farmers signed up to the cull and DEFRA is changing the rules as it goes along which we believe is wrong after a contract has been agreed.

Our next area of concern is in relation to large finishers being prevented from buying cattle after an isolated single TB case is found at slaughter, we need to work with DEFRA to find a better way of minimising risk but allowing large units to perhaps isolate the group where the animal came from and test them all, while still able to bring in cattle to other parts of these very large holdings. To this end, we are asking all major finishers to attend the Finishers Forum at the NBA Beef Expo in May to gather support for a more workable system that keeps cattle flowing to the abattoirs on a weekly basis by permitting the constant purchasing that is needed.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

09

NEWS AND UPDATES

NEWS AND UPDATES

BREED SOCIETY NEWS

BREED SOCIETIES NEWS

RED POLL CATTLE SOCIETY

fed to weaned calves in their first winter. This is testament to the fact that the breed perform well on a forage based regime. Current herd sire is

Congratulations to the Underhills Herd of Pedigree

Canute Darwin, previous herd sire was Woldsman

Red Polls, owned and managed by Miss H.R.

Yaris who has left some very impressive daughters.

Philipson-Stow, Pendock, Worcestershire.

The emphasis is to produce a true dual purpose The herd came first in the Red Poll Society’s

animal which not only has plenty of milk but

Southern Region Herd Competition in 2016, it then

also excellent beefing qualities as well. The Red

went on to become The National Herd Competition

Poll breed is ideal for this combining longevity,

Champion Herd, which was judged by Mr. Philip

fertility, easy calving, good milk yields, fine grained

Dale, Livestock Manager for P.A. Rackham Ltd,

tender beef, high carcase yield and being polled is

Norfolk. The herd consists of 30 breeding cows

generally of a good disposition and easy to manage

accompanied by the usual youngstock. Heifer

in a wide range of management and environmental

calves are either kept as replacements, however

conditions.

the majority are sold to other breeders as in-calf heifers and command a ready trade. Due to the longevity of the breed, replacement rates are below 10%. Male calves are usually castrated and sold as stores at weaning, however a few are kept entire to be reared as breeding bulls.

The herd was founded as a dairy herd in 1946 by

HEREFORD CATTLE SOCIETY

late 1960’s.

HEREFORD CATTLE SOCIETY APPOINTS NEW PRESIDENT ROBERT THOMAS

Robert Thomas judging at the 2016 Hereford Spring Show & Sale

Robert Thomas, owner of the Risbury Herd of Herefords, has been elected President of the

Robert’s grandfather, Jack Thomas, registered

Society for 2017.

his first Hereford calf, Blossom, in 1916 when farming at Home Farm, Norton, Radnorshire. Jack’s

Rosemary’s father, Major G. Philipson-Stow. The herd remained a dairy herd until 2002 when it

Robert has been farming at Risbury Court close

son, Geoff, Robert’s father, continued to breed

was decided for a variety of reasons to convert

to Leominster in Herefordshire since taking over

Herefords first at The Rhyse in Lyonshall and later

to a suckler herd. All cattle are pedigree and can

from his father-in-law in 1985. Prior to that he had

with his brother Ivor at Merryhill. Later, Geoff

be traced back to the very early Herdbooks of the

farmed with his father and brother at Weston Court

re-established his herd at Weston Court along with

breed. Today the herd is the oldest registered herd

near Pembridge.

Robert and his brother Philip.

in the country.

He has had a life-long involvement with the breed

On moving to Risbury Court with his wife Diane

Management is based on grazing in the summer

and remembers a wonderful year working with the

and children, Richard & Lizzie, Robert continued

and silage in the winter. Concentrates are only

Hereford herd at The Haven in Dilwyn back in the

breeding Herefords under the prefix “Risbury”.

More recently he has concentrated on the beef market supplying pure-bred Hereford beef to numerous local butchers on a regular basis, not to mention The Old Court Hotel & Dining Room at Symonds Yat, South Herefordshire which has been serving Risbury beef for the last 10 years. His son Richard is now a partner in the farm, whose interests lie with his flock of commercial ewes, maintaining the farm’s standard cider orchards and growing a small acreage of cereals chiefly for home

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE UNDERHILLS HERD OF PEDIGREE RED POLLS, FIRST PLACE AND CHAMPION HERD

The herd came first in the Red Poll Society’s Southern Region Herd Competition in 2016, it then went on to become The National Herd Competition Champion Herd, which was judged by Mr. Philip Dale, Livestock Manager for P.A. Rackham Ltd, Norfolk.

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use.

Elected as Vice- President for the year is South West breeder, Jonathan Moorhouse “Cato Herefords” who farms near Taunton, Somerset along with his wife Rosemary.

SPRING 2017

BREED SOCIETY NEWS

BREED SOCIETIES, DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWS, YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH?

WELSH BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY

For your free article to be featured in the next issue please email your copy and any images to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

SALERS CATTLE SOCIETY

price of the day was achieved by established Devon breeders, Messrs G Dart & Son from Great

Terence Pye of Rigel Pedigree, Yarm, North

Champson, Molland, Devon, who

Yorkshire, has been voted in as chairman of the

saw Champson Diamond 2nd sell

Salers Cattle Society of the UK, he takes over from

to 4,400gns to the National Trust’s

Rob Livesey, Melrose, Scottish Borders who now

Kingston Lacy herd in Dorset.

becomes President. Tom Walling of Selkirk takes the

Both bulls representing East of

role as Vice Chairman.

England herds achieved good prices; polled bull Tilbrook Hawk

Llechwedd Rhys 47th sold for 16,000gns January 2017

EXCITING NEWS FOR WELSH BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY EXHIBITORS AT THE ROYAL WELSH 2017

At the Council meeting held in September 2016, the first since the end of the showing season, the Welsh Black Cattle Society Council agreed to sponsor exhibitors at the Royal Welsh Show 2017. The Society is offering £100 per animal forward at the Royal Welsh Show, and it is hoped this will help towards costs, and encourage exhibitors. The Royal Welsh Show is one of the best opportunities to showcase the Welsh Black Cattle and it can also be a very enjoyable experience. Contact: S. Evelyn Jones, Breed Secretary: Telephone No: 01286 672391

The Salers breed is growing in popularity as farmers

from GM Hunter Ltd., Kimbolton,

look for cattle that are easy to manage. The Salers

Cambridgeshire sold to 3,000gns

are noted for their easy of calving; they mature early

to Helen Allan’s Whaddon Grove

calving at 2 without any difficulty; they wean a calf

Farm, Hilperton, Wiltshire, whilst

that fits market requirements; adapt to resource on

Colesden Samson from D&S Tutt,

the farm, its management and environment; have

Roxton, Bedfordshire, sold to

low annual maintenance costs and have a long,

3,100gns to Swell Wold Farm

productive life. Mr Pye is looking forward to the

Partners from Gloucestershire who also purchased

and Female Champion, Bollowal Queenie 34th sold

challenges ahead in the knowledge that the breed

Challenge Rex for 3,500gns from Mr John Gilson of

to new Devon breeder, Mr R Maxwell from Chelwood,

can meet the needs of the industry.

Wilpit Farm, Wellington, Somerset.

Bristol for 1,700gns. With 54 maiden heifers forward and all sold, the average held up at £872. Outside

DEVON CATTLE BREEDERS' SOCIETY

The Devon Cattle Breeders’ Society official Spring

Female Champion and Reserve both came from Jeff

of those shown, the highest price for maiden

Thomas’ Bollowal herd, St Just, Penzance, Cornwall.

heifers was achieved by Sally Martin’s Elmford

Bollowal Clara 29th, Reserve Champion, achieved

herd, Beaworthy, Devon, with Elmford Fancie 20th

the highest price for females at 2,000gns selling to

selling to 1,180gns to Clive Hartwright, Kirtle Lodge,

Tony Richards, Tregaminion Farm, Helston, Cornwall

Hungerford, Berkshire.

Show & Sale was held at Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Bridgwater on Thursday 23rd March 2017 with 86 pedigree registered Red Ruby Devons forward.

The day saw brisk trade for bulls; all bar one of the 13 bulls offered for sale was sold and at £3,281 the average was up £880 on last year’s sale. Auctioneer, Derek Biss of Greenslade Taylor Hunt commented, “we were anticipating strong demand for bulls, both from within the breed and from commercial herds looking for an easy fleshing low input breed to meet the retail market’s increasing demand for beef finishers at around 360kgs.”

Trade was brisk from the outset with first bull in, the Show Champion, Eastyard Fitzroy 2nd, bred by M&D Cowell, Eastyard Farm, Ashreigney, Devon, selling to 3,500gns to Mr Henry Rawson’s Larkbarrow herd from the Wellshead Estate on Exmoor. Reserve Champion, Colleton Rasputin, bred by S&G Phillips of Colleton Manor, Chulmleigh, Devon, sold to 3,400gns to join Mike William’s Werrington herd from Launceston, Cornwall. Highest THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

DEVON CATTLE BREEDERS' SOCIETY OFFICIAL SPRING SHOW CHAMPION EASTYARD FITZROY 2ND

Bred by M&D Cowell, Eastyard Farm, Ashreigney, Devon, selling to 3,500gns to Mr Henry Rawson’s Larkbarrow herd from the Wellshead Estate on Exmoor.

SPRING 2017

11

ADVERTORIAL

INTEGRATED BEEF SCHEME

WITH DUNBIA

An unwavering focus on health and nutrition across the supply chain has resulted in very impressive results coming out of the Dunbia Integrated Beef Scheme with an average growth rate of 1.04kgs/head/day during a 12 week rearing period and an average slaughter age and carcase weights (steers and heifers) of 14.2 months and 292kgs respectively.

Add to this an ensuing reduction in antibiotic use and

health and subsequently production

the integrated scheme makes very interesting reading.

efficiency. Following the twelve week

Dr Ryan Law, Dunbia’s Agricultural Research Manager

rearing stage, the calves are moved to

who established the scheme, explains how these

finishing units where they are grown

results are being achieved: “The Dunbia Integrated

and finished either on a grazing plus system or a

Beef Scheme is a dedicated dairy origin supply

high forage indoor system. Whichever system the

chain, at the heart of which are strict nutrition and

finisher is set-up for, they must remain focussed on,

health protocols which we have developed to achieve

and committed to our health and nutrition protocols

higher welfare units and a more efficient rearing and

to maintain the growth rates and health status of the

finishing process. Our nutritional protocols are very

cattle. By doing so they should achieve an average

specific and start from when the calf arrives on farm.”

kill out of 292kg at 14.2 months of age.”

The programme itself is focussed on calf health and rumen development and incorporates a 3-stage

With a particular focus on immune competence, the

process. Stage 1, day 1-14 on farm, is focussed on

protocols used within the Dunbia Integrated Beef

delivering a highly digestible feed (Quickstart) that

Scheme have led to low rates of antibiotic usage

ensures the calf gets through the early stressors

on rearing farms, with some batches going through

Beef, it certainly offers an alternative to the more

associated with moving and settling into a new

antibiotic free.

traditional methods. “Dunbia’s Integrated Beef Scheme is proving to be very successful for both our

environment, Stage 2, day 15-70 on farm, is focussed on getting the rumen functioning properly (Papinbeef)

“Through our nutrition protocols and focus on health,

dairy suppliers, rearers and finishers. Plus it offers a

and Stage 3, day 71+, is focussed on maintaining a

we have reduced the need for antibiotics substantially

relatively cost effective entry into farming for young

healthy rumen (Econbeef).

with some of our farmers now reporting antibiotic

farmers. We have recently launched an Integrated

free rearing, which is almost unheard of within the

Beef with Wales YFC aimed at giving young farmers

industry,” continues Dr Law.

alternative enterprises on their farms. While it is

“This high quality, strategically targeted, feed

early days with this scheme, the protocols are proven

programme is crucial to enhancing calf health,” adds Dr Law. “We have trialled numerous feeds but found

So is integrated beef the way forward?

so we will look forward to some excellent performance

this combination the most effective in maintaining

For Helen Morgan, Dunbia’s Agriculture Manager for

data over the course of the next year.”

CASE STUDY Martin Edwards has been in the Dunbia Integrated Beef Scheme since January 2016 running a 250 calf enterprise. He takes in 125 calves every eight weeks while at the same time releasing 125 to finishers. Calves are weaned on farm by 4 weeks and are put on the three stage feeding programme of Quickstart from days 1 to 14, Papinbeef from days 15 – 70 and Econbeef from days 71 – 84. During this 84 day period, Martin is achieving daily average growth rates of 1.13kg/ head. In the last 500 calves reared, Martin used minimal antibiotics and achieved a mortality rate of 0.4% having lost just 2 calves out of this group.

If anyone is interested in the Dunbia Integrated Beef Schemes they should contact Helen Morgan hmorgan@dunbia.com 07812 665050

12

FEATURE

CHAROLAIS

KING OF THE TERMINAL SIRES The suckler system at Wester Rarichie featuring Stabilisers and Charolais was recently highlighted when hosting a workshop entitled ‘Profitable Breeding for the Future’ by SRUC. The event was held at Wester Rarichie, Fearn, Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands where Stewart Whiteford of JM Whiteford & Co played host to over 80 interested farmers.

Mr Whiteford admitted that getting cows to be

given to just six cows. Heifers are calved at two years and £1,000 over the last two years. Mr Whiteford

profitable without BPS is hard work but he is heading

of age. Cows are kept for 10 calvings with their first,

states that the high health status of the herd

in the right direction. The key to this he says is herd

second and last to the Stabiliser and Angus bulls to

underpins its performance. He puts his money where

health, genetics and quality of feed. His simplified

produce replacements which are now hefted to the

his mouth is, giving his weaned calves a pre-sale

system uses three breeds, Stabilisers and Aberdeen

farm. After their second calving, they run with the

treatment of respiratory vaccines and wormers, plus

Angus, criss-crossed to produce replacement cows

Charolais for 12 weeks, being fed 1kg cobs/head/

an information package of sire, EBVs and feeding

and the Charolais as terminal sire.

day over the bulling period from August until early

regimes. Mr Whiteford works closely with his local

October, followed by draff fed on the field for the

vet on the herd health plan and says that the money

following six weeks.

he spends on vaccines is worth it. Stock is weighed,

With the aim of making the herd more easily managed, more cost-efficient and to utilise land that

primarily for the purpose of ensuring correct dosage

was not suitable for cropping, Mr Whiteford decided

These cows in the herd, which have run with

of vaccines. “My eye and the health programme is my

to ‘downsize’ from predominantly Belgian Blue cows

Charolais bulls, are out wintered on a hard standing

guide to performance.”

10 years ago and move to Stabilisers, which he

area with a building for shelter, having come off

considers to be the ideal suckler cow. “The Stabiliser

grass in November according to weather conditions.

In 2015, 44 Charolais x bullocks averaged £1,148.75

has proven dam lines, are not too heavy weight and

They are fed on ad lib silage and have access to

(276p/kg), 38 Charolais x heifers averaged £959.86

you can get bigger calves out of these smaller cows.”

straw from the bedding in the shed. The first and

(254p/kg), 21 Aberdeen Angus x bullocks averaged

he says. “The cows are very consistent and produce

second calvers and the oldest cows are housed

£1,045.71 (254p/kg) and 14 Stabiliser x bullocks

calves that are like peas in a pod, up to pens of 14.”

throughout the winter period. The herd aims for

averaged £1,045.71 (250p/kg). Prices were down

a moderate size cow (under 700kg) and rearing

20p/kg across the board in 2016 but with a tighter

For his terminal sire, Mr Whiteford has been using

percentage in 2015 was 95% which was helped by

calving and better performance, weights were up an

Charolais for nearly 40 years which, in his words, is

several sets of twins.

average of 20kg per head, a 5% increase. Most of the

‘the king of terminal sires’. He was firstly attracted

calves are repeat purchases, with the majority of them

by their fantastic length and has been buying his

From a health point of view, Mr Whiteford prefers

finding homes in Aberdeenshire. “I don’t push the

Charolais bulls from the same breeder since the early

that stock is outdoor on grass wherever possible,

calves so it gives the finisher plenty of scope to finish

1980’s, looking for bulls which are easily fleshed.

rather than housed which also adds to the simplicity

them as they wish, fast or slow, feed intensively or

He has bought privately for quite a number of years

interwoven in his system. “It’s a very simple system

graze them. The frame is there for them to work on.”

now, preferring to see them naturally grown and

to run, taking one person 50 minutes to feed the

‘field ready’, not over pampered. Bulls are the only

cattle, dropping one round bale to every 20 cows.”

“You can see why the Charolais x heifer is becoming

animals brought into the herd which are accredited

In September, calves are introduced to a creep

even more popular, with the ability to finish it at

for BVD.

ration of dark grains, barley and a mineral/vitamin

400kg yet a good finisher will still be able to meet the

supplement. They are weaned in March and sold

weight targets with Charolais x bullocks.”

The herd of 190 cows calve in the summer starting

through the live ring at Dingwall at 12 months of

on June 1st and in this last calving, assistance was

age, with 120 steers and heifers averaging 420kg

STEWART WHITEFORD WITH HIS CATTLE AT WESTER

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

13

ANIMAL HEALTH

CHRONIC LIVER FLUKE

REDUCING PASTURE CONTAMINATION While most farmers associate liver fluke with autumn and winter, and with acutely sick animals, it is important that we do not forget about fluke this spring, nor miss a key window to reduce the significance of this costly parasite on our farms.

In the late spring and early summer all liver fluke

symptoms. This is vital in order to prevent the

massive benefits to flock/herd health and can help

infecting livestock are adults. Adult fluke live in the

pasture being seeded with fluke eggs, and to thus

prevent or reduce the incidence of sub-acute and

gall bladder and bile ducts of the liver, and cause

stop the mud snail from propagating and multiplying

acute fluke in the autumn and winter, as well as

chronic disease. They lay fluke eggs which pass out

the fluke problem.

chronic fluke the following spring.

may be sub-clinical which means that the animal

Appropriate Product Selection

This targeted approach will also help prevent

displays no symptoms. If symptoms of chronic fluke

Which product should be used to target chronic fluke

over-reliance on triclabendazole-based products in

are present they include;

in Spring? The correct product to use at this time of

the autumn. Triclabendazole -based products are

- Loss of condition,

the year is one which targets only adult fluke, as there

the only flukicides to cover all three stages of liver

- Emaciation,

should be no immature fluke infecting animals. It is

fluke including early immature and immature fluke

- Bottle jaw,

critical that only the adult fluke present are targeted

and therefore they are needed to treat and prevent

- Anaemia,

to reduce reliance on triclabendazole in the autumn

acute fluke disease caused by immature fluke in

- Increased susceptibility to other diseases.

and winter. The untargeted use of broad-spectrum

the autumn. Due to increased fluke levels they are

flukicides can contribute to the development of

being used more frequently and resistance to them

Chronic fluke can be diagnosed by detection of eggs

resistance, which is a critical issue for farming both

is building. Therefore targeting mature fluke in the

in the faeces, ELISA on the milk/blood to detect

in in the UK and further afield.

spring with an active ingredient which targets only

in the faeces. Worryingly chronic liver fluke disease

adult fluke has not just a positive effect on livestock

antibodies or faecal ELISA to detect fluke antigens.

Postmortem can also diagnose liver fluke and clinical

Targeting chronic fluke in spring will prevent the

performance over the summer but can also have

signs can be suggestive.

summer grazing pasture being seeded with fluke

positive benefits for preserving the efficacy of other

eggs. Along with other control options such as

classes of flukicides and for preventing losses in the

drainage or fencing off of all wet land this can have

autumn.

Sheep and cattle can carry fluke with no obvious symptoms of disease so it is important to determine if your livestock are infected with liver fluke at this time of year. This has to be kept in mind throughout Britain as changing weather patterns bring warmer, wetter weather right across the country, increasing the prevalence of fluke outside the ‘traditionally wet’

Flukicides Ovicidal?

Age of Fluke Killed

Triclabendazole

x

2 weeks + (cattle), 2 days + (sheep)

Clorsulon

x

Adult

Active Ingredient

areas of the north and west.

While it is obviously critical to rid stock of migrating fluke which are causing disease in the autumn and

Adult

Albendazole

Closantel

x

5 weeks +

Nitroxynil

x

8 weeks +

Oxyclozanide

x

Adult

winter, it is equally important to rid them of mature

Flukicides vary between brands so check the SPC data sheet for the product you intend to use or speak to your

egg-laying adult fluke which are not causing obvious

SQP/vet to ensure that the stage of fluke targeted and the withdrawal period are suitable for your system.

Use Medicines Responsibly. Noah.co.uk/responsible Date editorial prepared: Jan 2017. Endospec 10% and contains 100mg/ml albendazole, 1.08mg/ml selenium and 2.5mg/ml cobalt and is a POM-VPS medicine. Seek advice from your vet/SQP on appropriate product use

DO YOU HAVE ANY ANIMAL HEALTH OR PRODUCT UPDATES YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH? Please email your article to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

14 10

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

WINTER SPRING 2016 2017

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Further information - www.shearwell.co.uk For your chance to WIN A SHEARWELL DATA EID STICK READER simply email nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com with the email subject 'Competition Shearwell', your full name, NBA membership number, farm/enterprise name, address and telephone number. The two winners will be picked at random and will be notified by email and featured in our next issue. DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: WEDNESDAY 12th JULY 2017 - GOOD LUCK! COMPETITION OPEN TO NBA MEMBERS ONLY - NOT A MEMBER ALREADY? GO TO PAGE 48 AND JOIN TODAY!

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SPRING 2017

15

FOOD

DEERSBROOK FARM AN ESSEX FAMILY FARM

BY TOM KINROY DEPUTY EDITOR, NBA MAGAZINE

Anna Blumfield and husband Phil Blumfield, with their two children, were handed down the family farm in December 2012,

by Anna's parents Peter and Mary Hawes. Since taking on the farm they have introduced a single suckler herd of Sussex cattle.

Deersbrook Farm is a family farm producing fantastic

and allow them to naturally grow up to 29 months,

British beef. In it's third generation, with the fourth

in line with UK Government guidelines. In 2015 they

growing up fast. Farming is a tough way to earn a

celebrated being high commended in the Field to

living but is one which the Blumfield's love and are

Fork category in the Fine Food and Drink Awards.

dedicated to; producing the best naturally delicious meat with the highest welfare standards that benefits Since taking on the farm, Anna and Phil have the livestock, environment and the consumer.

introduced a single suckler herd of Sussex cattle.

Anna quoted, "We love the Sussex native breed as

Using traditional farming methods, cattle are turned

they thrive on pasture alone and have a lovely docile

out grazing on the meadows all year round. To

nature. As well as providing naturally flavoursome,

compliment this, hay, straw and silage are produced

tender meat for our customers". Since returning

by Deersbrook farm for winter feed and bedding.

to the family home, Anna has

Deesbrook keep their cattle to the highest welfare

started selling 100% pasture

standards and are farm assured by the Red Tractor,

fed beef from the farm gate, through farm shops and direct to

FACTFILE

restaurants. This also saw

LAND:

Pasture for Life Association.

them became Essex first 100% grass-fed cattle, certified by

41 hectares (100 acres) with grazing agreements across East Anglia

The home produced 100%

Join Deersbrook farm

STOCK:

certified grass feed beef is

in celebrating GBBW

350 continental suckler cattle, 55 pedigree

predominately from Deersbrook

on their meadows at

Sussex suckler cows

Native Sussex cattle. They are

the farm. Serving up

BREED:

reared on mature grassland to

the best of british

Sussex

provide a truly great tasting,

FINISHING:

nutritious beef. You'll find their

Continentals finished on cereals and soya at 23

beef to be a deep plumy red with

months. Sussex finished on 100% silage and hay

creamy coloured fat, showing that the cattle have

essential, please contact Anna on 01371 850671 or

at 26-29 months

lived on natural premium conditions. Deersbrook

by email deersbrookfarm@btinternet.com

MARKET:

allow the beef to dry age, maturing naturally on the

Continentals 400kg deadweight to supermarkets

bone for 28 days, to develop the flavour and texture

OPEN FARM SUNDAY: Come and discover

and Sussex at 350kg deadweight sold direct to

of the meat. Then their local traditional butcher

Deersbrook Farm on Sunday 11th June 2017 from

consumers.

prepares the vast range of cuts that they provide to

12am to 2.30pm. more information on the website

the public and restaurants.

www.deersbrookfarm.com

SUSSEX C AT T L E S O C I E T Y

beef from Deersbrook within a 3 course meal, paired with wine or beer. Booking is

GO SUSSEX FOR Profitability Economic Easy Management Quality Beef Production

16

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

FOOD

FOOD HEAVEN RUMP STEAK

BY LUKE FISHPOOL THE LEMONTREE, BISHOPS STORTFORD

Deersbrook farm rump steak with oyster mushrooms, baby vine tomatoes and peppercorn sauce. This recipe is one of Luke Fishpool of The Lemontree Bishops Stortford whom Deersbrook Farm supply with beef every week, delicious!

INGREDIENTS 4 Deersbrook farm rump steak 250g Oyster mushroom 250g Baby vine tomatoes 1 Tbsp Green peppercorns 100ml Brandy

PREPARATION 30 MIN COOKING TIME 15 MIN SERVES 4

200ml Double cream 100ml concentrated red wine sauce

METHOD

Tomato & mushroom garnish

Pre heat the grill. Snip the baby vine tomatoes into smaller bunches, season with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil and place on a baking tray.

Toss the oyster mushrooms with salt and pepper and olive oil, then place these next to the tomatoes. Place under the grill to cook.

Peppercorn sauce

Heat a sauce pan and add the green peppercorns and brandy. FlambĂŠ if your feeling brave or otherwise reduce the brandy until 1 tbsp remains.

Add the double cream and concentrated red wine sauce and simmer. Whisk and reduce until you've achieved a smooth sauce that coats the back of a spoon, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Cooking the steaks

Drizzle a little olive oil over the steaks. Heat a non stick frying pan until it starts to

smoke. Carefully place the steaks into the pan and leave them for 2 minutes

before turning. Allow the steaks to caramelise & drizzle a little more olive

oil over them if they are looking a little dry. Cook to your desired taste,

remove from the pan, season and rest for 5/10 minutes.

Presentation

Place the oyster mushrooms in the middle of the plate. Slice the rump

steaks and place on top of the mushrooms. Place the baby vine tomatoes

on top or tumbling off of the rump steaks. Sauce and serve with plenty

of chips and red wine!

HAVE A RECIPE OR FOOD STORY YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH? THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

17

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18

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

EVENT TIC ACCOMMODAKTETS AND DINNERION SEE INSIDE FRONT

COVER

EVENT PREVIEW NBA Beef Expo, the UK’s major annual event held on behalf of the British Beef Industry, will take place on Thursday 18th May 2017. The farm tours, always a key element of the event, will take place on Wednesday 17th May. Being Britain’s first major dedicated Beef Event post Brexit, there will of course be a focus on what this means for British Beef Farmers in terms of opportunities going forward.

This is the first time that the Midlands have hosted this event for many years. The 2017 NBA Beef Expo will celebrate the very best that the British Beef industry has to offer, showcasing tremendous stock farms on the farm tours, and covering in depth all aspects of the industry itself. The NBA Beef Expo is considered a highlight of the Beef industry calendar for both pedigree and commercial breed societies to promote the quality of their cattle and visitors can expect to see some of the finest examples of British breeding anywhere in the UK. Bringing together the very best in British commercial and pedigree cattle, equipment, ground-breaking developments, and show classes for everyone involved in the industry, NBA Beef Expo is a celebration and exploration of everything British Beef has to offer.

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FEATURE

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BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

SHOWCASING THE BEST OF BRITISH BEEF CATTLE

No fewer than 20 beef breed societies have reserved demonstration space to promote their breeds and it is anticipated that more than 200 cattle will be on display.

The NBA Beef Expo is considered a major showcase for pedigree and commercial breed societies which want to promote the quality of their cattle. Thanks to this, the NBA Beef Expo displays some of the finest examples of British breeding anywhere in the UK. Farmers, exhibitors, agricultural companies and interested members of the public also use the annual event to network, do business and share knowledge, as well as seeing the crème de la crème of British beef cattle.

“This must be the largest display of the different breeds of beef cattle ever seen in the Midlands and will give commercial beef producers a unique opportunity of assessing the merits of the different breeds,” said NBA Chief Executive, Chris Mallon.

All breeds of commercial significance in the UK will be represented and will have breed experts on hand to discuss the particular advantages of their breed for commercial beef production.

2017 Beef Expo will also see the return of the National Commercial Cattle Show which brings together the highest quality commercial British Beef cattle from the length and breadth of the UK, all looking to take home a share of the £5,000 prize pot. This cattle show really is a true celebration of the British Beef industry and highlights the quality of breeding here in

CONFIRMED BEEF BREEDS TO BE REPRESENTED AT BEEF EXPO 2017 WILL BE: Aberdeen Angus Beef Improvement Group Ltd Beef Shorthorn British Bazadaise British Blue British Charolais British Limousin British Piemontese British Simmental British White Cattle Galloway Gascon Hereford Lincoln Red Longhorn Midland Blonde Club Red Poll Red Ruby Devon South Devon Sussex

the UK.

SLEEP EASY WITH SALERS In today’s world we are all looking for livestock which is cost effective and low maintenance. This is true of most of the Salers breeders in the UK and the reason why they chose Salers.

SLEEP EASY K E E P S A L E R S F O R E A S Y C A LV I N G T H E U LT I M AT E S U C K L E R B R E E D

Salers (pronounced Sa’lairs) originate in the southern half of the Massif Central in the Auvergne region of France. It has a rough and variable climate, and though higher (2,000-6,000ft), is very similar to our Lake District and the Highlands of Scotland and Wales.

The Salers female displays excellent maternal qualities of fertility, milking ability, calving ease, hardiness and longevity. High percentage calf crops resulting from the inherent fertility of Salers are realised through early puberty, quick rebreeding and high conception rates, coupled with the breeds predictable calving ease and large pelvic structure. Further maternal advantage is realised through the Salers ability to wean a heavy calf and take care of herself. More kilograms at weaning result from the combination of good lactation and lean growth factors.

Suckler cow herd costs are minimised through the breeds foraging ability, winter hardiness and minimal feet, eye and udder problems, Salers are known for longevity and “wearability” no doubt due to many of the factors stated, stress free calving, good feet and legs etc. Bulls are known for their ability to cover large numbers of females. Both dam and sire influence the weight and shape of the calf at birth, calves are relatively light, long and rather flat in shape, a feature which makes the Salers bull very popular for crossing with commercial and dairy heifers. www.salers-cattle.co.uk

20

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

Smith Hill Farm Bower Slack Road Triangle Halifax HX6 3EZ

www.salers-cattle-society.co.uk

07903 626249 or 01422 820220 secretary@salers-cattle-society.co.uk

SPRING 2017

BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

See what the breed can do for you at Beef Expo 2017!

BRITISH WHITE - THE SUPER SUCKLER YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF Once found mostly on the parkland of country estates, the British White is a breed which is now adapting itself to the needs of commercial suckler beef producers looking for an easy-kept, high-output cow for use with a terminal sire.

Their mothering ability and feed efficiency have remained unchanged during the development of the modern breed and as a result, females are capable of producing heavy weaned calves at a lower cost to the farmer.

SUPER SUCKLERS

SPRING SALE Saturday 13th May 2017 Rugby Farmers Mart

Sale of pedigree British White cattle Ideal for use with a terminal sire 01400 230142 brtwhitecs@aol.com www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk

Beef finisher Paul Pennington from Bridgnorth in Shropshire has started utilising the breed’s efficiency for his own system: “We buy in, store and finish anything from dairy calves to cull cows to prime continental fat cattle, but to supply our local customers we needed something which had higher quality beef, and that was when we decided on British Whites. Throughout the process, we have come to realise that although, like many native breeds, the British White has all the traits for a niche market, they perform incredibly well on our commercial system. We try to out-winter most of the cattle and what is incredible to see is that in a bunch of stores, the commercials can either stand still in condition or go backwards, whereas the Whites actually gain weight - I’m really impressed with their ability to convert.”

The BWCS breed stand will be in attendance at Beef Expo 2017 and welcomes all beef producers to come along and see what the British White can do for you. www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk

BEEF EXPO 2 TO HOST TH0E17 SOUTH DE PERFORMAVNON CHAMPIONS CE HIPS

SOUTH DEVONS' PERFORMANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2017 This year will see the National Beef Association host the the South Devons' Performance Championships within the Beef Expo event. Cattle will be judged based on both performance figures and inspection with entries from herds that are Breedplan performance recorded. Performance figures for bulls are accumulated in the ‘Quality Beef Index’ which includes carcase EBVs; and for heifers, the ‘Suckler Replacement Index’ is used which is weighted towards maternal characteristics.

The South Devon breed originates from the South West and is the largest native beef breed. Originally dual purpose, until the 1960s where it evolved into purely a beef breed to compete with continentals. South Devons are renowned for their docility, maternal characteristics, milk yield, grazing conversion along with the meat quality and marbling characteristics of native cattle.

Speaking about the event, Caroline Poultney the Breed Secretary of the South Devon Herd Book Society said “We feel that performance figures play a key role in the future of cattle breeding. As a society, we actively encourage herds to record performance to improve their herd selection process and improve sale prospects.

The Performance Championships aim to celebrate those herds who are reaping the benefits of performance recording and showcase their quality cattle”. “NBA Beef Expo is an ideal venue as it is the only beef focused technical show in the country, with a specific target audience – commercial beef farmers who are keen to use every tool in the box to improve their own herd’s performance and profitability.

We are also pleased to be sponsoring the farm tours including R G Elliott & Sons fantastic herd of South Devon cattle at their best, utilising grassland and forage to produce quality suckler herd replacement and stores.” www.sdhbs.org.uk THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

PERFORMANCE, DOCILITY, MILK, AND BEEF QUALITY

QUIETLY GOING PLACES!

The 8th NATIONAL SHOW of South Devons will be hosted by The Royal Cornwall Show, Wadebridge, Cornwall, 8th-10th June 2017

THE SDHBS IS DELIGHTED TO BE HOLDING ITS ANNUAL TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS WITHIN THE NBA BEEF EXPO AT STONELEIGH ON THURSDAY 18TH MAY 2017

SOUTH DEVON HERD BOOK SOCIETY, WESTPOINT, CLYST ST MARY, EXETER, DEVON, EX5 1DJ telephone: 01392 447494 email: info@sdhbs.org.uk

WWW.SDHBS.ORG.UK SPRING 2017

21

BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

FARM TOURS AT BEEF EXPO 2017

TICKE AVAILAB FROM T WEBSIT

A diverse selection of beef farms all championing efficiencies in their relative sectors and showcasing the very best of British beef production.

The NBA are delighted to be visiting a fantastic variety of farm enterprises at this year’s Beef Expo farm tours held on the 17th May. Three exceptional farms have been selected, each championing efficiency in their relative sectors and showcasing some of the best of British beef production. The farm tours will commence at 09.00 from NAEC at Stoneleigh visiting the three farms throughout the day, returning to the NAEC for 17.00. The farm tour will also give visitors the chance to sample some of the Elliot’s delicious native beef with a hot beef lunch, prepared in their family butchery and served up on farm to visitors.

Commenting on the farm tours, Chris Mallon, Chief Executive of the NBA stated “It is fantastic to be able to take beef farmers to visit such a diverse range of farms, giving a snapshot of the variety within our industry. We hope the tours act as a knowledge sharing exercise, allowing farmers to view new ideas in practise, some of which they can take home and apply within their own businesses. We would like to extend our thanks to the farm tour hosts for their kind hospitality in allowing the NBA to access their operations.”

Upper Heyford Farm, Tom and Roger Elliott

FACTFILE ONE

Technical performance: • 97% of calves born over 12-week calving period.

FARM: Tom and Roger Elliott R G Elliott and Son

• 96% of calves reared per 100 cows.

farm, deli and butchers shop

• Steers weaning at 375kg at 7-8months.

LAND: 1,350 acres of parkland and pasture

• Heifers reach 400kg at 15 months for bulling to calve at 2 years.

(1,300 rented, 50 owned)

• Profitable with no subsidies on the 1,300 acres of rented land.

STOCK: 300 suckler cattle, 700 pedigree and commercial sheep BREED: Beef Shorthorn, South Devon and Saler cross cattle. Saler, Angus and Shorthorn bulls.

SYSTEM: Spring calving herd, producing replacement heifers and cows with calves at foot sold at farm gate as well as stores and finished animals to feed into the premium Morrison’s Shorthorn scheme. The business also runs a two successful butcher’s shops, one of which has now diversified into a deli.

ROGER AND TO M ELLIOTT CREDIT: LIZ SN AITH

Keys to success:

• Excellent grass management and control on feed costs restricting cattle feed to hay, straw and mineral licks thought the winter and utilising grass along with high quality calf nut to creep feed steer calves.

• Investment in quality genetics, importing Australian and American genetics and selection of bulls within the top 10% bulls for milk, ease of calving and 200 day weights.

• High health status with all pedigree cattle accredited in the CheCS Health Scheme and annual BVD checks run on young stock.

• A strong background in butchery, and meat quality which has led to the creation of a flexible, market focused business, producing a quality product for a high-end market.

We firmly believe in native breeds. From our experience in butchery we believe too much emphasis has been put on conformation of cattle rather than eating quality. We aim to produce a premium quality product which gives our customers a great experience when they buy and eat our beef.

Upper Coton Farm, Mike, Jane and Charlie Wills

FACTFILE TWO

Technical performance:

Keys to success:

• Bulls steers and heifers achieving average

• Selection of young high conforma

FARM: Mike, Jane and Charlie Wills Upper Coton Farm, Northampton

growth rates of 1.6kg, 1.3kg and 1.15kg

12 months of age.

LAND: 700 acres of arable land

DLWG respectively, finishing at ages of 15, 17

• The family’s attention to detail is

STOCK: 1300 stores finished per annum

and 16 months.

price is calculated considering cu

BREED: High conformation (U-/U+ grade) majority Limousin cattle

• Cattle are sold at 3/4L reaching weights

• Utilisation of live markets for sou

SYSTEM: An approved finishing unit (AFU) holding 620-800 cattle at any one time.

520-580kg for heifers, 620-680kg for steers

of individual exceptional animals

The AFU finishes approx. 25 cattle a week, sold live through the Selby auction mart.

and 650-700kg for bulls.

• Use of home grown wheat, barley

Stores are sourced from livestock markets across Wales, Cumbria and Shropshire.

• Mortality <1% for the unit.

rations on farm at a minimum cos

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

Tickets are now available, priced at £30 per person to include all transport. A combined ticket for the Farm Tours and 2017 NBA Beef Expo for NBA members is £35, and for non NBA members is £40. Bookings can be made online, under the visitor section, or by contacting the NBA Head Office on 01434 601005.

BERRYFIELDS FAR

M

Berryfields Farm, John Bell

FACTFILE THREE

Technical performance: • Calves enter the unit at 16 weeks (120-140kg) and leave the unit at 49-51 weeks (600kg) achieving DLWGs of 1.39kg per day.

• Average FCRs of cattle finished on Berrystock feeding system are 6.48.

FARM: John Bell,

• Berrystock Feeds produce 45,000-48,000 tonnes a year of high quality.

Berrystock Feeds

UFAS accredited feed, 50% of which is used for Johns own cattle enterprises.

and Berryfields Farm,

Keys to success:

Daventry LAND: 980 acres of Arable land

• Adoption of a fully integrated supply chain from calf sourcing to the end

STOCK: 2,200 finished

processor, helping to achieve consistency and customer satisfaction.

steers per annum

• Continual development of feed rations through on-farm feeding trials

BREED: Black and white

which monitor feed efficiency and the results of which are used to

cattle supplied through

constantly improve the rations.

Meadow Quality

• Utilisation of a barley/wheat bank system using homegrown grain from

SYSTEM: An approved

Berryfields Farm and grain from other local farms helping to ensure supply

finishing unit (AFU).

and reduce risk.

Dairy bred calves are

• Incorporation of AGRI KING enzymes in rations to help further enhance

supplied on contract

digestibility and nutrient metabolism.

through Meadow

Meadow Quality will be presenting on the tour day alongside John Bell to

Quality. Calves are

explain the benefits of an integrated supply chain for all parties involved,

reared using specifically

and to highlight how this system is suited to new entrants wishing to become

formulated Berrystock

involved within the beef sector.

Feeds to finish the animals at of 600 620kg LW to supply into the Co-op and Lidl through Dunbia. The system relies on quality calves and efficient feeds to maximise FCR and profits.

Conformation in young cattle is key. If a calf that is less than 12 months old has achieved a weight of 400kg this indicates has it has a good Food Conversion Ratio (FCR) and is likely to do well on the unit. We favour live markets as it allows for the selection of individual exceptional animals, instead of batches of cattle that vary in quality. We calculate the efficiency and profit for each individual animal and repeatedly buy from farms whose stock perform well.

Farmers are always wary of cooperation, yet through working together in schemes such as this we are giving more power to the producer. This system champions consistency; buying uniform calves, feeding high quality accredited feed and producing uniform carcases with high meat quality, which is required to ensure consumer satisfaction.

UPPER COTTON

ation (U-/U+) animals ideally, those that have achieved 400kg at less than second to none, in advance of purchasing animals an estimated buying

urrent feed costs, beef price, calf weight, age and conformation.

urcing and selling of cattle. This sourcing technique allows for the selection

s that will do well on the unit.

y and maize, by-products and minerals to blend quality grower and finisher

FARM

JOIN THE

TODAY AS A MNBA EM FOR ONLY £75BER (STUDENTS £4 SEE PAGE 48 F 0) MORE DETAILSOR

st per kilo DLWG.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

23

BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

ETS BLE THE TE

BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

THE RENOWNED

NBA CATTLE SHOW

SHOW CATTLE CLASSES: CLASS 1. Sponsor: NSF Agriculture Heifer by a Registered Native Sire CLASS 2. Sponsor: Mole Valley Farmers Steer by a Registered Native Sire CLASS 3. Sponsor: SAI Global Steer by any other Registered Continental Sire CLASS 4. Sponsor: Kinroy Design

All entries for the National Commercial Cattle Show (NCCS) are now in, and arrived thick and fast. There are a total of 11 cattle classes in the competition, with four championships and a supreme championship, and include classes for Native, Continental, British Blue and Limousin-sired steers and heifers. Also part of the schedule are baby steer and heifer classes, as well as the ever popular Young Handlers class.

NBA Beef Expo brings together the highest quality commercial British Beef cattle from the length and breadth of the UK, all looking to take home a share of the £5000 prize pot in the National Commercial Cattle Show 2017.

The winner of each class will be awarded £100, with section champions also receiving £100, and reserve £50. The Supreme Champion will walk away with a prize of £500, and reserve £250, whilst the Baby Beef Champion will receive £200 and reserve, £100. All Championship prizes are generously sponsored by Crystalyx.

Judging at the show are two highly successful beef industry stalwarts who are renowned for their pedigree and commercial cattle. Colin Phillips from Herefordshire will judge the Native and Continental classes together with the Supreme championships, whilst the Baby Beef classes, Baby Championship and Young Handlers will be judged

by Mark Hallam from Derbyshire. Chris Mallon commented, “We are extremely proud of our British beef breeding in the UK, and the National Commercial Cattle Show is one of the highlights giving all visitors the opportunity to see some of the very best cattle in the industry.”

Steer by a Registered British Blue Sire CLASS 5. Sponsor: Showtime Supplies Steer by a Registered Limousin Sire CLASS 6. Sponsor: Hexham & Northern Marts Baby Steer (12 months & under) up to and including 425kgs by a Registered Sire CLASS 7. Sponsor: Utilitywise

CLASS 8. Sponsor: Woodhead Bros / Morrisons Heifer by any other Registered Continental Sire CLASS 9. Sponsor: J G Animal Health

CLASS 10. Sponsor: Limousin Cattle Society Heifer by a Registered Limousin sire CLASS 11. Sponsor: Askham Bryan College Young Handler, 14 years to 21 years

National Commercial Cattle Show Entries Guide available on the day

FARMERS WEEKLY AWARDS: BEEF FARMER OF THE YEAR 2017 Enter or nominate NOW for the Farmers Weekly Awards - awards.fwi.co.uk Are you a successful beef farmer with a vision for the future? If so then join the growing band of Farmers Weekly Award winners championing the British farming industry. The winner of this category will be producing high quality cattle to

Closing Date for Entries 30 April 2017. Awards Night 5 October 2017

24

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

Heifer by a Registered British Blue sire

CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSOR

meet the ever-increasing consumer and environmental demands.

Baby Heifer (12 months & under) up to and including 425 kgs by a Registered Sire

BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

FUTURE BEEF FARMER CHALLENGE AT BEEF EXPO

Forward thinking beef farmers are invited to take part as individuals or teams at the industry showcase event for our third year running. The NBA will be hosting the ever so popular competition, Future Beef Farmer in conjunction with AHBD. The competition is aimed at getting the younger

genetics and health, visiting trade stands of industry membership is £75).

generation more involved with important aspects of

experts to demonstrate their skills in each sector.

beef production, with questionnaires surrounding

Amy Fawcett, Knowledge Transfer Officer Beef

genetics, selection, health and nutrition. This year’s

NBA Director Chris Mallon said: “There really is

and Lamb , AHDB commented, “AHDB are very

hosts and sponsors for the relevant sections of the

no competition like the Future Beef Challenge

pleased to be running the competition again at this

competition are Farmskills and XLVets (health),

anywhere else in the UK and we’re delighted to

years' NBA Beef Expo, like the NBA we put a large

Berrystock Feeds (Nutrition) and AHDB Beef & Lamb host this competition at Beef Expo 2017. This

focus in supporting the next generation of beef

(genetics and selection). This year’s prizes included

competition is designed to challenge both, and

farmers coming through into the industry. We feel

1 years free membership for the NBA, FarmSkills

we are delighted that it is to become such an

the competition is a great way of showcasing the

training vouchers, Great Yorkshire show tickets and

integral part of our annual NBA Beef Expo.”

talent of our young farmers as well as acting as a

AHDB Beef & Lamb and FarmSkills goody bags.

knowledge sharing exercise. With some great prizes The competition comes as part of the National

on offer I would encourage all 16-36 year olds to

The winning team will be awarded the NBA’s Duke

Beef Association’s recent campaign to embrace

sign up and get involved.”

of Northumberland Trophy while the winner of

a new generation of beef farmers and the launch

the open class will receive the NBA Frank Momber

of their young member’s discount allowing those

To sign up to the competition please visit the

Memorial Trophy. Competitors will be judged on

with an interest in the beef industry aged 16-

website to download the booking form or register

carcass selection and their knowledge of nutrition,

25 to become a member for just £40 (standard

on the day on the AHDB Stand.

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SPRING 2017

25

BEEF EXPO 2017 PREVIEW

SPECIALIST SEMINARS Beef Expo 2017 seminars provide NBA with a huge opportunity to further raise its profile and positioning by helping visitors to improve their enterprise’s profitability and sustainability by careful selection of topics. They offer advice, information and thought provoking ideas, the majority

TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM THE WEBSITE

of which can be taken home and implemented the following day. And they’re all free of charge. Time table may be subject to change.

9.30am ORGANICS Four short talks highlighting the benefits of adopting an organic system on farm. The session will be chaired by Peter Jones of the Organic Livestock Marketing Co-operative and will conclude with a Q&A session.

- Liz Bowles, Head of Farming, The Soil Association Topic: The Benefits of Beef Production on Organic Arable Farms - Matt Johnson, Organic Beef & Sheep Farmer and Butcher Topic: Producing Organic Beef and Running a Butchers Shop - Tim Leigh, OLMC Finished Stock Marketing Manager Topic: Marketing Cattle to Maximise Returns - Wayne Copp, Organic Producer Topic: Farming North Devon Cattle 11.00am HEALTH Three topical health seminars, highlighting key health issues within the industry; BVD, Cryptosporidium and Chronic Liver Fluke, and the latest research available to help overcome such issues on a herd basis and as an industry.

- TBC, Boehringer Ingelheim Topic: Why tag dead calves? Insights from the National BVD Survey 2017 - Dr Frank Katzer, Senior Scientist at Moredun Foundation Topic: Cryptosporidium in Cattle - Merial Vets, speaking on Liver Fluke 12.30pm FINISHER FORUM An exciting forum encompassing all aspects of finisher production from policy to production efficiencies.

- Dr.Jamie-Leigh Douglas, Technical Support manager, AB Vista Nutrition Topic: Improving efficiencies to Champion Profitability - Bill Harper, Trustee Director of the NBA Topic: Policy changes for Finisher Units - Processor TBC, speaking on future beef supply 14.00pm BREEDING SEMINAR A forward thinking seminar looking into the future of cattle breeding.

- TBC Mark Smith, Genus Beef Genetics - Alison Glasgow, Limousin Cattle Society Topic: Limousin Breeding Improvement Adding Value for Commercial Producers 15.15pm INTERGRATED BEEF SUPPLY Three industry leading speakers presenting the benefits of an integrated beef system followed by a Q&A session.

- Matt Nightingale, CEO of Meadow Quality - John Bell, CEO of Berryfields Farm and Berrystock Feeds - Dr Amiee Hafla, Beef Nutritionist, AGRI-KING Ltd.

acidbuf

BEEF INDUSTRY DINNER The NBA Beef Expo - Beef Industry Dinner will be held on the evening of the 17th May in the Warwick Hall at Stoneleigh Park. This is a sit-down three course dinner with the best of British beef. A perfect opportunity to network with people in the beef sector.

Tickets are priced at £40 and can be booked on the website www.beefexpo.co.uk DINNER SPONSOR

Beefing up profits for farmers

Driving Efficiency, Delivering Profitability

£38 mor e £20 bigg er

Smaller feed bill

acidbuf

A healthier rumen environment

£18 smal

acidbuf beef uk ad 01 170x265w.indd 1

26

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

cheque

ler feed bill £38 mor e pro per anim fit al

Higher revenue

Improves feed efficiency

By stabilising pH levels over 8 hours, Acid Buf helps to create an optimal rumen environment for microbes to function productively.

The result of an enhanced rumen environment is greater feed

acidbuf www.acidbuf.com

profit

To increase farm profitability

efficiency. By increasing production by 5.4% from the same feed, Acid Buf can reduce the cost of production and increase farm earnings.

acidbuf

Please contact AB Vista for any enquiries.

AB Vista (Ireland) Ltd, Unit 4, 211 Castle Road, Randalstown, Co. Antrim BT41 2EB T +44 (0)2894 473478 | E info@abvista.com | W abvista.com

25/11/2016 10:55

SPRING 2017

SPONSORED FEATURE

MEADOW QUALITY AND

BERRYFIELDS FARM Once you sit down with John Bell his highly infectious enthusiasm for the British Beef Industry is immediately apparent.

John’s dedication to producing beef that has known provenance and is farmed through a systematic, consistent and repeatable approach is what he believes will keep consumers coming back to eat high quality, succulent British Beef on a regular basis.

John has created his own totally integrated

loin and into the top with a good even 3/4L finish.

even certain dairy sires that produce calves that

beef system that takes a reared calf through to

John mixes all the feed himself again using one

outperform their contemporaries, all part of the

processing stage. The production “blueprint” that

standardised feed ration formulated by his own

plan to add as much precision to the farming

he replicates in large volumes all starts with a

nutritionist, that is fed to all animals on the unit.

system that John has built up to date.

reared black & white calf from the dairy industry

John also has a selective few local satellite farms

that Meadow Quality select on his behalf. This

that grow and finish cattle for him. They use the

provides even batches of Holstein Friesian calves

same tried and trusted formula which allows John

that are reared to pre-agreed age, weight and

to extend the number of cattle that he is then

health specifications.

able to market on a weekly basis. Cattle are also weighed and monitored regularly to ensure that

To ensure the repeatability element of the supply

they are growing at a rate in line with expectations

chain, calves come through one of four specialist

of 1.4-1.5kg daily live weight gain through their

Meadow Quality calf rearing units. These units

10-11 months at Berryfields.

are contracted to produce even batches of up to 60 calves at a time that reach c130 kg live-weight

Cattle are marketed in batches of 40 per week

when they move on to John’s near 1,000 acre

and by aiming for a 600kg live-weight finish,

Berryfields Farm unit in Daventry. The calves that

the average carcass weights the cattle

John then receives have been reared under one

regularly achieve are in excess of

health plan, overseen by one vet, and all reared

310kg with all animals being within a

using the same protocols for each calf. This creates

30kg spread from lightest to heaviest,

a near uniform group of stock for his team to work

to reach the same 3/4L finish. This

with. The next element of the chain is to grow

produces beef which is the same

these batches of calves through to finish. The

throughout in colour, texture, flavour,

target finish is 600kg live-weight at approximately

tenderness with the same very even

15 months of age. 10 to 11 months of this is spent

cover of fat, which suits the requirements

at John’s Berryfields farm.

of the processor and retailer markets.

By then analysing the end results in

John finishes around 2,000 cattle per year on this

the system, John and Meadow Quality

system. The aim is to grow framey animals with

can look to make informed decisions

optimal fleshing on the shoulders, through the

about certain dairy unit suppliers and

Supporting British Beef Meadow Quality Calves    

Weekly Calf Collections in both Shropshire & Wiltshire Twice monthly restricted collections BVD testing prior to movement on request Professional rearers providing a strong weaned animal to order

01789 734 100

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Meadow Quality Cattle

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Large choice of processors to maximise returns On farm advice from a local member of the field team Store cattle bought and sold to our nationwide customer base Guaranteed payments

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SPRING 2017

27

FINISHING PERFORMANCE According to a recent University of Milan beef finishing trial, replacing sodium bicarbonate with a slow release rumen conditioner can produce a significant 7% increase in growth rate plus a 5% improvement in feed efficiency. The change also reduced the incidence of bloat, lameness and aggressive behaviour.

The trial was carried out over 130 days using

intensively finished cattle, such as bloat, lameness

126 Charolais bulls, growing from around 530 kg

and aggressive behaviour.”

further improvement in profitability.”

According to Dr McIlmoyle, the gains in performance

LW to finishing at 750 kg LW. Cattle were housed in pens of seven, and fed an ad lib mixed ration

When completed, the trial showed that although

come from a more efficient rumen fermentation,

based on maize silage and brewers’ grains for the

average feed intake across the trial remained

the direct result of improved rumen pH when using

duration of the trial. “The only difference was that

the same for both groups, there was a significant

the slow release conditioner. Although sodium

the ration fed to half the pens also contained 80g/

increase in average daily gain from 1.57 kg/day to

bicarbonate has been used to control rumen acidity

head/day of a standard sodium bicarbonate rumen

1.65 kg/day for cattle receiving the slow release

for many years, it’s now known to achieve this by

buffer, whilst the others received 40g/head/day of

conditioner. As a result, feed conversion ratio

increasing rumen outflow rates, thereby reducing

the calcareous marine algae-based slow release

(FCR) – measured as the kg of feed required to

starch availability in the rumen and damaging feed

rumen conditioner Acid Buf,” explains Dr Derek

produce one kg of weight gain – improved from

efficiency. “Controlling rumen pH and preventing

McIlmolye, AB Vista’s Technical Director for GB and

7.36 down to 6.98 (see Table 1). No differences

acidosis is particularly important when feeding high

Ireland.

were recorded in carcass weight, confirmation, fat

starch – and high potential acid loading – finishing

score, or killing out percentage.

rations, and the gains in feed efficiency can be

Average feed intake for each pen measured daily, with all cattle weighed four times during the

Table 1 – Impact of slow release rumen conditioner on beef finishing (Source: AB Vista, 2016)

trial to determine growth rate. In addition, data

Sodium Bicarbonate

on carcass weight, confirmation, fat score and

Acid Buf

Difference +110g/day

killing out percentage was collected at slaughter.

“To evaluate health, the cattle were inspected

Liveweight gain (kg/day)

1.57

1.68

twice daily by the research unit veterinarian,” Dr

Dry matter intake (kg/day)

11.51

11.52

ns*

McIlmoyle continues. “Temperament was assessed

Feed conversion ratio

7.36

6.98

-0.38

Bloat incidence

1

0

-1

Cases of lameness

5

1

-4

Aggressive behaviours

7

2

-5

by monitoring behaviour both during handling operations and at four separate times during the trial, each of which involved two hours observing the cattle in their pens. “The aim was not only to assess any improvement in feed efficiency and growth, but also to evaluate the potential

“A 110 g/day increase in growth rate for no extra

substantial,” he adds. “Just as important are the

impact on the typical problems associated with

feed intake – and minimal additional cost for the

reductions in bloat and lameness, both of which

slow release conditioner – is a substantial 7%

reduce cattle performance and increase costs,

gain in performance,” Dr McIlmoyle states. “In a

whilst a lower incidence of aggressive behaviour

commercial situation, that would potentially allow

can help lift growth rates by cutting wasted energy

cattle to be finished up to 7-10 days earlier. “Not

and stress.”

only would this reduce feed consumption for the finishing period by maybe 5-8%, but it would also

Although temperament appeared similar for

allow more cattle to be finished each year for a

both groups of cattle during handling, observing behaviour in the pens and noting incidence of fighting and mounting did highlight a difference.

By day 120 of the trial, the 63 cattle receiving

For more information please email info@abvista.com or call +44 (0)2894 473478

www.abvista.com 28

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SPRING 2017

* Difference not statistically significant.

SPONSORED FEATURE

SLOW RELEASE CONDITIONER IMPROVES

SPONSORED FEATURE

DR DEREK MCILMOLYE, AB VISTA’S TECHNICAL DIRECTOR FOR GB AND IRELAND

the slow release conditioner were showing clear signs of a reduction in aggressive behaviour, with just two incidences of fighting or mounting during the two hour observation period, compared to seven in the cattle fed sodium bicarbonate. “This change in behaviour matches anecdotal evidence from use of Acid Buf on-farm,” Dr McIlmoyle explains. “It occurs because of the bio-available magnesium in the conditioner, which likely has an overall calming effect on the cattle.

“Taken together, these improvements can add up to a substantial lift in feed efficiency, margin per head and overall beef unit profitability. Given the current pressure on margins, it’s a potential increase in performance few can afford to ignore.”

CALLING ALL FINISHERS: 2ND – 4TH MAY AB VISTA ON-FARM MEETINGS MEETINGS START AT 6.30PM AND INCLUDE:

HOW TO IMPROVE FEED EFFICIENCY AND DAILY WEIGHT GAIN IN FINISHING BEEF NBA UPDATE ON CURRENT WORK INCLUDING THE LATEST BREXIT NEWS SITE WALK OF FINISHING UNIT/UNIVERSITY BEEF UNIT FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

TUESDAY 2ND MAY SAM CHESNEY, BEEF FARMER AND DARD FOCUS FARM, KIRCUBBIN, NORTHERN IRELAND

ON-FARM MEETING

ON-FARM MEETING

ON-FARM MEETING

WEDNESDAY 3RD MAY HARPER ADAMS FINISHING UNIT, KINDLY HOSTED BY SIMON MARSH THURSDAY 4TH MAY OSGOODBY GRANGE, SELBY, KINDLY HOSTED BY DOUG DEAR

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

29

ADVERTORIAL

TRACE ELEMENTS

AND FERTILITY

BY DR ELIZABETH BERRY BVSC, PHD, MRCVS ANIMAX COMPANY VETERINARY DIRECTOR

While genetics have an influence on fertility, so does nutrition. Good fertility, energy and protein cannot be ignored and have to be considered in spring block calving herds, if grass growth is limited. Fertility issues can be complex and multi-factorial. Another influence on fertility is the trace element status of the cow.

Trace elements are a fundamental component of multiple enzymes (compounds that control the speed of body reactions) and some hormones. They are essential for cell metabolism and many other body functions, including energy production, growth, reproduction and the nervous system.

The common trace elements that can be deficient

documented as a cause of reproductive problems,

in cattle are copper, cobalt, selenium and iodine.

along with other conditions. Copper in excess is toxic

• weather – heavy rain can result in soil ingestion

Less common are deficiencies in manganese, zinc

and the amount added to their diet is controlled to

or rapid grass growth and lower levels of some trace

and iron. All can be responsible to some extent for

prevent this, but a high-yielding dairy cow that is fed

elements

fertility issues. A deficiency in trace elements will

to yield, can consume more copper in her diet than

• season – spring grass can be high in sulphur

result in a variety of subtle symptoms that are often

is ideal. Copper supplementation should be made

• interactions with other trace elements

not noticed until the deficiency is rectified. Cobalt,

following discussion with your vet and using as safe a

copper, selenium, manganese, zinc and iron are all

method as possible.

This means there is no guarantee that trace element status will be the same throughout the farming year.

involved in essential enzyme reactions and these have an influence on fertility, through functions

Cobalt is involved in crucial enzymes for energy

The demands of the cow at crucial times such as

such as normal cell turnover and growth. Iodine is

production and the prevention of anaemia. Cows

calving, can also result in a greater requirement for

essential for the production of the thyroid hormone

are able to use cobalt in their diet, using rumen

certain trace elements. With a system relying on

which determines cell metabolism.

bacteria, to produce vitamin B12 which is then

grass and cows at pasture, providing good access to

absorbed into the blood and turned into cobalt

reliable sources of trace elements can be challenging.

Cows that are not cycling due to poor body

enzymes. There is evidence that in cobalt-deficient

Traditionally, trace elements can be added to mineral

condition, anaemia or uterine infections, all of

cows, conception rates are reduced. Cows treated

licks, water supplementation or in a total ration

which can arise due to trace element deficiencies,

with cobalt also showed stronger oestrous, while

formulation. Some minerals are unpalatable in water

will also display decreased sexual behaviour.

in rams there is evidence of an increase in sperm

and mineral licks can attract other wildlife and possible

Fertility includes:

count. The detrimental effects of iodine deficiency

disease risks. Ensuring each animal has the right

• Egg development

in domestic farm animals have been recognised for

amount of trace elements every day, and avoiding

• Development of embryo

many years. This is manifested as the syndrome

toxicity, always have to be concerns. Drenches do

• Correct uterine function

of hypothyroidism, which historically has been

provide this option, but have to be repeated frequently

• Improved immune system

attributed to a primary deficiency of iodine in the

as they usually do not last longer than a few weeks.

• Implantation of embryo

diet. However, it is only relatively recently that the

• Improved expression of oestrus

effect of goitrogens has been established and more

The original Teagasc work with Phil Rogers and Les

• Decreased early embryonic death

recently still, that interactions with other trace

Porter from Animax on a slow-release leaching bolus

elements have been shown.

demonstrated that trace elements, in this case iodine, could be given in this form. It demonstrated positive

The early work on copper was carried out in Australia and some of the early work on selenium in the USA.

Selenium, as well as copper, can also be toxic in

effects in all types of systems, from fattening and

The work of Dr Phil Rogers, Teagasc and Dr Les

excess and the initial work on this trace element

breeding beef animals to dairy herds. A long-lasting

Porter, Animax founder and vet, was ground-breaking

focused on this toxic aspect. However, selenium also

leaching bolus can give a consistent dose of the

in the area of iodine and supplementation of this

has a vital role in immune function and the discovery

essential trace elements to the individual animal. By

trace element. It is impossible to list in terms of

that glutathione peroxidase (an enzyme) prevents

contrast, minerals given in the form of licks or buckets

importance the trace elements, and often if one

tissue damage from free radicals, was a major

which are added to a ration, will contain lower levels

trace element is deficient there can be an imbalance

breakthrough. The role of selenium in areas such as

of selenium in particular. This is because some trace

of the others. This should always be considered,

uterine function and reducing retained cleansings

elements can be toxic and unless the intake can be

as supplementing one element may then highlight

highlights how important this trace element is in the

controlled, individual animals can eat too much. The

a deficiency in another. However, copper is often

area of fertility.

leaching technology in Animax boluses allows some of

the first trace element considered in fertility issues.

The availability of trace elements can be

the highest levels of the essential trace elements with

Copper deficiency arises either due to a primary

influenced by:

a consistent release over the five to six months life of

lack of copper in the diet or due to tie-up of copper

• soil type – sandy soil versus heavy clay soil

the bolus. In summary, it can be seen that nutrition

by antagonists, molybdenum, sulphur and iron, or

• forage type – brassicas and clover which tie up

and trace elements are vital for optimising fertility in

a combination of both. Copper deficiency is well

iodine

dairy cows.

30

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SPRING 2017

EDUCATIONAL THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

27

GUEST VET

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

LEANNE FORD

GUEST VET

GUEST VET

E

LEANNE FORDE PREVENTATIVE HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS IN BEEF CATTLE GOING OUT TO GRASS It is that time of year where grass growth is our focus. Farmers are itching to turn out their cattle and we are all in hope of dry weather and plenty of grass. Generally, when cattle are turned out we hope to see fewer problems. Most people are very aware of the challenge to livestock from gastrointestinal worms and liver fluke when at pasture. There is a lot of attention in the farm press given to anthelmintic and flukicide resistance and a more strategic approach to controlling these parasites. That said, there are still many other diseases we must consider. This article will touch on diseases which can be taken for granted but can have a huge impact on herd productivity if not managed.

Lungworm: When we think about worm control,

as needles or concurrent fluke. Once an animal is

within the udder, regular stripping out is required

we often rely on pour-ons and drenches to control

infected treatment is likely to be of no value and

as part of the treatment in order to drain the pus

worm burdens. However, when it comes to

the animal will die. Cases of disease can be seen as

along with a course of injectable antibiotics and

lungworm, anthelmintics are not necessarily the

one animal or an outbreak of several in the herd. It

anti inflammatories. With such a poor outcome for

best answer to preventing disease. In fact, the

is also worth noting that these diseases can affect

this disease the associated risk of flies needs to be

use of anthelmintics to treat lungworm infections

the strongest animals. The vaccines are relatively

controlled.

in cattle has caused fatal clinical disease in adult

cheap and effective if administered correctly. If just

cattle. Thankfully, there is a more sustainable

one animal is prevented from death, it will cover the

Flies: Summer mastitis has been highlighted

solution for preventing lung worm disease in

cost of the vaccine. The vaccine requires an initial

here and associated with flies, but we must also

cattle. The gold standard approach to lungworm

course of two injections followed by an annual

remember that flies and other insects are a risk

control in cattle is through vaccination. The vaccine

booster pre turn out.

factor for many other diseases. This year we have had confirmed cases of Schmallenberg virus

available is an oral vaccine given to calves from 8 weeks old. Two doses are given four weeks apart

Summer mastitis: Summer mastitis can affect dry,

affecting our cattle, another disease spread by

with the second dose given two weeks pre turn out.

or lactating heifers and cows, as well as bulls. It

midges. With warmer weather becoming apparent

The vaccine contains lungworm larvae that cannot

is referred to as ‘summer mastitis’ or ‘august bag’,

in the UK the fly season is getting longer every year.

cause disease but initiate an immune response to

as it tends to occur in the late summer period.

Flies can also come overseas and survive in our

lungworm. The immune response generated to lung

Transmission of infection is via flies, which are

increasingly milder climates. With the re-emergence

worm is strong and long lasting so boosters are not

present in greater numbers in the summer. A

of Schmallenberg, we must be mindful that we are

usually required.

mixture of bacteria’s are often cultured from

at risk of other fly borne diseases coming to the UK.

cases but all result in a very severe mastitis with Clostridial disease: Clostridial diseases such as

multiple abscesses within the affected quarter. The

Fly worry can also affect the productivity of cattle

‘blackleg’ are one of the most common causes

majority of cases will cause permanent damage

too so make sure your cattle are fly free this

of sudden death in cattle at grass. Very effective

to affected quarters, resulting in loss of function

summer. There are many products and potions on

vaccinations are available to protect against

and in bulls it can affect long term fertility due to

the market for controlling flies. Pour on products

clostridial diseases, however, these vaccines

elevation in temperature and the close proximity

can be very effective if used properly. Problems

are often overlooked. There are several types of

to the testicles. In the worst cases it can be fatal.

with fly control arise when the follow up treatments

clostridial disease and they are generally associated

Treating cases in a suckler herd is time consuming

are not administered so stick to the duration of

with changes in land, use of dirty equipment such

and sometimes dangerous. Due to the abcessation

effectiveness stated on the label.

SUMMARY Although discussing disease can sound rather negative, we should see the positive in that all the diseases discussed are preventable.

Although preventative treatment is perceived to have high labour and medicine costs, we must always look at the bigger picture and the added value.

The labour of an orphaned suckler calf out at grass is a lot higher than an afternoon of vaccinating. Equally, lungworm vaccinated calves can prevent an outbreak of clinical disease in much older cattle when a lot more investment has been put into them. There are many infectious diseases that have not been discussed in this article, but please do not forget to keep up to date with IBR, BVD and Leptospirosis vaccinations during the turn out period.

Speak to your vet to health plan for this year’s summer at grass.

Bishopton Veterinary Group.

Collection Points: East Cowton, Leyburn; Pateley Bridge; Easingwold, Ripon, York T: 01765 602396 E: farming@bishoptonvets.co.uk www.bishoptonvets.co.uk THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

33

ANIMAL HEALTH

REAPING THE BENEFITS OF BETTER GRASSLAND MANAGMENT

BY SARAH PICK SCIENTIFIC OFFICER. AHDB

An AHDB Beef & Lamb funded project is helping four English beef farmers boost their returns from grass.

The beef from grass project which commenced in October 2015 has linked four mentor grassland beef and dairy producers with four beef producers who wished to significantly improve their current performance from grass and the rewards of such a relationship are starting to come to fruition.

Working with the consultants Marc Jones (ADAS) and Charlie Morgan (Independent grassland

THE NETWORK OF BEEF FARMERS TAKING PART IN THE BEEF FROM GRASS PROJECT

specialist) alongside Simon Marsh and Kate

Name

Location System

Phillips from Harper Adams University, the beef

Graham Parks

Cheshire

Finishing 200 dairy bred beef cattle

from grass project is trying to demonstrate how

Andrew Crow

Shropshire

180 Stabiliser suckler cows, plus finishers

improved grassland management can boost profit

Matt Pilkington

Warwickshire

Grass-based dairy system

and animal performance.

Tim Phipps

Northamptonshire

136 Stabiliser suckler cows, plus finishers

Catherine Pickford

Somerset

Grass-based dairy system

The project has three specific targets for each

Matthew House

Somerset

122 Angus cross suckler cows, calves sold as stores

improver farm which affect profitability by cutting

Stephen Thorne

Devon

90 Angus cross suckler cows, calves sold as stores

the costs of production and by increasing output.

plus 150 dairy bred beef cattle

These are:

Rob Priest

60 Stabiliser suckler cows, plus finishers

Devon

1. A decrease in the number of days cattle are housed.

Grassland utilisation

2. An increase in stocking rates across the

There is huge potential to improve grassland utilisation in the UK. Utilisation is often below 50%

platform.

in a set stocked system but can be as high as 80% with good grazing management. Generally with

3. An increase in growth rate from grazing and

a strategy that gives grass a rest, so that stock are moved to another field, the yield will go up by

silage/forage.

around 20%.

A GUIDE TO EXPECTED UTILISATION ACCORDING TO DIFFERENT SITUATIONS

Importance of grass Grass rarely earns the respect it deserves as a

Strategy

Useable yield

Percentage

potentially high quality, ruminant feed. It is the

(t DM/ha)

increase

cheapest feed on farm at 6p/kg dry matter (DM)

Set stocking

6.0

50

4.3

compared to concentrates at 23p/kg DM and

Continuous (variable) 8.5

60

therefore when well managed it has the potential

Rotational 10.2 65

6.6 56%

to reduce input costs significantly.

Paddock 10.2 80

8.2 92%

Annual yield

Utilisation (%)

5.1

20%

APPROXIMATE COST OF DIFFERENT FEED TYPES

As part of the beef from grass project, the improver farms have been encouraged to implement rotational grazing.

Feed stuff

of the practice soon become evident. Teagasc, the Irish agricultural research body, found that for every hour spent

Cost (p/kg DM)

Concentrates 23

Even though this requires an initial investment in infrastructure, including fencing and water troughs, the benefits on grassland management, be it moving fences or troughs or measuring grass is worth â&#x201A;Ź100 (ÂŁ85).

Silage 12 Grass 6

Matt House, one of the beef from grass improver farms successfully increased grassland utilisation by 30% through

Forage crops

rotational grazing. This was achieved by splitting up the grass fields into smaller 2 hectare paddocks using electric

5-6

fencing. The 69 Aberdeen Angus cross cows and heir calves were moved every 3 days throughout the grazing The recent AHDB Stocktake (2016) report indicated

season. The calves were sold at 9 months of age at an average weight of 321kg/head which meant Matt managed to

that the top third of SDA suckler producers fed

produce 656kgs of beef per hectare solely from forage.

fewer concentrates with higher reliance on forage, resulting in lower costs per cow than the bottom

Grass growth

third. This trend is also replicated in beef store

The key to rotational grazing is to understand grass growth and availability. To do this, the improver farms take

systems where the top third of producers grazed for

weekly grass growth measurements using either a plate meter or compressed sward stick. This data is then

14 more weeks and carried more stock per hectare

imported onto a computer programme called AgriNet. This helps plan animal movements between the paddocks

than the average producers in the group. These

ensuring that livestock needs are matched with grass availability. For example, once a cow calves, AgriNet

small differences in forage utilisation can often

automatically increases the feed allocation for that cow from 10kg DM to 16kg DM which changes the time spent in

determine if a business makes a profit or loss.

each paddock for the whole herd.

34

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

ANIMAL HEALTH COWS AND CALVES ROTATIONAL GRAZING, MATT HOUSE

YOUNGSTOCK OUTWINTERING ON RAPE AND STUBBLE TURNIPS, ANDREW CROW

COWS OUTWINTERING ON STUBBLE TURNIPS, MATT HOUSE

CURRENT GRASS WEDGE PRODUCED BY AGRINET, MATT HOUSE

The optimum daily grass growth is reached when the total growth is between 2,000 – 2,500kg DM/ha which equates to a height of around 8-12cm. Beyond this, the dying grass leaves deprive the new leaves of sunlight, leading to more leaf death and a decline in overall production. Grazing at the ideal point and resting swards when total grass falls below 1,250-1,500kg DM/ha (3-4cm) can improve grass utilisation, sustain sward quality and optimise performance.

Reseeding Reseeding can be one of the most cost-effective on farm investments. Teagasc estimates that pastures with a low proportion of perennial ryegrass are costing

to reduce variable and fixed costs. For every extra

farmers up to €300/ha (£261) per year due to a loss

day a suckler cow or growing animal is out at grass

of grass DM production and reduced nitrogen (N) use

a saving of 60-90 pence per day will be made per

Matt House now implements a 100% out wintering

efficiency during the growing season. If your grass

animal. In a 100 cow suckler herd this equates to

policy, which has helped him reduce his cost of

sward consists of less than 50% improved species,

a saving of £2,520 per month. The current grazing

production. The 122 suckler cows and heifers, which

it is worth considering reseeding. In a perennial

period in the UK is 140 days, meaning that the

were due to calve in March, were outwintered on

ryegrass sward, clover has been shown to increase

average cow spends 60% of her lifetime indoors.

stubble turnips supplemented with round bales of

animal DM intake at grazing which can lead to higher

fields away from the water courses.

straw and hay arranged in situ. They were recently

liveweight gain. Additionally, clover has the ability to

Andrew Crow has successfully outwintered 111 320kg

fix atmospheric N, make it available for grass growth

steers and heifers on 10 ha of rape and stubble

and supply between 50 and 150 kg N/ha per year to

turnips this winter. The cattle were supplemented

Summary

the sward. It is recommended that the grass sward

with three bales of grass silage a day and averaged

The beef from grass project has highlighted the huge

consists of 20-30% clover to ensure the benefits of

0.8kg/day throughout the winter. The 120 spring

potential in managing grassland more effectively.

better performance are seen but levels aren’t too high

suckler cows and 53 autumn calving cows and calves

There is no doubt that optimising production from

so that bloat becomes a risk. As part of the beef from

have also been outwintered on deferred grazing.

grazed grass requires focus and commitment but the

grass project, Matt House reseeded some of his poorer

weighed and averaged body condition score 2.5-3.

returns, both in production and profit, will more than

paddocks with a long term dual purpose mixture

Deferred grazing is where stock is removed from a

containing white clover. This resulted in an increase

field so a supply of grass is built up, which can then

in grass growth from 9.8tDM/ha in the old grass ley to

be fed later in the year by strip or block grazing to

Each of the improver farmers will be hosting an open

12-13tDM/ha in the new grass leys.

ensure good utilisation. A back fence is used to keep

day in September 2017 where you can learn about the

the stock off the previously grazed areas to allow

performance of the cattle this summer.

When you have made the decision to reseed, it is

justify the effort.

recovery.

To receive more regular updates on the projects

important to choose species which are listed in the England and Wales Recommended Grass and Cover

This system avoids the cost of having to make that

progression read the Grazing Club newsletter

Lists. These lists are drawn up after rigorous and

area of grass into silage or hay and the associated

available on the AHDB Beef & Lamb website or

independent testing for attributes such as yield, feed

cost of feeding it. It is best suited to free draining

alternatively follow #grazingclub.

quality, disease, persistence and seasonal growth patterns. With reseeding costing £180/acre (£450/ha), it makes little sense to save £5 or £10 by buying an inferior mix full of unlisted varieties. Buy the best and reap the rewards of higher yields, increased quality

CASTLE SCULPTURES

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and improved persistency.

Outwintering As part of the beef from grass project, the improver farms have been encouraged to outwinter their cattle

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

01524 791488

info@castlesculptures.co.uk

www.castlesculptures.co.uk

SPRING 2017

35

FEATURE

BARRIERS FACING NEW ENTRANTS

BY OLIVIA MIDGLEY

Enthusiastic young people will be key to driving the food and farming industry forward as it faces the challenges of feeding a growing population and a new policy framework post-Brexit. But a new report has shone a light on the barriers facing new entrants. NBA reports.

Barriers facing young farmers and new entrants trying

generating £11,900 in additional income per farm.

to get a foothold on the industry ladder are nothing

With increased market volatility and uncertainty post

new. A lack of access to land and finance, coupled with

Brexit, the report called for a more joined-up, cross

relatively few opportunities for older farmers to exit

Government, farming sector and finance framework

the industry and make way for new talent are issues

to ensure this economic potential does not remain

which have plagued the sector for decades. But with

untapped.

the average age of the British farmer reaching 59, one of the UK's banking giants has called for immediate

Ian Burrow, head of agriculture at NatWest, said:

action to address the gloomy trend. A new report

“Millennial farmers are a high tech, high skilled, highly

commissioned by NatWest and supported by the

motivated group who hold a realistic picture of farming

National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs has laid

in their heads and want a career on the land. “They are

bare the 'serious and unnecessary challenges' faced by

however, seriously constrained in a number of ways.

the country's new starters and set out a plan of action

With Brexit further heightening these challenges and

for the future.

increasing uncertainty, it is important we act now.

Unless additional investment is secured, it is unlikely

THE BREXIT EFFECT EVEN before the EU membership decision was taken, the UK agricultural sector was already facing a series of unprecedented challenges, the report said. It highlighted accelerated globalisation, increasing price volatility, changing consumer preferences and expectations, increasing separation between food producers and the ultimate consumer, plus challenges brought about by technological change and innovation.

But it also highlighted the opportunities on the horizon, with the UK having the potential to create its own policy framework for the development of agriculture and an enhanced ability to promote the ‘Britishness’ of food in domestic markets, the potential for new export opportunities and the potential for accelerated productivity growth via the introduction of new technologies. All opportunities which NatWest believes are ripe for young farmers’ pickings.

“One of the key opportunities available to UK agriculture is the latent – and as yet not fully exploited – entrepreneurial dynamic that exists amongst the UK’s younger farmers, and the highly skilled, enterprising and tech savvy new entrants to farming that are expected to join the industry over the next decade or so,” the report added.

Results from the survey of 500 young farmers

that the economic potential these young people hold

highlighted the falling number of new starters

will be unlocked. Banks, Government, families, and

entering the sector each year, with those who have

communities need to come together to ensure today’s

and have successfully diversified our business, but the

managed to get a foot on the ladder being ‘held back’

young farmers receive the support they deserve.” The

reality is that many farmers are really struggling so

from pursuing diversification projects and achieving

bank has also called on the Government to set up a

there aren’t enough examples of successful enterprises

growth. However, the research findings also showed

new Cabinet Committee which is supported by a Better

to inspire young farmers. I think that beyond solutions

these millennial farmers held a huge economic

Brexit Farming Strategy Taskforce. Sheffield beef and

to increase profitability and productivity, everyone

potential and were driving significant enterprise

dairy farmer Eddie Andrew agreed more cross-sector

from families to Government should place a little more

trends in the agricultural sector. According to the

collaboration was needed to enable new entrants to

confidence in young farmers to enable them to realise

harvesting the future for young farmers report, almost

carve out successful careers. “This report shines a

their potential.” An NFYFC spokesman added: “The

20,000 new diversification projects – from leisure

light on many of the challenges we’ve experienced

report acknowledges a ‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’

and tourism, renewables, glamping, to bee keeping

first-hand in our farming business, said Mr Andrew,

to re-set policy and support - collaboration and careful

and viticulture - could be delivered by young farmers,

we have had to forge new ways of working to survive

consideration are key for future success.”

The study revealed key challenges to entering and succeeding in the industry: ‘Dead man’s shoes’ syndrome - limited succession opportunities, often combined with the complexity of family dynamics and intergenerational issues, pose a significant challenge for young people seeking a career in farming. Inability to embrace new farming models - despite 20 per cent of young farmers surveyed stating that they are looking for new ways to access farming such as share farming, with ever larger farms across the UK, this is proving difficult. Access to funding and varying levels of business skills – highlighted as obstacles to investment and growth opportunities, with 36 per cent of survey respondents saying they did not have access to sufficient advice and resources to develop their businesses.

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36

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SPRING 2017

NEWS UPDATE

FARMER MEETINGS

OFF TO A FLYING START

REPORT BY ROSIE MCGOWAN NBA DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

The NBA has had a fantastic start to the year with two very successful farmer meetings in the Midlands and the North East. Each meeting had an impressive turnout of over 40. Our guest speaker, Steven Sandison a Nuffield scholar and suckler producer, gave a fascinating presentation on his work investigating the profitability of suckler herds across the UK, Europe and Canada, a topic well received by all.

On the back of this success, we are excited to be

Our latest campaign to engage with the next

running eight meetings this spring across the UK from generation of beef farmers has set off to a great start

This year’s Beef Expo will for the first time also have a Members Area. Positioned looking out over the main

the first week in May. These include BVD workshops

with talks at Universities as well as the recruitment

show ring, the Members Area will have prime viewing

for suckler producers and AB Vista nutrition talks

of our first group of 16-25 year old ‘student’

of all the show action as well as tea, coffee and cakes

on finisher farms. Guest speakers will include, past

memberships. This focus will be continued at the

served throughout the day as a token of appreciation

Farmers Weekly Beef Farmer of the Year winners

Beef Expo 2017, with the return of the Future Beef

for our members support throughout the year.

speaking on their experiences and enterprises, and

Farmer competition which we will again be holding

several experts from the industry including beef

in partnership with AHDB. A fantastic competition

For more information on Farmer Meetings please

nutritionists and veterinary practitioners. We look

inviting young farmers to showcase their knowledge

email rosie@nationalbeefassociation.com or visit

forward to seeing many of you there.

across all aspects of beef production.

the NBA website.

BEEF STUDENT OF THE YEAR INAUGURAL BEEF SHORTHORN SOCIETY AWARD GOES TO QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY’S AND CAFRE’S ORLA KELLY

Orla Kelly, a second year student studying BSc (Hons) Agricultural Technology, at Queen’s University Belfast and CAFRE is the winner of the inaugural Beef Student of the Year award presented by the Beef Shorthorn Society. She received the £2,000 award, whilst the university she represented was presented with £1,000 towards a beef educational project.

The three finalists selected from 16 entrants were

strategy helped to inspire my presentation. We’ve

approach to

Chris Freeman, studying MSc Ruminant Nutrition, at

agreed to reduce costs by making more from grazed

building a

Harper Adams University; Elizabeth Johnson, studying

grass and respond to the marketplace by swapping

sustainable red

BSc Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Food

a mix of continental cross cows for native breeds

meat sector

and Rural Development at Newcastle University and

which are gaining a premium in the finished market.”

requiring greater communication of knowledge and

Katie Landers, studying BSc Agriculture, at SRUC

Stuart Ashworth commented: “It was refreshing

ideas through the wider supply chain and from that

Edinburgh. Students studying agriculture were invited to see the passion each finalist had to share their

Beef Student of the Year, Orla Kelly with left, Beef Shorthorn Socie ty’s Geoff Riby and QMS’s Stuart As hworth

the selection of breeding stock and farm management

by the Beef Shorthorn Society to compile an essay

vision of a sustainable beef sector and challenge

practices that would deliver a profitable suckler

discussing the future of suckler beef production.

the industry going forward to – find and share best

herd.” Geoff Riby said: “The Beef Shorthorn Society is

Those producing the four top essays were invited

practice, present itself to the consumer and drive

pleased to make this new award – the first of its kind,

to make a presentation which demonstrated an

technical efficiency to deliver both economic and

which has identified some of the most motivated and

understanding of the industry, the challenges it faces

environmental benefits at farm and sector level. “In

forward thinking students within the beef sector. We are

post Brexit, and how farmers will need to respond.

making the difficult decision of awarding the prize

confident that the honours will contribute towards them

The judging panel featured QMS head of economics

to Orla, we recognized her slightly more holistic

achieving a successful career within the industry.”

services’ Stuart Ashworth and the Beef Shorthorn Society Director, Geoff Riby. “I’m thrilled to win this first time award,” said Orla who hails from a suckler beef and sheep farm in Downpatrick, County Down.

“The process has helped me to grow in confidence, to share my ideas built on the knowledge I’ve gained both working on the family farm virtually all my life and at university and use that to progress my career, potentially as a consultant or working in the supply chain and new product development. “My family’s decision to change its suckler finishing enterprise THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

Silos Conveyors Feeders

Over 100 models of silo to suit every application T: 01995 606 451 collinson.co.uk

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37

ADVERTORIAL

WOODHEAD BROS

MORRISONS CALF TO BEEF PROGRAMME

The Morrisons calf to beef programme is a partnership with Buitelaar International to deliver an end to end beef supply chain through our Woodhead Bros abattoirs. Dairy farmers from across the country deliver their continental dairy bred calves to one of six Buitelaar collection centres on a weekly basis. Calves are kept on one of the dedicated calf rearing units until they reach a minimum weight of 120kg.

They are then vaccinated and sold to Morrison’s beef finishers at a fixed price with prepayment available where required.

Derek Lewis is one of our calf to beef finishers and

calf to beef programme, and finished in around

condition, with the help of Woodheads buyer Jim

farms around 500 acres at Sallins Farm, Picklescott,

15 to 16 months, having come onto the farm at

Holden, who oversees many of the farms finishing

close to the Welsh border. The farm ranges from

4-5 months old. On entry, calves are left to settle

calves on this programme.

1,100 to 1,500ft above sea level and is split almost

for a few days, before being vaccinated for IBR,

50:50 arable to grassland.

and immunised with Bravoxin 10, as well as being

The programme works well for Derek as finding

wormed. All calves are turned out to graze, before

quality stores was proving difficult and he’s

The farm is family run, with Derek’s wife working

moving on to silage, bread and minerals in the AFU.

impressed with the consistency, conformation

the office and his four children all helping on the

Cattle are finished on a mix of barley, biscuit meal,

and health status of the calves being supplied. His

farm. Derek bought the farm 12 years ago, and was

molasses, minerals and silage.

cattle on the programme average R4L at 318kg ccw, making the majority eligible for a premium on the

new into farming, with a previous career in house building. Previously a dairy farm, it has now tripled

Derek selects finished cattle on weight and

Woodheads standard grid.

in size, and can house up to 800 head of cattle on the AFU, with about 400 grazing weanlings.

Continental calves are purchased on the Morrisons

If you would like to become part of our supply chain finishing dairy bred continental calves, please contact: Jim Holden: 07831 555 076

George Clapham: 07970 372 944

Last year, 97% of all carcasses processed through the scheme were in spec, and Morrisons continues to work with each of our suppliers to improve their operations

38

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

FEATURE

THE CHANGING FACE OF THE

STORE CATTLE MARKET CHRIS DODDS

We talk to the Livestock Auctioneers Association (LAA) about the changing face of the store cattle market in the UK and how livestock markets have adapted to then needs of modern agriculture.

The LAA is celebrating the bicentenary of the first

APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) to develop

dictates the

registered livestock auction mart this year, so it’s

and implement the secure platform required for

number of beef

a good time to reflect on the changes within the

Orange Markets to operate and this has been a great

stores. The

industry and consider the future. There’s no doubt

success.

higher the milk

farming has changed significantly, and British beef

price, the more

farmers have adapted to new markets, new farming

“Another example is our involvement with AHDB in

likely dairy farmers are

methods and new marketing options. However,

developing the industry initiative, LIDEH (Livestock

to use sexed semen or dairy semen and this lowers

the livestock auction market is still at the heart of

Industry Data Exchange Hub). The importance of

the numbers of beef animals coming through the

the industry and plays a vital role in the process of

transferring data, especially animal health, has

market, having a huge knock on effect in later

selling beef cattle.

never been so relevant, and having an effective

months. This fluctuates and we plan accordingly for

process throughout the supply chain to upload and

these variations.

“Beef farmers work closely with the livestock

download such information should only increase

auction markets around the UK and have extremely

efficiencies. Key information on an animal’s health

“We also have to be aware of changing consumers

good working relationships with their specialist

and disease status could be shared at every level,

– the tide is turning and people now want to know

auctioneers,” explains Chris Dodds, Executive

throughout the supply chain. Being able to display

where their food is from and how it is produced,

Secretary, Livestock Auctioneers Association.

data such as BVD status, at the time of sale, is an

we have to make sure we are keeping up with these

“Despite the many changes in the industry, marts

area we will continue to encourage and develop and

changes and adapt. We are part of this process and

continue to be the most economical and efficient

I believe that when a system is up and running that

communication is vital to our customers to ensure

way to buy and sell, and I think this is particularly

it will offer great benefits to our industry.”

we all produce what the consumer wants. “You see this in the changing breeds going through the ring.

true for store cattle. Marts have had to adapt to new handling systems, ID processes and technology, it’s

Trevor Rowland, from Frome Livestock Auctioneers

Although we still have continental x cattle and some

a reflection of the industry’s robustness that they

in Frome, Somerset adds, “Over the years we have

Herefords, the prominent breed is Angus. We see

continue to succeed and thrive. “As an industry we

seen significant changes in the store cattle sector.

less Charolais (particularly from the dairy sector); a

have evolved together. I believe the store market is

Many smaller livestock markets have closed,

breed that was popular a few years ago and I believe

much more tuned into consumer demands than at

and the existing ones have had to work hard to

is a great store animal. The Angus demand has been

any other time. We are a market led industry, and

attract buyers and sellers; through providing

led by various retailers who pay a premium for the

now we are producing what is demanded from the

better modern facilities, ensuring all legislative

breed, and can be (providing all specifications are

end consumer. Farm systems reflect this and can be

regulations are enforced and continuing to build

met) up to 70p/kg higher than the other breeds.

seen in the feeding systems, the breeding decisions

strong relationships and provide a high standard

and the overall health and welfare of the animals.

of service.

“The progression within the store sector has been

“Currently we sell on average 800 store cattle

for trading these animals. For buyers you have

incredibly interesting, and there have been regional

every week, compared to around 400 a week a

a guaranteed selection of animals and the

variations on how marts have evolved and the

decade ago. In fact, the last 2 years have been

convenience of all in one location. For the sellers,

types of sales that are offered. The industry has

record breaking numbers for our market, in terms

especially if you have the good quality animals, you

seen many challenges, such as foot and mouth

of store cattle. One major contributing factor to our

have competition from buyers, are guaranteed your

and TB, but the marts have adapted to ensure the

increasing numbers is the development of Orange

money and it’s time and cost effective. Also, there is

industry has a marketplace for trading. “As an

Market TB Sales, an issue that massively affects our

a lot of loyalty to auctioneers who have supported

organisation, it continues to be vital that we are

region. Obviously, these can only be sold to AFU’s,

the farming industry for so long, lasting friendships

proactive in ensuring the marts can trade despite

LFU’s (Approved/Licensed Finishing Units), or

are made in the market place, a valued element of

the challenges our industry faces. TB is a classic

directly to those buying for an abattoir, but demand

any market day and one I believe will continue.

example. We have been instrumental in ensuring

continues to be strong and has been an important

that marketing systems are in place to allow TB

service for supply and demand of stores for our

affected herds to continue to sell their stock in an

large client base. “The other aspect that strongly

open and competitive forum, where a fair price

influences our store sales is the dairy sector. This

can be achieved, Orange Markets have facilitated

is a very big dairy area, and milk prices affects

that. We held long discussions with DEFRA and the

breeding decisions on the dairy herd, which in turn

“I am very positive about the future of store cattle auctions. The markets offer many advantages

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

The Livestock Auctioneers Assocation

Contact your local Livestock Market at

www.laa.co.uk SPRING 2017

39

Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER

©Stephen Garnett (background image) ©Rob Fraser (polaroid image)

30

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

criteria was that they had to be able to out winter. We felt this gave us three options, Highland, Galloway or Belted Galloway. We wanted something that was naturally polled, so that discounted the Highland and then we just felt the Belties had a bit of character and, ultimately, were nice to look at so we went with them! We've since realised that having a belt has practical advantages as the Belties are easier to see and count on a hillside and their ability to turn low quality forage into high quality meat is second to none.

Your an approved supplier for the pasture for life scheme. Why do you choose to raise your Belties on pasture alone? From the very start we managed the Belties with no concentrate usage as we felt that controlling costs was paramount in a successful beef enterprise. The cattle were grazed extensively and it became apparent that if they were allowed to exhibit their natural behaviour they could, live, breed and produce without the need for concentrate usage. It wasn't until 2012 that we stumbled across the PFLA on Twitter and realised that we fit completely with their philosophy. We joined as members and have subsequently become approved suppliers.

What’s the best part of your job? And do you have a favourite memory from work? This answer is different to what it would have been five years ago but nowadays heading out on to the tops on a Spring or Autumn day

Q&A

Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER

Why Belted Galloway? Part of the criteria of the LCP was that we had to choose a native breed but our own

WITH A BEEF FARMER...

NEIL HESELTINE

to check cattle who are coexisting alongside an increasing amount of plant, bird and wildlife in a habitat that

NORTH YORKSHIRE

the cows have helped to create is always a pleasure.

Neil was born and brought up in Malham

Since you started farming what has changed the most? Following on from the last question, I think my

at Hill Top Farm where his father and his

mindset has changed the most. Going through college and working on farms in the 80's and 90's was all about

parents had moved to in 1950. Neil studied

increasing production, quite often at the expense of the environment, but it has become apparent to me in

at Seale Hayne along with working on a

more recent years that maximising production isn't the key driver to profitability and that natural processes are

varying array of farms and selling animal

more important than I thought.

feed before returning home to farm full

What has been your best investment on the farm? The cattle themselves have not only been a good

time in 2002, mainly as a result of Foot

investment from a financial perspective but they have taught us so much in terms of what native breed animals

and Mouth. In 1987 the cattle shed was

are capable of given the right environment and the ability to express themselves, as a result we are now trying

converted into group accommodation,

to apply what we have learnt from the cattle to the sheep enterprise.

after which Neil was left with a flock of

What are the biggest challenges facing beef farmers? I feel it's critical for the industry and for the sake of the

400 Swaledale sheep. In 2003, as part

rural community as a whole to, at least, retain the number of beef farmers that we presently have. To achieve

of the Limestone Country Project (LCP),

this and to ensure that beef businesses are here for generations to come we have to be both environmentally

a conservation grazing scheme, Neil

and economically sustainable as without a combination of the two the industry has a finite lifespan.

reintroduced 19 Belted Galloway heifers

What do you think the Brexit vote means for British farming? It is becoming increasingly apparent that

and a bull which has risen to 120-130 cattle

Brexit will mean a reduction in support for British farming which, as the industry stands at present, will

on the farm at any one time.

undoubtedly see beef (and other) farmers go out of business unless they are willing to fundamentally alter their business model. In the short term this will be a hurtful and damaging process but ultimately this could

@hilltopfarmgirl

create more opportunities for young people and in the long term a more dynamic, healthier industry.

Where do see beef farming in the next 5 years? I'd really like to see the British beef industry back playing to its strengths, that of producing high quality, native breed beef from a grass based system. For me this would require an increase in the number of smaller, family, mixed farms which not only produce high quality produce with great provenance but make a greater contribution to the rural community as a whole. This would enable the British beef industry to position itself in the global marketplace as the 'Farm Shop' of the World, being synonymous with top quality in every respect, as opposed to trading in the commodity market where we continually struggle to compete on price.

What advice would you give to new entrant beef farmers? To be creative, be individual, and don't allow other people's expectations of you to be what defines your route.

Finally, what's your favourite beef dish? I really enjoy cuts such as brisket and shin (pasture fed of course!) slow cooked in ale and beef stock. They have loads of flavour and are an affordable, quality choice. Often overlooked for the prime cuts but simple, wholesome food.

BELTED GALLOWAY CATTLE SOCIETY www.beltedgalloways.co.uk

2017 SALES

CARLISLE – SATURDAY 20TH MAY 2017 CASTLE DOUGLAS – FRIDAY 27TH OCTOBER

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

01896 820148

info@beltedgalloways.co.uk Housebyres Farm Melrose Roxburghshire TD6 9BW

SPRING 2017

41

AT GRASS

BY DR MARY VICKERS SENIOR LIVESTOCK SCIENTIST - BEEF, AHDB BEEF & LAMB

Worms are present on all cattle farms and can cause significant losses in performance and even death if not controlled.

In the absence of grazing cattle, the majority of worm larvae that have overwintered on pasture will die by mid-July. In the meantime, cattle turned out in spring will have picked up infection and be shedding eggs causing a peak of contamination from mid-summer onwards.

SIGNS TO LOOK OUT FOR: Parasite

Signs of infection

Gutworm

Loss of appetite, scouring and poor body condition

Lungworm

Coughing, difficulty breathing, ill-thrift

Liver fluke

Loss of body condition, reduced growth rate and fertility, increased susceptibility to other diseases

As a consequence, the risk of parasite infection

hours before moving them to low risk pastures.

typically increases as the grazing season

This is thought to reduce the risk of spreading any

progresses. Generally, older cattle that have grazed

worms that are resistant to anthelmintics to the

The table below summarises some indicators

previously for at least two full (>4 months) grazing

new pasture where there would be low numbers

of parasite risk for beef cattle. Weather is also

seasons will have acquired immunity to gutworms

of non-resistant worms to compete with them.

important and will affect the speed of development

and lungworms, although immunity to lungworms

It is also possible to leave a few cattle in good

of infective larvae on pastures, with warm wet

is dependent on exposure and is of short duration.

body condition untreated when moving to low

conditions likely to favour their development and

risk pastures, again as a strategy to reduce the

increase the challenge.

development of resistance.

This does not mean that breeding cows and bulls do not suffer ill effects or even clinical disease from these parasites, but it does mean that the focus for parasite control should be on first and

ASSESSING RISK OF CATTLE INFECTION WITH PARASITES DURING THE GRAZING SEASON Risk factor

High

Medium

Low

second grazing season youngstock. It is also

FIELD FACTORS

important to realise that there is no effective

Age (grazing seasons (GS)) <1 year (first GS)

1-2 (second GS)

>2 years (adult)

immunity to liver fluke, and cattle of all ages can

Growth rate (<2 years old) <0.7 kg/day 2 months after turn out

0.7-0.8 kg/day

>0.8 kg/day

be infected and suffer losses.

Control of gutworms should include consideration

Faecal worm egg count of >200 epg first grazing season cattle 2 months after turn-out

50-200 epg

<50 epg

Field type

Silage/hay aftermath

Newly sown,

of grazing strategy, good nutrition and effective use of anthelmintics. Grazing management is a key part of parasite control

Permanent pasture

ungrazed leys Grazing history Grazed by cattle Grazed by cattle 1-2 years

< one year old within old within the last year

last year

Grazed by adult cows and other species within last year

Grazing pastures have different levels of parasite

Sward height

<4cm

4-8 cm

<8cm

risk depending on how they were managed

Last anthelmintic treatment

<8 weeks

4-8 weeks

<4 weeks

previously. Low risk pastures are those that are newly established or have been reseeded. Fields

Snail habitats

Widespread

Patchy

Fenced off/none

Liver fluke diagnosed

Previous year

>5 years previously

Never

Lungworm diagnosed

Previous year

>5 years

Never

Grazing management is critical to promoting fast growth rates post-turn out, but it can also play an important role in parasite control.

that have not been grazed by cattle from housing until the middle of the grazing season (June/July) will carry lower numbers of infective larvae. This is likely to include silage or hay aftermaths. Grazing with or after sheep can also reduce exposure

Spring-born suckler calves

nevertheless be inspected daily as lungworm can

to cattle parasites, although it is important to

In a typical spring-calving beef suckler herd,

sometimes affect suckler calves before weaning.

remember that sheep can be infected with fluke

while calves are suckling their dams, there is little

As the grazing season progresses and the suckled

and increase the risk of liver fluke in cattle.

need to treat calves for worms as their relatively

calves consume more grass and less milk, then

low herbage (and hence larval) intake and the

they may pick up more parasites and will need

It is advisable to treat cattle and hold them on the

protective effect of the cowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk mean that

treatment towards the end of the grazing season or

pasture with infective larvae for a period of 48

parasites have little impact. The cattle should

around weaning.

42

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

(Source: adapted from COWS and Animal Health Ireland)

ANIMAL HEALTH

PARASITE CONTROL

ANIMAL HEALTH For more information please see the COWS website www.cattleparasites.org.uk Forecasts of current parasite risk can be found First grazing season cattle

clinical sign of lungworm infection is widespread

Dairy-bred calves or autumn-born suckled calves

coughing within a herd. Control can be achieved

have a much higher risk of worm burdens than

with anthelmintic treatments or vaccination.

The BRP Cattle and Sheep Parasite Control

spring-born suckler calves in their first grazing

Routine vaccination should be considered

Product Guide provides a comprehensive

season. These young cattle will be exposed to

for calves born into herds with an identified

list of products for the control of internal

parasites for the first time with no immunity.

lungworm problem.

and external parasites in cattle and sheep:

at www.nadis.org.uk/parasite-forecast.aspx

http://beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/wp-content/

Ideally they should graze on low risk pastures.

The options for use of anthelmintics for these

Liver fluke control options

uploads/2017/01/BRP-cattle-and-sheep-

cattle is to either treat them for gut (and lung)

Neither cattle nor sheep develop immunity to

parasite-control-product-guide-180117.pdf

worms early in the season to limit pasture

liver fluke so it is import to control infection in

contamination or to ‘wait and see’ and treat when

all ages of stock. Control of liver fluke depends

treatment re-exposes them to the risk of infection.

signs of parasite infection emerges. If the latter

on the type of farm, the history of the herd and

Treatment at, or ideally after, housing is a good

approach is taken, it is important to monitor

should involve both the use of flukicides to

time to control liver fluke infection as reinfection

body condition, health and performance regularly

prevent disease and reduce contamination of

is avoided. Additional treatments during winter

using weigh scales or a weigh band and use other diagnostic tools such as egg counts to pick up on

pasture with eggs, plus grazing strategies to avoid may be required depending on the product heavily contaminated pasture, particularly at high used. Following turnout, cattle may benefit from

problems early.

risk times of year like Autumn. Infection pressure

treatment after 10 to 12 weeks to help reduce

depends on prevailing weather conditions and

contamination of pastures with fluke eggs.

Growth rates of first grazing season cattle six

varies year to year.

Dose accurately

to eight weeks after turnout is a good indicator of exposure to parasites, assuming the calves

Most flukicides do not kill all stages of liver fluke.

It is important that cattle receive the correct

have access to good quality grazing. Sampling

It is therefore important to choose an appropriate

dose of cattle wormer. Both under-dosing and

fresh dung and analysing it for faecal egg counts

product and to administer it at the correct dosage

over-dosing can have significant implications.

around this time can also provide an indication

at the most suitable time according to the life

Over-dosing is costly, and avoidable, under-

of pasture contamination. When the egg count

cycle of the parasite. Triclabendazole is the only

dosing can lead to poor efficacy and an increased

is greater than 200 eggs per gram, it is likely

product effective against very early immature

risk of resistance. To ensure an accurate dose of

that cattle are at risk of clinical disease and

fluke, i.e. two weeks and older, through to adults.

anthelmintic is given, weighing each animal is

production losses.

It is used extensively to control fluke in sheep

recommended. Judging cattle weight by eye can

and, as a result, triclabendazole resistance

be very inaccurate and can lead to the adverse

Second grazing season cattle

has been reported in some parts of the UK. It

effects of under or over-dosing cattle.

The susceptibility of young cattle to gutworms

is very important that care is taken to reduce

during their second grazing season depends to

selection pressure where possible by only using

Summary

some extent on the exposure they experienced

triclabendazole-containing products when no

The key to parasite control is to manage the

the previous year. Lack of exposure to worms,

resistance is present and when no other option is

parasite risk in a targeted manner. Working

for example in late-born calves or beef suckler

suitable.

alongside the herd’s vet and SQP (Animal Medicines Adviser) will enable farmers to tailor

calves, may result in lower levels of immunity at the start of the second grazing season and

Most flukicides have no persistent activity and

their on-farm control strategy according to the

anthelmintic treatment may be required.

allowing cattle onto fluke-infected pasture after

pasture risk, and specific farming system.

Adult cattle Generally adult suckler cows do not require treatment for gutworms as they generate sufficient immunity to combat infection.

Lungworm control options Symptoms of lungworm infection are most commonly seen in first-year grazing cattle in late

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summer and autumn, but can occur earlier in the year and in older animals. The most characteristic THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

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BEEF BREED DIRECTORY

BEEF BREED

DIRECTORY PERFORMANCE, DOCILITY, MILK, AND BEEF QUALITY

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secretary@longhorncattlesociety.com

CATTLE SOCIETY 133 Edgar Road Elgin Moray IV30 6UQ

01392 447494 info@sdhbs.org.uk Breed Secretary: Caroline Poultney

TICKING ALL THE BOXES:

t: 02476 696549 e: shorthorn@shorthorn.co.uk

WWW.SDHBS.ORG.UK

Breed Secretary: Debbie Dann 3 Eastgate, Stoneleigh Park Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LH

www.shorthorn.co.uk

CALVING EASE

CARCASE WEIGHTS

FERTILITY

DOCILITY

MILK = CALF GROWTH

Telephone +44 (0) 2476 696 513 information@britishsimmental.co.uk

www.longhorncattlesociety.com

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

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Lincoln Red Cattle Society Lincolnshire Showground Grange de Lings Lincoln Lincolnshire LN2 2NA

Tel: 01522 511395

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LUING CATTLE SOCIETY Mount Blair 10 Manor Gardens Blairgowrie Perthshire PH10 6JS

BREED SECRETARY UNA MACQUEEN

Tel: 01250 872897

secretary@luingcattlesociety.co.uk

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THE WELSH BLACK CATTLE SOCIETY 13 Bangor Street Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1AP S. Evelyn Jones Breed Secretary: Contact Telephone No: 01286 672391

THE BREED WHERE QUALITY COMES NATURALLY www.welshblackcattlesociety.com

Highland Cattle Society Patron: Her Majesty The Queen

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Secretary: Liz Coates Tel: 01869 349132

secretary@gloucestercattle.org.uk

www.gloucestercattle.org.uk

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CATTLE SOCIETY

CONCORDE HOUSE 24 WARWICK NEW ROAD LEAMINGTON SPA WARWICKSHIRE, CV32 5JG

02476 696500 info@limousin.co.uk

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Avenue M, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire. CV8 2RG Tel: 02476 697222 Email: charolais@charolais.co.uk Get connected www.charolais.co.uk

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The Hereford Cattle Society Hereford House, 3 Offa St Hereford, HR1 2LL

British White Cattle Society

Meadow View, Kelby, Grantham, Lincs NG32 3AJ 01400 230142 brtwhitecs@aol.com www.britishwhitecattle.co.uk

Follow UK Herefords

01432 272057 www.herefordcattle.org www.herefordbeef.org.uk

British Bazadaise Cattle Society

BRITISH WHITE SUPER SUCKLERS

tel: 01666 860470 email: enquiry@bazadaise.co.uk

Devon Cattle Breeders' Society Blacklake Farm East Hill Ottery St Mary Devon EX11 1QA

Pond Farm, Charlton Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9DU

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Station Road, Robertsbridge East Sussex TN32 5DG

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Holme House The Dale, Ainstable, Carlisle, Cumbria CA4 9RH

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45

REGIONAL ROUND-UPS

REGIONAL round-ups IMAGE CREDIT: LONGHORN CATTLE SOCIETY

SCOTLAND All roads will lead to the Scottish Borders on Thursday, June 8, where the Stewart family will be hosting Scotland’s Beef Event 2017 on their farm of Fans, Earlston, Berwickshire. The event is being organised by the Scottish Beef Association, with Clydesdale Bank as major sponsor, and will focus on the efficient production of beef on a mixed farm. The farm is run by Douglas Stewart and his wife, Kelda, and stocking comprises 400 Aberdeen-Angus cows which are put to the Aberdeen-Angus bull, with all progeny finished on the farm. The farm tour by tractor and trailer will be a “must” for most visitors attending the event and Mr Stewart will be making himself available at fixed times during the day to meet visitors and discuss his farming policy. Demand for trade stand space has been excellent and most beef breeds will be mounting live cattle exhibits. Scotland’s Rural Minister, Fergus Ewing, will be attending to perform the official opening ceremony. Practical demonstrations will include a new weigh crate which automatically weighs cattle every time they drink water to help farmers identify under-performing cattle and ensure finished cattle meet specification. Q-box analysis technology in abattoirs has demonstrated huge differences in the slaughter weight and age of finished cattle. The crate has been developed by Innovent Technology of Turriff and is now being produced commercially by Ritchie of Forfar. The technology is being refined by installing cameras in cattle pens to capture three-dimensional images of the cattle to show the composition of the carcase and predict likely conformation, fatness and yield. Other demonstrations will include grassland and silage, female fertility, reed beds, physical herd performance overview and trace element awareness.

The seminar is set to be a major attraction with a panel for four speakers with a wealth of experience behind them on the beef industry. The session will be chaired by local beef farmer and former NFU Scotland vice-president, Rob Livesey, and the speakers will be hill farmer, John Hamilton, of Aikengall, Dunbar, commercial Aberdeen-Angus breeder and Nuffield Scholar, Robert Fleming of Castle Sinissess, Glenluce, local farmer’s daughter and agricultural technologist (red meat) with Marks and Spencer, Anna PlayfairHannay, and Justin McCarthy, editor of the Irish

46 38

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

Farmers Journal, who has led the successful beef focus programme in Ireland which is now being introduced in Scotland by Aberdeen and Northern Marts. Other main sponsors include the Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society, Ancroft Tractors, Scotbeef, Harbro and Harrison and Hetherington. Admission to the event is £10 and under 16s free. Further information available from the event organiser, Natalie Cormack at Natalie.cormack@btconnect.com or 01890 781006.

SOUTH WEST The NBA in the South West has held a series of meetings around the region in the last two months explaining to farmers the progress of our Westcountry Beef PGI ( Product of Geographical Indication) project. We have helped the brand managers Meat South West promote the production of the product by, firstly, producing a DVD showing the provenance of Westcountry Beef PGI and its unique production system based on the long grass growing season in the South West and secondly by meeting with 250 beef farmers to encourage them to meet the criteria of more than 70% grass and forage fed steers and heifers, farmers meeting the spec self declare by ticking the PGI box on the abattoir's food chain information form. The processors told us at the meetings that they need more qualifying cattle to be able to take on more supply contracts with supermarkets and food service companies. While no premium is paid at the moment, it is interesting to see that the price differential between South West cattle and the North of England and Scotland is the lowest it has been for many years so we are benefitting in a wider sense. South West Beef Council members are also working hard on other fronts including ongoing TB work and preparations for our autumn event at Westpoint arena Exeter. Our animal health team are getting their teeth into the issue of Triclabendazole resistant fluke which we believe may be more prevalent than we thought, with more abattoir's now reporting on lungs and livers we are seeing more cattle that have been fluked showing live fluke presence, there are good tests available to find out if your fluke are resistant, speak to your vet for more details. We are pleased to welcome new members to our team and are pleased that Catherine Bloomfield has become one of our two Vice Chairs.

REGIONAL COUNCILS CONTACTS NORTHERN DAVID THOMLINSON - CHAIRMAN Carlisle CA1 2RS Tel: 07802 675799 Email: david@thomlinson.co.uk HELEN DOBSON - SECRETARY/TREASURER Hexham NE46 3SG Tel: 01434 601005 Email: helen@nationalbeefassociation.com MIDLANDS JOHN BELL - CHAIRMAN Northamptonshire NN11 5NP Tel: 07188 890320 Email: jjmeatgod@btconnect.com SOUTH WEST BILL HARPER - CHAIRMAN Devon EX22 6RZ Tel: 01409271376 Email: harpersholdings@btinternet.com VICKY SMITH - SECRETARY Exeter EX5 4LZ Tel: 07773 340008 Email: natbeefsw@gmail.com WALES CONTACT HEAD OFFICE Tel: 01434 601005 NORTHERN IRELAND JOHN SHERIDAN - CHAIRMAN County Fermanagh, BT92 1ED CHARLES CURRAN - SECRETARY Co Down BT34 4RH Tel: 07732 470762 Email: homesteadblondes@btinternet.com SCOTLAND NEIL MCCORKINDALE - CHAIRMAN Argyll PA34 4UU Tel: 01852 316282 Email: scammadale@hotmail.com DUNCAN TODD - SECRETARY Kilmarnock KA3 2TN Tel: 07734 812704 Email: duncan@agment.co.uk SPRING 2017

SCOTLAND'S BEEF EVENT

SCOTLAND'S BEEF EVENT 2017 The beef enterprise has turned full circle over the past 40 years on the farm of Fans, Earlston, in the Scottish Borders, which will this year host Scotland’s Beef Event 2017 on Thursday, June 8.

The original herd of pedigree Aberdeen-Angus, which

command a higher price per kilo?” It didn’t take

Scheme and BVD accredited. Annual blood testing

had established a strong reputation selling pedigree

long for the Stewart’s to become convinced that the

for Johne’s disease since 2006 and the ruthless

bulls at the St Boswells sales, was phased out in the

Aberdeen-Angus breed ticked all the boxes. “This

culling of cows showing positive, has reduced culling

1970s when the Stewart family moved into commercial

is one of the best decisions we have ever made,”

to negligible levels, with a clear test in 2015. Two

beef production based on bought-in dairy cross calves

says Douglas. “We now have a more consistent type

positives were recorded last year and one this year.

crossed with Charolais bulls. But health considerations

of cow as we have more control breeding our own

The herd has been closed since 1997 and only bulls are

in the wake of the BSE crisis in the 1990s prompted

replacements rather than being dependent on the by-

bought-in.

the family to return to Aberdeen-Angus with a view

product from a dairy herd. “The Angus cows are more

to breeding their own replacement females and today

easily handled because of their better temperament,

A high standard of hygiene is maintained with dry cows

the suckler herd has been expanded to 400 home-

they have a shorter gestation period and fewer calving

and newly calved cows kept clean through the use of

bred Aberdeen-Angus cows which are now virtually

difficulties, fertility has been greatly improved and we

ample amounts of straw in well-drained buildings.

pure-bred.

no longer run the risk of buying in disease.”

Cows are moved out of dry cow areas for calving and

The beef enterprise, with all calves finished for

Great emphasis is placed on feet, udders and

usually within 24 hours of calving. A calf creep is

beef, except heifers retained for breeding, is an

temperament in the selection of females for breeding.

introduced in late August depending on grass growth.

important part of a highly efficient integrated farming

Heifers for breeding are treated well to get them big

Calves from first calved heifers are weaned at the end

enterprise covering a total of 2,430 acres on three

enough to put to the bull at 15 months of age. The strict

of September and cows in October. After weaning,

farms, including land rented for grazing and potatoes.

management regime and a ruthless culling policy has

cows are turned out for a few more weeks and are

Cropping includes winter oats, winter wheat, winter

resulted in a tight calving period with 92-93% of calves

usually housed for the winter by December 1. Cows

barley and spring barley with 350 acres devoted to

born in the first six weeks. As the potato enterprise

are wintered on silage and straw with any thinner cows

a specialist seed potato enterprise. High health seed

has expanded, autumn calving has been dispensed

getting some barley. Weaned calves are on silage and

potatoes are sold through the co-operative, Saltire

with and all cows now calve in the spring (April/May).

barley before gradually going on to an intensive cereal

Seed Ltd, to customers in England, Europe, Egypt

Cows are pregnancy tested in October and anything

diet in March/April for finishing. The herd is kept young

and other countries. The cattle utilise 468 acres of

not in calf is culled, with no second chance. All bulls

by culling cows at around 10 years of age when they

permanent pasture and 315 acres of rough grazing,

are semen tested each year – including young bulls

still have value and around 80 heifers are brought

with 120 acres of rotational grass twice-cut for silage,

before purchase – and a thorough examination of feet,

into the herd each year. All females are freeze branded

and provide farmyard manure for the arable crops

body condition, testicles and sheath is carried out

which is viewed as a major management tool.

which, in turn, provide barley for finishing cattle and

before turn-out to make sure they are in good working

straw for bedding.

condition. They remain out with the cows for only

“Cull cows are worth the same as 14 month old heifers

eight weeks. Mature bulls are run with 50-55 cows and

coming into the herd so it makes sense to replace

The beef enterprise is almost self-sufficient, with the

young bulls with around 20 cows. All 14 bulls on the

them before they become too old to put on flesh,”

only complete bought-in feed being High Mag Rolls

farm at present are from the nearby Wedderlie herd

Douglas explains. Bull calves are kept entire and, along

for the cows when they are turned out in the spring

of John and Marion Tilson and are bought privately,

with feeding heifers, are finished inside through the

and soya as a protein supplement for calves. This

with great emphasis being placed on maternal traits,

summer on home-grown barley. They are ready for

level of self-sufficiency is a fine example of how a beef

particularly calving ease and milk, as well as growth

slaughter at around 14-15 months of age and last year

enterprise can complement an arable enterprise, to

rate. “We buy the bulls in a leaner condition than you

averaged 392.6kg deadweight and achieve an average

the benefit of both. “The beef enterprise is integral to

can expect to buy at auction which means they are

price of £1367/head net (348p/kg). All finished cattle

our mixed farming enterprise and is profitable in its

ready to work, their feet are right and they last longer,”

are weighed before leaving the farm with the aim of

own right,” says Douglas Stewart, who manages the

says Douglas.

getting as close to maximum weight as possible within

once settled cows and calves are turned out to grass,

the processor’s specification and are marketed every

farming operation with his wife, Kelda, father, Graham, and children, Holly and Archie. “We aim to make the

The shorter gestation period of the Angus calf means

two weeks. Feeding inside has been adopted since

maximum use of the farm’s resources.”

that very few calvings are assisted. All assisted

2012 when the wet summer resulted in steers gaining

calvings are carefully recorded and given a score which

only 30kg at grass. A proportion of bull calves have

The reintroduction of Aberdeen-Angus at Fans, albeit

determines if the cows are to be kept or culled. In the

been kept entire over the years but over the past two

on a more commercial basis, came after much careful

best year so far, only 24 cows out of 400 required

years all bulls have been kept entire to take advantage

consideration. “We had a number of targets we wanted

assistance at birth and the vet was never on the

of faster growth rates and improved feed conversion

to achieve in breeding our own replacements,” Douglas

farm during calving. A calving percentage as high as

efficiency.

recalls. “Would the Angus heifers be big enough to

95% of cows put to the bull has been achieved some

calve at two years of age? Would they have enough

years which compares with 80-85% previously when

The name of the game at Fans is attention to detail.

milk? Would their temperament be ok? Would the

problems such as camplyobacter were common-

The high standard of management means the herd is

steers leave as much money as the Charolais crosses,

place due to sharing bulls and buying in replacement

profitable with built-in sustainability and well placed to

given that they were likely to be lighter but would

females. The herd is a member of the Premium Health

meet the challenges of the post-Brexit era.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

WINTER SPRING 2016 2017

47 37

MEMBERSHIP

NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

MEMBERSHIP

FROM £75 PER YEAR

The NBA is a highly committed charitable and is a proactive and important industry body. Our membership programme is integral to the long-term future sustainability of the association and the British beef industry. Since it's inception in 1999 the NBA has gone from strength to strength, and today, it remains the only dedicated voice for British beef farmers. The Beef industry has, and will continue to face many challenges, and through the revenue generated from you as a member the National Beef Association can ensure: That working on your behalf is a strong Management team and a Board who meets regularly to protect the industry and continually drive it forward.

The continued engagement with the Government and Devolved Administrations to defend the interest of beef farmers across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The continued representations of Beef Farmer’s views and concerns in Government.

We help to direct the course of future regulation, offer advice, overturn bad regulation and improve existing legislation.

The British Beef industry is continually promoted and supported at all levels.

That there are Regional Committees spread across the UK and Ireland - dedicated forums which hold regular meetings and events for members.

We hope to welcome you as a member of the NBA in the near future, if you have any questions or require more information please feel free to contact the NBA Head office on 01434 601005 or by email at info@nationalbeefassociation.com

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CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP

THE NBA IS GRATEFUL TO THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES AND ORGANISATIONS FOR THEIR SUPPORT Frome Livestock Auctioneers Ltd

NWF Agriculture

www.fromelivestock.com

www.nwfagriculture.co.uk

AB AGRI Limited www.abagri.com

Harrison & Hetherington

P K Nutrition

www.harrisonandhetherington.co.uk

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Agrii - www.agrii.co.uk

Hexham & Northern Marts

Richard Beattie Livestock Sales

www.hexhammart.co.uk

www.richardbeattielivestocksales.co.uk

Institute of Auctioneers & Appraisers

Rumenco

Agrimin Limited www.agrimin.co.uk

in Scotland - www.iaas.co.uk

www.rumenco.co.uk

John Swan Ltd

Sell My Livestock www.sellmylivestock.co.uk

of feedstuffs that

Alnorthumbria Veterinary Group www.alnorthumbriavets.co.uk

www.harrisonandhetherington.co.uk Louth Market Auctioneers

Southern Counties Auctioneers

cater to both traditional and the

ANM Group Ltd - www.anmgroup.co.uk

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Beef Improvement Grouping Ltd www.bigbeef.co.uk

McCartneys

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Bishopton Veterinary Group www.bishoptonvets.co.uk

Meadow Quality Ltd

Tithebarn Limited

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C & D Auction Marts Limited www.cdauctionmarts.co.uk

Meatgold Ltd

Tudor, Lawson, Dallimore & Parry

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Capper Trading Ltd www.cappertrading.com

Melton Mowbray Market

Welshpool Livestock Sales

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Craven Cattle Marts Limited www.ccmauctions.com

Merial Animal Health Ltd

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please call 01434 601005 or email

David Ritchie (Implements) Ltd

Natural Stockcare Ltd

York Livestock Centre

info@nationalbeefassociation.com

www.ritchie-uk.com

www.naturalstockcare.co.uk

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GOLD MEMBERS

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SHEARWELL DATA Animal identification systems: excellent cattle and sheep tags, comprehensive on-farm software and full management systems using EID. www.shearwell.co.uk FOR FARMERS We supply a range

more technically minded farmers and producers. www.forfarmers.co.uk MOLE VALLEY All your technical advice and products to maximise the individual beef enterprise profits. www.molevalleyfarmers.com For more information on Corporate Membership packages from NBA,

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APPLICATION FORM

NAME: COMPANY (if applicable):

ADDRESS:

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Farmer Pedigree Sucklers Farm Worker Commercial Sucklers Vet / Consultant Youngstock Other Bought-in Calves Bought-in Stores / Finishing Cattle

Please use Gift Aid to make your subscription worth more to NBA. For every pound you give us, we could earn an extra 25p from the Inland Revenue. Gift Aid Declaration: I want the National Beef Association to treat all subscriptions I make from the date of this declaration until I notify you otherwise as a Gift Aid donation. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay any difference.

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49

GIFT OF THE GAVEL

GIFT OF THE GAVEL

ALISTAIR SNEDDON I have been an auctioneer in and around Derbyshire for almost 40 years which has given me time to observe and contemplate my lot.

I do not come from a farming family, my people were

a farmers “harvest” and although as an auctioneer

if enough

doctors going back three generations and I blame

the opportunity to influence trade is somewhat

farmers sign

glandular fever and lack of ambition for my failure to

marginal, one feels the highs and lows very

up to their

follow the Sneddon tradition, but having been reared

personally and you are of course invariably judged

local scheme.

in a medical household I understand the importance

on your most recent result.

It would be

of science in its most basic sense and have applied those thoughts to my career as an auctioneer.

I believe that farmers should support their local

a tragedy if,

ALISTAIR SNED

DON

market, if it deserves their business. This keeps the

having at long last been given the opportunity

Having attended The Royal Agricultural College in

community together and minimises travel time prior

to address the problem, that the opportunity is

the early seventies, I took “vacation employment”

to sale. I have great faith in the livestock market

missed because farmers are insufficiently motivated

in order to improve my chances of securing a job

as a valuable element of the rural community for a

to join in. One thing is certain, a post Brexit UK

upon leaving college. When I had completed my

variety of reasons. In simple terms the gathering

Government will be looking to save money on

professional exams, one of the senior partners stated

of a substantial “critical mass” of stock from a large

TB compensation and if farmers have chosen not

“Now that you have finished your education, you can

number of individuals, has great merit. It puts the

to help themselves, when the opportunity was

start to learn something” This approach evidently

small producer on the same footing as the large

there, I rather doubt if the powers that be will

worked, as I have progressed from “work experience

one and gives buyers the choice to pick from a

be sympathetic towards them. Times ahead will

student” to partner in Bagshaws and have ended up

broad selection. I am on record as saying that, the

be hard enough without having the problems

as Senior Partner in more recent years.

livestock auction is the one Farmers Cooperative

associated with marketing restricted stock.

that really works, probably because the farmers In recent years, I have become embroiled in matters

do not realise that they are cooperating with one

What has struck me over the years is the lack of

outside Derbyshire with a spell as National Chairman

another for mutual benefit. From an animal welfare

cohesion amongst farmers and the comparative

of the Livestock Auctioneers Association together

point of view, for stock to arrive in numerous small

weakness of the farming voice, when ranged against

with committee roles with NBA and NSA and CAAV.

consignments and then be marshalled for what

the might of the urban based media. Part of the

All these involvements have given me a glimpse into

might be a longer onward journey in large modern

problem is the unwillingness of farmers to commit,

the political world in so far as it affects agriculture

transport, minimises travelling times and stress.

whether to membership of organisations such as the NBA, NSA or NFU, where all farmers receive the

and the livestock industry in particular.

Like many auction companies and of course a great

benefit of the lobbying that takes place, but which is

I have always been of the view that it was vital that

many farmers we have all suffered a massive loss

funded by those who actually pay a subscription.

as a company we did our best to maintain the three

of business from TB. What has become apparent

main tenets of the auction system:- 1. The best

in fairly recent times, is the Government’s attitude

The same concept is true of the Auction System.

possible price, achieved by open and transparent

to culling badgers, which has moved from many

Prices arrived at in the market are then used as a

competition. 2. Payment to the farmer on the

years of, not under any circumstances to, yes you

yard stick by all manner of others in the course of

day – less our modest charges. 3. The right for the

can, if you organise it properly and pay for it. I

trade. The fact that without someone using the

vendor to say no, if the price is not acceptable and

am not convinced that this change of heart is fully

market and paying their commission that data

the ability to take the stock home to offer another

recognised by all farmers, many of whom receive

would not be available does not register with some.

day. Something that very seldom happens, but is

their news from the urban based media. The

If you are one of those individuals who choose not

nevertheless important. I have always felt the great

established cull areas in the South West are likely to

to sell by auction, spare a thought for those who do

weight of responsibility that I was effectively selling

be replicated in other areas of the country, but only

keep the doors open.

I believe that farmers should support their local market, if it deserves their business.

Alastair Sneddon - MRICS, FAAV, FLAA: Tel: 01629 812777

Mob: 07973 982441 Email: alastair.sneddon@bagshaws.com

Alastair is Senior Partner & Managing Partner at Bakewell and is responsible for Livestock Sales at the Agricultural Business Centre Bakewell.

50

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