NBA Magazine Spring 2018 issue 7

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BEEF EXPO 2018 EVENT PREVIEW IMPROVE CATTLE BEHAVIOUR AND AVERAGE DAILY GAIN

SPRING TURNOUT THE NEED FOR MAGNESIUM PRECISION NUTRITION FOR PROFIT BOOST RETURNS FROM SUCKLER BEEF THROUGH

IMPROVED GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT REGIONAL ROUND-UPS

GUEST WRITER HELEN MORGAN

NEWS & INDUSTRY UPDATES

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

HEALTH ISSUES

BREED SOCIETIES NEWS UPDATES

MAKING BVD HISTORY EXPERIENCE THE LIVE VACCINE DIFFERENCE

Now that we’re moving from BVD control to eradication, and with BVD costing over £40 per cow per year1, 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 immunity2.

Ask your vet for more information.

Dual protection made simple References 1. Yarnall and Thrusfield (2017) Vet Record doi: 10.1136/vr.104370 2. Platt et al. (2017) Vet Imm. and Immunopath. 187: 20-27.

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CONTENTS

contents

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

SPRING 2018 34 12

DEPUTY EDITOR'S Rosie McGowan rosie@nationalbeefassociation.com

42

Tom Kinroy tom@nationalbeefassociation.com CHAIRMAN David Thomlinson ADVERTISING ENQUIRES Tom Kinroy 07738 229752 tom@nationalbeefassociation.com DESIGN, PRINT & PUBLISHING Countrywise Media, Yorkshire info@countrywisemedia.co.uk www.countrywisemedia.co.uk A National Beef Association Publication A specialist organisation open to everyone with an interest in the UK beef industry.

Company No. 3678612

13 REGULARS CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT GUEST WRITER: HELEN MORGAN, DUNBIA NBA REGIONAL ROUND-UPS BREED SOCIETIES NEWS GUEST VET: CAMERON COLLINS Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER GIFT OF THE GAVEL: TED OGDEN

05 06 09 22 24 36 48 54

FEATURES NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE SPRING 2018: Issue 7 NEXT ISSUE: SUMMER 2018 NBA/Countrywise Media 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.

IMPROVE CATTLE BEHAVIOUR AND DAILY GAIN 10 MORRISONS DAIRY BEEF PROGRAMME 12 NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 PREVIEW 13 NATIONAL BVD SURVEY RESULTS 19 ANIMAL HEALTH: SPRING TURNOUT - THE NEED FOR MAGNESIUM 20 AVERAGE VALUES RISE DURING CHALLENGING YEAR 26 ANIMAL HEALTH: THE ROLE OF ANTAGONISTS IN TRACE ELEMENT NUTRITION 28 ANIMAL HEALTH: PRECISION NUTRITION FOR PROFIT 30 A COMEBACK FOR THE NBA NORTHERN IRELAND BEEF EXPO 32 BOOST RETURNS FROM SUCKLER BEEF THROUGH IMPROVED GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT 34 MANAGEMENT OF STOCK BULLS TO MAXIMISE HERD FERTILITY 38 BLACK & WHITE STEERS: WHAT IS ACHIEVABLE 39 ANIMAL HEALTH: TRACESURE®CU/I CATTLE: AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT 42 BVD ERADICATION IS POSSIBLE 44 HARPER ADAMS UNIVERSITY: FEED PROJECT 47 The Smart Way to Search Your Limousin Sale Catalogue

2018 COLLECTIVE SALES

Design/Images © 2018 Kinroy Design Printed on Sustainable FSC Paper Mix ISSN 2399-553X (Print) ISSN 2399-553X (Online)

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SPRING 2018

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SPRING 2018

CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME

EARLYBIRD TICKETS FOR £10 FROM THE WEBSITE

CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME

BY DAVID THOMLINSON CHAIR OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION DAVID THOMLI

NSON

Welcome to the Spring issue of the NBA magazine, although as I write, it doesn’t seem like Spring has quite sprung yet this year.

With numerous visits from the ‘Beast from the East’ and unprecedented rainfall, the farming

25.05.18

HALLS SHREWSBURY LIVESTOCK AUCTION CENTRE

community has not been short of challenges, struggles consumers often fail to fully understand.

On a brighter note, beef prices have remained strong, indicating stability in the industry, the weather looks to be improving and the annual Beef Expo event is on the horizon. With the apt theme of ‘Beef Up Our Future’, the event will focus on how farmers can harness innovation to improve efficiencies and future proof their

BEEF UP OUR FUTURE THE UK’S BIGGEST TECHNICAL BEEF EVENT IS COMING TO SHROPSHIRE!

businesses into post-Brexit Britain.

The NBA’s work influencing policy and legislation continues to make substantial headway in Westminster. Chris has forged strong relationships with key industry players, securing private meetings with Michael Gove, Neil Parish and George Eustice.

OVER 100 TRADE STANDS BREED SOCIETY DISPLAYS THE NATIONAL COMMERCIAL CATTLE SHOW THE SOUTH DEVON TECHNICAL CHAMPIONSHIPS BEEF FARMER CHALLENGE

We are particularly pleased at the announcement of the new Livestock Information Service, which Chris has been working on for over a year. The service will help management on farm and significantly improve traceability, which will act as a great strength in securing export markets.

I look forward to catching up with many of you at the forthcoming Beef Expo in Shrewsbury.

EARLY BIRD: £10 GENERAL ADMISSION: £15 NBA MEMBERS: FREE TO ADVERTISE IN OUR SUMMER ISSUE PLEASE CONTACT TOM KINROY ON 07738 229752 OR EMAIL nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: FRIDAY 29TH JUNE

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S

REPORT

BY CHRIS MALLON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

As the government looks into policies for the future of farm support we are hearing a lot of reference to the importance of the environment for the Secretary of State and how future policy will protect it. Much of recent CAP has been detrimental to the environment and has moved us far from the traditional mixed farm which depended on livestock. Whole areas of the country have seen removal of their cattle herds and the subsequent replacement of manure with artificial fertilisers and reduced soil structure.

Crop scientists continue to overlook and

species in preference to others by livestock is an

create their own access into rough areas and the

undervalue the crucial role livestock can play in

important factor determining the structure and

trampling of these areas can be an important way

crop production, leading to the current under-

floristic composition of the vegetation of various

of controlling scrub.

investment in the livestock sector as a whole.

habitats. Livestock grazing removes plant material

Without the humble suckler cow we will continue

In mixed-farming systems, livestock are often

more gradually than cutting or burning. Grazing

to see a rapid deterioration in the environment.

fed on crop residues and by-products as well as

hay meadows after they have been cut controls

Without cattle, scrub and invasive weedy

pasture, this in turn leads to nutrients and organic

competitive coarse grasses and the trampling that

plants will take over with consequent losses of

matter being returned to the soil through livestock

occurs creates gaps in heath the vegetation which

wildflowers, butterflies, reptiles and other species

manure, ensuring the maintenance of soil fertility

allow seedlings to grow.

and the views that attract tourists will change forever. Once grazing has been lost altogether it

and acting as a soil conditioner. The main results are improved cation exchange, better absorption of

To ensure that wildlife habitats are managed for

will be very difficult and expensive to reinstate as

water and the prevention of runoff and soil surface

greatest environmental benefit it is important that

the necessary skills, infrastructure and livestock

crusting. It is therefore clear that manure plays a

the type, number and timing of livestock grazing

will be no longer available.

key role in sustainable crop production systems.

is tailored to the needs of an individual site.

Different types of livestock graze in different ways

Livestock are essential to maintain bio diversity

Livestock not only fertilise but are a great way

and this influences their suitability for grazing

and any environmental policy needs to take into

to control weeds and therefore contribute to

individual habitats. Even within livestock types

account the valuable contribution of cattle in

the decrease of water pollution by herbicides.

individual breeds can graze differently.

arable and grass systems. Policies for the arable sector need to ensure that they include initiatives

Less herbicide usage, less energy needed for the manufacture and spreading, another saving for the

Cattle use their tongues to pull tufts of vegetation

to bring back cattle to areas where they were

environment.

into the mouth which means that they do not graze

once indigenous. The mixed farming model is

vegetation too close to the ground and often leave

crucial to any future environmental policy and the

Livestock grazing plays a key role in maintaining

tussocks of grass which are used by insects and

contribution of cattle needs to be better realised.

species-rich habitats by controlling more

small mammals. Because of their wide mouths

Cattle uniquely offer an excellent food source,

aggressive species which would otherwise

cattle do not graze selectively and as a result

rich in protein, iron, omega acids, minerals, trace

dominate these areas and by preventing scrub

do not target flower heads and herbage which is

elements and as an addition they offer a diverse

encroachment. The selection of certain plant

important for diverse habitats. Cattle are able to

and sustainable environment.

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SPRING 2018

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SPRING 2018 2017

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PREVIOUSLY, WE WOULD HAVE HAD TO REPLACE UP TO 30 TAGS OUT OF THE 160. LAST OCTOBER WE ONLY HAD TO REPLACE ONE. IT REDUCES OUR WORKLOAD IF WE DON’T HAVE TO SINGLE OUT CATTLE TO REPLACE THEIR EAR TAGS. READ IAN RICHARDSON’S FULL CASE STUDY AT

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SPRING 2018

GUEST WRITER

GUEST WRITER HELEN MORGAN

AGRICULTURAL MANAGER FOR BEEF, DUNBIA

There is a saying “behind every man great man is a great woman” and historically in many cases this would ring true for the farming industry.

However, these times are changing along with the many different aspects of the agricultural industry and in what traditionally would have been a male dominated industry, us girls are not doing too bad a job from out in the field to the offices of policies and politics.

I grew up on a small beef and sheep farm in Mid

Today, there are so many more opportunities

So what does the future hold? With Brexit

Wales, and from a young age my heart was in

made available for women to embark on a career

looming, there is still much uncertainty within

farming and I knew that I wanted to be a part

within agriculture. Many companies offer graduate

the beef industry, but what is clear is that current

of this diverse industry despite the hard work,

schemes through the agricultural universities which

times require more business type attitudes, and

long hours and challenging weather that come

provide a fantastic stepping stone into the industry.

a requirement to understand the supply chain of

with it! I was encouraged to do well at school

We, at Dunbia, have gone on to employ a number

the product that you are producing, knowing what

and attend University where I gained my degree

of talented young men and women through our

the end market is. We are not just farmers, but

in Animal Science, but there was very limited

graduate scheme, and they have proved an asset to

food producers, in an ever growing competitive

careers advice for roles within agriculture. I

the business.

environment.

for Beef, a role that has allowed me to not only

Young Farmers Clubs (YFC) also play a big part in

For me, well my childhood dream has become a

work with a number of great farmers but to step

the development of young men and women in rural

reality, and I have just taken over a starter beef and

into the world of meat processing and retail, a

areas, an organisation that I credit for a number of

sheep farm with my partner Steven. We are looking

full understanding of the whole supply chain

skills that have helped me get to where I am today

forward to busy times ahead, especially as we will

and how, and where all of those animals that as

from stock judging, to public speaking, to travelling

be welcoming a new member of the family, and the

farmers we work so hard to produce end up on

to different countries, the opportunities are endless

next generation to hopefully follow in our footsteps,

the consumers plate.

– the more you put in the more you get out!

in a few months time!!

now work for Dunbia as Agriculture Manager

BRITISH SIMMENTAL CATTLE SOCIETY The British Simmental Cattle Society Limited, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2LG T: +44 (0) 2476 696 513 E: information@britishsimmental.co.uk

www.britishsimmental.co.uk

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FROM SUCKLER BEEF IMPROVED GRA UGH SSLAND MATHRO NAGEMENT

REGIONAL

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INDUSTRY

INE FR OM

NEWS & INDUSTRY

UPDATES

THE NA TIO

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HEALTH

ISSUES

BREED SOC

NEWS UPDATESIETIES

I AT I O N

SPRING 2018

09

According to the results of a recent beef finishing trial carried out by the University of Milan, adding a slow-release rumen conditioner such as Acid Buf to the ration can produce substantial performance gains.

Growth rate was increased by 7% for no additional

Figure 1 - Improvement in liveweight gain and feed efficiency with rumen conditioner

intake, resulting in a 5% improvement in feed

cases of lameness and less aggressive behaviour.

“The only difference was that the ration fed to half the pens also contained 80g/head/day of a standard sodium bicarbonate rumen buffer, whilst the others

11.7

7.6

1.7

11.6

7.4

1.6 1.5 1.4

received 40g/head/day of Acid Buf,” outlines

11.5 11.4 11.3

1.3

Dr Derek McIlmoyle, AB Vista’s EMEA Ruminant

Kg DMI / kg LWG

there was a reduction in the incidence of bloat, fewer

1.8

Kg DMI / day

conversion efficiency (FCE). The trial also found that

Kg LWG / day

SPONSORED FEATURE

IMPROVING CATTLE BEHAVIOUR AND AVERAGE DAILY GAIN THROUGH RUMEN CONDITIONING

6.6 Dry matter intake (DMI)

Technical Director.

7.0 6.8

11.2 Liveweight gain (LWG)

7.2

Sodium bicarbonate

Feed conversion efficiency (FCE)

Acid Buf

The trial used a typical finishing mixed ration based

add 10.5 kg to the finishing weight, which at 58%

handling, However, by day 120 of the trial the 63

on maize silage and brewers’ grains, fed ad lib to 126

killing out percentage and £3.39/kg carcass weight

cattle receiving Acid Buf were showing clear

Charolais bulls over a 130 day feeding period. The

would increase income by £35/head,” he adds.

signs of a reduction in aggressive behaviour in their pens – two incidences of fighting or mounting in the

improvement in FCE where Acid Buf was fed meant that even with no additional feed, average daily

Acid Buf is a calcareous marine algae-based rumen

two-hour observation period compared to seven

gain was a significant 110 g/day higher (1.68 kg/day

conditioner that works by optimising rumen pH and

(see Table 2). It’s a change that matches anecdotal

compared to 1.57 kg/day, see Figure 1).

helping prevent acidosis. By maximising the amount

evidence from use of Acid Buf on-farm, claims Dr

of time the rumen spends between pH 5.8-6.2, fibre

McIlmoyle.

SAME INTAKE, BETTER PERFORMANCE

digestion is increased, resulting in greater efficiency

In fact, FCE (measured as the kg of feed needed to

and a higher growth rate.

GAINS IN CATTLE HEALTH “The health of the cattle was also evaluated,

produce one kg of weight gain) improved from 7.36 down to 6.98, meaning that a substantial 380 g less

IMPROVING CATTLE BEHAVIOUR

with veterinary inspections twice daily to assess

feed was required for each kg of growth!

But Acid Buf isn’t just a rumen conditioner. The

the typical problems associated with intensively

calcium and magnesium contained within the marine

finished cattle, such as bloat and lameness,” he

“Over a typical finishing period, this would allow the

algae used to produce Acid Buf is highly bioavailable,

continues.

same finishing weight to be achieved with 75 kg less

with potential calming effects on cattle behaviour.

“Both reduce cattle performance and increase

feed, leading to a potential cost saving of £16 per animal,” Dr McIlmoyle continues.

“During the trial, temperament was also assessed

costs, so the benefits seen in this trial – due to the

by monitoring behaviour both during handling

improved rumen pH and reduction in acidosis with

“In a commercial situation, the corresponding 7%

operations and at four separate times during the trial,

Acid Buf – are extremely important.

gain in growth rate would also mean that cattle

each of which involved two hours observing the cattle

finished up to 7-10 days earlier.”

in their pens,” Dr McIlmoyle explains.

As a result, not only would this reduce feed

Temperament appeared similar for all cattle during

“Together with the gains in growth and temperament, the result would be a substantial improvement in

consumption – and feed costs – but it would also allow more cattle to be finished each year. With minimal additional cost for the slow release conditioner, the result would be a substantial gain in beef unit profitability.

“Alternatively, for the same feed intake and finishing time, the additional gain when using Acid Buf would

10

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

costs, margin per head and overall profits.”

Table 2 - Benefits of rumen conditioner on bloat, lameness and temperament

Sodium bicarbonate

Bloat incidence

Acid Buf *

Difference

1 0

-1

Cases of lameness 5 1

-4

Aggressive behaviours 7

-5

2

* Calcareious marine algae-based slow release rumen conditioner.

SPRING 2018

Driving efficiency, delivering profitability

Beefing up profits for farmers Driving efficiency, delivering profitability

t i f o r Beefing up profits for farmers p e or e u m £38 bigger cheq bill £20 feefdit er l smael proprofit £18 or m mcorheequeal 8 8 3 £3 b£iggerper animbill

Smaller feed bill

£20 feed er l l ma rofit p £18 s e mor £38 animal per

Smaller feed bill

A healthier rumen environment

Improves feed efficiency

Higher revenue Higher revenue

To increase farm profitability

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

Thehealthier result of anrumen enhanced rumen environment is greater feed efficiency.

A environment Improves feed efficiency Acid Buf can reduce the cost of production and increase farm earnings.

To increase farm profitability

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

www.acidbuf.com

The result of an enhanced rumen environment is greater feed efficiency.

Acid Buf can reduce the cost of production and increase farm earnings.

Please contact AB Vista for any enquiries.

AB Vista (Ireland) Ltd, Unit 4, 211 Castle Road, Randalstown, Co. Antrim BT41 2EB

www.acidbuf.com T +44 (0)2894 473478 | E info@abvista.com | W abvista.com acidbuf beef uk ad 03 348x278 02.indd 1

Please contact AB Vista for any enquiries.

05/04/2018 11:56

AB Vista (Ireland) Ltd, Unit 4, 211 Castle Road, Randalstown, Co. Antrim BT41 2EB

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T +44 (0)2894 473478 | E info@abvista.com | W abvista.com

SPRING 2018

11

ADVERTORIAL

MORRISON'S

DAIRY BEEF PROGRAMME

The Morrisons Dairy Beef programme is a partnership with Morrisons & Buitelaar Production Ltd delivering an end to end beef supply chain.

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 reared through the dedicated AFU and clean calf rearing units until they reach a minimum weight of 140kg. They are then vaccinated and sold to Morrison’s beef finishers at a fixed price with prepayment available where required.

Terry Coupe, Buitelaar’s head of integration said:

Lancashire Fylde destined for Morrisons finishing

other cereals to feed his cattle. George says the

“The majority of the calves on the programme

farms. Utilising two existing buildings, including a

British Blue crosses are his favourite breed as they

are sired by British Blue bulls out of dairy cows.

former cubicle shed, he can hold up to 300 calves

suit his feed and finishing system very well. The

The success of the supply chain as a whole is

or so at any one time. The calves have access to

cattle start off on a growing diet for the first few

dependent on the selection of the right calves in

rearer pellets and quality barley straw and once

months before changing onto a finishing diet, both

the first place, and then the ability of the rearers

weaned and in larger groups, they leave the farm

including home grown cereals.

and finishers.”

after a further six weeks on dry feed alone, gaining between 1.1 and 1.2 kg per day.

The programme is seeing encouraging results at slaughter, with weights and grades for the Dairy

Buitelaar has a number of select rearing units around the country where continental cross calves

Once calves reach their minimum weight,

Beef programme consistently falling into their

are reared for the Dairy Beef partnership.

Morrisons place them onto approved finishing

desired kill specification with carcasses averaging

units throughout England and Wales. In Rugby,

334kg, R4L at 17 months of age.

One of Buitelaar’s dedicated rearer’s is former

Coventry, George Wotherspoon finishes 600

milk producer Anthony Jackson, who has recently

Morrisons Dairy Beef cattle and

seen his third batch of calves leave his farm on the

grows maize and various

For more information about Morrisons Dairy Beef please contact: George Clapham (Morrisons) – 07970 372944 Terry Coupe (Buitelaar) - 07773 370232

12

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Jim Holden (Morrisons) - 07831 555076 Gabby Emery (Rearing) - 07984 343482

SPRING 2018

DATE FOR THE DIARY

EVENT PREVIEW The renowned Beef Expo event is heading to Halls Shrewsbury Livestock Auction Centre, in Shropshire, for this year’s celebration of British Beef.

In line with this years event theme ‘Beef Up Our Future’, the show will encompass the entirety of the beef industry and its ancillary industries with over 120 indoor and outdoor trade stands and demonstrations, covering nutrition, genetics, machinery and technologies, highlighting the strength and progression of the industry. An array of technical seminars and debates will continue this theme investigating how we, as an industry, can work together to make our farms and supply chains more economically viable, integrated and transparent as we prepare to leave the EU. This year, we are offering our members FREE entrance to the show day as well as discounts on the farm tour and dinner tickets. To claim your FREE show day ticket, please email beefexpo@nationalbeefassociation.com quoting your membership number.

This years prestigious Beef Expo Industry Dinner, will be held at the beautiful Netley Hall, the dinner is the ultimate networking event for all those within the beef and supporting industries. The dinner will include a welcome drinks reception, three course dinner, guest speaker and after dinner entertainment.

A night not to be missed! Beef for the dinner has kindly been sponsored by ABP. Tickets are priced at £48 members or £54 for non-members (inc VAT), buy tickets NOW at www.beefexpo.co.uk.

TICKETS

25.05.18

ONLY £10

PRE-PURCHASED ONLINE

£15 ON THE GATE

NBA MEMBERS FREE TO CLAIM YOUR FREE MEMBER TICKET EMAIL

HALLS SHREWSBURY LIVESTOCK AUCTION CENTRE

BEEFEXPO@NATIONALBEEFASSOCIATION.COM

WWW.BEEFEXPO.CO.UK Supporting British Beef

GOLD EVENT SPONSORS Meadow Quality Calves   

Weekly Calf Collections in both Shropshire & Wiltshire Twice monthly TB restricted collections BVD testing prior to movement on request

Meadow Quality Cattle   

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

BRONZE SPONSOR

AB VISTA

SPRING 2017

LOCAL SPONSORS SHROPSHIRE FARM VETS, RUMENCO

13

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 PREVIEW

MEET THIS YEAR'S HOST FARMS

This years prestigious Beef Expo industry farm tours are set to be bigger and better than ever with three fantastic beef farms selected to host across Shropshire and Wales on Thursday 24th May.

In line with the event theme ‘Beef Up Our Future’, these exceptional farmers have been chosen as they have all adapted their farm business models to create a more profitable and sustainable future for their farms. This year the farm tours will also host several short technical talks from the host farmers and industry professionals. This forum for knowledge exchange has sold out for three years running and is not to be missed - early booking is highly recommended!

JAMES EVANS

James Evans, Partridge Farm, Linley, Bishops Castle The first farm will be James Evans’ Partridge Farm situated in Linley, near Bishops Castle which spans just over 800 hectares (2,000 acres) and is home to his 300 Stabiliser suckler cows and 1,000 Lleyn ewes. The sucklers are split into two units, a 180-cow spring-calving herd (Partridge Farm) and a 120-cow autumn-calving herd (Walcot Farm) both producing quality maternal high health status breeding stock and bulls finished in a semi intensive system.

In 2007 James, who farms in partnership with his brother Rob and father John, converted from traditional dairy cross sucklers to an all Stabiliser performance recorded herd, completely overhauling his beef enterprise. Performance recording was a key player in the decision to transfer to the breed. James believes strongly that beef producers should make use Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs), allowing them to identify animals that are truly genetically superior rather than relying on aesthetics which are often not directly correlated to performance.

As well as weighing cattle to calculate growth rates, James ultrasound scans all of his breeding stock to calculate their muscle depth and fat depth EBVs, and analyse the muscling along their loins, the most valuable area of the carcass. These values are used not only to indicate carcass quality of progeny but also to choose heifers on their ability to maintain body condition score (BCS) once mature.

The system is working well, James is currently achieving 95% of calves reared of cows put to the bull and his bulls are finished in 12 to 14 months at approx. 360kg. James has recently taken the step towards becoming organic and has invested in new equipment to convert to precision grazing, to make the very most of the farms pasture.

Speaking on the recent changes, James stated, “Grass is often the most underutilized feedstuff on suckler farms. Having invested in kiwitech equipment to set up a precision grazing system last year we hope to increase grass production and utilise the grass far more effectively. The aim will also increase the grazing season with out wintering options being considered.

By correctly managing the grass and having a grazing plan in place, we hope to grow more grass than we previously did when using bagged fertiliser. This year will see our breeding Bulls being grazed and sold off grass targeting growth rates of 1.6kg/day . The majority of our bulls will go on to suckler herds so it is vital that they and their progeny can convert grass efficiently.”

KEY TO SUCCESS USE OF EBVS TO IMPROVE SELECTION OF BREEDING STOCK PRECISION MANAGEMENT OF GRASS TO BOOST GRASS PRODUCTION AND REDUCE RELIANCE ON OTHER FEED INPUTS FOCUS ON HIGH HEALTH STATUS

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 PREVIEW

THE FARM TOUR BEEF LUNCH IS KINDLY SPONSORED BY The day will include a hot beef lunch kindly sponsored by Caltech Cyrstalyx and transport to and from Shrewsbury Livestock Auction Market with pick-up at 9am and drop-off at 5pm. Tickets are £30 for members and £36 for non members.

BUY TICKETS ONLINE www.beefexpo.co.uk

Marc Jones, Trefnant Hall Farm, Welshpool The NBA Beef Expo farm walk will visit Marc Jones, a farmer who has turned the family's 500 acre tenanted farm from a standard mixed farm reliant on subsidies to a modern profitable system which can survive without them.

Trefnant Hall farm is a 500-acre tenanted farm situated on the Powis Estate which is run by Marc Jones in partnership with his parents David and Jane. Prior to 2009 the farm lambed 1,200 Welsh Mules inside in February and kept 120 Limousin cross suckler cows, producing store cattle at 14 months. The system was reliant on housing and concentrates and unfortunately did not achieve profits higher than the single farm payment.

In 2009, Marc took part in the Hybu Cig Cymru Scholarship to New Zealand and came back with new ideas to improve the farms profitability. His aims were to improve utilisation of grass and forage crops on the farm to reduce the cost of production as well as maximising stocking rate and output.

Fast forward 9 years. The sheep enterprise now consists of 800 Lleyn and Romney ewes which lamb outside and are outwintered on fodder beet.

The cattle enterprise has changed dramatically too. Marc now buys in approx. 300 Angus and Hereford calves from Meadow Quality each winter and rears them through to finish at 20-24 months, grazing them through the spring and summer months and out-wintering on fodder beat. The calves are then marketed to Dunbia or through Meadow Quality at 250-320kg dead weight.

A further 450 calves a year are contract reared from 3 to 15 weeks of age for Dunbia.

All calves are sourced from Co-op and Sainsbury’s dairy farms and are sold on to contract finishers.

The farm has seen a massive turnaround in both output and profitability and now aims to produce 1 tonne of live weight per hectare as well as a profit which is three times the single farm payment.

Speaking on the changes Marc stated, “Our priority is to utilise grass and forage

KEY TO SUCCESS OUT WINTERING OF STOCK TO REDUCE RELIANCE ON HOUSING AND CONCENTRATES FOCUSED ON FIGURES AND MAKING THE FARM PAY UNAFRAID TO EMBRACE CHANGE

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

crops to reduce our cost base, the out wintering of stock and paddock grazing has been a key component of this. We have developed the farm greatly over this period, with the majority of the farm being reseeded, tracks being installed and water and electric fencing infrastructure being put in place.

This will hopefully put the farm in a good place with Brexit being on the horizon“.

SPRING 2018

15

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 PREVIEW

MEET THIS YEAR'S HOST FARMS

BIOSECURITY FOR THE FARM WALKS AND EXPO IS SPONSORED BY

CONTINUED...

FD Cornes and Son, Lythwood Farm, Bayston Hill, The third farm tour will take visitors to Frank and Jonathan Cornes farm, at Bayston Hill just outside Shrewsbury. Here, he and his family finish approx. 1,800 stores, bought in from local markets and fed on home grown fodder beet, grain and grass silage as well as ad lib straw.

The ration, fed ad lib in hoppers, also contains live yeast to prevent acidosis and a 38% protein pellet.

They aim to finish cattle within 3 to 4 months, killing out as R4L/-U4L at approx. 400kg deadweight into Woodhead’s.

On arrival cattle are all wormed and vaccinated against IBR and blackleg before being housed in straw bedded yards in groups of approx. 50. Muck from the unit is then utilised on the 1000 acres of arable ground. Two of

KEY TO SUCCESS

the sheds on farm are approved finishing units (AFUs), with a third due to be added. These sheds have excellent biosecurity and provide an outlet for cattle bought directly from herds currently down with TB, an increasing issue in the area.

UTILISATION OF HOME GROWN FEED TO REDUCE INPUT COSTS

The Cornes also finish approx. 15,000 lambs on stubble turnips grown on both their own and neighbouring

EXCELLENT BIOSECURITY

Commenting on the beef enterprise Jonny stated, “We try and utilise as much of our own home-grown

farms, utilising land from July through to March, that is then used for spring cropping of beet and maize.

feed which also helps to add value to our produce. The cattle do very well off grain and with the addition INTEGRATED MIXED FARMING SYSTEM

of live yeast and plenty of ad lib straw and silage we have seen very few cases of acidosis.”

The Breed with

ELITE HEALTH STATUS & IT’S VERIFIED

Lots of chat about Premiums…

“IT’S IN THE BAG!” MOTHER OF ALL BEEF BREEDS

Telephone +44 (0) 2476 696 513 Simmental A5 Landscape Advert_04_18.indd 1

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

information@britishsimmental.co.uk

www.britishsimmental.co.uk 18/04/2018 09:46

SPRING 2018

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 PREVIEW

SHARDEN HEREFORD'S

AND NI BEEF EXPO THREE DAY TOUR A fourth farm tour will be taking place on Wednesday 23rd May for the 90 Northern Irish farmers visiting for their annual three-day trip. Moor Farm is a fantastic example of a modern family business which has diversified in more ways than one and created a niche market for their award winning herd of Hereford Cattle.

Moor Farm is a not so traditional mixed farm based in Baschurch, Shrewsbury, home to Mike and Hazel Timmis and their daughter’s families and the Shraden Hereford herd. Established in 1919 the herd, which will be celebrating its 100th year in 2019, now consists of around 170 cattle including 65 breeding cows.

The farm steading was originally located in the village but in 2006 the family made the decision to move the farmhouse and farm buildings to the edge of the village to give them the opportunity to improve access and build modern buildings tailor-made for farming efficiently. Sisters Melissa, Emma and Elaine and their partners have since entered the family business, setting up Moor Farm Shop and café, as well as a polo pitch, grain dryer and lab.

The herd, currently achieving 95% of calves reared from cows put to the bull with longevity at an average of 11 calf crops. The family aim to rear bulls to a target finishing weight of 700kg liveweight in 14 months and heifers to 550kg liveweight in 18 months. Selection of herd replacements and bulls is 50:50 on visual analysis and Breedplan Performance Recorded data including EBVS for carcase traits such as; Eye Muscle Area (EMA) and Retail Beef Yield (RBY), vital for their market.

The Timmis’s work hard to maintain exceptional health of animals on the farm. Their detailed health plan includes protocols for IBR, BVD, Lepto, TB, blackleg, worming plans, pneumonia as well as testing and removing Neospora and being accredited as Johnes free for 4 years.

The NI 3-day Beef Expo tour is priced at £224 plus VAT for NBA members and £240 plus VAT for non-members and includes tickets to the farm tours, Beef industry dinner, Beef Expo and all accommodation and transport. With only 90 places available on this prestigious tour be sure to book fast to avoid disappointment.

To reserve your place or for more information on the NBA (NI) and how to get involved please contact either Stephen Heenan (07889 159 496 stephenheenan63@yahoo.com) or Ernie Ritchie (07752 673 227 eritchiecontracts77@gmail.com)

SPECIAL OFFER FOR HEREFORD BREEDERS As the Sharden herd is such an old and renowned one, celebrating its 100th year next year, the NBA are offering 30 tickets for Hereford Cattle Society Members (on a first come, first served basis) who wish to join the tour. The tickets are priced at £15 and includes a hot beef lunch featuring delicious Hereford Beef from Moor Farm Shop. To book your place please contact NBA head office on 01434 601005 or email beefexpo@nationalbeefassociation.com.

Please Note: These tickets are ONLY for the additional Hereford farm tour on the 23rd of May. To book onto the Official Beef Expo Farm Tour on Thursday 24th May which include three farm visits, all transport and a hot beef lunch please visit the Beef Expo website (www.beefexpo.co.uk).

NEW BEEF FARMER COMPETITION AT BEEF EXPO 2018 The Beef Farmer Competition is to make its debut at this year’s Beef Up Your Future Beef Expo. The competition will be open to all visitors and has excellent range of prizes worth over £750 up for grabs! First prize includes a F200 grass plate meter kindly donated by Agricultural Supply Services, the perfect tool for maximising grass utilisation on farm. Farmers will have 1hr to answer questions hosted on stands throughout the show including questions on carcass judging, health, EBVs, calf management and a guess the weight of the animal. There will also be a selection of prizes for entrants under 25 years old – a great chance for the next generation of farmers to take on family members and see if young farmers can beat the old hands. To enter simply head to the NBA stand at the Beef Expo on Friday 25th to be set off on the one hour challenge by one of our Midlands NBA Committee representatives! The NBA would like to thank the competition stand hosts Dunbia, Simmental Cattle Society, Meadow Quality, Caltech, AHDB, Boehringer and XL Vets for their contribution to the competition and Agricultural Supply Services for their kind donation.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

17

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 PREVIEW

NATIONAL COMMERCIAL CATTLE SHOW 2018

SHOW CATTLE CLASSES: CLASS 1.

Heifer by a Registered Native Sire

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 £5,000 prize pot in the National Commercial Cattle Show 2018.

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. Commenting on

the show Julie Sedgwick, cattle show organiser “We look forward to bringing the NCCS to Shrewsbury this year. Both judges are very well respected and have won major championships at national commercial cattle shows in Great Britain a great asset to the show” Neil Slack from Cumbria 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 Michael Alford from Devon.

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.”

National Commercial Cattle Show Entries Guide available on the day.

CLASS 2.

Steer by a Registered Native Sire CLASS 3. Sponsor: SAI Global Steer by any other Registered Continental Sire CLASS 4. Sponsor: Kinroy Design Steer by a Registered British Blue Sire CLASS 5. Sponsor: Greatford Garden Services 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: ForFarmers UK Ltd

Sponsor: Roxan

Baby Heifer (12 months & under) up to and including 425 kgs by a Registered Sire CLASS 8. Sponsor: WM Morrisons Heifer by any other Registered Continental Sire CLASS 9. Sponsor: J G Animal Health

Heifer by a Registered British Blue sire CLASS 10. Sponsor: Limousin Cattle Society

Sponsor: Mole Valley Farmers Sponsor: Carrs Billington Agriculture

Heifer by a Registered Limousin sire CLASS 11. Sponsor: Show Winners

Young Handler, 14 years to 21 years CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSOR

SOUTH DEVONS' PERFORMANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS This is the fourth year that the South Devon Herd Book Society is holding Performance Championships in which performance recording breeders from across the country are invited to compete. This technical event is a showcase for Breedplan performance recording South Devon herds, to highlight the importance of Estimated Breeding Values as a tool for breeding selection. This year’s Championships are being held again within the National Beef Association’s Beef Expo at Shrewsbury, and the Society is very grateful to the NBA for providing this venue and for their welcome. Each class will be judged on inspection of the animals, and on their performance (Quality Beef Index for each bull and Suckler Replacement Index for each female) and will be placed accordingly. From these winners will be selected the Male, Female and Breed Champions.

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

NBA BEEF EXPOANIMAL 2018 PREVIEW HEALTH

NATIONAL BVD SURVEY

REVEALS AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT The third annual National BVD Survey took place in January and attracted more responses than ever before with over 1,200 completed surveys from beef and dairy farmers across the UK. With the majority of questions remaining the same as previous surveys, the intention was to be able to compare this year’s findings to those from the 2016 and 2017 surveys. Answers would track how behaviour, knowledge and attitudes have changed, especially since the launch of BVD eradication schemes in Northern Ireland, England and Wales.

“Headline findings are that farmers have regrets

CHeCS certification, or looking it up on the BVDFree

competitiveness of the cattle industry as we head

about holding onto PIs which, at the end of the day,

database. When asked what did, or would, encourage

towards uncertain times,” Matt Yarnall concludes.

no-one should be doing,” says vet Matt Yarnall from

farmers to join the BVDFree England programme, the

Boehringer Ingelheim, who organised the survey.

most commonly selected responses were ‘increased

“But perhaps the most alarming finding was the

herd performance’, followed by ‘recognition for taking

worrying lack of awareness of the intricacies of

care of my herd’ and ‘a premium at market’.

Graph 1: Number of responsdents from different regions of the UK.

some BVD vaccination courses, especially around when they need to be restarted to achieve the

“This is something that comes into play for the

protection needed.”

beef sector specifically,” comments Mr Yarnall.

237

“Premiums gained at market for proven health status The survey was carried out by Boehringer

animals were first acknowledged in Scotland and

Ingelheim in collaboration with the regional

anyone trading into Scotland five or six years ago. A

eradication programmes alongside the Farmers

known BVD and vaccination status should now be a

Union of Wales and Ulster Farmers’ Union, with the

significant selling benefit for anyone, wherever they

support of British Dairying, and the National Beef

may be in the country.”

488

330

Association. There was a total of 1,219 responses, with the following regional breakdown:

When looking at vaccination, 15% of farmers that vaccinate have had to restart a vaccination course.

167

• 164 responses from Welsh farmers

This can be a costly exercise and tends to be because

England

• 330 responses from Scottish farmers

of incorrect timing of the two-shot primary course,

Wales

• 237 responses from Northern Irish farmers

missing a booster at six months or going beyond the

Scotland

• 488 responses from English farmers.

12-month window of revaccination for those vaccines

As shown in graph 1, 44% of respondents were beef

that require it.

farmers, and 56% were dairy farmers.

Northern Ireland

Graph 2: Have you had to restart a “With last year’s survey data showing that 71% of

The financial benefit of being free of BVD was

users were inadequately protecting their animals

estimated as being over £90 per cow per year from

with the BVD vaccine that requires a booster six

savings in improved fertility and reduced disease in

months after the primary course, it is perhaps

calves, to name but two areas.

cause for alarm that this year 85% of farmers

vaccination course because of timing 3%

4% 8%

haven’t restarted a vaccination course when the “This represents an excellent return on investment

majority should have done,” comments Mr Yarnall.

for those farmers opting to identify and remove PIs

See graph 2.

and bolster biosecurity by vaccinating their herd, who can then reap the performance and health

To alleviate this issue, many vets now favour the use

benefits,” explains Matt Yarnall who has recently

of the one-shot, annual BVD vaccine, Bovela®. Not

published research on the economic impact of

only proven to provide 12 months’ foetal protection,

BVD. “Moreover, the identification of PIs, through

the vaccine has a simple annual booster regime,

tag and testing or otherwise, and investing in

meaning there isn’t the same worry of missing a

comprehensive vaccination as part of a herd’s

booster.

biosecurity would cost less than £10 per cow per year.”

“The data has only just been reviewed and is being further analysed. It will now be shared with the

In England, when purchasing cattle, 41% of farmers

national eradication bodies and farming unions,

said they would request documentation proving

to help further understand how we can drive

BVD health status of cattle, such as veterinary or

eradication of BVD in the UK, and further support the

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

85%

Incorrect timing of two shot of primary course for heifers Missing six month booster after primary course Going beyond 12 month window Never

SPRING 2018

23 19 11 17

SPONSORED FEATURE

SPRING TURNOUT THE NEED FOR MAGNESIUM Although the annual rate of hypomagnesaemia/staggers/tetany (low blood magnesium) in UK cows is less then 1%, one third of affected cows will die. These clinical cases are the tip of the iceberg; the rest of the group may also be sub-clinically affected. Hypomagnesaemia remains one of the very few veterinary emergencies on farms.

There are no hormonal mechanisms in the body to allow cows to regulate their blood magnesium levels. Maintaining blood magnesium levels is therefore entirely dependent on short term (daily) absorption of magnesium from the diet because the magnesium stored within the body is not readily mobilised by the cow. Lactating cows (both beef and dairy) are particularly prone to hypomagnesaemia after turnout to spring grass because they have a high requirement for magnesium for milk production. The higher the milk yield, the higher the daily magnesium requirement. Hypomagnesaemia can occur due to a low magnesium intake (due to low levels in grass, when grass alone is fed) or because the magnesium has a low availability (a poor efficiency of absorption) within the cow.

What affects the level and availability of magnesium in spring grass?

• A low soil pH reduces magnesium uptake by the grass.

• High potassium levels in grass reduces magnesium availability in the rumen.

• Increased rumen pH after turnout reduces the solubility of magnesium, so less is absorbed by the cow.

• More rapid passage of food through the rumen reduces the time available for the absorption of magnesium.

There are 3 key criteria for an effective magnesium supplement: • The magnesium level in the formulation.

• It's palatability and therefore the intake realistically achievable – particularly important when the supplementary magnesium is to be fed free choice.

• The availability of the magnesium to the cow.

Crystalyx Cattle High-Mag contains 10.5% magnesium from a unique blend of 3 different magnesium sources and is formulated with dehydrated molasses to ensure palatability even on lush spring grass. Independent research at Glasgow Vet School has confirmed the availability of the magnesium in Cattle High-Mag is superior to any other pure calcined magnesite source evaluated at Glasgow (so the magnesium is more efficiently absorbed and of better value to the cow). And because Cattle High-Mag contains the full range of essential trace elements and vitamins often lacking in grass, the risk of other nutrient deficiencies is also reduced.

For a palatable, cost effective self-help feed lick to reduce the risk of hypomagnesaemia this spring, Crystalyx Cattle High-Mag is a staggeringly good choice!

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

PERFECT FOR CATTLE THIS SPRING

CATTLE HIGH-MAG

TYPIC

AL DA

14-19

ILY CO

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COW

4 Helps maintain normal blood magnesium levels during periods of risk 4 Contains multiple magnesium sources for superior availability 4 Sweet and palatable source of magnesium to ensure consistent intakes even on lush spring grass 4 High magnesium availability confirmed through Glasgow University Veterinary School research

+44 (0)16973 32592

Follow Crystalyx UK

info@crystalyx-global.com www.crystalyx-global.com THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

23 11

NBA REGIONAL ROUND-UPS

REGIONAL round-ups IMAGE CREDIT: DEVON CATTLE SOCIETY

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: john@berryfieldsfarm.co.uk KATIE WOOLLISCROFT - SECRETARY Northamptonshire, NN6 7AH Tel: 07860 716759 Email: kwoolliscroft@heygates.co.uk 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 Tel: 07977454959 Email: sheridanjohnr@aol.com 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

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SCOTLAND Scotland’s beef farmers are recovering from one of the

a farm for our Beef Event 2019 gathers pace. Fingers

harshest winters for a very long time. Thankfully feed

crossed for some good dry spring weather for calving

supplies, [hay and straw] are proving not to be as scarce

and some sort of summer for them to thrive in.

as was feared after a 2017 summer and autumn to forget.

However, there is no sign of an early spring and it could

SOUTH WEST

still prove to be a very costly winter. On a brighter note,

At last year’s Agrifest South West, organised by the

spring calving is now well under way and store cattle

NBA South West, a grand total of £14,095.00 was

are trading well in advance of this time last year. The

raised for Cancer Research UK. This phenomenal

SBA have had only one meeting so far this year, mainly

amount was generated by the auction of a quartet

due to weather conditions affecting travel, but have

of pink pedigree sheep, and other items generously

in the main been able to represent our members at all

donated by local breeders, farmers and businesses.

animal health and other stakeholder meetings to date. I

Members of the committee and others who had

and Secretary Duncan Todd met up with Fergus Ewing

helped raise the money welcomed Annabel Coakley,

and Derek Wilson in Holyrood in March and had a very

from Cancer Research UK to a presentation evening

useful and frank discussion with them. Among the topics

on 30th January. “We decided to raise money for the

which were discussed were the poor uptake of the BES

charity as many of the committee members have

scheme, the introduction of a capitol grants scheme for

been affected by cancer in some way and we lost

liming/fencing/draining/handling facilities, an away

one of our event helpers last summer” said Vicky

wintering scheme for cattle in the West to go to sheds and

Smith event organiser. “I put a call out on the event

feeding in the East, and future support payments to go

social media page for donations of the pink sheep

on production (lamb / calf) and away from an area based

and within 10 minutes I had two telephone calls

scheme which is proving catastrophic for Scottish beef

offering sheep” it then snowballed from there and

production.

we had offers of all sorts of things, and those that didn’t have a sheep or items, offered their services

Not for the first time, Fergus Ewing showed a keen

for a day”. It was truly heart-warming how everyone

understanding of the industry’s requirements and left

came together” Annabel Coakley, Local Fundraising

us in little doubt that he wants Scotland to continue

Manager for Cancer Research UK in South Devon said

to be a food producing nation. There was no need to

“We are so grateful that the organisers of Agrifest

convince him of the importance of Scottish beef for the

South West chose to fundraise for our cause and

Scottish food and drink industry or the important part

ultimately donate such a fantastic amount of money!

beef production plays in the rural economy. However, we

I know that a lot of hard work went into this, from

must wait and see what markets we will have, what rules

sourcing auction prizes, to publicising their efforts

we will be farming under, and what budget we will have

and we really do appreciate everything that the

to work with. We will meet with Mr Ewing again later in

team have done. We also absolutely loved the idea

the summer. It was also very useful to meet with Derek

of the pink sheep – what a fantastically inventive

Wilson who will be a very useful link between Scotland’s

way to fundraise! Cancer Research UK receives no

food and drink industry and the livestock production

Government funding for its ground-breaking research.

industries. We are waiting for a date to meet up with

So funds raised through supporters like Agrifest South

Colin Clark MP for Gordon, Aberdeenshire, who sits on

West and their customers is crucial to the work of

the backbench of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

doctors, nurses and scientists who work day and night

Committee. I will be making the most of this visit to

to fight cancer on all fronts. March saw The NBA’s

Aberdeenshire to look at several farms as the search for

spring tour season conclude with a visit to Viv Sellick SPRING 2018

The main pedigree business is now based around

the efficiency of your enterprise. John Vanstone gave a

The Sellick’s farm approx. 800 acres of beef, sheep and

bull sales, into the local area. In the 80’s the herd

vote of thanks to Viv and his family for their generous

arable, in between the Quantocks and Brendon hills.

was well known for success in the show and sale ring

hospitality – The hot beef casserole and homemade

They bought their first charolais cow in 1976 and have

with Escott Rula winning the Burke Trophy at the

cakes were wonderful and very much appreciated!

built numbers up to approx. 25 pedigree cows, as well

royal Show and Escott Diplomat and Escott Alexander

as running a small Angus herd and a pure bred Devon

making top prices in the sale rings at Perth Bull Sales.

The regional Annual General Meeting was held on 9th

herd which runs as part of the stewardship scheme on

Since the early 2000’s the increase in TB in the South

April. Bill Harper (Chairman) welcomed Chris Mallon

the Quantock hills. They run approx. 100 suckler cows,

West has meant trips to sell bulls north of the border

to the meeting. It has been a very challenging year; the

mainly Limousin cross cows, running with an Angus

has been curtailed, and now bulls are sold off farm

NBA SW has really pulled its weight with TB work and

bull as heifers then onto a Charolais bull. The heifers

mainly to customers in the South West, and onto

has more cull directors than any other organisation. He

calve at Escott and are then sent as cows up on to the

Exmoor. During the day there was an opportunity to

thanked Robert Venner, Vicky Smith and the team for

hill farm on the edge of the Brendon Hills and Exmoor,

talk with the family’s own vet, Tom Gliddon of White

their work with Agrifest South West. The NBA needs to

at approx. 800-1000ft. The herd is mainly spring

Lodge Vets, Minehead, as well as vets in attendance

continue working with Government advising on Brexit

calving, with weaned calves being brought down the

from the sponsors Boehringher Ingelheim. One of the

policies. Election of Officers, all officers remain the

Escott for the winter and a season at grass before

vets, Ailsa Miles gave a very interesting presentation

same for the coming year:

being finished at approx. 20-24 months at 400kgs

on calf health, asking the question “How do you

Chairman:

Bill Harper,

deadweight and are sent mainly to ABP Langport with

measure efficiency?” The members present discussed

Vice Chair West:

John Medland

some Devons being sent to the local village butcher.

the various health issues they have with newborn

Vice Chair East:

Catherine Broomfield

calves, and how to manage the balance between

Agrifest South West Chair:

Robert Venner

Grass and home grown cereals are critical to the

immunity, environment and the pathogens to reduce

Secretary / Treasurer:

Vicky Smith

enterprise, with leys being renewed regularly to

disease incidence. The talk focussed on things

maintain quality. Silage is made on the farm, without

the farmers can do practically, such as improving

Election of committee members: Caroline Poultney

the use of contractors, which is felt to be beneficial as

colostrum intake, ventilation and environmental

wishes to stand down from South West committee;

there is no delay when the conditions are favourable,

factors as well as pharmaceutical options such as

Bill thanked Caroline for all her work. Caroline has also

and they are able to manage every step of the process.

vaccinations and the targeted used of antibiotics

stood down from NBA board Chris Mallon thanked

The cereal ration is barley, oats and peas and is all

to reach the end goal of producing maximum kgs of

her for the great work she had done with the pedigree

home grown, so the Sellick’s also have full control over

meat/cow/year. As scour and respiratory disease are

committee. All other committee members remained

the ration fed to all the breeding stock, fat cattle and

the biggest killers of calves under 6 months of age -

the same. It was suggested to invite some younger

pedigree bulls. The only additions to the ration are

Improving the factors above can have a big impact on

members to join the committee; these could be co-

limestone flour, seaweed and molasses as required.

achieving the most from your calves and ultimately

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04 NBA 90x270mm Half Page Advert April 2018 alpha products.indd 1

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

09/04/2018 11:40:08

SPRING 2018

23

NBA BEEF NBA REGIONAL EXPO 2018ROUND-UPS PREVIEW

and family’s Escott Farm, Stogumber, near Taunton.

BREED SOCIETY NEWS

BREED SOCIETIES NEWS

HEREFORD CATTLE SOCIETY

DEVON CATTLE BREEDERS' SOCIETY

been registered on the Limousin database and that they are always fully up-to-date, whenever they are produced. For added convenience the new facility will

Mr Robin Irvine, Graceland Herefords, Co. Armagh,

Catherine Broomfield, Breed Secretary of the Devon

also produce all monthly invoices and credit notes at

Northern Ireland has been duly elected as

Cattle Breeders’ Society, has announced her decision

the touch of a button. Members will be able to quickly

Chairman of the Hereford Society Council for the

to step down from the role at the end of the year.

access all current and past transactions, with save

ensuing three years 2018-20.

and print functions available to produce hard copies “The Devons have been a big part of my life since

as required. A future phase will be to introduce

Robin has served on Council for a number of years

2001, and it has been my privilege to be their Breed

electronic statements in the same way.

including a term as President in 2007 and as

Secretary for the last 7 years. Working together with

Chairman in 2009-11.

the DCBS Council and our members who volunteer

The Society has also announced a new DNA service

their time so generously, we have been able to deliver

in partnership with Weathersby Scientific. All

Commenting after his appointment, a delighted Mr

some notable achievements on breed promotion

orders for DNA testing will automatically include

Irvine stated, the development of the

and breed improvement. However, I’ve had my fair

Sire verification, a genotype for all GEBVs, My

Hereford Breed in recent years has been tremendous

share of time in the driving seat, and although a very

statin, Genetic Colour and Polled/Horned status.

– whether we measure it in terms of

difficult decision, it feels like the right time to step

The fee of £35 plus vat per sample represents a

pedigree registrations or in the £millions earned in

aside. The role of native breeds is very definitely in

considerable saving to members when more than

premiums from Hereford Branded Beef.

the ascendency, and my successor will be joining

one test is required, up to £51 per animal, and it

a Breed Society with still more to contribute to the

has the significant advantage of providing breeders,

future of sustainable beef production.”

and buyers, with much more information about the

“The rise in popularity of the Hereford Breed has been a long and positive journey however there

animal’s pedigree and performance. In addition,

is still much to be done – we need to build on the

DCBS Chairman, Mr Richard Dart said “We shall

recent database developments have introduced online

strong links through the supply chain and will

all be sad to see Catherine go. She has made a

registrations of ET calves. Whilst this is another

continue to develop the breed through effective

significant contribution to the Society during her

initiative offering convenience to members, it also

strategies, embracing the evolving technologies

time as Breed Secretary. We wish her well with her

means that the Society is now able to harvest the

available to the pedigree beef sector. These are

future plans. Thanks to her dedication, the breed

recipient dam details. This work is all part of the

challenges for myself as Chairman and our new

and the Society are in very good shape and we are

continued effort to simultaneously deliver value to

Council – we take office at a time of tremendous

looking forward to the future. The challenge for beef

Limousin Society members and integrate the aims of

opportunity for the Breed and I very much look

farmers is to provide more excellent quality beef from

the Breed Improvement Plan adopted in 2014. Using

forward to the next three years."

fewer resources. The Red Ruby Devon’s ability to

all available technology to understand and propagate

produce prime beef from grass puts it front and centre

the genetics that the market requires is a significant

of sustainable beef production. Our recruitment

part of protecting and growing its future market share.

plans are in hand and we will be looking to appoint Catherine’s successor during the second half of the year. The position will be advertised in due course.”

LIMOUSIN CATTLE SOCIETY

NEW CHAIRMAN APPOINTED FOR THE HEREFORD CATTLE SOCIETY 24

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

BEEF SHORTHORN CATTLE SOCIETY

SUCKLER BEEF POST BREXIT AND

BEYOND – NATIVE BREEDS, THE WAY TO GO Suckler producers will have no option but to step up

The Society has been rolling out a range of efficiency

their efficiency if their businesses are to survive the

initiatives for its members in recent months. It has

marketplace challenges and thrive in the new era

announced that a new way for members to receive

post Brexit, and native breeds will be the way to go,

their pedigree certificates, invoices and credit notes

Queen’s University, Belfast student, Orla Kelly told the

has been developed. The Limousin database (www.

British Cattle Breeders’ Club conference in Telford.

taurusdata.co.uk) will now offer members the option to print their own pedigree certificates directly from

“Farming a functional suckler cow will be vital to the

the website. This means that pedigree certificates

herd’s success,” said Orla who is the current holder

are available for printing as soon as the animal has

of the Beef Student of the Year title awarded by the SPRING 2018

BREED SOCIETY NEWS

BREED SOCIETIES, DO YOU HAVE ANY NEWS, YOU WOULD LIKE US TO PUBLISH? Email your copy and any images to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com the bull with lower maintenance costs than a large cow. with Hexham & Northern Marts (HNM) will be holding These cows should be hardy and have good foraging

its first official Breed Society Sale at Hexham Mart,

ability in order to reduce concentrate costs.

Northumberland on Saturday 30th June 2018.

Known for its highly-marbled, premium beef this is

“A suckler herd should have a quiet temperament and

the first sale of its kind in the UK with entries open

be easily handled since safety is paramount on any

to Full Members of the WBA which was established

farm. HSE NI has recorded over the last five years, 23

in 2014 to represent breeders in Britain & Ireland.

deaths from animal injuries and 15% of the 15,000

A selection of top bloodlines will be made available

injuries were caused by animals. “Fertility should be

with the sale expected to comprise in-calf heifers,

a major factor in selecting cows; there is no point in

recipients with embryo calves at foot, breeding

having a cow with excellent genetics if she cannot

bulls, semen and embryos. In announcing the sale,

Beef Shorthorn Cattle Society. “Native breeds offer

produce a live calf, without calving difficulties, every

WBA Director Steve Ramshaw says: "This is a great

a very good option to increase efficiency through

365 days.” She continued: “Listen to consumer

opportunity for new and existing breeders to buy

breed structure. For example, Beef Shorthorn was

demands and trends determining carcass size or

into some top bloodlines based on prominent US

developed in the UK, consequently it has adapted to

weight, for example the current 380kg ceiling is

& Australia genetics. There are great rewards to be

best suit local weather conditions and forage types.

likely to be reduced in future to 340kg. To increase

had in producing Wagyu which is renowned as the

In comparison, Continental breeds grow larger and in

profitability, then tailor the business to meet those

world's best beef with tremendous returns possible

turn require more concentrate and forage to reach the

demands for example, native breeds have a lower

throughout the supply chain." There will be an online

required level of finish,” she said.

carcass weight and they can achieve a higher output

bidding facility for those not able to get to the market

THE NATIONAL BEEF STUDENT OF THE YEAR ORLA KELLY

price due to the premium price paid. “Native bred

on the day with a Pedigree Reader in attendance to

“Market price, trade tariffs and potential cheap meat

beef is currently in real demand for example, the

guide prospective purchasers through the lots. Adds

imports are all factors which no one in the beef sector

Glenarm Scheme offers a 10% premium over base for

HNM auctioneer Drew Patrick: " Our company is

will be able to control, however there are a number

registered Beef Shorthorn sired cattle whilst Morrisons

delighted and extremely excited to hold the first UK

of areas they can improve. “I believe that suckler

Shorthorn Beef Scheme pays 25p/kg above base,” she

Elite Sale of Wagyu genetics here at Hexham, the first

producers will need to adopt a low-cost production

said adding: “This increased output along with reduced of its kind in Britain. The breed's profile is growing

system, so the genetics used to build a herd should be

concentrate costs could make the native breed a much

dramatically within the food and farming media for its

considered very carefully with maternal traits being

more profitable option post Brexit.”

superb eating quality. The demand for Wagyu genetics

at the forefront of considerations. They will need to

is increasing especially with those farmers who are

question whether or not the current breed is suitable

looking to diversify their current beef enterprises."

for their system. “For example, a functional suckler cow should be sufficiently milky, and ideally medium sized, so she will be more likely to produce the ideal

WAGYU BREEDERS ASSOCIATION

Schedules and entry forms will be available shortly from Hexham Mart or online at wwwbritishwagyu.co.uk. For all sale enquiries, please

weight of calf at weaning and reach the target cow

INAUGURAL WAGYU ELITE SALE ANNOUNCED

contact HNM Auctioneer Drew Patrick on 07854

efficiency of 50kg calf weaned per 100kg cow put to

The Wagyu Breeders Association (WBA) in partnership

361967 or drew.patrick@hexhammart.co.uk

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SPRING 2018

25

FEATURE

AVERAGE VALUES RISE DURING CHALLENGING YEAR POSITIVE LIVESTOCK AUCTION MARKET THROUGHPUT FIGURES RELEASED FOR ENGLAND AND WALES Average values rise as throughput figures show healthy picture and good demand during challenging year Throughput figures through the auction mart system,

around £1,160 across the board, with top-end bulls

released in March by the Livestock Auctioneers

coming in at between £1,600 to £1,800.”

Association (LAA), demonstrate a strong demand for

Mr Haigh continues, “Again taking a broad look over

the red-meat sector, with turnover across all species

lots of shapes and sizes, averages across the year

rising above the £1.7 billion mark during 2017.

for clean heifers and steers, between 450 kilos up to

With average values rising in almost all categories,

750, stood at £1,220.”

the cattle trade, including dairy, saw increases of some 5,000 store and breeding stock and 2,000

With some 18,500 to 19,000 head of cattle coming

slaughter stock sold through auction marts above

through the ring in 2017, Selby is well supported by

2016 figures. This, matched with growing numbers

buyers from along the M62 corridor from Manchester

of buyers being attracted to the live-sales ring, has

in the west up to County Durham.

helped to deliver a strong trade throughout the year.

Overall figures of cattle sold through livestock

Chris Voyce, director and auctioneer at Voyce Pullin

markets in England and Wales stood at 1,119,000,

at Cirencester Livestock Market, notes similar

an overall increase of 7,000 store, breeding and

patterns, “We have seen roughly the same numbers

slaughter stock from 2016. A further 243,000 calves

in 2016, but trade has been remarkably good. In fact,

also went through the live sales ring.

given the price of fodder and straw, plus extreme

than directly on farm. “It is more difficult to value

weather challenges, it is hard to believe how good it

on farm, but certainly the feedback we have had is

has been.”

that on average the vendor can expect £100 more by

Average values were also up on virtually all

selling through the ring.”

categories of cattle in both England and Wales, with store cattle averages in England rising £59.08 to

Indeed, Mr Voyce notes, in March of this year one of

£802.69. Similar figures in Wales saw an increase of

the company’s long-serving team members, having

Mr Voyce agrees, “Because of the high-price of stock,

£36.09 to an average £834.57. Beef breeding cattle

been with Voyce Pullin for some 60 years, saw the

we are seeing lots coming back to sell through the

averaged at £1,069.17 in England, a rise of £47.31,

dearest trade he has ever known.

market rather than on field. You may get offered one figure on the field that sounds good, but the likelihood

while in Wales a huge leap of £161.50 saw averages at £1,055.87.

“TB is an issue for us in the West Country, and it

is you could get more in the competitive ring.”

always has an impact on the number of cattle we can Huge demand has seen dairy values rocket in both

get in, but trade has held very firm considering. Even

This of course brings more buyers to the ring. Mr

England and Wales, with increases of £223.64 and

into the start of this year, each week values have

Haigh adds, “When supply is slightly tighter, this puts

£94.64 respectively taking averages in England to

been at least as dear as the previous week.”

an added edge on competitiveness. The live market

£1,172.51, and £968.48 in Wales.

Cirencester Livestock Market averages between 300-

reacts very quickly to changes in supply, working to

400 head of cattle a week, with up to 500 head on a

the benefit of the vendor.”

Slaughter cattle averaged at £1,117.17 in England, an

busy week.

Chris Dodds, executive secretary of the LAA, is

increase of £51.99, while a small drop in Wales saw a more than respectable £1,127.04 average. Increases

Tighter numbers also saw Thame Farmers Mart report

encouraged by the figures as markets are drawing

of over £100 in both England and Wales saw cull cow

record figures during a sale back in August 2017. “We

more customers back to the live-sales ring.

averages in England at £758.79 and £722.19 in Wales.

had the most marvellous day,” explains Simon Draper, senior auctioneer at Thame. “The sale of 270 cattle,

He says, “Livestock auction markets are pivotal to

Richard Haigh, auctioneer at Selby Livestock Auction

to average £1,050, had never been done before. This

the supply chain, providing an open, transparent and

Mart, comments, “In line with the national figures,

was at least in part due to the short numbers.”

competitive marketing forum for the red-meat sector.

It is pleasing the cattle sector has performed so well

we have seen similar numbers through the ring, but values have risen.

Mr Draper also reported on an average of £100

in 2017, and continues to do so in the early part of

increase on cattle sold through the live ring, rather

2018, with high demand.”

“While numbers have been slightly tighter, demand has been high, and prices averaged £60-£70 dearer than 2016. Price-wise, bulls have been averaging

26

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

The Livestock Auctioneers Assocation

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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SPRING 2018

27

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH

THE ROLE OF ANTAGONISTS

IN TRACE ELEMENT NUTRITION Although we do the utmost to provide our livestock with a diet which meets all of their dietary needs, the variation in forages from field to field and farm to farm means that trace element imbalances do arise.

This may be due to deficiency of certain components the copper from being absorbed by the in the diet or it may be due to the presence of

animal. This depletes the overall amount of

antagonists. Antagonists interfere with essential

copper available for the animal to use (fig 2)

ANIMAL

dietary components in ways which either prevent

INGESTS:

the animal from being able to absorb or utilise

Sulphur and molybdenum can also bind together

them.

to form a molecule called thiomolybdate.

Sulphur Iron Molybdenum

Thiomolybdate is also ‘copper-hungry’ and will bind The two trace elements which may commonly be

to rumen copper, depleting the amount available to

iodine thyroid hormones to be converted from the

antagonised are copper and iodine.

the animal (fig 3)

inactive form (T4) to the active form (T3) an enzyme

COPPER ANTAGONISM

If there is no free copper remaining in the rumen

Although this is not antagonism, if the animals do not

Iron, sulphur and molybdenum are all found

then the thiomolybdate is absorbed into the blood

have a sufficient quantity of selenium they will still

normally in forage. They serve a purpose and are

stream where copper enzymes are found. These

continue to have signs of iodine deficiency.

required in small quantities by ruminants. When

copper enzymes have a specific structure and play an

present in excessive quantities they can antagonise

integral role in fertility and thrive.

which contains selenium needs to be present.

copper - this prevents the ruminant from absorbing

DIAGNOSIS Prevention is better than cure - although your

If the thiomolybdate binds to these copper enzymes

livestock may appear clinically well they may be

the structure will be changed. As a result the enzymes

suffering from sub-clinical trace element deficiencies.

These antagonists are ingested either in the forage,

can no longer function which has a detrimental effect

These deficiencies, although not obvious by eye, will

compound feeds or via the water supply (fig 1)

on fertility and thrive. (fig 3)

have an impact on the productivity of your animals.

FIG 1

copper and may even harm it.

This is a scenario where

You should discuss screening for deficiencies with

antagonists not only

your vet when creating flock/herd health plans to take

reduce the amount of

action before disease is so severe that it becomes

copper available to the

visible.

FIG 2

host animal but can actually directly harm

Your vet can carry out blood tests, liver tests and

the animal by interfering

forage analysis to determine which trace element

with these important

imbalances exist and advise on the best approach to

enzymes.

tackling them.

It is vital to prevent

SUPPLEMENTATION TO OVERCOME ANTAGONISM

thiomolybdate from

Your vet r SQP can advise you on the best approach

entering the blood

to overcoming deficiencies and antagonism in your

stream and attacking

herd or flock.

FIG 3

the enzymes. Rumenavailable copper is the

Where thiomolybdate antagonism is diagnosed it is

only copper which can

vital to use a source of rumen-available copper. This

prevent thiomolybdate

will ensure that harmful antagonists are ‘mopped up’

from entering the blood

and cannot damage the enzymes vital for fertility and

stream.

thrive. Cosecure and CoseIcure are the only boluses which contain ionic rumen-available copper.

Iron and sulphur can bind in the rumen. This

IODINE ANTAGONISM

molecule is ‘copper-hungry’ which means it will seek

Diets which are high in goitrogens (such as brassicas)

Iodine cannot be stored by ruminants so a continuous

out and bind with copper. If there is copper present

can antagonise iodine resulting in deficiency.

form of supplementation must be available to

in the rumen, the molecule will bind to it and prevent

Iodine and selenium are very closely linked. For the

livestock.

34 28

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

23 31 11

FEATURE

PRECISION NUTRITION FOR PROFIT

BY DR C G BARTRAM HEAD OF NUTRITION, MOLE VALLEY FEED SOLUTIONS

It is hoped that Brexit will provide new opportunities for the beef sector in the UK. However, it is likely that a volatile feed market and general uncertainty in the financial and political sectors will remain for the foreseeable future. Also, it is probable that the focus on environment related considerations (e.g. carbon footprint and nitrogen efficiency) will move up the priority list.

The benefits of a structured approach to

advances in silage analysis (see Table 1) provide

have implications for the environment. Mineral

addressing the various nutrition related challenges opportunities to improve the diet plan. Also, forage

balance remains crucial and it is often overlooked.

and adapting businesses accordingly will increase.

mineral analysis is very useful. Finally, remember

It should be remembered that an oversupply may

Greater attention to detail will certainly be

that maize silage will change over time (see Table

be more of an issue than an undersupply. The

required in the management of highly profitable

2). Starch and protein sources in the diet will

inclusion of all additives (see Table 3) must be

enterprises. The management of nutrition in its

need to be adjusted to maximise microbial protein

based on sound science and be cost effective. It

broadest sense will require a higher priority. This

production in the rumen and optimise forage

must be reviewed on a regular basis.

includes a recognition that feeding a specific diet

utilisation.

MEASURE THE OUTCOME ON A REGULAR

at an early stage in an animal’s life has a significant impact in the long term. A lifetime plan will be

Plan the ration using the latest technology:

BASIS:

required.

There have been several advances in ration

Animal growth rates, concentrate and forage

formulation for ruminants in recent years. If

feed intakes and margin calculations must be

This article discusses the latest thoughts and

applied correctly they will enable beef producers

determined on a routine basis. This will enable

recent developments in several key areas. They

to be more precise in their approach, increase

adjustments to be made if performance is either

include: identifying the market for the finished

the margin over purchased feed for a system and

above or below target.

cattle, evaluating the system and setting the

help to improve animal health and welfare. The

physical and financial performance targets

new method includes more accurate descriptions

SUMMARY:

accordingly, determining the forage quantity and

of the carbohydrate and protein feed fractions

A planned approach is required. Latest advances

quality, planning the ration using latest technology and improvements in fibre nutrition. A greater

in ruminant nutrition will help beef producers to

available and measuring the outcome on a regular

be more profitable in uncertain times.

basis.

understanding of protein metabolism will also

TABLE 1: RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN FORAGE ANALYSIS

IDENTIFY THE MARKET:

PARAMETER OPPORTUNITY

The need to understand the specification required

Intake potential (g per kg BW0.75)

Increase meat from forage

Rumen acid load

Select concentrate type better

contracts will increase and new requirements may

uNDF (% NDF)

Increase meat from forage

emerge.

Protein: RFP and TFP (g/kg)

Increase microbial protein

Carbohydrate: RFC and TFC (g/kg)

Increase microbial protein

for the end market will become even more important. Rewards and penalties in various

EVALUATE THE SYSTEM AND SET PHYSICAL AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE TARGETS: Various options for the target daily liveweight gain must be examined. Remember that it is profit per year (not system) that is important. Recent work has highlighted that reducing the slaughter age of cattle will improve farm profit: feed, bedding and

TABLE 2: THE EFFECT OF TIME ON STARCH DEGRADABILITY IN MAIZE SILAGE (NEWBOLD, 2000) TIME AFTER HARVEST

2 months

6 months

10 months

Starch degradability (%)

0.53

0.59

0.69

labour costs per animal are reduced and turnover of cattle is increased.

DETERMINE THE FORAGE QUANTITY AND

TABLE 3:REVIEW SPECIALIST ADDITIVES ADDITIVE COMMENT

QUALITY:

Yeasts (live or dead)

Good data exists

This is a fundamental part of most beef systems.

Buffers (e.g. sodium bicarbonate)

Consider in certain situations

Protected trace elements

Review carefully

Forage availability and cost may be an issue.

Alternative feeds such as moist blends often provide a consistent, cost effective option. Recent

30

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

Biotin Consider in certain situations SPRING 2018

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Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER

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NBA NI BEEF EXPO ROUND-UP

A COMEBACK

FOR THE NI BEEF EXPO On Friday 23rd February, after 6 years the NBA returned to Dungannon Farmers Market for their NI Beef Expo, and this year it was bigger and better than ever.

On Friday the NI Beef Expo farm tours welcomed

everyone. Francis Lively headed up the walk

Dungannon auction market was bustling. Over 70

200 farmers on 6 buses from across Northern

presenting on the successful use of AI in beef

commercial trade stands and 15 Breed Society

Ireland ready for an action-packed day.

suckler herds, a theme that was continued by

Stands were kept busy with farmers throughout

At the first stop, Gary Fitzpatrick and John Toland

Cogent Genetics Beef Specialist Boomer Birch at

the day, all eager to learn about the latest available

spoke of how their business started from small

the Beef Expo seminars the following day.

innovations and technologies in the beef industry.

over 10,000 calves a year. The pairs forward

Commenting on the farm tours Chris Mallon, Chief

The trade stands and breed societies put on a

thinking attitude and passion to rear calves at

Executive of the NBA, said “We were delighted to

fantastic display. The winner of the best breed

the highest welfare standards had taken them

be able to provide such a variety of farms, giving

society stand, was awarded to British Simmental

across Europe to find the ideal starter ration for

a snapshot of the variety of systems which exist

cattle society for their excellent display of cattle

their calves, bringing back formulations to be

within our industry. We hope the tours have acted as and technical information, closely followed in

manufactured on home ground.

a knowledge sharing exercise, allowing farmers to

second place by the Herefords and third the

view new ideas in practise, some of which they can

Stabilisers.

beginnings to a range of calf rearing units, rearing

They have also adapted their building designs,

take home and apply within their own businesses.

experimented with bedding and altered calf group

We would like to extend our thanks to the farm

The best indoor trade stand was won by Dunbia

size to minimise the disease in the units, finding

tour hosts for allowing the NBA access to their

and the best outdoor stand was awarded to Clipex

that groups sizes of 8 and ventilation tubes, and

operations, and to Dunbia for providing the hot beef

Fencing.

generous bedding were optimal for management

lunch which was most welcome on a chilly day!”

and cost effective for the business.

At Jonathan Price’s immaculate finishing unit,

For the first time NI Beef Expo played host to the The evening further celebrated of the strength

highly renowned Stars of the Future Calf Show

of the NI Beef industry with the NI Beef Industry

and Sale, coordinated by the NI Commercial

major sponsor Dunbia served up a delicious hearty dinner. A delicious beef dinner provided by

Cattle Exhibitors Club, the show was judged by

lunch warming up visitors from the cold chill of the Dunbia was piped in by Conor Dooey. After dinner

Mr James Nesbitt, Emmett Kelly, Augher. The sale

beast from the east. The procurement team gave

speaker David Martin was a definite highlight

has always been a perfect opportunity for buyers

visiting famers an insight into beef market trends

of the evening, with his clever, witty poems and

to snap up some top-quality calves ready for the

alongside presentations from Jonathon on his state anecdotes. Over £1,000 was raised for the NI Air

showing season and this year’s event certainly

of the art handling system, both time saving, and

Ambulance, with a raffle and charity auction. A

didn’t disappoint. A very smart 10-month

a health and safety must for those working with

fantastic amount raised for such a worthy cause.

old Limousin cross heifer from Alan Veitch,

large livestock.

The performance by Fiddler Adams got everyone

Lisbellaw, Fermanagh stormed to a record price

on their feet dancing and was a great end to a

of £8,000 for any crossbred animal sold in

memorable evening.

Northern Ireland.

genetics, grassland management, feed efficiencies

The action continued at the main event on Monday

The packed seminar programme was very well

and health and safety there was something for

26th. Attended by approximately 1000 visitors,

attended by the public. With industry specialists

AFBI and AgriSearch partnered up to present their latest research at Loughgall farm. Covering

32

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

NBA NI BEEF EXPO ROUND-UP giving insights into emerging disease risks, policy changes and the latest research in genetics, grassland management and cattle health, there was something for everyone.

Commenting on the event, Ernie Ritchie, NBA (NI) Board Member said the event had been well received by all.

“The NI Beef Expo show day never fails to impress, and it is a brilliant opportunity to network, and learn about all the latest technologies that the industry has to offer.”

The NBA would like to thank all the Sponsors of NI Beef Expo especially our Major Sponsor Dunbia; our Gold Sponsors; The British Simmental Cattle

TRUST IN OUR EXPERTS FOR RED TRACTOR ASSURANCE

Society, COOP, Norbrook and Countryside Services; Our bronze Sponsors; A B Vista, Boehringer Ingelheim, Caltech Crystalyx and Natural Stockcare.

Special thanks go to Dungannon Farmers Auction Market for hosting the event.

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

33

FEATURE

BOOST RETURNS FROM SUCKLER BEEF

BY SARAH PICK KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE MANAGER, AHDB

An AHDB Beef & Lamb-funded project has clearly shown how improved grassland management boosts returns from suckler beef. Grazed grass is the cheapest feed on farm (Table 1 Approximate cost of different feedstuffs).

When well-managed it has the potential to reduce input costs significantly, in particular bought-in feed. However,

FEED STUFF COST (P/KG DM) Concentrates 23 Silage

12

it is no good growing grass if it is not utilised. Studies have shown that utilisation ranges from below 50 per cent

Grass

6

when set stocking but can be as high as 80 per cent with good management.

Forage crops 5-6

MATTHEW HOUSE Matt is the farm manager of Bowden Farms, a 195 hectare beef and arable farm in Somerset. Matt has made significant improvements to his grazing management over the course of the project which has led to a 48 per cent increase in output per hectare. At the start of the project, the suckler herd consisted of 31 Aberdeen Angus crossbred cows and 41 in-calf heifers.

The herd has expanded rapidly, now totalling 196 breeding females on a rotational grazing system on two-day shifts. The target is to increase the herd to 300 suckler cows with no housing.

Matt has increased the stocking rate from 1.62 livestock units per hectare (LSU/ha) to 2.33. He is currently selling forage as he is no longer growing cereals in preparation for an increase in cow numbers. Matt has out wintered his cattle for the past two years and has calculated this saves him around ÂŁ50 per cow. Last year, this out wintering system involved strip grazing Italian ryegrass (IRG) with additional silage bales. Stubble turnips have been used previously and the switch to IRG is to improve ground conditions during the winter and gives an opportunity for an early cut of silage in the spring. Calves grew at just over 1kg per day last year, receiving creep feed from September

COWS ROTATIONAL GRA

ZING

until weaning after growth rates dropping in early autumn the previous year. Each calf received approximately 100kg per head of creep feed. Matt regularly records grass covers and uses the grassland software programme AgriNet to help make grassland decisions. Last year he grew 13t dry matter (DM) per hectare of grass and utilised 83 per cent of what was grown. These changes have improved Matt’s financial position, increasing his net margin per hectare by 60 per cent over the two-year project.

BOB PRIEST Bob Priest (below image) farms along with his wife, Liz, at Kingsford Farm, Holsworthy and has been involved in the project for one grazing season.

The farm covers over 192 hectares and is farmed organically. The suckler herd consists of 60 cows with youngstock taken through to finish. Bob rotationally grazed the youngstock for the first time last year, averaging 0.86kg/day during the grazing season. He also managed to reduce the overwintering period from 26 to 21 weeks which is a great achievement when average rainfall for the year was 918.2mm.

Bob has also made changes to his silage making practices. Silage was cut earlier than previous years which resulted in a high-quality feedstuff of 1111.5 metabolisable energy (ME) and 13-16 per cent crude protein in DM. This will help to ensure cattle perform well during the winter housing when the ration is completely forage based. Even though Bob has only been involved in the programme for one grazing season, the benefits of his hard work are paying off with an increase in stocking rate from 1.58 to 2.02 LSU per hectare and an increase in profit per hectare of 20 per cent.

34

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

FEATURE

THE PROJECT The performance of four suckler producers who wanted to improve their grassland management has been monitored over the two-year study. The project started at the end of 2015, with each of the four ‘improver’ farms assigned a mentor who would provide guidance on how to get more beef from grass. Each improver also received support from two grassland consultants, Marc Jones (ADAS) and Charlie Morgan (Independent grassland consultant) whose role was to ensure the suggestions from the mentors were implemented on the improver farms. As part of the project, the four improver farms have made significant changes to their business which has resulted in improvements in both physical and financial performance.

The project targeted three key areas which affect beef profitability and performance, these include: • Number of days cattle are housed

• Stocking rates across the grazing platform

• Growth rates from grazing and silage/forage.

ANDREW CROW Andrew Crow farms at Cherrington Manor which is situated near Newport in Shropshire. The 191 Stabiliser suckler cows are split into distinct mobs of 70 cows which are rotated around two hectare paddocks. Due to the light, sandy soil at Cherrington, Andrew is able to out winter the suckler cows on forage crops. This has helped reduce the cost of production per hectare by 37 per cent while increasing output per hectare.

After weaning, calves are out wintered on a combination of stubble turnips, rape and quick grass, with the cattle moving to grass in the spring. Once at grass, the mob are rotationally grazed and moved every three days. 2017 was a particularly challenging year for Andrew due to the dry weather, with average grass growth for June being 21kg/day, significantly lower than the average of 100kg/day for the time of year. Andrew managed this by strip grazing some of the silage ground, which affected quantities of silage conserved. By rotationally grazing the youngstock, Andrew has managed to increase average growth rates from 0.93 kg/day to 1.07kg/day, purely from forage alone and reduce age at STEERS ON TURNIPS

slaughter by 183 days. This has helped to increase the net margin for the beef enterprise.

TIM PHIPPS Tim Phipps farms 319 hectares, of which 125 is grass, at Bragborough Hall, Daventry. When Tim joined the project he was severely understocked resulting in grass utilisation being very poor. During the winter months, heavy grass covers remained which meant by spring a high proportion of dead matter had accumulated within the sward. Dead material uses nitrogen to rot down, plays host to pests and diseases and can limit grass and clover growth by shading out the growing points.

On the whole, Tim’s stocking rate still remains relatively low, however, on the grazing platform it has increased from 2.27 to 3.09 LSU per hectare. Tim now rents excess land out for sheep grazing and produces more silage which he can sell if not required, these changes have resulted in increased grass utilisation. Tim now rotationally grazes the 170 spring-calving Stabiliser suckler herd in five distinct bulling groups. During the first grazing season, Tim split his fields up into two hectare paddocks with water at the top of the paddock. However, to ensure improved quality and utilisation, Tim split the paddocks up further into one hectare paddocks which allowed a rotation of 25-30 days.

Through making these changes, total output has improved by 34 per cent, with Tim producing 205kg more beef per

COWS ROTATIONAL GRA

ZING

hectare across the grazing platform.

NEXT STEPS... The project has been extended for a further two years so that the full benefits of implementing these changes to grassland management can be realised. The farms will be hosting events in the autumn of 2018, keep an eye on the AHDB Beef & Lamb website for more details.

Further information on improving grazing management can be found in the BRP manual Planning grazing strategies for Better Returns.

TOP TIPS FROM MARC JONES (ADAS) 1. Flexibility is key, grazing isn’t always easy – Grazing should start from the middle of February with a small number of cattle, with numbers increasing as grass growth increases.

Figure 1: The leaf life cycle of a grass plant

If the weather is bad and grass isn’t growing, don’t be afraid to rehouse cattle (like this year).

2. Infrastructure makes it easier – If you have good tracks to fields, permanent and temporary electric fencing and water in all the paddocks one man can easily manage the movement of cattle.

3. Start small and gain confidence first – The major mistake is not having enough grazing pressure to graze down to the residual. You need a smaller area or more stock in a group. Stock need to be moved every 2-3 days otherwise you are grazing the regrowth and may as well be set stocked.

Perennial ryegrass, the UKs most commonly sown species, only ever has

4. Ask for help – mentors are really important. Go to an AHDB event on grass and make sure you ask

three live leaves on every individual plant. As the fourth leaf starts to grow,

lots of questions.

the first and the oldest leaf dies.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

35

GUEST VET

GUEST VET

CAMERON COLLINS MANAGEMENT OF THE POST PARTUM COW As I write this we are gearing up for our busiest time of year – spring calving (and lambing!). Problems around the calving period are, unfortunately, common, and veterinary attention is frequently required. In terms of a calf’s health, the first few days of its life have a huge impact on its future potential, so it is vital to give it the best start possible. As for the cow, most of the problems she’s likely to face occur at calving. In this I will briefly discuss a few problems we see post calving.

UTERINE PROLAPSE Prolapses are most frequently seen after a particularly long or difficult calving, or with an older cow which has had multiple calves; however this is not a definitive rule. Commonly the cow will be down and hypocalcaemic, so it’s always a good idea to give a bottle of calcium. In the event of a cow prolapsing, cleaning it prior to replacement is very important to minimise the risk of infection developing. It is vital to fully invert the uterine horns once replaced to reduce the likelihood of re-prolapsing. Your vet may need to give an epidural to prevent the cow from straining, and anti-inflammatories and antibiotics may be required depending on the level of contamination and trauma to the uterus.

RETAINED FOETAL MEMBRANES Following calving the cleansing is usually passed naturally within 12 – 24 hours. Premature births, twins, difficult calvings and caesareans can all interfere with the normal mechanisms of placental detachment, resulting in the retaining of the cleansing. Many vets now don’t advocate removal, and recommend waiting for the cleansing to come out in its own time. It is however essential to monitor these cows closely for signs of illness as a putrid cleansing can cause a toxaemia. If you are concerned at all or if the cow is sick always contact your vet for advice.

THE DOWN COW Down cows can be frustrating to deal with, there are many possible causes following calving that can result in a cow going down and veterinary advice should always be sought. Milk fever (hypocalcaemia) occurs when the demand for calcium is greater than the body has available. There are numerous factors at play, and the condition can predispose to a multitude of further problems. Cows suffering from milk fever are classically down, sunken eyed, with a low temperature “AF at AY turnover. Veterinary treatment with intravenous calcium workss rapidly at Y FO and reduced or no needle’. A W W the affected animal will frequently ‘walk off the us rumen u DA Oand D O RD e e C ALFto give Se IRY SisH always important to check for other problems. Downer cowSeblood SH IRY profiles Aan thorough examination are very useful to determine mineral status, and Y Y B A A C D A IR D A IR A R LE UK D UK D again for prolonged down cases. indication of muscle damage and likelihood of standing E ” SW SW produces results which & & “since using Jump Start our calves are CALF MANAGEMENT “since using Jump“Fastract Start our calves are should cost a lot more “ brighter andbeen sharper ” into most, however reminders are always helpful, brighter andfirst sharper ” I am sure this is a topic which will have drilled and the few hours of a new-born calf’s life are vital

Fastract Performance Feeds

Fastract Performanc

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don’t need scour treatments any more”

Use anyThis timewill of digestive Within the first 6 hours of life calves should receive 10% of their bodyweight in colostrum, with a further 3.5% by at 12 calving, hours old. give themdisorder, plenty of stress or travelling energy, and crucially antibodies to ward off infection, after the absorption of antibodies Use as a routine for new born calves, at any sign Usethis as time a routine for new born calves, atstops. any sign of scour or any time appetite is poor. of scour or any time appetite is poor.

Calving is a time when veterinary advice is frequently sought, this article glances over a few issues that you may encounter, if in doubt pick up the phone.

Prompt delivery : call 01434 600602www.eggsport.co.uk

Prompt delivery : call 01434 600602

Some conditions are sheer bad luck; others are preventable with good management. As with everything in rearing cattle health planning is a good way to prevent what you can and prepare for what you can’t.

at Y t Y WA W ushanDuAs aOD e Y SHO Ses tIRSYee lSfIH R Y A s a LUeK D DU/AKIcRDADAIRY 2 W S£ SW & & “since“since usingusing JumpJump StartStart our calves are our calves

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Fastract Performance Feeds Fastract Performance Feeds

” brighter and sharper brighter and sharper ”

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Prompt delivery : call 01434 600602 Prompt delivery : call 01434 600602

36

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE at Y t Y WA W us DAs aO

Fastract Performanc

shouldshould cost acost lot more “ a lot more “ “I have“I seen big difference in a sick have aseen a big difference in acow sick cow within 6 hours of giving Ruminant Paste“Paste“ within 6 hours of giving “The calves look after themselves now, we just Ruminant don’t need scour treatments any Use atUse calving, anymore” time digestive disorder, at calving, anyoftime of digestive disorder, stressstress or travelling or travelling Use as a routine for new born calves, at any sign of scour or any time appetite is poor.

brighter and sharper”

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Prompt delivery : call 01434 600602www.eggsport.co.uk

s

at

AY W

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SPRING 2018

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2017

37

BY COLIN D PENNY BVM&S DBR DIPECBHM MRCVS LIVESTOCK VETERINARY CONSULTANT ZOETIS UK LTD

The common industry quoted targets for beef herd fertility are summarised in Fig 1. In this article we will look at how pro-active management of stock bulls can help achieve these targets. To achieve pregnancy rates of 95% and compact calving following a restricted mating period then cows/heifers need to be healthy and cyclic at the start of the mating period and bulls must be highly fertile.

WHAT IS “NORMAL” BULL FERTILITY

use. Overfat bulls will accumulate fat in the neck of

have PBE 1-2 months prior to each mating period to

Many herds for years have ignored the potential of

the scrotum which can depress semen quality due to

reduce risk of using an infertile or subfertile bull. It

the bull stud to be the limiting factor in herd fertility.

overheating of testicles. Diets should contain a good

takes around 60 days for a full sperm development

If poor results are found at annual PD session the

quality trace element/mineral supplement.

cycle so lameness or fever can have both immediate

temptation is to look for causes of cow infertility.

Exercise Prior to Use: Unfit bulls are more prone

and potentially long lasting effects on semen quality

In herds that are managing cows and heifers well

to musculoskeletal injury and lameness. Bulls kept

and fertility. A full PBE includes physical examination,

nutritionally, and controlling infectious disease, it

in restricted bull pens for months prior to breeding

semen collection/assessment and test mating. During

may often be the bulls that are limiting herd fertility

period cannot be working fit without a period of

this veterinary examination, physical problems such

performance especially when restricted 9-10 week

paddock exercise.

as inadequate scrotal circumference, abnormalities

mating periods are being used. Many surveys have

Disease Status: Many newly purchased pedigree

of testicles, epididymis and penis can be identified.

shown 20% or more of stock bulls on farm are

bulls will have high health status and as such may be

Some bulls can appear normal on physical

classed as subfertile. A fully fertile bull should be

naive to many of the diseases that could be endemic

examination but still have semen quality problems

capable of delivering conception rates of 60-70%

in your herd eg BVD, Leptospirosis, IBR. New bulls

so evaluation of semen is worthwhile. Semen can be

to each service in a compact mating period of 9-10

should isolated on arrival and vaccinated/tested

easily collected from most bulls in a crush using a

weeks. Any bull incapable of delivering this level of

for these diseases prior to the breeding period as

modern electro-ejaculator machine. If a test mating is

breeding performance can be considered “subfertile”.

required, according to your farm health plan. All

not carried out as part of the PBE then it is critical to

The potential impact of reduced conception rates

purchased bulls should ideally be sourced from Johnes

observe bulls carefully at the start of mating period to

from subfertile ( eg 40% conception rate). If mating

accredited/low risk herds. Hired or shared bulls carry

ensure they are serving cows successfully.

periods are extended to 12 weeks or greater subfertile

a high risk of introducing many diseases including

Observation During Mating Period: Observed

bulls eventually get cows pregnant BUT extended

venereal Campylobacter infection which can cause

matings should be recorded so return rate can be

calving periods result with <40% cows calving in the

devastating infertility. Young bulls (< 30months) may

monitored (< 50% of served cows should be seen

first 3 weeks. By calving the target 85-90% of the

require regular treatment for worms/fluke depending

returning). Occasionally, issues can arise with libido or

herd in a 6 week block you can ensure the majority

on pasture challenge on your farm. It takes at least

inability to serve normally. Penile injuries may occur

of females are cyclic on day 1 of the mating period

2 grazing seasons for young bulls to acquire adult

and occasionally bulls will develop corkscrew (spiral)

when bulls are introduced and it is then critical to

immunity to worms so they should be included in

deviation during a breeding period and be seen to be

have a bull stud ready to deliver high levels of fertility

routine parasite control programme.

mounting but not finishing the job!

performance.

Lameness/Feet: Lameness is a common cause of

Bull/female Ratio: A young (< 2yo) inexperienced bull

bull subfertility as it can depress semen quality and

should have no more than 15-20 females to mate in

MANAGEMENT CHECKLIST FOR OPTIMUM BULL

inhibit bulls from seeking and serving females. Foot

a restricted breeding period. Mature bulls that have

FERTILITY

trimming should be carried out at least 2 months prior

passed a PBE can run with 35-45 females if required.

Body Condition/Nutrition: Working bulls should

to breeding period as required. Bulls should not be

If these management factors are addressed then bulls

be “fit not fat” (BCS 3-4) at start of mating. Bulls

expected to work in cubicle sheds with slippery floors

should be capable of delivering the fertility required

purchased in show condition must be given time to

and with no suitable lying area.

to achieve herd targets and return the investment

become fit and lose excess body condition prior to

Pre-Breeding Examination (PBE): All bulls should

needed to purchase quality stock bulls.

FIG.1

FIG.2

TARGETS FOR UK BEEF HERD FERTILITY

EFFECT OF SUBFERTILE BULL ON CALVING PATTERN AND BARREN RATE - SINGLE SIRE MATING

TARGET

60

Bulling period

50

9-10 weeks (cows)

6 weeks (heifers) Barren cows/heifers at PD

< 5%

Abortions < 2% Cows calving within 1st 3 week period

> 65%

Calf mortality birth-weaning

< 3%

Calves weaned per 100 cows/heifers bred > 94%

38

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

No. calved

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH

MANAGEMENT OF STOCK BULLS TO MAXIMISE HERD FERTILITY

40 30

60

60% conception rate 40% conception rate

20

24 25

10 0

6% Barren 22% Barren

40

10 3

5 9 Weeks of mating

2% Barren 13% Barren

14

9

4 12

SPRING 2018

FEATURE

BLACK & WHITE STEERS WHAT IS ACHIEVABLE?

BY MATT NIGHTINGALE CEO OF MEADOW QUALITY

For many years the black and white bull calf was the by-product of the dairy industry that no one wanted. At certain points in time dairy farmers struggled with the prospect of shooting these calves soon after birth, but with a backlash from the public and milk contracts specifying that this would become a non-compliance issue, the challenge was transferred to the beef industry.

But how were they to handle these calves and make

a business that works and succeeds. In the case of

this number

money? Yes, compared to a beef-bred animal they

the black and white bull calves, adherence to the use

continue to grow

looked relatively cheap to purchase, but economically

of high quality milk powder and feed, following strict

over the coming

should these animals be grown on and sold for veal

veterinary protocols, the castration and disbudding of

years.

at under 12 months? Kept entire and sold as young

the calf at the correct time during its time on the unit,

bulls at 1-2 years of age or put to grass and killed

have all got to be factored in to output a baby calf that

between 2 and 3 years of age? And with lower kill-out

arrives (with a batch of often unknown herd-mates) on batch of cattle

percentages was it something that beef processors

day 1, weighing around 55-60kg, and leaves around 12 that went

would ultimately want to buy?

weeks later weighing between 130 and 140kgs.

A route that some producers went for was a more

With a fit and healthy reared black and white

seen so far in 2018. However, allowing the enterprise

precision based beef steer system that involved

steer calf to work with, the challenge then is what

to rest on its laurels is not part of the plan. Analysis

specialist skills to create a value for all along the

feeding system to adopt to get the optimal return

of the data that this quantity of cattle produce, does

supply chain. Buying quality calves is something that

for the grower-finisher. The route chosen by John

allow for continual ongoing improvements that should

Meadow Quality has been synonymous with for over

Bell of Berryfields Farms Limited at Daventry in

continue to deliver high quality British Beef, farmed

40 years. Building up strong working relationships

Northamptonshire was to feed a ration that he has

to high welfare standards with full traceability, all

with hundreds of Dairy farmers across England and

developed over many years through his Berrystock

from the humble black and white bull calf and its very

Wales has been integral in this, and being 100%

Feeds business, where the aim was to achieve a

chequered beginnings.

farmer owned, the ethos of the company was to

600Kg live-weight finish in 12 months or less on

provide a joined-up approach in both its thinking

the black and white steers from his unit. Cattle that

and delivery. Buying black and white bull calves in

could be farmed in volumes that would grow on and

quantities was not the difficult bit, once dairy units

finish, with a consistent meat quality that processors

had been convinced there was a market for keeping fit

wanted to buy, and utilising all the economies of

and healthy black and white bull calves to 3 weeks of

scale available so that the cattle came out as young

The latest

through the system have achieved some of the best results that John has

age. However, working with and developing a network as possible and in significant quantities was all part of specialist calf rearing units was the next important

of the plan.

path in the establishment of the chain.

By fulfilling the criteria and benchmarks that John set Calf rearing with volumes of young calves is a skill that himself, he is now able to repeat the system on a very many have tried, but only those with the dedication

regular basis and is currently finishing around 2,500

and management skills have been able to turn it into

black and white steers annually, with a desire to see

42 STEERS KILLED JANUARY 2018 Average age at purchase Average days on Rearing Unit Days on Finisher Unit Average age at kill

DAYS 29 84 368 481

GRADE ACHIEVED O+4L 19 O+4L 11 -O3 4 O+4H 3 O-4H 2 O+3 2 R3 1 KILL OUT % 51.55% Average Cold Weight 320.59kg

Supporting British Beef Meadow Quality Calves

Meadow Quality Cattle

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01789 734 100

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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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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39

SPONSORED FEATURE

ACHIEVING FULL POTENTIAL USING A DATA DRIVEN APPROACH Doug and Pam Dear, along with Doug’s parents Alan and Elizabeth run Osgodby Grange in Selby. The family have

DOUG DEER (LE FT) AND MICH RICHARDSON AEL FROM HARBRO (RIGHT)

owned the farm since 1919, with Allan a third and Doug fourth generation farmer at the site. Along with two full time members of staff, Taylor and Stephen, they farm over 1,000 acres and contract finish 1,500 head of cattle under the company D & P Custom Feeding.

The farm has grown substantially from its original

Monitoring performance has always gone hand in

he finishes

550 acre site since Doug returned to the business

hand with Stabilisers and the continuous evaluation

because he

from his studies in 1991, acquiring additional plots

of data is crucial to the unit as a whole for both Doug

measures

and farms nearby to expand the business. Doug

and the end customer to make informed decisions

it. These

currently leads the day to day management. Due to

relating to performance. Doug monitors the DLWG

Stabiliser bulls have

its diverse spread of land, the family farm a range of

of the cattle every month using a hydraulic handling

been the best feed converters he has ever recorded.

mixed cereals: barley, wheat and oilseed rape as well

system that he designed and built himself. This

Doug’s attention to detail means that the data coming

as beans, much of which is fed to the animals with

performance data along with intakes from their

out of his unit is extremely reliable and can therefore

the straw used as bedding and returned as manure.

Keenan mixer wagon using Pace and In Touch

be used to help in the selection of the most profitable

technology is regularly monitored and shared with

sire lines in the Stabiliser breed.”

The farm is in a perfect location for its licensed

customers to ensure the cattle are achieving full

finishing unit with easy access to feed and bedding

potential.

In addition to feeding Rumitech, the farm’s beans are treated with Maxammon as the primary source

on farm as well as local abattoirs. In excess of 1,500 cattle are finished annually with customers

Nutrition is also key to maximising efficiency. Doug

of protein. Maxammon enables protein levels to

located all over the UK and Northern Ireland. Doug’s

has been working with Michael Richardson, beef

be increased by 30% and when combined with

reputation ensures spaces at the unit are in high

specialist and Matt Palmer, ruminant nutritionist at

urea and beans or cereals results in a nutritionally

demand; he has received a number of accolades

Harbro for the past 18 months. Having seen early

enhanced high protein, high pH feed that increases

within the past few years including British Farming

signs of acidosis in the cattle, an opportunity was

animal performance. By treating the beans with

Awards Beef Innovator of the Year in 2015 and he

identified to rebalance the diet and alkacid was

Maxammon throughout the year Doug is not only

was a Beef farmer of the year finalist in the Farmers

introduced for rumen stability as well as Rumitech

finishing his cattle quicker but he also has improved

Weekly Awards in 2016. In addition, Doug is a

to help increase feed efficiency. Rumitech increases

feed efficiency and liveweight gain which delivers

founding member of the AHDB progressive beef

output per kilo of dry matter which in turn increases

increased profits both for the farm and the end

group.

efficiency. Doug immediately commented that

customer. The farm aims to be as self-sufficient in

these initial steps had delivered better results than

their feed as much as possible and less reliant on

Within the unit there are a number of Stabiliser

predicted in a very short space of time. The most

market prices and fluctuations. Using more beans

bulls and the farm is partnered with the Stabiliser

recent readings from the Keenan system showed on

which they can produce on farm or source locally is

Cattle Company and the Beef Improvement Group

average the bulls achieving a daily gain of 1.81kg with an extremely cost effective way to provide the cattle

for Morrisons. Engineered to display a number of

a feed conversion of 5.59:1, with the best performing

high quality traits with one of the key ones being

group at 2.2kg with a feed conversion of 4.6:1.The

good feed efficiency, the breed fits well with the

steers and heifers gained on average 1.65kg per day,

Doug’s analytical approach to performance along with

system on-farm. Doug also finishes a range of other

which is a feed conversion ratio of 6.81:1.

a nutrition programme specifically tailored to the

breeds for various supermarkets and abattoirs. All

Richard Fuller from The Stabiliser Cattle Company

requirements of each individual group of cattle seems

customers’ cattle are kept separately which enables a

commented: “Doug knows how wide the range is

to be a winning formula that is attracting increasing

higher level of performance monitoring to take place.

for feed efficiency between the different breeds

numbers of finishers to the farm.

with a constant source of protein.

livestock and agricultural specialists in graphic design,marketing, pr, exhibitions,magazines, print and websites email tom@countrywisemedia.co.uk or call 07921 728235

40

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

We achieved average FCR of 5.59:1 Results from Stabiliser bulls fed on a ration including Maxammon and Rumitech showed FCR of 5.59:1 and DLWG of 1.81kg.

Doug Deer, D&P Custom Feeding, contract finisher, Yorkshire and Michael Richardson, Ruminant Sales Specialist, Harbro

Trial results recorded: Improved DLWG Improved feed efficiency Cattle finishing quicker

· · ·

Tel: 01888 545200 harbro.co.uk

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

23 11

ANIMAL HEALTH

TRACESURE CU/I CATTLE “A MUST” IN GRASS-FED WELSH SUCKLER HERD ®

The breeder of the champion Limousin bull at the 2017 Royal Welsh Show regards Tracesure®Cu/I Cattle as an essential component in a series of measures that underpin herd profitability.

Pat Greaney manages 150 pedigrees, as well as

to make sure they got enough colostrum. It was just

bolus to the mother pre-birth, benefits both the cows

commercial Limousin and Limousin-cross sucklers

a nightmare.’’

and calves by supplying the essential trace elements

for Dai Walters at Duffryn Farm, a 420-acre holding

when they are most needed.

near Llansoy in Monmouthshire. The cow diet at

Pat commissioned blood and soil samples and these

Duffryn Farm consists solely of grass during the

revealed a shortfall of selenium. Pat then began to

“Every cow must be bolused pre-calving otherwise it

grazing season and silage at housing.

bolus his herd with Tracesure ®Cu/I Cattle six weeks

is very difficult. You are on edge if they haven’t got

before calving, to provide optimal, long lasting

the proper trace elements and minerals in them. I no

supplementation in a single application.

longer have any problems, I couldn’t manage without

Pat first used Tracesure ®Cu/I Cattle when he was farming in Ireland, to supplement his herds diet

Tracesure ®Cu/I Cattle,’’ Pat admits.

with the key trace elements: copper, selenium,

Elizabeth Berry, Animax Veterinary Director

cobalt and iodine. (This product is known as

comments ‘‘Selenium deficiency can affect both

After weaning, young stock receive 2kg a day of

Allsure® Cattle in the Republic of Ireland). It helped

adult cows and young calves. Selenium performs

creep feed. Cows receive no supplementary feed,

to make the most of home grown forage and reduce

a range of functions as it is a component of

as they get their trace elements from the Tracesure

production costs.

enzymes and used in immune functions and also

®Cu/I Cattle bolus. Weaned calves are sold in

as an antioxidant which helps to prevent tissue

October at Monmouth Livestock Market and others

When Pat arrived in Wales as farm manager in 2012,

damage. In addition, it plays an essential role in the

are retained to sell as 18-month-old stores. Pedigree

he says it was his most challenging year, “Cows

conversion of the thyroid hormone into an active

bulls are sold privately and through British Limousin

were slow to calve and retained their afterbirth

form used by the animal. Selenium deficiency can

Cattle Society sales. Pat has a robust pre-calving

while the calves lacked vigour to a point where they

be confused with an iodine deficiency because of its

management system in place and uses easy calving

would not suck.’’ Pat recalls.

role in activating the thyroid hormones into the form Limousin bulls. needed. Common signs of deficiency are retained

“When cows had calved, the calves just laid

placentas post calving, poor vigour in calves, poor

In 2017, a bull that Pat bred and which is now owned

there. When we did get them up they would not

fertility and white muscle disease in young animals.

by South African-based Meridian Genetics, won the

suckle properly and they were not getting enough

It is though extremely important that supplementing

Limousin bull championship at the Royal Welsh Show.

colostrum in the first four hours because of their

with selenium is done carefully, because selenium

poor vigour. It was very hard to measure and

can be toxic in excess.”

be confident about the intakes when they were

“It was the first Welsh-bred bull for eight or ten years to win this competition,’’ he says. ‘‘Tracesure ®Cu/I

suckling. We had to stomach tube a lot of the calves,

Five years on, Pat continues to be delighted with the

Cattle is a must going forward. The bolus brings us

performance of the bolus. He finds that giving the

into profit. It makes life very easy.’’

The breeder of the champion Limousin bull at the 2017 Royal Welsh Show regards Tracesure®Cu/I Cattle as an essential component in a series of measures that underpin herd profitability. Pat Greaney manages 150 pedigree, as well as commercial Limousin and Limousin-cross sucklers for Dai Walters at Duffryn Farm, a 420-acre holding near Llansoy in Monmouthshire.

42

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

FEATURE THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

43

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH

BVD ERADICATION IS POSSIBLE

Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) is a potential trigger for a range of diseases and can have a significant impact

DR SIGRID ST OOP

on the productivity and profitability of beef and dairy herds. That is according to Dr Sigrid Stoop, Belgian veterinary surgeon and Allflex Key Account Manager, and one of the architects of Belgium’s successful BVD eradication programme.

Dr Stoop estimates that as many as 65% of UK

“In reality, BVD can act as a catalyst for problems

meaning they are protected, but can still pass

dairy and beef herds could be carrying some level

such as fertility dysfunction, poor milk yields,

the infection to their unborn calves. As soon as

of BVD infection, and that there is a clear benefit for

low daily live weight gains, fever, diarrhoea and

this PI calf is born, it will act as a new source of

farmers to act now to eradicate the disease: not only respiratory problems, so it makes good sense in

contamination and restart the cycle of infection.

to reduce the negative impact the disease has on

terms of outright productivity and animal welfare,

productivity, but also to enable farmers to add value

to understand whether or not the disease is present

Eradicating the disease from infected herds

to their breeding stock by being able to market

within the herd.”

therefore relies on the identification and isolation of these Persistently Infected animals at birth.

animals as BVD-free. Livestock farmers in Wales have an added incentive to take action to eradicate

Dr Stoop believes that eradicating BVD is relatively

the disease thanks to the Gwaredu BVD scheme

easy to achieve but that it is important to

“In an ideal scenario, all animals should be tested

which provides up to £500 of funding for farmers

understand how the disease is transmitted from

for the disease,” Dr Stoop explains. “Unfortunately,

to work with their vet to diagnose if their herd has

pregnant cows to their unborn calves.

that isn’t always feasible due to time and monetary constraints. The simplest, most cost-effective way

been exposed to the virus, and to seek and remove “BVD is an exceptionally contagious disease,” Dr

to test for BVD is therefore to use Tissue Sampling

Stoop continues. “A carrier or Persistently Infected

Tags (TSTs) on all new-born and recently purchased

“Unfortunately, a lot of livestock farmers don’t know

(PI) animal will shed the virus at a prolific rate

animals before they enter the herd and to isolate

their herds are infected,” Dr Stoop explains, “and

during its entire life and has the potential to cross-

and remove any PI animals as soon as possible.”

fall back on the default position of blaming the poor

infect multiple animals within the herd in a short

performance of certain animals as ‘just one of those

period of time.” Pregnant animals infected with

Dr Stoop continues: “If a calf tests negative for BVD,

things’ that are intrinsic in farming.

the virus can develop antibodies to the disease,

it is safe to assume its mother was also negative.

any infected animals.

44

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH COMPETITION

For more information about BVD and how to implement an effective eradication plan speak to your farm vet or go to www.bvdfree.org.uk or www.bvdzero.co.uk

Similarly, the offspring from a Persistently Infected

of a qualified vet, it is also a potentially time

Dr Stoop also warns that it is wrong to believe

cow will be BVD positive. Testing new-born calves

consuming process and one which, unlike tissue

that blood testing all adult cows will provide

is therefore a sure-fire way of understanding the

sampling which can be done at birth, has to be done

conclusive proof that the herd is BVD free. “Cows

disease status of both mother and progeny.

later in the animal’s life. This alone means that by

which have developed antibodies could give a

the time the blood samples have been taken and

negative test result for the virus and appear to

“By tissue sample testing every new-born calf at

analysed, the carrier could already be spreading the

be BVD free,” she explains. “It only takes one of

birth as part of the routine tagging process it is

disease throughout the herd.”

these ‘Trojan Horses’ to give birth to a PI calf for the entire herd to be exposed to the disease.”

possible to understand the disease status of the majority of the farm’s breeding stock. However,

Blood sampling also carries the risk of cross-

the only way to determine the disease status of

infection and introduces the risk of administrative

Dr Stoop also advises against relying on

heifers which are yet to have a calf, or cows that

errors being made. “No system can ever be 100%

vaccination alone as a means of eradicating BVD.

have aborted or produced stillborn calves is to test

fool-proof, but TST tags, which use a unique bar

“Vaccination is a useful tool for adding an extra

the mature animal, which can also be done using a

code for each ear tag and its corresponding tissue

level of protection to a herd which is known to

variant of the Tissue Sampling Tag.”

sample, remove the potential for samples to be

be BVD-free, but it cannot cure the disease in

mixed up and for test results to be attributed to the

animals which are already infected. Maintaining

wrong animal.

tight biosecurity protocols such as testing all

Dr Stoop prefers the use of TSTs over blood

bought-in animals, preventing contact with

sampling for BVD testing due to the risks and costs associated with drawing blood: “Relying on blood

“Tissue sample testing is done by the farmer as he

neighbouring cattle and screening all youngstock

sampling alone is a risky strategy,” she says. “Not

or she tags the calf immediately after each calf is

is therefore the only reliable way of eliminating

only is it relatively costly and reliant on the services

born as part of the routine tagging process.”

the disease.”

“Testing for BVD is easy.

Simply choose a TST tag.”

Philip Jones, Lan Farm, Carmarthenshire

Many farmers still believe that testing for BVD is a difficult, time-consuming and expensive process. It’s not.

Choose the Allflex TST (Tissue Sampling Tag) range, and every time you apply a tag to an animal in your herd, you’ll be testing for BVD. No need to change your tagging methods, your applicator or your processes, just your tag.

And with a TST tag costing little more than our standard tags; it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Contact your local agricultural merchant or

call our customer team on 0845 600 9070 THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

45

Molasse

...a ru ADVERTORIAL

MOLASSE

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MOLASSES MOLASSES BLENDS BLENDSTHE THE PERFECT PERFECT GRAZING GRAZING SUPPLEMENT

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“Found in cane shown to meaning moregrass grasswill willbe beconsumed consumed andmolasses, animalsthey willare use more efficiently. efficiently. boost fibre digestion more effectively than other sugar sources, leading to better use ofmost forage and fewer energy undigested particles inboost the dung.

Adding a high sugar “The totoboost forage digestion isis “The mosteffective effective energysource source forage digestion 6-Carbon sugars as Richard Dobson explains.

6-Carbon sugars such assucrose,” sucrose,” Richard Dobson explains. molasses blend suchsuch as Stockmol 20 to beef diets, have been shown to increase “Found inincane molasses, “Found cane molasses,they theyare areshown showntotoboost boostfibre fibredigestion digestion fibre digestion by 10%.” moreeffectively effectivelythan thanother othersugar sugarsources, sources,leading leadingtotobetter betteruse useofof more forage andfewer fewer undigested particlesininthe thedung. dung.Adding Addingaahigh high forage and undigested particles THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE 46 sugarmolasses molassesblend blendsuch suchas asStockmol Stockmol20 20totobeef beefdiets, diets,have have sugar beenshown showntotoincrease increasefibre fibredigestion digestionbyby10%.”

10%.” been

effectiveness effectivenessof ofsupplementation.” supplementation.”

Fre to increase fibre digestion

Magnesium can be added to any of ED&F Man’s range of liquid feeds from 1% to 3.5% ephone Magnesium can be added to of Man’s range of liquid Magnesium canrate beand added to any anyfarm of ED&F ED&F Man’sNot range www.edfma depending on feeding local specific circumstances. only can molasses feeds from depending on rate and local feedsimprove from1% 1%to toat3.5% 3.5% depending on feeding feeding rateLick and blends growth grass, they are also simple to feed using Feeders.

specific specificfarm farmcircumstances. circumstances.

Not Notonly onlycan canmolasses molasses blends blends improve improve growth growth at at grass, grass, they are also alsosimple simpleto tofeed feed using using Lick Lick Feeders.

Feeders.

FOR FORMORE MOREINFORMATION INFORMATION CONTACT: CONTACT: Richard RichardDobson Dobson

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SPRING 2018

es based liqu id feeds

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH COMPETITION

unaHARPER way sucADAMS cess UNIVERSITY

FEED PROJECT

Sponsored by the South Devon Herd Book Society, Harper Adams University is currently running a feed project to evaluate the replacement of concentrates with a high energy forage.

With the help of the Society, a group of 34 steers

molasses and minerals containing approximately

The trial

born in Spring 2017 were sourced in the autumn

36 starch in the dry matter and fed via hoppers.

will run into the

from W J Wright & Sons’ Oxey herd in Tilton-

es blends to be ef on growth rate s to better return s.

on-the-Hill, Leicestershire. The herd has a high

2. Maize Silage + Cereals: TMR (formulated to

early

health status and is Breedplan performance

contain 150g CP/kg DM) based on 50% good

summer

recorded and predominantly uses top 10% index

quality maize silage on a DM basis with 50%

months,

or better sires.

DM from concentrates formulated from rolled

and

barley, soyabean meal, distiller dark grains and

already there is a difference in cattle performance

minerals.

between the two diets.

The cattle are weighed monthly, with an average

Simon Marsh, Principal Lecturer and Beef Cattle

start weight of 378kg at the end of November.

Specialist at Harper Adams commented, “I’m very

The steers have been allocated by liveweight and sire to one of two experimental finishing treatments which are fed ad lib:

mise fora1.

Three months later they averaged 502kg at 13% crude protein (150g CP/kg DM) geCereals: use, the rumen bugs also require egradableconcentrates a protein. Pr based on rolled barley, sugar su pp ly of approximately 11 months old, having recorded a oven regulate olasses blends d release te chnology DLWG over 85 days of 1.46 kg. delivsoyabean beet pulp, meal, distiller dark grains, er the idea l balance of su e protein to m gar energy an aximise rumen d function. lasses blends are highly pala table, improvin g intakes of th e Regupro 38 an d Regupro 50 are highly pala ased feeds, ric table, molasse h in protein de s signed to get orages. At eith the most from er 38% or 50% crude protein ey are design and high in M ed to complem E, ent rations co age, whole cr ntaining grass op, maize sila ge and straw-base rrecting both en d rations, ergy and degr adable protein imbalances. ding molasse s blends to di ets will improv ages and allow e the use of more rumen fri endly diets to be developed. upplies a rang e of products fo rm ul ated to help and returns in improve beef finishing units and desi wide range of gned to fit systems.

pleased with the performance of the South Devons, especially since they are steers and not young bulls.

Our target is a 350kg carcase at 14-15 months old.”

E INFORMAT ION CONTAC T:

bson

ton

ord atley

07764 344716

07717 341425

07767 873748 07710 075824

e: 0800 389845 0 anliquidprod uctsuk.com

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

47

Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER

Q&A

WITH A BEEF FARMER...

ANDREW MYLIUS VISITS JOHN HAMILTON AT THURSTON MAINS DUNBAR, EAST LOTHIAN

I first met John Hamilton seven years ago, when he

As you will see when we go round, we have built a new

This is equivalent to 10p premium as 4H is payed the

phoned me to see if I had a Lincoln Red Bull for sale.

cattle shed , 300 ft long by 70ft wide. This has enabled

same as 4L. Most Lincoln Reds grade R grades with a few

John drove up to St Fort the next day to inspect one of

us, along with our other facilities to run 450 Cows

U,s. We are sending around 45 to 50 Lincoln Red cross

St Fort Guv,nors sons. I explained that he was already

finishing all the progeny. Not all, but as I said a good

steers and some heifers to Duffs at the moment. As you

entered for the sale at Newark Bull Sales, so if he

proportion of these cows now have Lincoln Red in their

can see we also have LR X Simms and Simms X Lincoln.

wanted him he would have to bid at the sale.

genetics. This year we put 100 Simmental heifers to the

There are some ¾ and 7/8n Simm steers as well.

John said that he would, and a week or so later put in

Lincoln Red and actually we used a Red Angus Bull on 35

They certainly are a very even and well fleshed group.

a telephone bid to secure his first Lincoln Red bull, St

Lincoln Red X Simmental heifers.

I can see you have a feeder Wagon, so what goes into

Fort Muskateer.

How do you actually manage to do this ?

it ?

Well, because we have extensive fields we can put 80

I mentioned earlier that with the Lincoln Red genetics

I recall that 10 years ago you had established a herd

to 100 heifers out with 2 to 3 Lincoln Red Bulls and this

and their superior hardiness we are able to leave the

of around 250 suckler cows, so what breed were these

seems to work very well. Anyway Andrew, I think we

cows and heifers out on the hill for longer in early winter;

and have there been many changes ?

should go up the hill and take a look around.

so once these steers have gone to market, the cows will

Going back to those days we were using Simmental/

Before we set off John I forgot to ask you what age you

come inside and we give them a simple ration of silage

Shorthorn and Shorthorn/Simmental cows, which were

are calving the Lincoln x Simmental heifers .

and straw, by the way the in calf heifers get the same.

put to a Simmental Bull. However our aim was to breed

We aim to calve them at 2 years old and it is sometimes

The steers or “fatterners” as we call them are fed silage,

a type of cow with Traditional Native characteristics,

the case that calving them at that age can slow their

home grown barley, wheat with maize gluten.

smaller than a Simmental and which would be easy

growth, but actually we don’t mind as we are aiming

By the way I forgot to ask you what age the steers

fleshing, easy calving and also tough so we could leave

to get a cross cow that is a little smaller than a pure

leave the farm at ?

them out longer in the back end before bringing them

Simmental.

Mostly about 17 to 20 months, and we aim for 350 kg

inside. We used a variety of breeds including Shorthorns

carcass weight for the Lincoln Reds and 380 – 400kg for

and Luing .

From Thurston Mains we leave the yard and head up the

the Simmental crosses..

Your first Lincoln Red bull certainly seemed to have

floor of a valley with steep sides, a trickle of water runs

The Lincoln Red is a maternal breed and we are very

left a good impression, were there other breeds you

down the centre of a wide dry stony river bed on our

keen to preserve these traits in our own herd. We

considered.

right. After half a mile we come to a holding pen where

are doing this by going back to some early genetics

Yes we looked at Sussex and Red Devons and tried a

oldest son James is about to load Blackface Tup lambs for

such as Original Population bulls, in order not to lose

Hereford, but we discounted the South Devon as being

market onto an artic cattle float. We run a large flock of

good milking traits in the females. Was this a factor

too large, and another thing was that because of TB in

Blackface sheep as well as a flock of Scottish Mules John

in your mind when you opted to use Lincoln Reds on

parts of England we certainly did not want to be using

explains and adds - before you leave I will show you a

your cows?

breeds from that part of the UK. Also we felt the gene

group of Tup lambs heading for the Stirling and Lanark

Very much so. The Simmental is already a milky breed

pool of these smaller breeds might make it difficult to

Ram sales. they are further up the hill. They are our

but the Lincoln Red adds to this and when we have a look

buy unrelated bulls, however our first Lincoln Red Bull

”Aikengall” Flock he explains. Leaving the sheep behind

at some Lincoln x Simmental heifers with new calves at

produced the cross we were looking for and he paved

we start climbing steeply in the pickup and after another

foot shortly you will see for yourself how well the calves

the way for the Lincolns that followed. We still use a

half mile arrive at the new Cattle yard. John explains

are doing.

Simmental bull on some the pure Simmental cows to

that they built it high up so as to get good ventilation, he

breed some replacements and to put back onto the

said that they had a pneumonia problem with sheds in

We set off from the cattle shed in the pickup and

Lincoln Red Cross cows.

the past in the lower valley.

plunge down a rough track and up the other side of

The Lincoln Red Cattle Society promotes the breed

the valley and emerge onto the high grass land where

as being easy calving and docile. Has this claim been

I have seen pictures in the farming press of this shed,

spring born calves, sired by a Lincoln Red are already

met in your experience ?

tell me more about it.

showing excellent growth and quality. In another field

Very much so, we now think the Simmental cross Lincoln

We decided to install the cattle on slats so both sides

with the Bass Rock in the distance are Lincoln Red X

Red, and for that matter the Lincoln Red cross Simmental

have one slurry holding tank each, which we empty

Simmental cows with very well grown Simmental sired

is just about the ideal suckler as far as we are concerned.

twice a year. The scraper passage is automatic as are the

calves at Foot.

There is absolutely no doubt that the Lincolns docility is

drinking tubes ( as opposed to water troughs) . As you

passed on to their offspring and this in turn helps when

can see both sides are more or less full with steers ready

Looking at these lovely cows with tremendous

the bulls are or rather steers are finished inside. They

to go for sale. We sell the LRx steers and some Simmx

calves at foot I am truly impressed with what you

flesh up so well on the simple diet too.

heifers to P R Duff in Wishaw. They are selling the beef

have achieved with your herd. The fact that our

So what numbers of cattle are you now carrying here

mainly to London outlets and are marketed under the

bulls are part of your story makes it so interesting.

at Thurston?

MacDuff brand. We get 5p/Kg premium on an H grade.

We have sold Lincoln Bulls to other commercial

48 18

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

WINTER SPRING 2017 2018

Q&A WITH A BEEF FARMER herds, but there is a

Talking of the UK, I and probably all Scottish

problem in that the Lincoln Red Cattle Society is

producers are concerned that the Scottish

not promoting enough sales of bulls in the North

Government are making a huge fuss about Brexit

of the UK. Lincoln Red Breeders must extend their

regulations and demanding to have their own rules

horizons to make the most of these opportunities to

on everything. Do you agree that in order actually

supply bulls to the commercial farms.

remain in business we need a common set of rules

You are quite right Andrew, we like to source our

and regulations across all four parts of the UK.

bulls as close as possible and from disease free areas.

Vital, when you think of animal health, transport,

The north of England and Scotland is where the big

BCMS and so on it really is so important to have a

commercial herds are and it would be good to see

single set of rules. Maybe we as farmers should do

more Lincoln Bulls at Sales.

more to lobby our Politicians on these issues.

Your sons, James , Charles and Harry are fully

the way, before we set off back down, I have got

involved with your farming enterprise, do they

one more thing to show you, the group of Blackface

think along the same lines as you, especially with

Rams, about to go to Stirling and Lanark Sales.

By

using Lincoln Reds and is this a trend that will continue?

We used to have a flock of NC Cheviots at St Fort,

They can all see the results, and their interest is as

so my eye is not really geared up to judge Blackface

strong as mine so yes we can see Lincoln Reds playing

Tups, although at a glance I could see they were a very

a part for years to come. What we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want is

even group and could do well. They were certainly

anything with Limousin blood lines in their breeding;

well presented and ready for the breeding sales. I did

this can result in a flighty type of animal down the

not count how many Tups there were, about 12 or so.

line.

Anyway Johns final words were he would be spending

Before we go back to the farm office, I must

everything they made on purchasing a new Tup or was

ask you about the Scottish Beef Expo at Fans in

it Tups ! at Stirling , Lanark or even Dalmally near

Berwickshire last May when you were on one of the

Oban.

ANDREW MYLIUS HAS BEEN BREEDING LINCOLN RED CATTLE ON THE FAMILY FARM AT ST FORT IN FIFE SINCE 1961.

NOW RUN AS A PARTNERSHIP WITH HIS WIFE HILARY AND ELDEST SON CASPAR, THE CURRENT HERD CONSISTS OF 90 ODD BREEDING LINCOLN RED FEMALES AND A HERD OF 90 PEDIGREE ABERDEEN ANGUS. ST FORT EXPORTED LIVE BULLS TO ARGENTINA IN THE LATE 1970,S AND HAS RECENTLY EXPORTED LINCOLN RED EMBRYOS TO BRAZIL AND SEMEN TO USA , CANADA

AND AUSTRALIA.

seminar panels. One of the main topics you spoke about was the need to introduce the new carcass

As we return to the farm, I reflect on how the Herd at

grading system into the UK.

Thurston and developed. They have created the ideal

this possible is so important for Pedigree Lincoln Red

It is frustrating that not much is moving on this, but it

suckler cow for this terrain, their progeny are hitting

breeders to help find new and additional outlets for

really is vital to grasp the opportunity to improve the

top grades and supplying a UK wide market for top

their bulls. Make no mistake the cross the other way

way we grade, so that tenderness and eating quality

quality beef, all on a modest feeding regime. What

round, where you put a Simmental Bull onto Lincoln

are rewarded. There is also a measureable trait for

John and his family have established is not the first

Red females works well too as John has demonstrated

docility which can be included into EBV,s. These are

time Lincolns have been crossed with Simmentals,

so well.

things which need to be part of the beef industries

but on this scale it really is a benchmark. This a

production values. If we are to compete against

great cross to giving traditional qualities in a slightly

I would recommend all Lincoln Red Breeders should

imported beef which might meet these criteria we

smaller framed cow, ideal for the current and future

pay Thurston Mains a visit and I know that John and

need to get going in the UK.

beef trade. The fact that the Lincoln Red has made

his family would give them a warm welcome.

LI NC O LN RE D C AT T LE S O C IE TY SEE YOU AT BEEF EXPO ON 25TH MAY 2018 TM

LOW INPUT QUALITY OUTPUT GO NATIVE FOR PROFIT

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER SHOWS AS LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE

Lincoln Reds are Polled; hardy; docile; calve easily; cross well; have strong maternal instincts and are suitable for finishing extensively or intensively; producing marbled; flavoursome; succulent beef

For more information and news: www.lincolnredcattlesociety.co.uk

Tel: 01522 511395

WINTER SPRING 2017 2018

49 19 11

BEEF BREED DIRECTORY

BEEF BREED

DIRECTORY CROSS INTO PROFIT

CATTLE SOCIETY

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

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

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THE GREAT BRITISH BEEF BREED

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

50

British Bazadaise Cattle Society 01666 860470 enquiry@bazadaise.co.uk

SETTING THE STANDARD

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09/04/2018 10:17:28

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

Tel: 01250 872897

secretary@luingcattlesociety.co.uk

www.redrubydevon.co.uk

Station Road, Robertsbridge East Sussex TN32 5DG

www.sussexcattlesociety.org.uk

BREED SECRETARY UNA MACQUEEN

Get connected www.charolais.co.uk

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Part of Farming's Future

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SPRING 2018 Simmental Breed Directory Ad_34x68mm_01_17.indd 24/01/2017 11:04 1

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH BEEF BREED DIRECTORY

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

THE BRITISH PIEMONTESE CATTLE SOCIETY LTD

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

0845 017 1027

secretary@longhorncattlesociety.com

33 EDEN GRANGE, LITTLE CORBY CARLISLE CA4 8QW

Easy calving with quick to suckle calves Very fertile males and females Long living hardy animals Low vet bills Excellent foragers Milky females producing fast growing calves Readily crossed to a ‘terminal sire’ breed

LOOKING FOR PIEMONTESE CONTACT CRAIG MATKIN TEL: 07876 613221 TEL: 01773 550346

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ALL OTHER ENQUIRIES TO CRAIG CULLEY TEL: 01228 562 946

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CORPORATE MEMBERS AB AGRI Limited www.abagri.com

Craven Cattle Marts Limited www.ccmauctions.com

Agri-Lloyd International Limited www.agrilloyd.com

David Ritchie (Implements) Ltd www.ritchie-uk.com

Agrimin Limited www.agrimin.co.uk

Frome Livestock Auctioneers Ltd www.fromelivestock.com

Sell My Livestock www.sellmylivestock.co.uk

AHDB Meat Services www.beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk

Harrison & Hetherington www.harrisonandhetherington.co.uk

Thirsk Farmers Auction Mart Ltd www.thirskmarket.co.uk

Alnorthumbria Veterinary Group www.alnorthumbriavets.co.uk

Hexham & Northern Marts www.hexhammart.co.uk

Tithebarn Limited www.tithebarn.co.uk

ANM Group Ltd www.anmgroup.co.uk

Louth Market Auctioneers www.louthmarket.co.uk

Trouw Nutrition GB www.trouwnutrition.co.uk

Beef Improvement Grouping Ltd www.bigbeef.co.uk

McCartneys www.mccartneys.co.uk

Tudor, Lawson, Dallimore & Parry www.dolgellauvets.co.uk

Berrystock Feeds www.berrystockfeeds.co.uk

Meadow Quality Ltd www.meadowq.co.uk

Welshpool Livestock Sales www.welshpoolsmithfield.co.uk

Bishopton Veterinary Group www.bishoptonvets.co.uk

Melton Mowbray Market www.meltonmowbraymarket.co.uk

Willand Group Ltd www.daniel-larn.squarespace.com

Boehringer Ingelheim www.boehringer-ingelheim.co.uk

Merial Animal Health Ltd www.merial.com

Wright Marshall Ltd www.wrightmarshall.co.uk

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

NWF Agriculture www.nwfagriculture.co.uk

Wynnstay Group Plc www.wynnstay.co.uk

Capper Trading Ltd www.cappertrading.com

Rumenco www.rumenco.co.uk

York Livestock Centre www.ylc.co.uk

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53

GIFT OF THE GAVEL

GIFT OF THE GAVEL

TED OGDEN CCM AUCTIONS - SKIPTON AUCTION MART

TED'S RAMBLINGS 2018 looks like being a major year in livestock farming and the related agricultural industries as we all continue to adapt and prepare for the future, whatever that may hold, and continually monitor the marketplace and change to suit its needs.

Apart from the first few weeks of the New Year, we

could mean a larger supply of steer beef in coming

left out there will continue to enjoy strong prices.

have thankfully again seen some improvement in

months, however at Skipton we have probably

All businesses need to invest for the future, and

the livestock prices from those seen during stages

bucked that industry statistic with young feeding

Skipton is no different to any other as we always

of 2017 in each sector we offer sales in and store

bull numbers in 2017 taking a slight rise on the

try to improve our facilities and the offering for

stock especially is one sector that has generally

year and a £55 per head rise in average value

customers and visitors to the Mart. For 2018, two

entered 2018 with a spring in its step and re-

too, underlining the strength of the section. This

further major developments will be taking place,

newed confidence, no doubt helped by the trade

statistic has been replicated in very similar fashion

one of them reflecting the increased numbers

for prime cattle remaining nicely above levels seen

in the Store Cattle section too with slight rises in

of cattle presented at the Wednesday sales as

12 months earlier, maintaining a gap of around

numbers sold and a useful rise in average values

discussed earlier, with the installation of a brand

10p above 2016 and early 2017. It’s good to see a

alongside the now well established section for Beef

new double sided cattle lotting race in Spring 2018

flourishing market at Skipton for prime cattle on a

sired feeding cows which assists the store cattle

to improve the speed at which cattle are processed

Monday, which now stands alongside the market

producer in selling any cull stock on the same day

on arrival to the mart, whilst also improving safety

leading sales of prime sheep, with retail quality

as his stores. Cull Cow values continue to rise

around this area, by featuring none return gates

heifers and steers selling in nice numbers every

and unlike clean cattle values, they didn’t see any

and self locking head yokes. In addition to this

week to a strong crowd of buyers. It has added a

easing of Price during January.

improvement we have just completed a brand new sale ring complex encompassing new rings, one

dimension to the weekly market in that it gives local producers a visual feedback of what the

Old Season Lamb trade during March and into

for rearing calves, stirks and young store cattle,

modern retail butcher requires and this is useful

April has hit a whole new level, the like of which

alongside a new sheep ring for prime, breeding

information for the many vendors in the locality

has never been seen before so early in the season,

and pedigree sales. These levels of investments

who sell their store cattle at Skipton, on the types,

and there is no sign of it backing off either.

are needed to keep our businesses at the forefront

conformation and most importantly in the current

In the sheep sector there were some challenging

of what we as auctioneers collectively do within

marketplace, the weights that are more commonly

days in the autumn, we all believed there to be

the agricultural industry, making them modern

required nowadays.

more lambs on the ground, and early season

places to trade, comfortable places to trade,

numbers in Summer 2017 appeared to back

easy places to trade, staying at the forefront of

The cattle trade late in 2017 would be helped

this up, although towards the close of the year

technology and delivering this for our customers.

by the corresponding reduced slaughterings

slaughter figures were consistently lower than

Remember that markets are the lifeblood of many

at this time, and figures (AHDB 14th December

12 months previous all through the Autumn. The

rural areas and, as I have said before, auctions

2017) show large reductions across the board

reasons for this can vary each year, but certainly

are an integral part of livestock farming, they are

in November 2017 compared to November 2016

in the North of England weather conditions will

social, they are relevant, they are educational as to

of between 4% and 15%, whilst the year to date

have had an impact this time, and driven some

the current requirements of the market place, and

(ytd) figures give the overall story with clean

producers to sell via the store market, and so it will

most importantly they economically enact a quick

cattle some 1.5% less ytd, young bulls 11.0% less

be left to be seen how many are left on the ground

and guaranteed sale between willing seller and

ytd, but maybe most significantly cull cows 7.1%

to be marketed these next few months, but with

purchaser at any given moment in time. In the UK

less ytd with a tighter supply certainly helping.

lambing time weather atrocious new season lambs

we are lucky to have a livestock market system and

Some industry thinking is that less young bulls

will get a slow start and so any old season lambs

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