NBA Magazine Summer 2018 issue 8

SUMMER 2018 ISSUE 08

FOCUS ON RUMEN EFFICIENCY

FOR MORE PRODUCTION FROM GRASS THIS SUMMER

FORAGE IS THE FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS

GIVING A DAIRY BULL CALF A LIFE DISEASE REGISTER

PROVIDES VITAL FIRST STEP FOR GOING BVD-FREE

USING VACCINES

TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR BEEF HERD

REGIONAL ROUND-UPS

GUEST WRITER DAVID THOMLINSON

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

BEEF EXPO 2018 REVIEW HEALTH ISSUES

BREED SOCIETIES NEWS UPDATES

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CONTENTS

contents

SUMMER 2018

EDITOR Chris Mallon The National Beef Association Tanners House 20 Gilesgate Hexham NE46 3QD 01434 601005 chris@nationalbeefassociation.com DEPUTY EDITOR'S Rosie McGowan rosie@nationalbeefassociation.com

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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.

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NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE SUMMER 2018: Issue 8 NEXT ISSUE: AUTUMN 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.

26 REGULARS CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT GUEST WRITER: DAVID THOMLINSON NBA REGIONAL ROUND-UPS BREED SOCIETIES NEWS GUEST VET: LAUREN PORTEUS GIFT OF THE GAVEL: MATTHEW PROBERT

FEATURES

FOCUS ON RUMEN EFFICIENCY FOR MORE PRDUCTION FROM GRASS THIS SUMMER 10 NBA BEEF EXPO REVIEW 2018 19 NBA FARM TOUR PREVIEW 24 GIVING A DAIRY BULL CALF A LIFE 26 STRONG STORE CATTLE TRADE SEES BUYERS RETURNING TO LIVE SALES RING 28 BEEF MONITOR: MEASURING CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS ON THE HOOF 30 FORAGE IS THE FOUNDATION TO SUCCESS 32 USING VACCINES TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF YOUR BEEF HERD 34 DISEASE REGISTER PROVIDES VITAL FIRST STEP FOR GOING BVD FREE 36 ADDING VALUE & EFFICIENCY FROM LIMOUSIN BREED IMPROVMENT PLAN 40

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SUMMER 2018

03

CHAIRMAN'S WELCOME

BY DAVID THOMLINSON CHAIR OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

Welcome to the Summer issue of the NBA magazine, including the review of

EID Tag Reader

the 2018 Beef Expo. Over 5000 farmers attended the event, making it one of our most successful Expos to date.

With temperatures soaring and a lack of rainfall, this Summer has been a testing for the industry particularly after the bitterly cold Spring. Grass is burnt up, crops are light and there are reports of some farmers already feeding cattle. As I write this report, rain is finally being forecast, but we hope not too much!

In this issue we question the threat of fake meat, catch up with the winners of the Beef Farmer competition and preview the farm walk to SBA Vice Chairman Scot Henderson’s farm walk in August.

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All change at NBA HQ! We are delighted to announce

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that the NBA is expanding to pastures new. The office will be moving from Hexham Auction Market to: The National Beef Association, Tanners House, 20 Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD.

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All emails and telephone numbers will of course remain the same. The new

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£599 with Printer

office has several meeting rooms which will allow us to host more events, expand and raise the profile of our organisation. Please do pop in when you are passing through.

We are also pleased to announce that our graduate intern Katie Pearson, has been appointed as Marketing Executive. Katie has been a valuable addition to the team since she arrived, refreshing our image and throwing herself into the busy world of event organisation.

Her new role will include overseeing the Beef Expo 2019 as well as managing the marketing and media for the company.

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TO ADVERTISE IN OUR AUTUMN ISSUE PLEASE CONTACT TOM KINROY ON 07921728235 OR EMAIL nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

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DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: THURSDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018 05 NBA 90x270mm Half Page Advert Portrait August 2018 alpha products.indd 1

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11/07/2018 13:18:24

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S REPORT

CHIEF EXECUTIVE'S

REPORT

BY CHRIS MALLON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

A CALL FOR LEGISLATION ON THE LABELLING OF LAB-MEAT

Now, more than ever I am contacted by researchers, PHD students, general press and activist groups asking for my opinion on meat products grown in labs. It has become very clear that lab grown meat is a threat we cannot ignore.

I was contacted by an American company who

to antibiotic resistance. Their product is described

Reading reviews of ‘guilt-free’ burgers produced

claimed that fake meat improves food safety and

as ‘environmentally safe’ and ‘healthy’ for the

from animal tissues, it is clear that these products

human health which they called “clean” meat. The

consumer.

are not delivering the same eating experience as natural beef has to offer. Critics claim fake-meat

French government are already reacting to these claims by preventing non-slaughtered animal-

These claims, I believe are unfounded and untrue.

is not as juicy, or flavoursome as real beef and

based products been described as meat or beef.

Our abattoirs have some of the most stringent

the lack of natural fat negatively impacts the

The marketing strategies of companies investing

hygiene standards, our production facilities place

experience.

in laboratory produced beef are attempting to

heavy emphasis on consumer safety and our

dispute the safety and nutritional benefits of

supply chain is audited and inspected to ensure

The labelling and marketing of these products

meat from animals and fail to recognise the

these standards are robust.

will be crucial to how they are perceived by the consumer. I feel the UK must adopt a policy, in

importance of British farming systems managing the environment and landscape we have come to

Beef production in the UK has one of the lowest

which the definition ‘meat’ or ‘beef’ can only be

adore.

antibiotic usage of all meat derived proteins and

used to label a product if it is derived from a

we as an industry are working to highlight this

slaughtered animal.

UK retailers are in discussion with fake-meat

to the consumer more effectively. The common

companies and are being sold the perceived safety

misconception that cattle are major greenhouse

We as the industry must highlight that that these

advantages of their products, such as antibiotic

gas contributors is unfounded. Grazing cattle

products are produced industrially within labs are

free and pathogen free. Fake-meat companies have

in conjunction with various environments is a

not natural. They do not support rural communities

raised public health concerns about increased

sustainable model and an efficient, in particular,

and employment, manage the environment which

antibiotic resistance in animal production systems,

suckler cattle which have the ability to utilize

consumers enjoy and place an even larger wedge

with some even claiming that antibiotic use in

grazing and produce a high value, nutritional

between the modern day consumer and the natural

livestock is directly related to human deaths due

product.

environment.

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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SUMMER 2018

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018 2017

07

GUEST WRITER

DAVID THOMLISON GUEST WRITER

As I reflect on my years with the National Beef Association and six years as Chairman, I can truly say it has been a challenging yet rewarding experience. I have witnessed the industry go through some tough times and come out the other side and now, as I come to the end of my term, we are on the cusp of some of the biggest challenges and opportunities to date.

I have always said that the beef industry needs

robust evidence provided by Chris Mallon. The

Beef Expo event which now attracts over

to have an independent voice which is a gap

session was successful, ensuring that producers

5,000 beef farmers each year. The exceptional

that I feel the National Beef Association has

are not be forced to be price takers, and that

networking event brings together everyone from

successfully filled in recent years, proving its

trading practises such as changes in pricing grids

across this unique and close-knit industry to

value to the industry. I am delighted to have

must be carried out with due notice.

celebrate progress and innovation. I would also like to congratulate the NBA regions and SBA on

been able to see the NBA progress, gaining a deserved reputation for providing well founded

Another highlight has been our progress in the

the work they put in for their regional events,

opinions and evidence within Westminster and

fight to secure an agricultural ombudsman for

which are also vital in bringing together the

the devolved Governments.

the primary producer, something I feel is vital to

agricultural community.

ensure a fair-trading environment. Although the The NBA team, led by Chris Mallon, is now

fight is not won yet, the NBA will persevere, and

Looking to the future, there is no doubt that there

strong, enthusiastic and a pleasure to oversee.

I look forward to hearing of their progress in this

are challenging times ahead. Who knows what

I am pleased to see that it the NBA does have a

area.

Brexit will bring, but I do believe that if we can concentrate on continuing to produce a high-

voice and it does have influence. This was shown when representatives of the processing industry

Aside from policy, the NBA has grown from

quality product to exceptional health and welfare

were called to interview by the EFRA committee

strength to strength, hosting farm walks

standards, a job that we know and do extremely

to defend their lack of transparency, due to the

throughout the country and growing its annual

well, I can’t see how we can lose out.

The NBA would like to thank David for his service to the NBA, providing stability and a sound voice of reason over the years. He will be greatly missed as he steps down from his position as Chairman, but we are sure it isn’t the end of his involvement with the NBA!

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SUMMER 2018 ISSUE 08

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FOCUS ON FOR MORE PROD RUMEN EFFICIENCY UCTION FROM GRASS THIS SUMM ER GIVING A DAIRY BULL CALF A LIFE DISEASE REG PROVIDES VITA ISTER L FIRST STEP FOR

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BEEF EXPO 2018 REVIEW

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NEWS & INDUSTRY

UPDATES

HEALTH

ISSUES

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SUMMER 2018

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SPONSORED FEATURE

FOCUS ON RUMEN EFFICIENCY FOR MORE PRODUCTION FROM GRASS THIS SUMMER For those looking to improve margins this summer, extracting the greatest possible value and production from grazed grass needs to be a top priority. And according to AB Vista nutritionist Martin McConnell, the key is to ensure rumen microbes are working to digest the fibre in that forage as effectively as possible.

“Grass is by far the cheapest source of nutrients available to any beef producer, yet too often the

Table 1 - Rising energy requirements of 350 kg LW steer as growth rate increases

need to supplement that nutrient supply in order

Daily liveweight gain (kg/day)

Energy requirement (MJ ME/day)

Extra energy required (MJ ME/day)

for cattle to effectively capture and utilise it gets

0

44

-

0.5

61

+17

“The result is significant waste as nutrients pass

1.0

80

+19

through cattle unused, leading to an increase

1.5

105

+25

overlooked,” he states.

in the cost per unit of the nutrients overall, and lower performance than could potentially have

the energy required, but the step up for each

feeds high in digestible fibre in any supplement,

been achieved.”

additional 0.5 kg of LWG (due to the extra fat

such as sugar beet feed or soya hulls, to help

laid down) is often not fully appreciated (see

balance the energy supply.

AVOIDING LOST PROFITS

Table 1). It’s also worth bearing in mind that

Despite limited supplementation – or none at

with zero growth a 350 kg steer requires 44

“A high quality slow-release rumen conditioner

all – resulting in less outlay on feed, the impact

MJ ME/day, compared to a typical grass energy

such as Acid Buf will reduce the risk of SARA,

is actually a reduction in margins per head and

intake at this time of the year that can be as

particularly if high levels of cereals are fed, whilst

overall unit profitability. The key to avoiding

high as 90 MJ ME/day or as low as 40 MJ ME/day

a live yeast like Vistacell will further improve

this loss is to understand not only the value

, depending on grass quality and availability, as

fermentation efficiency by optimising rumen

that grazed grass offers as a feed, but also its

well as weather and ground conditions.

conditions. In fact, research has shown that using

limitations.

a live yeast and rumen conditioner together, rather “Wherever possible, avoid the temptation to

than either on its own, can produce significant

“Perhaps the biggest challenge when cattle

make up the energy deficit by only feeding rolled improvements in rumen function and feed

are grazing is maintaining high enough energy

cereals or high-starch potato or cereal-based

intakes, and that’s a function of both grass energy

co-products. You might solve the energy problem

levels and dry matter intake (DMI),” Mr McConnell

but it’ll likely be at the expense of causing issues Blends are definitely worth considering as an easy

explains. “As the season progresses, both get

such as sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA).”

lower due to grass containing a higher proportion

efficiency.”

way to incorporate these ingredients into a single feed. Including the live yeast and conditioner

of stem material, and a reduction in the daylight

Supplying that extra feed in a way that

might add 6p/head/day to the cost, but the feed

hours available for grazing.

minimises the risk of SARA – and low rumen

efficiency and growth returns can be worth up to

pH in general – is essential if the breakdown

six times that.

“Even by early summer, it’s almost impossible to

and utilisation of grass in the rumen is to be

keep energy intakes at the level required to hit

optimised.

typical liveweight gain targets (LWG) targets of 1.0-1.5 kg/day without supplementation.”

“The improvement might not be obvious straight away, but by the end of the summer you’ll

OPTIMISING THE RUMEN

definitely notice a clear difference. With cattle

“Fibre digestion and fermentation efficiency are

heavier and in better condition, whether finishing

UNDERSTANDING ENERGY REQUIREMENTS

both compromised any time rumen pH drops below off grass or heading into winter housing, it’ll be

The higher the growth rate target, the greater

5.8,” Mr McConnell continues. “So ideally include

10

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

absolutely apparent where that investment’s gone.”

SUMMER 2018

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By considering strain selection and physical form, Vistacell ensures the highest delivery of live yeast to the rumen to maximise performance and reduce the negative effects of acidosis.

Yeast technology powering performance THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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SPONSORED FEATURE

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Trials show that when fed Crystalyx the nutritional value of forages is increased, leading to improved animal performance. Animals have to lick the product providing a regular supply of highly fermentable sugars to the rumen; this increases the number of rumen bugs leading to an increased rate of digestion of cellulose (+10%) and increased dry matter intake (+13%). scussion was had regarding the NBA's role in the current complex and demanding political.

HOW CAN CRYSTALYX CATTLE BOOSTER HELP THIS SUMMER? Numerous independent research studies have confirmed that: • Heifers gain weight faster when supplemented with Crystalyx Cattle Booster – even when on spring/early summer grass (Newcastle University & Aberystwyth University study data) • Heifers supplemented with Cattle Booster at grass grow faster, but are leaner (lower BCS) than equivalent control heifers on grass alone (SAC study data) • Bulling heifers fed Cattle Booster for a full grazing season (175 days) gained 37kg more than control heifers on grass alone (German study data) • Bulling heifers fed Cattle Booster at grass had higher conception and pregnancy rates (up to 15% higher) than control heifers on grass alone (92% vs 80%, German study data)

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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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

SOUTH WEST

HOTTING UP FOR THIS YEAR’S AGRIFEST SOUTH WEST

With the summer show season well under way and temperatures’ of 28 degrees, November might feel a long way off, but plans for this year’s Agrifest South West are in full swing. Organised by The NBA South West, this specialist one day event showcasing Quality Beef & Lamb production from Field to Fork will return to Westpoint Exeter on Wednesday 7th November, kick starting the primestock showing circuit. “The introduction of prime lamb classes last year was a huge success, so much so we are introducing more classes in this year’s Schedule “said Vicky Smith, secretary. Judging the prime lambs will be Chris Wright from A Wright & Son, Lincolnshire.

Proving the event provides the perfect grounding for pedigree calves Silvermere Narnia made her showing debut at last year’s event. She has since made the long journey from Cornwall to Scotland to claim the Reserve Junior Charolais Championship at the Royal Highland Show. Congratulations to her owner and breeder Michelle Hanson. Judge for The Pedigree Calves and Young Bull of the Year will be Clive Roads, Worcester. Royal Smithfield Trophies will again be presented to the Champion primestock animal and the Champion pair of lambs.

Closing date for Breed Society & Trade stand bookings is 30th September. Internal spaces are limited so early booking is advisable. Bookings can be made through and more information found on the event website www.agrifestsouthwest.co.uk, or Facebook @agrifestsouthwest. Primestock schedules will be out at the end of July, it will also be possible to enter via the website or contact Vicky Smith by emailing info@agrifestsouthwest.co.uk if you would like a schedule. “The committee would like to thank all event sponsors and supporters, without them it would not be possible to stage such an event. The South West region of the NBA held their AGM in April and were pleased to welcome NBA Director Chris Mallon. A full and frank discussion was had regarding the NBA,s role in the current complex and demanding political situation. Members raised issues concerning our future export potential, on going issues surrounding TB, concerns over the delivery

of stewardship schemes and fair competition in the beef supply chain, these issues were taken on board by the director and we look forward to seeing our views represented in the near future. An election of officers took place with the following results. The region resolved to keep working on the key issues of marketing under the Westcountry Beef PGI under the leadership of Robert Venner, continuing the fight against TB with many council members involved and the ongoing issues surrounding Brexit being led by David Andrews. We look forward to bringing everything together at our annual Agrifest Event at Westpoint Exeter in November, details from event organiser Vicki Smith.

SCOTLAND Having got through a horrendous winter with a shortage of feed after a horrendous summer Scotland's beef farmers are now facing another crisis.

This time due to a horrendous drought. The cost of hay has been driven up by more than £20 a ton as panic buying sets in and the prospect of scarcity of feeding for next winter has become a reality. Even on the west coast we have made silage with ease in glorious sunshine for the first time in many years only to find ourselves well down in quantity. All very well waiting to see if the crop will bulk up when the inevitable rain finally comes, but when it does it probably wont stop again and anyway the limited arable ground in this part of the country is needing for grazing as soon as possible. In most other parts of Scotland the story is similar. So much for the weather and certainly not the only uncertainty in the industry just now. Things are slowly becoming clearer regarding Brexit and the SBA will continue to have regular meetings with other industry leaders and the Scottish Government as things unravel. Once again the SBA sponsored 2 classes at the Royal Highland show. We also held our AGM followed by our usual reception in Johnny Walker seeds stand to whom we are again very grateful. I have agreed to stay on as chairman for one more year with David Barron as vice chair. David will have an important role to play this year as he is also chairing the organising committee for our Beef Event at North Bethelnie Farm, Old Meldrum next May. The SBA SUMMER 2018

NORTHERN IRELAND The NI NBA region is holding its AGM this Tuesday, to reallocate responsibilities and discuss developments in Westminster, with Chris Mallon updating members on the NBA's progress in influencing government across the waters. The NI committee feel that the present Brexit discussions highlight the need for a NI assembly to reconvene and put forward policies for future farm support in the post Brexit world of March 2019 and beyond. Northern Ireland like any other region needs support towards suckler cows to maintain numbers and the viability of the beef processing industry in the country, and NI beef farmers must have their needs represented. The NI committee feel that support must be targeted towards health, animal welfare and futureproofing the industry.

NORTHERN The NBA Northern Region where pleased to host Laura and Jacob, from the DEFRA Bovine team on a day of visits across Northumberland. The NBA members visited had the chance to voice their opinions on the implementation of EID and what it would mean for suckler farmers. Discussions covered the removal of paper passports, ease of movements, relaxation of the 6-day standstill and the phase in period required.

We would like to thank the four exceptional host, Bevis Jordan at Mains Rigg Farm, Whitfield, Willie Walton at Penpeugh, the Gibson family at Thornton Towers and Thomas and Nicholas Oliver at Cawfields Farm for their kind hospitality.

A FESTIVAL WEDNESDAY OF BRITISH 7TH NOVEMBER 2017 AGRICULTURE 8.30AM TO 5PM

R

www.agrifestsouthwest.co.uk info@agrifestsouthwest.co.uk ORGANISED BY THE NBA SOUTH WEST

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SPRING 2018

23

NBA BEEF NBA REGIONAL EXPO 2018ROUND-UPS PREVIEW

expect to co-opt new board members during the course of the year. Scott Henderson will have to step down as our representative on the NBA Board after serving three years and we will be announcing a replacement for him in the next few weeks. The SBA recognise the importance of this position at this time as what Scotland requires to have a successful Beef industry are clearly different to the rest of the UK. DEFRA appear to be happy to continue with an area based support scheme south of the border.

Quite frankly if that was to continue in Scotland it could spell the end beef production in this country. Income and cattle numbers continue to fall and while everyone will have their own opinion of the reasons I for one have no doubt where the main culprit lies. Vast sums of support money going to tens of thousands of acres which are producing nothing. That money is NOT coming back into the rural economy and not giving the public any so called : public goods for public money: Scotland needs to change and quickly to give young people the incentive to come into farming and have ground available for them to farm. I am meeting with the NFU and The Scottish meat Wholesalers next week to discuss this with them. So, plenty going on but the most important thing in the short term is to get some moisture on the rock hard ground and I never thought I would hear myself say that again.

Finally could I just give all fellow farmers a reminder about safety on the farm. The death of a near neighbour and very close friend on a quad bike while gathering a hill has shocked everyone in our area and the west of Scotland. The loss of an excellent farmer and a wonderful person should act as a reminder to everyone to guard against complacency and never take anything for granted.

BREED SOCIETY NEWS

BREED SOCIETIES NEWS

LONGHORN CATTLE SOCIETY

The Longhorn Cattle Society had its National Show at the Royal Three Counties Show, Malvern on 15 June. Judge Peter Close had his work cut out with some big classes full of quality exhibits and finally found his Breed Champion in the homebred two year old bull Southfield Qnard from David and Angela Blockley from Drighlington, Nr Bradford and his Reserve Breed Champion was the two year old heifer Gentons Q, a homebred heifer from Bertie Facon, Banbury, Oxon.

LIMOUSIN CATTLE SOCIETY

A formative part of its commitment to long term breed improvement, 2017 saw a further £62,715 paid back to British Limousin breeders in pedigree refunds through the year. A long standing incentive, the monies-back-initiative affords breeders the opportunity to assess the quality of the pedigree cattle they have registered up to the age of 450 days. If at that time the breeder chooses to de-register the animal from the herdbook, a flat rate refund of £20+VAT per animal is returned.

Since its establishment a mighty £894,000 has now been returned to breeders in all. Commenting, BLCS Chief Executive Iain Kerr said: “It’s been a significant financial commitment by the Society but one that continues to help drive breed improvement within the herdbook. Through its stated Breed Improvement Plan the Society is working hard to provide breeders with the tools and technologies to breed efficient, market-relevant cattle that deliver on performance and profitability. This incentive sits well with that and continues to encourage breeders to be selective with their animals at a young age and focus on quality.”

On the topic of quality, on Saturday 5th May at Borderway Mart, Carlisle some special donated lots were auctioned prior to the British Limouisn Cattle Society Bull Sale to help raise funds for the NI Children’s Hospice. Leading the way amidst some warm and spirited bidding was a frozen embryo which sold for a magnificent 8000gns and in so doing set a new UK all-breeds record.

The grade A embryo, donated to the fundraising effort by Robert and Jean Graham who run the Grahams Limousin herd at Bridge Of Allan, Stirling, is the only embryo ever to have been offered for sale from the mating of Grahams Coffee and Claragh Franco. This mating needed no introduction to the ringside audience; the successful combination has already produced multiple show winners and sale toppers. A total of five cattle this way bred have grossed 146,500gns. The buyer managed to secure the best of breeding right from the heart of the Grahams herd.

In addition to the embryo from the Grahams, others were donated by AW Jenkinson, Whinfellpark herd, Penrith, Cumbria and Henry Savage and Sons who run the Trueman Limousin herd at Newry, Co Down, Northern Ireland. In total the fundraising, spearheaded by the Northern Ireland Limousin Breeders Club, has raised an astonishing £22,000 for a very worthwhile cause.

WAGYU BREEDERS' SOCIETY 13,000GNS TOPS INAUGURAL WAGYU SALE

The first official Collective Wagyu sale in the UK saw a top price of 13,000gns and a good trade for live animals, semen and embryos. Hexham & Northern Marts (HNM) teamed up with the Wagyu Breeders Association (WBA) on Saturday 30th June at the Tynedale Farmers Suite, Hexham, to present one of the UK’s first ‘virtual’ sales without animals present, with purchasers able to buy either in person or online. Heading the trade at 13,000gns for Delta Wagyu, High Warrendale Farm, Warter, York was a Buyers Choice Lot of one of three 2015-born Fullblood Warrendale Wagyu heifers sold with their Peppermill Grove-sired heifer calf at foot – with the buyer invited on-farm after the sale to make their final selection. The Australian-bred Peppermill Grove is one of only two sons available worldwide of the top-ranking Breedplan bull Mayura Itoshigenami Jnr who sired the $AUS185,000 Poll Wagyu Midnight M0775 who sold at the May 2018 Wagyu Edge Conference, Australia. Peppermill Grove has a Terminal Carcase Index of +$381 (breed average +$150) which combines Carcase Weight and Marble Score EBV. The top-priced lot went to an undisclosed buyer who bought over the internet. Commenting on the Sale, WBA Director Steve Ramshaw said: “There was a real buzz about our first sale with a big audience both in person and online looking to get into Wagyu breeding and reap the rewards of its premium marbled meat. We are seeing a lot of new breeders wanting to capitalise on the recent growth of Wagyu with its year-on-year 50% increase in cattle numbers as well as dairy and suckler farmers looking to diversify.”

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

BREED SOCIETY NEWS

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

Email your copy and any images to nbamagazine@nationalbeefassociation.com

GLOUCESTERS MOVE TO MELTON For the second year, the Gloucester Cattle Society is holding its Official Breed Show & Sale under the umbrella of the Native & Traditional Breeds National Show & Sale, organised by Grassroots Systems Ltd. It takes place on 7th & 8th September 2018 at Melton Mowbray Market, Scalford Road, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE13 1JY. Following Society inspection, showing of pedigree Gloucesters will take place after 12 noon on Friday 7th, with Cattle Interbreed Championships from 4pm & a buffet & disco to enjoy in the evening (tickets available from the Market office). Haltered & unhaltered pedigree cattle will be sold through the ring from 11am on Saturday 8th.

It is hoped the move to a more central location will allow Gloucester breeders from across the country to get their cattle to the sale more easily. Another benefit is that the sale will be accessible to many more potential buyers for this easy calving, dual purpose breed; which is so well suited to the grass fed systems that have regained popularity in recent years, producing high quality, fine grained & well marbled meat; as well as high quality milk ideal for cheese making.

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Tel. +33 (0)4 73 28 95 10 | info@sommet-elevage.fr THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

2018 CLERMONT-FERRAND

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SUMMER 2018

17

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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Georgina and Ian Richardson, Upper Samieston, Jedburgh, with sons Adam (left), five and Thomas, six, with heifers carrying their first calves.

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43

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 REVIEW

A SUCCESSFUL DAY FOR ALL AT BEEF EXPO!

Over 5000 beef farmers and industry professionals flocked to Shrewsbury for this years ‘Beef Up Our Future’ Beef Expo event. The event set out to discuss the future of agriculture and explore how beef farmers can improve efficiencies on farm profit and it did not fail to deliver.

RECORD TURNOUT AT

display of cattle, both commercial and pedigree

Champion Male was won by Mrs M Alford’s Limousin

BEEF INDUSTRY FARM TOURS

accompanied by excellent technical information. All

steer “No Likey”. The 11 month old, 520kg steer, who

For the fourth year running the Beef Expo farm tours

of the outdoor stands deserve a congratulations for

was bought for £2,500 at the Brecon Show potentials

were a sell out, with 270 hitting the road for a tour

enduring the great British spring showers, however

sale and is set to be shown next at the Royal Cornwall.

of three exceptional farms across Shropshire and

it was LM Bateman who scooped the top spot

Reserve Male Champion was June 2017 born

Wales. Across the three farms there was something

for its excellent display of machinery. A fantastic

Limousin cross steer “Marley” owned by Wilkinson &

for everyone, with Marc Jones finishing beef from the

selection of seminars covering health, policy and

Marwood of Leyburn and out of Waindale Ufo. The

dairy through outwintering and precision grazing,

production systems ran throughout the day including

Heifers continued to sweep the floor in the Baby Beef

James Evans producing quality breeding stock with

a discussion on how TB can be managed in a way that

classes. Judge Michael Alford found his Baby Beef

a key focus on measuring performance and Jonny

allows for production to continue. Neil Parish, chair

Champion in Limousin cross heifer “Scarlet” owned

Cornes and family running a fantastic example of

of the EFRA committee and Robin Manning, Team

by Morgan and Jones. The 19-month-old, 350kg heifer

a mixed farming system. Tractor and trailer rides

Leader for Farming and Trade, DEFRA starred in the

turned heads as it set foot in the show ring for the

took farmers round fields where grass production

Brexit seminar chaired by Chris Dodds. The seminar

first time. The heifer was bought privately from by B

was maximised through precision grazing and

discussed the importance of maintaining cohesion

Hughes of Lampeter and bred from by a Limousin bull

experts spoke on topics spanning from breeding for

and flexibility between the devolved Governments

out of a Lim x BB cow. Speaking of his decision, he

efficiencies, to how the mixed farming model can be

post Brexit. This year Beef Expo hosted, not one but

said: “It was a very correct animal, with smooth lines

used to manage risk. A home-made beef lunch was

two national cattle competitions, the NBA National

and a lot of potential.” “Little Gem” was close behind

provided by Moor farm shop with Hereford beef on

Commercial Cattle show and the South Devons

claiming reserve baby beef champion. Bought in the

the menu, to fuel the 270 farmers on their trip across

National Performance Championships.

Ruthin Show Potentials show the autumn the eightmonth-old heifer is owned by Phil and Sharon Sellers

the county.

NATIONAL COMMERCIAL CATTLE SHOW RESULTS

and bred by PJ & TA Jones of Powys. The Young

BEEF INDUSTRY DINNER

Once again, an exceptional display of commercial

Handlers Competition was also hotly contested. After

After a quick turnaround, the Beef Industry Dinner

cattle from across the length and breadth of the

much deliberation, Ted Lloyd claimed first place,

kicked off in the stunning setting of Netley Hall.

country were turned out to the highest of standards,

closely followed by Buddug Sian Davies in second.

The three-course supper aptly featured roasts

ready to compete for their share of the NCCS

All the Championship prizes were kindly sponsored

of beautifully cooked beef kindly sponsored by

£6500 of prize money. Heifers dominated the

by Crystalyx.

ABP, hand carved for guests at their table. Guest

championships. “Ayanna”, a British Blue owned by

speaker Gareth Wyn Jones spoke of the importance

Trevor, Linda & Jonny Lyon, Bourne, Lincolnshire,

SOUTH DEVONS PERFORMANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

of educating consumers as to how their food

snapped up Supreme Champion and Champion

Beef Expo once again proudly hosted the South

is produced, a message that will be ever more

Heifer. Commenting, judge Neil Slack said; “This

Devon Technical Performance Championships. The

imperative as we move out of Europe and one that

heifer stood out, with good lines and no waste.

competition which judges cattle based on both

resonated with the audience. The evening finished

It was hard to fault, with good meat and a handy

Breedplan performance figures and inspection is

with a charity raffle in aid of Muscular Dystrophy,

weight. The championship line-up was superb and

a great example how technology can be utilised to

raising over £1000! Thank you to all who donated so

there was not a lot between the top two.” Bred by J.

enhance breed genetics and progression.

generously.

Reed of Northumberland, this 16-month British Blue

Judge G. H. Tully of Brixton, Devon, a renowned

cross heifer, weighing 498kg, was bought privately

South Devon breeder and exhibitor himself, selected

BEEF UP OUR FUTURE

and is enjoying a successful show season so far, top

AI x Rufford Sas Quest owned by R.W. and S.M

TRANSFORMS SHREWSBURY MARKET!

of its class at Countryside Live, reserve champion

Bostelmann as his supreme champion. A great

Halls Shrewsbury Livestock Auction Market was

at Woodall Spa and commercial beef champion at

success for the January 2017 homebred bull by

unrecognisable, packed full with over 125 trade and

Newark. Following closely behind was Limousin heifer

Rufford Sas Dillion and out of AI Z Rufford Erica on its

breed society displays showcasing the very best of

‘She’s a Diva’ owned by Phil and Sharon Sellers of

first outing and is set to compete again in Suffolk and

beef genetics, nutrition, technologies and more.

Lincolnshire. The 14-month-old heifer weighed 554kg

Shropshire this summer. Z Cilgwrrwg Cariad owned

Congratulations to the award winning trade stands,

and picked up both Reserve Supreme Champion and

by Richard Hartshorn, Telford was awarded reserve

judged by our farm tour hosts, Corteva picked up best

Reserve Champion Heifer. By Lodge Hamlet, out of a

champion. The polled heifer, born in may 2017 by Z

indoor trade stand, with their innovative display of

Limousin cow and bred by G Lewis of Welshpool the

Eyton Trusty 3, out of Cilgwrrwg Sas Xanthippe, the

real grass. The Hereford cattle society once again

heifer will be continuing the show circuit to Lincoln,

May-2017 born polled heifer is from six generations

triumphed on the breed display category for their

Norfolk and the Royal Welsh shows this summer.

of homebred dams and was on its first outing.

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 REVIEW

BEEF EXPO 2019 VENUE ANNOUNCED...

Beef Expo 2019 is heading to NW Auctions, Junction 36, Kendal on Thursday the 23rd May. Plans are already underway, and we are looking forward to hosting the event at such exceptional modern facilities. The site boasts a huge exhibition hall and fantastic conference suite located in an area renowned for producing quality store cattle.

We would like to thank John Geldard for kindly offering the facilities and hosting the event.

We look forward to working with him and his team to make Beef Expo 2019 bigger and better than ever.

Would you like to be involved in pulling together the largest Technical Beef Event in the UK? We are looking for volunteers from the area to join our committee and build on the success of the 2018 event.

If you would like to be involved please contact Katie Pearson katie@nationalbeefassociation.com THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

21

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 REVIEW

BEEF FARMER COMPETITION WINNER: FARM FOCUS Rosie McGowan catches up with this years Beef Farmer Competition winner Tracey Jones, and her husband Phillip at home on their 250-acre beef and sheep farm near Builth Wells.

Tracey Jones not only swept the floor in the

fair. The remainder of stores are sold at Brecon.

showed pedigree Charolais before they met, and the

competitive Beef Expo beef farmer competition,

Cattle are bred with their Irish bred Limousin bull

children have caught the bug too! Ryan and Craig

but the family’s home bred heifer Little Gem owned

Sheehills Jet as well as using some British Blue AI

who helped their mum complete the Beef Farmer

by P&S Sellers won reserve Baby Beef Champion

and replacements are home bred, bought back or on

challenge, are hands on helping halter train and

at the commercial cattle show the same day! Rosie

occasion bought in calf or with calves at foot.

prepare the cattle and have also set up their own enterprise showing and selling pedigree Blue Texel

McGowan headed to Builth to catch up with the winner and learn more about the world of breeding

Speaking on the breeding Phillip said, “Our cattle

Sheep, some of which they are currently preparing

commercial show cattle.

are majority Limousin bred with a splash of British

for Royal Welsh 2018.

Blue breeding to increase width and setting of the Ty Isaf farm is home to the Jones herd of 50

tail. The showing world can be very particular. In

Speaking about Beef Expo Phillip said, “The Beef

commercial suckler cows and flock of 600

Wales, England and Scotland you don’t tend to see

Expo is a great showcase of the best commercial

commercial sheep. The area is renowned for

any black and white cattle at the top so we aim to

cattle in the UK. The showing community is a

producing top quality cattle and the competition

produce black or red cattle.

fantastic one to be part of and we always enjoy going along and catching up with friends and

for breeding show potential animals in the area is high. Despite this, the Jones’ exceptional calves have

Calving difficulties can come with the territory, very

seeing our calves in the championships is always a

snatched reserve baby beef champion at the NBA

few show calves come unassisted, but we choose

pleasure.

Beef Expo for two years running.

bulls to try and minimise any issues and have been very pleased with our current bull who is on

Ryan showed Little Gem as a calf at the show

Each year the family select their top calves and

his second crop of calves.” Showing cattle runs in

potential sale at Ruthin and was very pleased to

prepare them for the spring sales and the winter

the family, Tracey showed Herefords and Phillip

be asked to show her again by the Sellers at her

NBA Beef Expo National Commercial Cattle Show 2018: Reserve Champion Baby Beef P & S Sellers Lim x (no 48)

22

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

NBA BEEF EXPO 2018 REVIEW debut on the show circuit at the Beef Expo in May. For our home bred calves to win reserve baby beef champion for a second-year running is a great achievement. Little Gem will most likely be kept under wraps until Autumn, ensuring that she can grow as much as possible over the summer, and we hope she has a successful second year in the open classes.”

The Beef Farmer Challenge 2018 tested knowledge across all aspects of beef production, including bull selection, carcass judging, health plans,

due to the dry weather we haven’t had the growth

beef markets and trade and much more. Tracey

we had hoped, but hopefully with some rain we

championed in all aspects of the competition and

will be able to make full use of this prize! The easy

came home with over £750 of prizes including, an

breather is a great product which we are already in

F200 grass plate meter donated by Agri Supply

full use! We had a great day at the Expo completing

Services, Caltech Crystalyx Easy Breather, Farm

the competition and have been delighted with all

Skills Vouchers donated by XL Vets, Neoprean

the prizes.”

Wellies, a range of Wynnstay products, AHDB BBQ set, NBA membership and more.*

Sandy Wilson of Wynnstay joined Rosie to present the final prize to the lucky winners, a bag of

Tracey explained how the grass plate meter had

Wynngold Prime Beef CMR and a bag of Start ‘n’

been a useful tool for managing grass on their farm.

Wean. Speaking on the competition Sandy said,

*The NBA would like to thank the competition

Measuring regularly allowed her to better time

“It is a real pleasure presenting the prize to such a

sponsors Agri Supply Services, Dunbia, Caltech, XL

movements into paddocks and cutting of silage.

deserving family, who take great pride in producing

Vets, AHDB, Wynnstay, Meadow Quality, Boehringer

Speaking on the prizes Tracey said, “Unfortunately

exceptional quality livestock.”

Ingelheim and British Simmentals for their support.

NORTHERN IRELAND STUDENT REVIEW My name is Alexander Kinnear and I am from a dairy and beef farm in Co. Armagh Northern Ireland. I was privileged to be awarded with a free trip from the national beef association through Greenmount College. The trip was to Shrewsbury in England. The first farm we visited was Moor farm home to the Sharden Hereford herd and the Timmis family. It was an excellent opportunity to see how a large pedigree herd operated efficiently and how a farm can diversify as this particular farm had a shop were they sold their produce. The second farm was a stabiliser suckler herd owned by James Evans. This farm gave me a great insight into grass management and the challenges faced by going organic. It also highlighted how efficient the stabiliser breed was at producing beef. The third farm was the home of Marc Jones a contract calf rearer and finisher of dairy cross stores. This visit gave farmers an opportunity to see contract calf rearing schemes in practise; it gave me food for thought as I have wondered how it could be applied to my own farm. The fourth visit was to Jonny Cornes farm just outside of Shrewsbury. This farmer bought in cattle to finish from herds that were closed with TB. It provided framers with a way forward and was something I thought that could be applied in Norther Ireland.

The beef industry dinner was held that night were there was plenty of fun had by all. The last visit of the trip was to the beef expo show day. There was over 100 trade stalls, breed society’s, topical debates and show cattle on display.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

23

NBA FARM WALK PREVIEW FEATURE

FARMERS DEMONSTRATE

COLLABORATION IS KEY TO SUCCESS

On Tuesday the 14th August, SBA vice chairman Scott Henderson will open the gates of his exceptional farm and finishing unit in Dumfries. The evening will lead on from our January visit to the Walkers Drumbuie farm at Sanquhar and will follow the calves seen at the suckler unit through to finish. Both visits showcase how collaboration and integration throughout beef supply chains can lead to genetic improvement, increased efficiencies and profitability for all partners.

WJ Henderson & Sons is a family partnership

Charolais. Calves are weaned in January with bull

weeks inside. Lighter cattle are given 2-3 kg barley

consisting of Scott, his wife Susan and their son

calves kept entire and finished in an intensive bull

mix while at grass.

Neil. The business farms 1150 acres, 750 acres at

beef system.

The business is built around long-term relationships

their home farm Carswadda, a tenancy of 210 acres from Buccleuch Estates just north of Thornhill,

The principal enterprise on the farm is finishing

with calf suppliers, buying from the same trusted

which is mostly down to barley with and 200 acres

cattle. Scott and Neil aim to sell 30 cattle each week

sources each year and using a feedback system

of rented grazing 3 miles west of Carswadda.

totalling over 1500 finished cattle sold throughout

to share knowledge on performance through to

the year. The farms aim is to produce a premium,

slaughter, to ensure that the genetics are constantly

The farm is home to 105 beef suckler cows, which

high welfare product with exceptional eating quality

improved. Last year’s cattle graded with 27% U’s,

block calve in mid-May. Younger cows are Aberdeen

and therefore virtually all purchased stores are

72% R’s at an average deadweight of 312 kgs, which

Angus crosses and this autumn they plan to put the

heifers. The heifers finishing diet is a TMR ration

saw a significant improvement in comparison to

whole herd to an AA bull to increase this influence

made up of 7kg barley mix and 15kg grass silage.

2008 cattle which graded was 19% U’s, 79% R’s at

further. The current calf crop is both AA and

Heifers are housed at 500kg and spend the last 8

an average deadweight of 303 kgs.

Below: Calves at Drumbuie Farm in January

The evening will begin at 5.30pm, with a tour including talks from beef specialist Gavin Hill of SAC consulting, Scott & Neil Henderson and Michael Walker. Event sponsor AB Visa will also be running a talk on the use of feed additives to optimise efficiencies in cattle finishing.

The tour will be followed by a BBQ kindly sponsored by AK Stoddart’s.

To book your place on this exceptional visit please call Head Office on 01434 601005 or email info@nationalbeefassociation.

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

NBA FARM WALK PREVIEW

NEW!

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Speaking about the relationship with the Walkers, Neil said, “One of the longest partnerships has been with Jim Walker, so long in fact that it is now his sons Michael and Stuart that are the principal point of contact. The Walkers have always taken the information we feed back and acted on it and we have seen a constant improvement in their stock over the years.”

The Walkers have expanded their cattle enterprise greatly over recent years to their current herd of 650 breeding cows. They place an emphasis on maintaining a high health status and improving the genetics, diet and environment of the herd to maximise the growth potential of offspring whilst keeping costs low. The results can be seen in their calves’ performance: Year

Percentage U grade Percentage R grade

Weaned LW

1998 12%

76%

316kg

275kg

76%

373kg

306kg

2017 31%

69%

383kg

323kg

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When it comes to marketing, Scott sells his finished animals exclusively to AK Stoddart’s. He has worked with the company for over 20 years and works closely with them to ensure they are producing the correct animals for the market. It is clear that the strong relationships Scott has forged both in sourcing and selling his stock have been invaluable to the businesses development and continued success and we would like to thank him and his family for their hospitality in opening the farm to the SBA in August.

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SUMMER 2018 05 NBA 90x270mm Half Page Advert Portrait August 2018 alpha products.indd 1

25

11/07/2018 12:56:31

FEATURE

GIVING A DAIRY BULL CALF A LIFE Black and white bull calves were regarded, until fairly recently, as a waste product of the dairy industry. Many were “put down” at birth due to lack of markets and inefficient farming methods. However, there is now a dramatic shift in perceptions about the eating quality of black and white beef.

Dairy farmers would traditionally be disappointed

delivery to farms in groups of around 50 to 200 each

DAIRY CARCASS MAKES VERY GOOD EATING

at the birth of a male calf, and although some were

week. “Our Team has discovered that if you fatten

“Although the dairy carcass may be plainer, it

taken to local marts, there seemed to be no gain from

youngzdairy beef very quickly, you can get growth

makes very good eating” says Adam. His belief in

keeping and rearing these animals. Finding an outlet

rates which are every bit as good as continental beef

the product has certainly paid off as, in a recent

for the inevitable by-product of surplus male black

animals, but it is when they get older that growth

competition organised by AHDB to find “England’s

and white calves was always an ongoing challenge.

rates slow and they will lose the farmer money every

best Sirloin Steak” a blind test revealed that a

There also seemed to be no point in standing the

day.”

Buitelaar steak, produced from a dairy bull, scored top marks across the board, for taste, tenderness,

rearing costs of an animal which had no value with BETTER RETURNS FOR DEVON FARMING

marbling and juiciness, as well as top marks for

required by buyers of dairy beef that had become

BROTHERS

chemical composition. The team also “swept the

progressively more difficult.

Devon dairy farmers, Roland and Gerald Ley, are

board” at the 2017 Food Management Awards. Top

two of the many farmers who are benefitting from

chefs and restaurant critics are now beginning to

DRAMATIC SHIFT IN PERCEPTIONS

supplying finished dairy Bulls to Buitelaar. They are

see the quality and value of dairy beef. For example,

However, there has been dramatic shift in these

owners of an elite herd of Holsteins producing 11,259

Giles Coren, “The Times” restaurant critic recently

perceptions in the last couple of years. Who could

litres at 4.3% fat and 3.35% protein. They did not

described a dairy beef steak as “ a steak the way I

have predicted that the steak from this “waste

want to compromise the genetic progress of their

always wanted steak to be, without ever having

product” would be winning major national awards,

dairy herd by using female sexed semen, but finding

been able to put my finger on what I wanted.” And,

and be sought by national retailers and top chefs

an outlet for their surplus dairy bull calves was a

all this from a product that had been until recently

working in the catering trade? As far back as

constant challenge. Meeting the criteria required by

only considered worthy of animal food or cheap

2009, Adam Buitelaar, had identified these issues

the dairy beef buyers was becoming more and more

burgers!

surrounding the dairy bull calf, and he felt very

difficult,” We had always been paid by the abattoirs

strongly that this was damaging the local community,

on the standard EUROP gird, but our buyers raised

BRITISH ROSÉ VEAL

was also a really worrying welfare issue, and

the bar making it more difficult for our dairy beef

Apart from beef, Buitelaar also produces British

Adam also asked the question “Where was social

to meet their targets” explains Roland. “They also

Rosé Veal. Oliver King, Buitelaar UK Meat Sales

responsibility in the face of global food shortages?

wanted bulls more than 12 months old, with a carcase

Manager says “British Rosé Veal is experiencing a

Apart from being an animal welfare disgrace” Adam

weight of more than 260KG, which meant that we

rapid uptake in both the UK and overseas markets.

continues “this seemed to be such a waste so, here at

had to keep bulls through a slower growth period.”

We understand it’s being driven by the product’s key

Buitelaar we devised a sustainable model to produce

This meant that they were losing money on every

attributes, it’s a tender and delicate tasting meat is

great consistency and eating quality of this by-

bull they sold, maybe as much as £600 on feed for

a success with a large number of customer profiles,

product, and we would also give the bull calf a life.”

£400/500 worth of growth.

including those requiring a healthier or gourmet

Adam decided to “think differently”, and looked to

After attending a meeting organised by Buitelaar,

now supplying high-end outlets such as “Whole

develop a market for the dairy bull calf, and was keen

both brothers were keen to see if this could be a

Foods Supermarkets” in London, and high-end

to offer a better outlet for pure dairy beef.

viable option. Adam Buitelaar visited the farm, and

food service operations in the South East sending

they immediately switched to the system. They

products into London, and our Rosé Veal is now in

Holstein beef has always been disadvantaged by

are now making use of the integrated system and

demand in cities such as Paris, Lisbon and Hong

existing payment structures and he was keen to find

finishing their beef at close to ten months. A key

Kong” comments Oliver.

a way of making a more commercial system. The

requirement from Buitelaar is that the bulls are fed

solution to the problem seemed to offer an outlet for

no grass, hay or silage, as this would adversely affect

In Oliver’s experience he is seeing that buyers

a smaller dairy beef carcass and almost disregard

the animal fat colour, which is not acceptable to the

are more willing to try different products, and the

the conformation of the dairy beef origin. The aim

rosé veal market.

evidence for this is the rapid growth in sales during

a poor end product, plus having to meet the criteria

product. It’s evident that this is the case, as we are

the last two years. “It fills the trend for healthy

was to ensure a fair return and guaranteed market for a quality product. His business started at about

This perfectly suited their system, as they never

eating, high in protein, iron, and vitamin B and also

50 calves a week, to now more than 1,500 calves

wanted grazing beef as they needed all the grass

it is low in fat.” It’s also interesting to note that it’s

(dairy Bulls as well as Beef cross from the dairy herd)

and forage for their dairy herd. The brothers say the

a product that is becoming increasingly popular

being collected across five Calf Collection centres

system is returning a clear margin, which they have

with the younger, middle class generation. “We are

throughout the country. These are then batched for

estimated to be over £250 a head.

selling a large amount of product now, more than

26

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

FEATURE 400 tonnes per month through the supply chain.

which both the RAU and Synergy vets, who also work

beef is back on the menu in China for the first time

Although, more than 20% of our product is sold to a

in partnership with Buitelaar, recognise as extremely

in 20 years. “It’s a major boost for our farmers and

multitude of high-end independent retailers, offering

important. And, as a result of the partnership the

is estimated to be worth at least £250 million in the

both the group and its producers more long term

RAU has funded a PhD looking at system change

first five years alone. Initiatives like our dairy beef

security in a volatile market.

within the dairy beef supply chain. Agricultural

production system will be invaluable in providing

students will benefit from the research outcomes of

the volume required.” Although, it’s not only

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY PROJECT

the unit well as access to a highly innovative way of

quantity but quality, and British dairy black and

In 2016, a trial project was setup between Buitelaar

farming in today’s agricultural climate.

white beef has a proven track record in quality now.

Dairy farmers need to sign up to this production

and the RAU at Cirencester. Managed by Emily Edwards, Research Commercialisation Manager at the

BRITISH BEEF BACK ON THE MENU IN CHINA

system, now that the markets are opening up. “It’s a

University, the project has progressed from strength

Adam was delighted to hear the news that British

wonderful opportunity” concludes Adam.

to strength. The project looked specifically at the calf rearing stage, a critical part of the dairy beef supply chain. The aim is to develop a blue print that not only optimises the critical function of milk feeding to solids, but also examines the physiology, growth and development that will directly affect further changes along the supply chain.

Emily explains “We are also looking at innovative methods to reduce antibiotic use in the supply chain

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

27

FEATURE

STRONG STORE CATTLE TRADE SEES BUYERS RETURNING A STRONG STORE CATTLE TRADE OVER THE LAST SIX MONTHS HAS ATTRACTED GROWING NUMBERS TO THE LIVE SALES RING, WITH BUYERS TRAVELLING FURTHER AND VALUES SHOWING A RISE ON THE YEAR, REPORT LIVESTOCK AUCTIONEERS AROUND THE COUNTRY. Despite the large concerns for straw, feed and the

rise in numbers being easily soaked up,” explains

terrible early spring weather, the store trade has

Ian Tanner of Southern Counties Auctioneers.

kept to very high levels. “Store cattle has been a good trade all spring at Skipton Auction Mart, with

“It has been nice to see buyers travel from

large numbers and sharp trade,” says Ted Ogden of

further afield. Certainly, the confidence in the

CCM Auctions.

beef finished price, which has stayed very firm throughout the historically more challenging

“At the end of the winter, we saw a little resistance

period of April to June, has purchasers happier to

from buyers, particularly with the shortage of

keep sheds full, with a definite premium for the

straw. But April through to June has been very

500 to 570kg stores with frame.”

good, with July settling down.

Numbers and trade were comparable to 2017 “Overall we have enjoyed a good trade with values

at Frome Livestock Market, according to Ross

around five percent above 2017 figures. Numbers

Whitcombe of Cooper and Tanner. “Numbers and

have been good with some producers looking to

trade have been comparable, but we have seen an

sales peaked at around 600 cattle during an April

empty sheds earlier due to straw prices, but also

increase in values despite the concerns with straw

sale.

responding to the level of trade as well.”

and feed.”

“We do benefit from lots of loyal customers,

Mr Ogden has seen buyers and vendors travel some In line with figures around the country, Mr

but we have seen faces both new and old and

80-100 miles across the northern counties, and

Whitcombe feels the increase has also been

others come back to the live sales ring,” explains

this trend has been replicated around the country,

around five percent.

Mr Shouler. “Farmers like continuity, but we are seeing a good range, with younger farmers

with numbers gaining due to a good ring of buyers around the live sales market.

Trade continued to hold well at Melton Mowbray.

coming in, which bodes well for the future of our

“Store cattle have been in demand as always, but

industry. The livestock market does not only assist

David Holliday, auctioneer with Harrison &

the younger reared cattle have been a superb trade in establishing a value for livestock, it’s also a

Hetherington at Borderway Mart, Carlisle agrees,

throughout, and many more could have been sold,” weekly farmers village where all farmers from all

“It has been a very good trade over the last six

adds Ben Shouler, director at Melton Mowbray

backgrounds gather their thoughts and discuss all

months, and it is perhaps a little surprising that

Market.

the current farming topics.”

higher. Overall trade has been slightly dearer,

“More and more buyers are looking to buy

Chris Dodds, Executive Secretary of the Livestock

again around five percent up on last year.”

cattle between 9 and 15 months rather than the

Auctioneers Association, adds, “This has clearly

traditional 24 months and above, and you can see

been a challenging time, with the extremes of

Mr Holliday pointed to the fact that buyers were

a trend moving to farmers selling younger cattle

weather during a snow hit winter, the wet early

coming from further afield to the Wednesday

unless they are finishing them direct to slaughter

spring and the prolonged dry summer. It is

store sales, and this in turn was attracting more

and hopefully through the live market system”.

testament to the competitive nature of the live

the difference in averages has not been even

sales ring, and the ability to bring key buyers and

numbers. Vendors have been travelling from as far as the west of Scotland, across Northumberland

Numbers at Melton Mowbray had been slower in

vendors together, that the store cattle trade has

and from the South Lakes, amongst other parts.

spring due to the weather, but there had been a

held up so strongly and is in good shape for the

boost from March into June. The weekly Tuesday

future.”

It was a similar picture at Salisbury Livestock Market, with customers keen to secure the wellbred types. “The trade with us in general has continued at pace right through, with our pleasing

34 28

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The Livestock Auctioneers Assocation

Contact your local Livestock Market at

www.laa.co.uk SUMMER 2018

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FEATURE

BEEF MONITOR

MEASURING CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS Across the UK, and beyond, it is common practice for beef producers to select cattle for slaughter by eye. Although more farmers are beginning to see the benefits of regularly weighing their cattle it can be time consuming, stressful for the cattle and, if the cattle are weighed at different times relative to feeding, simple gut fill differences within daily rhythms may cause large variation in LWG estimates. The majority of producers either don’t have the facilities, or indeed the time and man-power to regularly run their finishing cattle over a weigh bridge.

All of these variations in estimating weight at

3D imaging system which can predict the carcass

already used to estimate the liveweight of finishing

slaughter along with subjective assessments of

characteristics of live finishing cattle.

pigs, and a 3D camera system is commercially available to estimate body condition scores of dairy

cattle fatness and conformation contribute to the “art” rather than the “science” of selecting

THE BEEF MONITOR CRATE

cattle for slaughter. This contributes to the high

The automated Beef Monitor crate is simply a weigh

proportion (~45%) of prime beef cattle carcases

platform joined on to a water trough and fitted with

The Beef Monitor 3D camera system is being

which do not meet specified target grades at the

an EID reader and weigh head (Figure 1). Its purpose

developed to predict saleable meat yield, cold

abattoir. Sending over-weight cattle to slaughter

is to track the growth of cattle over their finishing

carcass weight, fat grade and conformation grade.

not only incurs a penalty from the abattoir but also

period without the inconvenience of handling cattle

Images from a wide variety of breeds, bullocks and

increases overhead costs (feed, bedding, etc.), as

and manually recording their weights. The system

heifers on both research and commercial farms are

well as the lost opportunity to put those resources

relies on all animals behind the system having EID

being used to develop this technology.

into producing another beast. The much lower price

ear tags to allow identification of individual animals.

paid for carcasses outside of the specified fat and

A weight is recorded for every visit to the water

The 3D camera is suspended from a frame fitted over

conformation grades makes selection for slaughter

trough, giving on average five weights per head per

the Beef Monitor crate. It captures a 3D image of

a potentially risky game. This is a clear inefficiency

day. To be effective the crate should be the only

beasts while they are standing on the weigh platform

in the beef market, and one which precision livestock

source of water for a pen of up to 50 animals.

drinking (Figure 3). Software then automatically

farming (PLF) can provide solutions to.

The crate is now a commercially available product

extracts measurements (heights, lengths, widths,

manufactured by Ritchie Agricultural. It was tested

surface areas, etc.) from the image. These

Precision livestock farming is the process of

and validated at SRUCs Beef Research Centre and

measurements are linked to the EID and liveweight

managing farmed livestock through continuous, real-

was found to weigh cattle highly accurately. A group

which are being recorded by the crate at the same

time monitoring of individual animal health, welfare

of 39 bullocks were penned with the Beef Monitor

time.

or growth using technology. PLF technologies are not

crate over their finishing period. The bullocks were

intended to replace a good stockman but to be used

weighed empty through a crush once per week as per

All of this information is fed in to machine learning

as tools to make the job more efficient, less tedious

normal farm practice. The manually recorded weight

algorithms which perform complex calculations and

and to allow farmers to put resources into the place

was compared to the daily average weight recorded

output estimates of carcass characteristics.

they are most required. The data gathered can alert

by the crate for individual bullocks and was found to

the farmer to health and welfare issues at an early

be 98% accurate (Figure 2).

cows.

BENEFITS OF THE SYSTEM The crate works well independently as an efficient

stage, or inform them on performance of individual animals. PLF is a thriving area for both industry and

Ritchie have developed a management tool app

and highly accurate means of continuously

research. The rise of ‘smart farming’ – using data to

which uses the day by day data from the Beef Monitor

monitoring the growth and performance of individual

inform farm management practice – and the adoption

crate system to monitor the growth of individual

animals. Farmers can use the information to make

of PLF technologies present great opportunities for

animals and calculate liveweight gain (LWG).

management decisions to ensure that cattle reach their optimum weight at the right time. Diets can

producers to increase the productivity, efficiency and THE BEEF MONITOR 3D CAMERA SYSTEM

be adjusted to ensure cattle do not become over-

Video imaging analysis (VIA) technology is

weight, reducing the risk of penalties at the abattoir.

An InnovateUK funded, collaborative R&D project –

increasingly being used in abattoirs to grade

Underperforming animals can also be identified at

Beef Monitor – involved SRUC working closely with

carcasses as it removes the subjectivity and human

an early stage. Intervening to improve the health,

industry partners (Ritchie Agricultural, Innovent

bias from the process. As the cost of imaging

welfare or nutrition of slow growing animals can

Ltd, Harbro and Scotbeef) to develop practical

technology comes down, the potential for its use on

increase their productivity and get them to finishing

and non-invasive PLF technologies to monitor the

commercial farms is becoming more viable.

weight faster.

performance of individual finishing cattle and

Applications for both 2D and 3D imaging analysis

to take the guess work out of selecting cattle for

have been explored – including estimating liveweight

However, cattle liveweight is not an indicator of

slaughter. The project took a two pronged approach:

and body measurements and detecting welfare

carcass grade and sending cattle at the optimum

1) development of an automated weigh crate to

issues, lameness and behavioural problems in a

weight does not necessarily mean they will receive

track the growth of individual finishers, and 2) a

variety of livestock species. 2D image analysis is

the best price. Farmers are particularly interested in a

profitability of their enterprises.

30

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

FEATURE

ON THE HOOF

DR GEMMA MILLER SRUC BEEF RESEARCH CENTRE

Figure 1: The Beef Monitor Crate in

system that can predict carcass characteristics as this 3D camera system is an is the basis on which they are paid. The 3D camera exciting prospect which is system will enable farmers to send cattle to slaughter

close to market and will

as soon as they hit the target grades specified by

provide the farmer with

the abattoir. This is a win-win situation as abattoirs

accurate estimates of

also benefit by receiving more carcasses within their

carcass characteristics on

specified range, allowing them to produce more

the hoof.

action, and the latest version

consistent products for their customers.

Given the mounting financial pressures on beef

Figure 2: Average weights recorded using the

producers due to ever increasing over-head costs,

Beef Monitor crate are highly accurate when

reducing production costs is critical. Estimates of the

compared to empty weighing through a crush.

production costs saved by adopting the Beef Monitor system are substantial at ~£36 per head, with roughly half being attributed to each technology (crate and 3D camera).

Figure 3: A 3D image

Overall the Beef Monitor crate is a neat PLF

of a beast

technology which is not only practical and simple

standing on a

but offers real opportunities to reduce inefficiency

Beef Monitor

and increase profitability for beef enterprises. The

crate

Chae (left) and Keith (right) Stewart, Beef finishers, Aberdeenshire.

Professor Nick Jonsson (middle) University of Glasgow Vet School.

We achieved average DLWG of 1.81kg

In a recent independent trial by Glasgow Vet School, 100 cattle fed on a ration including Maxammon and Rumitech achieved average DLWG of 1.81kg.

Trial results recorded: Higher average daily liveweight gain Better feed conversion Higher percentage achieving target

· · ·

Tel: 01888 545200

harbro.co.uk

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

31

FEATURE

FORAGE IS THE FOUNDATION

FOR SUCCESS

AUTHOR JAMES MARSHALL

By improving the quality and quantity of the silage produced from his grass leys, Wiltshire based beef producer, Dave Coward, has not only secured a solid foundation on which to base his business, but also one to fuel it’s future expansion.

Located near the village of Mere, Manor Farm is run

A SUCCESSFUL SYSTEM

with TB last year,” explains Dave. “Now, we do a mix

by Dave Coward in partnership with his son Will,

The herd is calved down in February, ready to turn

of fattening for finishing and producing stores. This

on a Duchy of Cornwall Tenancy. Together they run

out cows and followers on to the downlands in

gives us flexibility, so that when store prices are good

a pedigree Aberdeen Angus suckler herd of 150

April when the grass is in good condition. The herd

– like this year – we can sell more cattle as stores,

cows, with around 170 followers. The business rears

will stay out on the downs all summer, with Dave

but if we are shut down with TB or market prices

all its own replacements (the Manor Farm herd is

introducing some creep feed for calves in August

dictate, we can keep animals on farm for longer and

certified BVD and Johne’s free) and only buys in a new

and the aim is to wean calves from their mothers in

finish them here.”

replacement bull every year, to keep bloodlines fresh.

October/early November.

Dave and Will regularly weigh cattle to assess their

Dave and Will’s enterprise is run on 750 acres, half

“Calves will then be brought indoors and moved

progress, batching 10-15 animals together according

of which is dedicated to growing malting barley and

onto a silage based diet, with some concentrate.

to their weights. The aim is to sell on steer stores at

milling wheat, and the remainder providing ground

After drying off, cows are kept out on the downs or

450kg and fattened animals at around 600kg, having

for grazing and grass silage.

stubble turnips until they are brought back indoors in

been on farm between 24-30 months.

January, ready for their next calving,” continues Dave.

“We have around 250 acres of downland pasture

“When indoors, maturing beef cattle are fed a mix

FOCUS ON FORAGE

which we graze the herd on during the summer

of home grown barley, ForFarmers Primemix pellets

Good quality grass silage is the foundation for the

months,” explains Dave. “About 40 years ago

and homegrown silage – all of which is put through a

Manor Farm herd’s diet, and subsequently, the

we used to run a Charolais and Simmental herd,

mixer wagon.”

success of Dave’s business. A lot of thought and

attention goes into ensuring that the farm’s limited but found that they were just too heavy for the “A t Y at AY s a Dground s stock A W damage we had to W 60 acres of grass silage is as productive FasFO possible Traditionally, Dave used to sell on all as stores, downlands. To prevent u u D O O e e C ALF RDA Se IRY SH Se IRY SH Y Y and producing the highest quality grass.

A A but this approach has changed recently. keep the stocking density very low, so we made the R R CA BLE D D K DAI K DAI RE” U U switch to Aberdeen Angus and they have performed SW SW “ Fastract produces results which & & “In my opinion, you areare stuck with poor quality “We re-evaluated our approach after being shut downJump really well.” “since using Jump Start our calves are “since using Start our ifcalves

Fastract Performance Feeds

Fastract Performanc

should cost a lot more “

brighter and sharper”

brighter and sharper”

“The calves look after themselves now, we just

don’t need scour treatments any more”

Use as a routine for new born calves, at any sign of scour or any time appetite is poor.

don’t need scour treatments any more” Use at calving, any time of digestive disorder,

stress or travelling Use as a routine for new born calves, at any sign of scour or any time appetite is poor.

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

Prompt delivery : call 01434 600602

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 ”

are

look after now, we “The “calves The calves look themselves after themselves now,just we just don’t don’t need need scourscour treatments any more” treatments any more”

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

32

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”

www.eggsport.co.uk

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

SUMMER 2018

s

at

AY W

“AF “ FOAFF

FEATURE silage, then you are always having to play ‘catch up’

Dave explains. “We aim to take three cuts a season

reduced levels of bagged fertiliser applied to grass

to get the best from your cattle,” explains Dave. “By

and I have been really impressed by the performance

leys.”

really focusing on producing the best quality silage

of the grass, both in terms of silage yield and the

we can, it puts our business in a strong position.

quality of the silage produced, with the clover adding

FORAGE FUELING EXPANSION

For us, it is much easier and more cost effective to

a much-needed boost of protein.”

Dave and Will plan to adapt and expand their business over the coming years to safeguard against

dilute high quality silage to suit our needs, rather than having to buy in extra feed to make up for

“As well as the clover fixing nitrogen in the soil, what

the potential TB shutdowns, as well as secure the

shortcomings in silage quality.

I really like about this seed mix is its flexibility – it

long term sustainability of the farm.

performs well in any conditions. If the weather is hot “I have always paid attention to forage quality and

and dry, or the ground is wet, the mix still performs

“Will and I want to start finishing a lot more of our

taken multiple cuts of silage a year, but about 10

well as the Advanced grasses have a good dense root

own animals and to do this we need extra space,”

years ago, I decided to really push the performance

structure.”

concludes Dave. “Plans are in place to develop a new shed to accommodate 100 extra cattle for fattening,

of our grass leys. I also wanted to try and put some nutrients back into the soil and reduce our reliance

Chris Boult is also pleased with how well the seed

which will enable us to fatten more or our animals

on bought in nitrogen fertiliser.”

mix has performed on Dave’s farm:

and potentially expand herd numbers in the future.

After talking over the options with ForFarmers’ Chris

“Fresh grass analysis from May this year showed a

“The other thing we need to fulfill these future

Boult, Dave decided to start reseeding grass leys with

slightly lower dry matter level, and this was expected

plans is plenty of high quality grass silage; with

ForFarmers TOPGRASS Protogen seed mix which

due to the wet spring. However, the analysis also

more animals being finished on farm, we will get

includes Advanced grasses and red clover.

highlighted that the energy and digestibility value of

through a lot more silage. Luckily, with our grass leys

grass has increased from 11.3 to 12.4 MJ/kg DM and

performing so well, we are in a really strong position

“I now reseed the grass leys every 2-3 years on a

D-value from 72% to 78.8%. Protein stands at 134

and will be able to increase finished cattle numbers,

rotational basis, usually as a break crop after wheat,”

g/kg DM, and this is a good result considering the

in a sustainable and cost effective way.”

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

33

FEATURE

USING VACCINES

TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF YOU Vaccines are a valuable tool to help protect your herd against disease. At a time when margins are tight and when beef producers are under increasing pressure to reduce use of antibiotics, the adage that prevention is better than cure is certainly true.

HOW ARE VACCINES MADE?

Characteristics (SPC) that come with the product.

stock. While some respiratory vaccines can provide

There are two types of vaccines:

Most vaccines claim to ‘reduce’ one aspect of the

protection within a few days, maximum protection

• Live (attenuated)

disease and almost none claim to ‘prevent’ disease.

is usually a couple of weeks after the second dose of

• Killed (inactivated)

The same vaccine may also have different claims

the vaccine. Therefore, vaccinating stores at housing

depending on how it’s used e.g. one dose may reduce

is of limited value and these animals should receive

In both types of vaccine, the bug (virus, bacteria or

virus shedding, but two doses may be required

their vaccines well before transport and housing. This

parasite) is made safe, so that it can be given to the

to reduce clinical signs. Paying attention to the

can increase handling of stock and create challenges

animal, without making it unwell. In broad terms,

information on the SPC will help to ensure that your

in trading, but when implemented effectively, it can

live vaccines often give faster, more comprehensive

expectations are realistic. There are two important

make a big difference and there are many examples of

protection, whilst killed vaccines take longer to

rules to follow to ensure that you receive the benefit

stock managers who have significantly reduced their

provide protection. Due to the differences in the

of a vaccine. 1) The first is to identify the causes

own stress, calf losses and antibiotic use this way.

way vaccines are made, they often have different

and risks of disease in your herd. Bovine respiratory

requirements for handling and how they can be given.

disease (BRD or pneumonia) for example is caused

Finally, it is worth paying attention to the duration

Therefore, it is essential that the instructions relating

by a variety of stress/risk factors and different viruses

of immunity of a product. This is quite variable and

to storage and administration for each different

and bacteria. Using a vaccine without understanding

typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on the

vaccine are followed carefully. If a vaccine is allowed

and addressing these stress/risk factors or targeting

vaccine and how it was given. It is essential to ensure

to get too warm, is kept for too long after starting a

the right bugs on your farm will likely result in

that if there is likely to be another period of disease

bottle or is given by a different route, it will not work

disappointment. Your vet is key to helping to make

risk in an animal’s life after the duration of immunity

as intended.

these decisions. 2) The second is to ensure that the

has expired, that a booster vaccination is given.

vaccine is providing protection at the time of peak HOW DO VACCINES WORK?

disease risk in your system. For example, vaccinating

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF VACCINES?

All vaccines work by stimulating the animal’s own

heifers for BVD before they are pregnant will protect

Ultimately, the decision to use a vaccine is largely

immune system. This is true both at the time of

the fetus and the dam. To do this, you need to think

based on economics. That said, as vaccines are given

vaccination and during the period when protection is

carefully about when to administer the vaccine.

prior to disease occurring, it can be difficult to ‘see’ the benefit on the balance sheet of a beef business.

required. However, if an animal’s immune system is not fully working, there is a risk that the vaccine will

WHEN SHOULD I VACCINATE?

For this reason, vaccines are generally considered as

not provide the expected level of protection. Animals

This should be decided in discussion with your

an investment or insurance policy against disease,

that are poorly fed, stressed or suffering from other

vet because it will depend on the practicalities of

the benefits of which only become apparent with

diseases e.g. Johne’s disease or liver fluke, may not

handling stock, the age of cattle, the products on

hindsight, when they haven’t been used.

receive the full benefit of a vaccine.

offer and the peak disease risk. While many vaccines can be used during pregnancy, some cannot and

Reduced mortality and improved productivity

DO VACCINES WORK?

most have a minimum age from which they can be

(fertility and daily liveweight gains) represent the

The short answer is yes… but the real question is will

administered. Sometimes, to use a vaccine effectively

largest benefits of vaccine use. The ‘Vet and Med’

a specific vaccine meet your expectations? Veterinary

will require a change in your usual routine. A good

costs of herds that vaccinate versus those that don’t

vaccines are brought to market after rigorous testing.

example of this is with pneumonia vaccines. One

are generally quite similar, however those that are

The claims made about a product are tightly regulated

of the highest risk periods for pneumonia is within

vaccinating are receiving the production benefits

and these are detailed in the Summary of Product

the first month after housing or purchasing young

of preventing disease and also likely to be using

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

FEATURE

UR BEEF HERD

ALEX CORBISHLEY, UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH MARY VICKERS, AHDB BEEF & LAMB

significantly less antibiotics. This is of increasing

VACCINATION IN ACTION

importance to the industry when considering

Paul Allison and Tanya Devereux farm in Weardale,

antibiotic resistance in both humans and animals.

County Durham and have a spring-calving suckler herd of 140 pure Saler suckler cows, along with 400

Finally, some infections e.g. Leptospirosis can be

ewes and 200 acres (81 ha) of arable land. The herd

transmitted to humans, meaning that there are public

is bred to mainly Saler bulls to supply replacements

health considerations in the use of some vaccines.

and breeding stock and a Charolais bull is used across the remaining cows to produce strong store

WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

cattle.

Vaccines available in the UK have been rigorously tested and therefore must past stringent safety

The herd, Harperley Salers, have achieved

requirements. The most common risks relate to

impressive levels of health due to their attention to

injection site reactions, which are more likely to

detail working closely with vet David Parkins from

be severe if equipment and needles are dirty. For

Intake vets, Hexham. The herd is managed with

this reason, injections should always be given

the aim of selling heifers and bulls for breeding,

away from the prime cuts e.g. in the neck – usually

with the remainder sold as store cattle at around a

the manufacturers advise on the best location for

year old. Paul is a keen advocate of using a robust

injection.

vaccination programme across his herd, but is clear that this must be combined with improvements in

ARE THERE ANY OTHER CONSIDERATIONS?

management and housing if health problems such

As vaccines cause an immune response, they can

as pneumonia are to be tackled.

TOP TIPS FOR VACCINATION • Discuss with your vet which vaccine is most appropriate for your cattle and farming system and when it should be administered • Store vaccines carefully – most should be stored in a fridge between 2-8oC • Try to administer vaccines before the period of peak disease risk • Always administer a booster if the disease risk remains as immunity does wane • Always use clean equipment and avoid prime cuts when injecting cattle – the neck is a suitable injection site for most products 3. Improved housing. Investment in improving ventilation (opening roof ridges), increased

interfere with certain disease tests and can therefore affect a herd or animal’s disease status. This should

Harperley Salers have not lost any cattle to

natural light (installation of roof lights and

always be considered with your vet before deciding

infectious disease over the last two years. This

opening up gable ends), and improved hygiene

whether to use a vaccine and is particularly important

more than pays for the investment they make in

(cleaning, disinfecting and whitewashing),

with respect to high value animals that may be

preventative health care. Paul has identified six key

have all reduced the exposure of youngstock to

intended for export or AI stud.

factors to which he attributes this success:

infectious disease.

4. Biosecurity. The farm boundaries are secure and

Unfortunately, there are still a number of diseases for

1. A compact calving period. This avoids late-

which commercial vaccines have not been developed.

born calves which have much higher risk of

cattle. Bought-in cattle are purchased from

In these instances, when a herd is struggling with

succumbing to health problems

accredited herds and quarantined on arrival until

infection, a vaccine can be made from the bugs on the

2. A robust vaccination programme across the herd.

prevent nose-to-nose contact with neighbouring

they are tested clear of BVD, IBR and Johne’s and

farm (autogenous vaccination). Unfortunately there

All breeding females and bulls are vaccinated for

is very limited information on the usefulness of this

BVD, IBR and Leptospirosis annually. Youngstock

5. Monitoring. All calves are tag tested for BVD

approach, although it is becoming more popular in the

are vaccinated against respiratory disease (RSV &

antigen. The herd is blood tested for BVD

pig industry.

PI3) and IBR at housing

antibody and Johne’s disease annually 6. The farm works very closely with their vet to

CATTLE VACCINES AVAILABLE AND EXAMPLES OF WHEN THEY MIGHT BE ADMINISTERED

Prior to turnout

Prior to breeding

review and implement the herd health plan,

During pregnancy

Housing

Breeding cattle

Leptospirosis

(cows & bulls)*

BVD

Salmonella

IBR

IBR

Calf scour

BVD

Replacements

Leptospirosis

Clostridial disease

BVD

Salmonella

Lungworm

IBR

Calf scour

Youngstock

Clostridial disease

have been fully vaccinated

Lungworm

Respiratory disease

Finishing cattle

Clostridial disease

Respiratory disease

which is a targeted and practical working document.

Notes: Exact timings of administration and booster doses will vary by product so check the data sheet and discuss with your vet * Take care to check the use of IBR vaccines on breeding cattle, especially if they are destined for sale or stud

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

35

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH

DISEASE REGISTER

PROVIDES VITAL FIRST STEP FOR GOING Given the fact that determining the BVD status of beef herds can be achieved at relatively little cost, implementing an effective BVD eradication policy is a must for all cattle farmers. That is according to David Black of the Paragon Veterinary Group in Cumbria who believes that joining the BVDFree England scheme is an easy first step to eradicating the disease.

BVD (Bovine Viral Diarrhoea) is a highly contagious

been infected in the womb – as these will invariably

animals prior to purchase and to upload the BVD

virus that can act as a trigger for a range of diseases.

develop severe disease and will usually die by 18

status of their own cattle so they can be marketed as

It can have a significant impact on the productivity

months of age.”

BVD-free.

cost the UK cattle industry £50 to £75m per year,

It is estimated that 90% of UK cattle herds have

Since its launch in July 2016, 103,731 animals from

with the cost of individual infections ranging from

been exposed to the BVD virus. Even so, a significant

1,046 herds in England have been tested under the

£50 to £100 per breeding animal.

proportion of livestock farmers still don’t know if

scheme, with each test result uploaded to the www.

the disease is present on their farm. “Fortunately,

bvdfree.org.uk database. “The ultimate goal is for the

“Despite its name, diarrhoea is not always a symptom

determining the BVD status of herds is relatively

entire UK beef herd to be completely free from BVD,”

in infected animals,” David Black describes. “In

simple and cost effective to achieve,” David adds.

David continues. “The key to success is to identify all

fact, most animals that become infected with BVD

“The first step is to understand how the disease

persistently infected (PI) animals, including infected

after birth will show no signs of ill health at all. The

affects herd performance, how to test for it and, most

bulls, and to remove them from the herd before

disease can however have a significant impact on

importantly, how to eradicate the virus from infected

they can spread the infection to the rest of the herd.

fertility levels in male and female animals, as well as

herds.” David urges all beef farmers in England to join

Ascertaining the disease status of the herd can be

acting as a catalyst for conditions such as pneumonia

the BVDFree England scheme (www.bvdfree.org.uk)

achieved by blood testing 5-10 animals from each

and scour in calves. This is largely because of its

in order to prevent the disease from spreading: the

management group of youngstock (9-18 months old)

suppressive effect on the immune system. It can also

voluntary, industry-led scheme has the simple goal of

or by tag and testing

cause reduced daily live weight gains in fattening

eliminating BVD from all cattle in England by 2022.

all new born calves

stock. But the key impact is the development of

The scheme is built around a national database which

and any bought-in

persistently infected (PI) animals – those which have

enables users to access BVD test results for individual

animals (including

and profitability of beef herds and is estimated to

Persistently Infected calves often show no signs of illness.

It is therefore essential to test all newborn animals to diagnose their BVD status. Charlie Sutcliffe uses Allflex TST Junior tissue sampling tags applied to the Charlie Sutcliffe’s Tetford

left ear to obtain a

Longhorns are tested for BVD as a

tissue sample for

matter of routine, giving him the

testing. Official

peace of mind that the entire herd is 100% BVD-free.

36

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

tags are applied to the right ear.

SUMMER 2018

applied as part of the normal tagging process and are an effective method for determining the BVD status of individual animals.

Below: David Black believes that joining the BVDFree England scheme is an easy first step to eradicating a disease which can have a significant detrimental effect on beef

BVD-FREE

herd productivity and profitability.

bulls, in-calf-heifers, cows with a calf at foot, or

bulls and fattening stock, will therefore

fattening stock) with an appropriate tissue sampling

reduce the amount of virus circulating

an extra £5 or so

ear tag (TST). If no signs of infection are found, it is

on the farm, but it is important to think

to have the animal

still good practice to continue monitoring, to review

beyond the farm gate when it comes to

tissue sample tested

your disease prevention measures and to consider

keeping the herd BVD-free in the long-

prior to it arriving

makes sense to spend

vaccinating against the disease as a means of keeping term.”

on farm.” For farms

the herd healthy. It is important to remember

located in areas with a

however, that whilst vaccinating can provide a good

Buying-in PI animals which haven’t

high stocking density

degree of protection to disease-free cattle, it can’t

been checked for the virus is one

of cattle, or which rely

cure animals which are already infected.”

of the main routes of re-infection

on trading animals

for previously ‘clean’ herds. “That’s why it is so

into Scotland, David believes the need to join

Meanwhile, for herds which return a positive result

important for each and every herd to join the

the BVDFree scheme is even more pressing: “The

for infection, it is vital to identify each persistently

BVDFree scheme,” continues David. “The BVDFree

BVD virus can spread relatively easily between

infected (PI) animal and to isolate and cull them as

database makes it easy for farmers to check the

neighbouring herds where cattle share a boundary

soon as possible. Stillborn calves or aborted foetuses

disease status of individual animals while standing

so it makes sense to test and protect any potentially

should also be tested to determine if their death was

ringside at the auction mart, and gives buyers

susceptible animals. And with the Scottish beef

caused by BVD. “PI animals will shed the BVD virus at

the confidence of knowing that the cattle they are

industry already a couple of years ahead of England

a prolific rate during their entire, often prematurely

purchasing are clean and BVD disease free. “If an

in terms of its own BVD eradication scheme, farms

short, life and have the potential to cross infect

animal isn’t on the database or if its provenance

which rely on cross-border trading have an even

multiple animals in a short period of time,” David

is unclear, it is probably a good idea to think twice

more critical need to sign up and demonstrate their

adds. “Removing these animals, including infected

before committing to a purchase. At the very least it

cattle are disease free.”

ROUTINE TAG AND TESTING SAFEGUARDS LONGHORNS FROM BVD For Lincolnshire beef farmer, Charlie Sutcliffe, the ability to guarantee his ‘Tetford Longhorns’ are 100% BVD-free makes it easier to sell pedigree bulls and heifers and gives him the peace of mind of knowing that his cattle aren’t going to unleash an unexpected disease outbreak.

“Maintaining my herd’s disease-free status is a priority, not only to keep the herd as productive as possible, but also to ensure we can sell animals at the best price,” Charlie explains. “I apply an Allflex Tissue Sampling Tag to each new calf within 24 hours of its birth and send the sample away for analysis. Within a few days, I’ll know with 100% certainty whether that animal is BVD-free. I can then update my herd’s records on the BVDFree database.

“I’ve got to tag each animal anyway, so it makes sense to take a tissue sample at the same time. I put an official tag in the right ear of each calf, and use the tissue sampling tag as the secondary tag in the left ear.

“So far, we haven’t had any positive tests, but if we did I’d immediately be able to react by segregating and removing it to mitigate risk to the rest of the herd. It gives me peace of mind that there are no nasty BVD surprises lurking around the corner.”

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 THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

37

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH COMPETITION

Left: Allflex’s Tissue Sampling Tags automatically take a sample of tissue as the ear tag is

“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 services team on 0845 600 9070 38 THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH COMPETITION GUEST VET

GUEST VET

LAUREN PORTEUS SUMMER DISEASE RISKS Summer is here and as temperatures rise so do the incidence of a number of conditions. In this article we will discuss certain risk factors related to warmer weather and ways in which management can be altered to avoid them resulting in disease.

HEAT STRESS Though rarely a big issue in the average summer the recent high temperatures have resulted in clinical cases of heat stress and this is something that needs to be considered if temperatures remain elevated. The upper critical temperature for cattle is 25C, beyond this the animal will start trying to compensate via increased breathing rates, panting and drooling to try to dissipate excess heat. If they are unable to relieve their rising temperature it can lead to collapse and even death. The fermentation process in the rumen also produces a lot of additional heat so dry matter intakes will often drop by 10-20% to reduce this additional load. This decreased intake over extended periods will therefore also have effects on growth rates, and fertility of both cows and bulls. Changes is husbandry may be required to reduce the impact of hot periods. For lactating suckler cows the average daily water consumption is 40-70L per day and in hot weather water intakes can increase by 10-20%. An adequate supply of clean water should be available at all times and troughs should be large enough, and refill fast enough, so that cattle are not competing for access.

While taking into account fly risks, provide access to pastures with shaded areas in the form of hedges or trees, and for housed cattle ensure adequate ventilation and space, reducing stocking densities if required. Any supplementary feed should be supplied during cooler periods (between 8pm and 8am) to compensate for reduced dry matter intakes in the heat of the day. Gathering and handling for management tasks should also be limited to these cooler periods to reduce excess demand on cattle (and stockmen!). As a last resort in cases of severe heat stress attempts should be made to cool individuals, getting into shade, wetting along the top line and where possible increasing airflow over cattle can help speed up heat loss.

FLIES With the increasing temperature and humidity we also see increased numbers of various fly species. These can transmit several disease causing bacteria and also can result in self trauma via nuisance activity. Face flies (Musca autumnalis), which feed on eye secretions and spread Morexella bovis, can cause infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (‘pink eye/New forest eye’). This can result in severe eye lesions with painful conjunctivitis and ulceration of the cornea. The Head fly (Hydrotea irritans) is often associated with the spread of summer mastitis. A number of bacteria can be indicated in this condition but the signs remain the same – enlarged, swollen and painful quarters with thick, pus filled secretions. This can progress further to systemic illness, isolation from the group and in severe cases death.

Treatment often includes regular stripping of the affected quarter along with anti-inflammatories and antibiotic therapy, however due to the rapid onset of disease this is limited to salvage. Because of this focus should be on prevention. Dry cows and heifers are most at risk so preferential grazing should be considered. For both of the above conditions affected animals should be isolated in an attempt to prevent further spread and receive individual treatment. Fly habitats should be avoided - sheltered pastures with wooded areas and water courses are the highest risk and where possible, grazing these should be avoided during peak fly periods and especially by at risk groups. For summer mastitis, teat sealants can be used in dry cows to prevent introduction of infection, but these must be used with a very strict aseptic technique to prevent introduction of bacteria into the quarter – this is often difficult to achieve in standard handling facilities for sucklers. Fly repellents are often the mainstay – these include ear tags impregnated with cis cypermethrin, or pour-on treatments often containing cypermethrins or deltamethrin. It is important to be aware of varied application directions and longevity of different products. To ensure correct frequency and location of application consult the data sheet of your selected product for this information.

WATER INTOXICATION Though constant water supply is required all year round the likelihood of restriction increases in hot weather. Drying out troughs or interruption with water supply can result in water deprivation and dehydration. This can lead to disruption of salt concentrations in the body which, if followed by rapid ingestion of water, can result in anaemia, cell rupture and swelling of tissues – particularly those around the brain. Clinically it can present as animals with neurological signs such as convulsions, incoordination, and death. Young stock are most at risk. If water supply has been limited it should be slowly reintroduced to thirsty animals and free access to large volumes should be avoided.

BLUEGREEN ALGAE BLOOMS Be wary of areas of standing water in pastures such as ponds or water troughs which have not been used for prolonged periods of time. During sunny periods evaporation from these leads to changes in electrolytes which favour algal blooms. These can produce toxins which damage the liver and in severe cases can cause colic, haemorrhagic diarrhoea, and death. These toxins can remain present in water for at least two weeks after a bloom is visible. Any at risk areas should be fenced off and troughs emptied and cleaned before introducing stock to reduce chance of ingestion.

As we are yet to be able to control the weather farms must be ready to alter management where possible to decrease the impact of seasonal conditions on cattle health and production. Though difficult to completely avoid certain influencing factors appropriate steps can be made to reduce their impact. As always, seek advice from your vet about the best ways to implement prevention strategies on your holding.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

39

FEATURE

ADDING VALUE & EFFICIENCY

FROM LIMOUSIN BREED IMPROVEMENT Over decades, beef breeders and producers have become very proficient at exploiting all management and husbandry resources available to them to maintain and grow their enterprise margins. For many, in comparison with past times, the degree of knowledge, skill, technology and precision deployed to manage successful enterprises has never been greater.

However, across all breeds, our most easily available

Proportion of GB Prime Slaughter by Breed:

Number of beef-bred suckler dams in the UK by breed type: AHDB

resource - genetics - has, arguably, not been exploited by industry to quite the same degree as other areas of animal breeding, feeding and management. The consequence of this is it presents an essential and critical resource to exploit at a time when positive margins are becoming increasingly difficult to achieve through good practice alone and at a time when market instability demands rapid response to change.

In 2014, the British Limousin Cattle Society adopted a 10-year Breeding Improvement Plan, representing

The 10 goals within the plan are:

significant plans for funding and investment. The plan is all about ensuring that users of Limousin cattle capture optimum value from the genetics they

Increase the perf rec population

are using in ways that haven’t been possible before.

As markets change – and they inevitably will – the Society considers it crucial that industry has a breed

Investigate breeding solutions to traits

where the genetics to respond to change and then

associated with meat

flourish are identifiable, measured and harnessed.

quality

Maintain and

Investigate breeding

improve Limousin's

solutions to key

inherent calving ease

animal health issues

Maintain and improve breed

Improve Growth and Carcase Traits

Improve Maternal

Maintain and

Efficiency

improve Longevity

Docility

Investigate breeding solutions to traits associated with feed intake and feed efficiency

Maintain and improve maternal weaning weight

The value of the research and development work that the Society has engaged in and co-funded is in the

The planned outcome from this work is the creation

2016. Its aim was to use visual image analysis (VIA)

region of £3.4million. The following is an overview

of a population of market-relevant genetics that

records from selected ABP abattoirs in conjunction

of that work and the Society’s plans for the future,

deliver key income opportunities across all supply

with animal DNA and records from BCMS to produce

identifying commercial opportunities and the new

chain sectors. This will aid the quick delivery of

genomic breeding values – the first for the UK beef

streams of income for all beef sectors that are already

consistent volumes of beef to the market within

sector - for:

emerging.

required specification, however that may change.

• Age to Slaughter

In turn, this will protect and grow the market

• Carcase Weight

For over 20 years, the Limousin breed has been

share of Limousin genetics, as well as creating new

• 6 Prime Cuts

the single most dominant beef breed in the UK. It

markets and income opportunities for Limousin

accounts for just under one third of all prime cattle

producers. As with any investment plan, the Breed

slaughterings each year and just under one quarter of

Improvement Plan helps prioritise and plan funding

Limousin producers and buyers can now select and

all beef-bred suckler cows in the country. The breed

from within the Society and from external sources.

purchase animals with breeding values for these

has critical mass within the sector; change at genetic

It identifies where value can be added through

traits and some 1200 animals have been evaluated in

level has potential to impact significantly on all parts

integrating areas of work and pooling resources

this way since the service was launched.

of the supply chain and the breed improvement

to deliver them. Importantly, it also ensures that

In asking the obvious question ‘why invest in this

work we do is taken seriously and with industry

all genetic change taking place is desirable and of

project?’ some work was undertaken during the

responsibility. It is fully recognised by the Society’s

value to the targeted sector. The necessary work

project to challenge whether the eventual breeding

council of management that commercial sector needs

has commenced and in some cases has been fully

values would tell us anything about our cattle that

will change over time in terms of markets, pricing

delivered. What follows is a summation of the most

we didn’t already know. Abattoir records from a

structures and the wider trading environment. To

advanced areas of work, identifying the economic

sample of 20,000 Limousin-bred steers out of

this end, in 2014, the Society adopted a Breed

opportunities coming available to the ‘early adopters’

dairy herds were examined. Of the 1200 that had

Improvement Plan. Following two years of industry

and those who are willingly engaging.

similar carcase weights (all were between 350kg

consultation and planning, this identifies ten key

fillet, striploin, rump, topside, silverside and knuckle.

and 360kg) and had been allocated the same EUROP

areas where investment in genetic improvement

Genomic Breeding Values (GEBVs) for Carcase

grade for conformation, the difference in weight of

is desirable and lays out the anticipated approach

Traits. This £1.5m, four-year, research project in

Striploin was found by VIA to vary on average by

planned for each.

partnership with SRUC and ABP Food Group ended in

approximately 2kg. At a retail value of between £35-

40

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

FEATURE

PLAN

The 10 Year Breed Improvement Plan: is all about ensuring that users of Limousin cattle capture optimum value from the genetics they are using in ways that haven’t been possible before.

ALISON GLASGOW BRITISH LIMOUSIN CATTLE SOCIETY TECHNICAL MANAGER

Variation in Striploin (kg) - Carcase Weight 350 - 360kg 40/kg for striploin, it is not difficult to see that there is value to be captured that is currently undetected.

When the combined difference between all six cuts was examined, the difference in retail value between the top and bottom thirds of animals – again within the same carcase weight and EUROP grade - was in the region of £150/head. This is added value from genetic difference in our animals that is not yet being captured and exploited fully, but which we now have the means to do so.

On a level arguably leaving more pounds directly in

Whilst the breed already has some of these traits

ongoing collection of feed intake records beyond the

producers’ pockets, the genetic difference between

available as EBVs, they are typically low accuracy and

funded stage. The end point will be that, one year

the Top 1% and Bottom 1% animals for Age at

are based on pedigree records only, generated from

from now, Limousin will have new EBVs that will

Slaughter is 44 days. In other words, animals with

within the Society. The breeding information used

identify animals with favourable and non-favourable

Top 1% genetics for Age to Slaughter have the genetic

for the new GEBVs is from the whole of the BCMS

genetics for feed efficiency. Work carried out to

potential to finish 44 days (approx. 6 weeks) faster

dataset, which is considerably larger in volume,

date in the UK is suggesting cost saving advantages

than those in the Bottom 1% simply by dint of the fact

producing more accurate results that truly reflect

from feed efficient cattle in the region of £30-40

they have inherited faster finishing genetics. A quick

the commercial performance of Limousin-bred cows.

over a 180-day feeding period, around 20% of the

back-of-the-envelope calculation suggests that the

Some interim findings during the earlier research

total feed cost. This is in keeping with differences

faster finished animals could be worth approximately

phases in 2016 revealed the nature of the added

in beef cattle in other countries where such work is

£80 more (44 days at £1.80/day finishing cost) than

value to be trapped:

well established and, as with other species, there is much to gain from embedding these EBVs in beef

their slower contemporaries and this is, without doubt, ‘added value from genetics’ at its best.

• Limousin has a national replacement rate in the UK that is 5% lower than the next most common

breeding programmes.

THE PLAN IS TAKING SHAPE!

Genomic Breeding Values for Female Fertility

type of suckler cow. (This would substantiate

(Maternal) and Calf Survival Traits. The wide use of

the high proportion of the breed in the suckler dam IMPROVED CARCASE QUALITY ~£150

Limousin as a suckler dam in the UK challenges the

population, referred to earlier).

QUICKER AGE TO SLAUGHTER ~£80

breed to continually deliver genetics that produce

• Limousin has 2% greater longevity at 8 years of age

IMPROVED MATERNAL PERFORMANCE ~£42PA

what it takes to be a productive, efficient, cost

• Limousin as 1.5% lower calf mortality in the UK

IMPROVED FEED EFFICIENCY ~£35

effective cow. In 2016, the Limousin Society, along

than any other breed

It is unrealistic to anticipate that any sector player can capture and exploit all available benefits; the

with SRUC, were successful in securing funding to develop new GEBVs for Female Fertility and Calf

The outcomes of this work will provide opportunity to

advantage of successfully harnessing any small

Survival traits; another first for the beef sector. The

extend these differences further still. Previous SRUC

part will make themselves apparent and will be

pathway laid out by the Carcase Trait GEBVs provides

work has identified advantages in the region of £42pa

permanent. The work completed thus far is already

the platform for these new GEBVs. Calving records

per cow mated from successful annual calvings.

offering income opportunity to those willing and able to adopt it. It has also successfully created a

collected from all Limousin-bred dams in the country (via BCMS) and animal DNA are combined to produce

Estimated Breeding Values for Feed Intake and

pathway that will enable the roll-out of investment

the breeding values. The research phase was a 12

Feed Efficiency. Limousin is the primary breed in

and activity within the other goal areas of the Breed

month project, ending in July, whereupon the GEBVs

this £1.75m project, co-funded by DEFRA and AHDB.

Improvement Plan. This will ‘future-proof’ the

became available for widespread industry use:

Part way through, its aim is to collect feed intake

breed’s performance in all sections of the supply

• Age at 1st Calving

records over a three year period (ending 2018/19)

chain and ensure that when market change comes,

• Calving Interval

to produce EBVs for traits associated with feed

producers have the means and the genetics to

• Longevity

efficiency. Feed intake recording protocols for the

quickly and successfully respond. Key to this will be

• Calf Survival

UK will also be established, as will a plan for the

working with partners in the wider beef sectors.

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

41

BEEF BREED DIRECTORY

BEEF BREED

DIRECTORY CROSS INTO PROFIT

CATTLE SOCIETY

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

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

Follow UK Herefords

www.limousin.co.uk

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

02476 696500 info@limousin.co.uk

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

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

t: 01738 622478 e: info@beefshorthorn.org

www.beefshorthorn.org

THE GREAT BRITISH BEEF BREED

A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN. EASY CALVING - DOCILE

Dual purpose Easy calving Docile Good Mothers Longevity Commercialy viable in all situations

Devon Cattle Breeders' Society Blacklake Farm, East Hill, Ottery, St Mary, Devon, EX11 1QA t: 01404 812800 e: dcbs@redrubydevon.co.uk

THE BRITISH BLUE CATTLE SOCIETY

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

42

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

SETTING THE STANDARD

GET MORE MEAT MORE MUSCLE AND MORE PROFIT WITH EASY CALVING EASY CARE BAZADAISE CATTLE

www.britishbluecattle.org

www.bazadaise.org.uk

01768 870522

info@britishbluecattle.org

info@britishwagyu.co.uk

wwwbritishwagyu.co.uk

09/04/2018 10:17:28

A native breed for modern needs

Tel: 01580 880105

WAGYU BREEDERS ASSOCIATION

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

nba 32 x 68 mm.indd 1

Part of Farming's Future

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

Pedigree Cattle Services, Pedigree House, 6 Kings Place, Perth, Perthshire. PH2 8AD

STABILISER CATTLE COMPANY Southburn Offices - Southburn Driffield - East Yorkshire - O25 9ED Low cost production system delivering high eating quality beef. £Profit is the new Stabiliser multi-trait selection index that identifies the most profitable animals Office – 01377 227790 Sales – 07790 018637 Email Ursula.taylor@jsr.co.uk

Secretary: Liz Coates Tel: 01869 349132

secretary@gloucestercattle.org.uk

www.gloucestercattle.org.uk

www.bigbeef.co.uk

BELTED GALLOWAY

CATTLE SOCIETY 01896 820148

info@beltedgalloways.co.uk www.beltedgalloways.co.uk FLOURISH WALLS HOUSE GREENLAW, DUNS BERWICKSHIRE, TD10 6XW

TICKING ALL THE BOXES: CALVING EASE

CARCASE WEIGHTS

FERTILITY

DOCILITY

MILK = CALF GROWTH

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

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

FEATURE - ANIMAL HEALTH BEEF BREED DIRECTORY Breed Secretary: Debbie Dann 3 Eastgate, Stoneleigh Park Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2LH

THE BRITISH PIEMONTESE CATTLE SOCIETY LTD

TM

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

Tel: 01522 511395

ALL OTHER ENQUIRIES TO CRAIG CULLEY TEL: 01228 562 946

www.lincolnredcattlesociety.co.uk

secretary@piemontese.info

Go Native for Profit

www.piemontese.org.uk

THE ULTIMATE SUCKLER BREED

www.longhorncattlesociety.com

Smith Hill Farm, Bower Slack Road Triangle, Halifax HX6 3EZ 07903 626249 or 01422 820220 secretary@salers-cattle-society.co.uk

www.salers-cattle-society.co.uk

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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TEL: 01759 371601 OR info@drttrailers.co.ukSUMMER 2018

43

NBA MEMBERSHIP

NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION

MEMBERSHIP

FROM £40 PER YEAR

WHAT IS THE NBA? The NBA is a highly committed and proactive, charitable organisation with a single focus on the British Beef Industry. Since its inception in 1999 the NBA has gone from strength to strength and today it remains the only dedicated voice for British Beef Farmers defending their interests and representing their views.

The industry has and will continue to face many challenges and through the revenue generated from our membership the National Beef Association ensures: There is a Strong Management team and Board of Directors working on your behalf who meet regularly to discuss issues affecting the industry and continually act to protect the industry. That we continue to engage with Government and Devolved Administrations including EC, Defra, Seerad, NAWAD, Dard NI to defend the interest of beef farmers across the UK. That we help to direct future regulation, offering advice and evidence to overturn bad legislation and improve existing legislation.

MEMBERS ALSO BENEFIT FROM NBA Magazine - published quarterly and produced in-house, the magazine covers a range of topics including technical articles, featured case studies, policy reports, health and nutrition articles, regional round-ups and much more.

Weekly Newsletter - sent every Friday, by email, to keep you up to date with all the NBA and Industry news Free Use of the NBA Terms and Conditions of Sale for Pedigree Cattle (non-members pay £20 per animal) Members-only Area of the NBA's website Priority Booking for all regional meetings and forums - The NBA run a range of regional meetings, farm walks and road shows, in conjunction with our Industry Sponsors, to provide our members with the latest technical information and knowledge sharing opportunities Free entry into NBA Beef Expo events Opportunity to sit on an NBA Regional Committee - NBA committees act as a key knowledge transfer tool from farm practitioners to Board Directors and we welcome member input.

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

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP

THE NBA IS GRATEFUL TO THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES AND ORGANISATIONS FOR THEIR SUPPORT

Trouw Nutrition and Wynnstay have recently joined the NBA as Corporate Members - thank you for your support!

For more information on Corporate Membership packages from NBA, please call 01434 601005 or email info@nationalbeefassociation.com GOLD MEMBERS SHEARWELL DATA Animal identification systems: excellent cattle and sheep tags, comprehensive on-farm software and full management systems using EID. www.shearwell.co.uk

FOR FARMERS We supply a range of feedstuffs that cater to both traditional and the more technically minded farmers and producers. www.forfarmers.co.uk

MOLE VALLEY All your technical advice and products to maximise the individual beef enterprise profits. www.molevalleyfarmers.com

44

THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

CORPORATE MEMBERS

FROM £300+VAT PER YEAR

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

SUMMER 2018

NBA MEMBERSHIP

JOIN THE NBA TODAY

APPLICATION FORM

YOU CAN NOW JOIN UP ONLINE visit www.nationalbeefassociation.com/about/how-to-join today and help us make sure your industry's future is secure alternately, fill out the form below and return to us via post NAME: COMPANY (if applicable):

ADDRESS:

POSTCODE: PHONE NUMBER: EMAIL ADDRESS: I wish to receive the Crystalyx offer, I understand that my details will be shared with Crystalyx.

THREE WAYS TO PAY: 1. CREDIT CARD Please debit the sum of: (circle selected amount)

£40 (Under 26*)

£75

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Card Type: Name on Card: Card Number: Security Code: (last 3 digits on reverse of card)

Start Date:

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Issue No. (Maestro Only)

2. CHEQUE Please send this form and a cheque for annual membership, a minimum sum of £75 (Under 26* £40), made payable to National Beef Association, to The National Beef Association, Tanners House, 20 Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD. 3. STANDING ORDER To Bank plc: Address: Please pay Lloyds Bank plc, Malvern, WR14 4QG.

Sort code: 30-95-41 Account No: 23358760

The sum of: (circle selected amount)

£40 (Under 26*)

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Immediately

On this date

Commencing: (circle applicable)

For the credit of the National Beef Association

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Please cancel any previous Standing Order or Direct Debit in favour of the beneficiary named above, under this reference.

Membership No: (For internal use) Name of Account:

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SIGNED:

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The NBA complies fully with the General Data Protection Regulation. Please see our privacy policy for more details, which can be requested from NBA Hexham.

For any queries or concerns regarding GDPR, please write to: Data Protection at The National Beef Association, Tanners House, 20 Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD. Please use Gift Aid to make your subscription worth more to NBA. For every pound you give us, we could earn an extra 25p from the Inland Revenue. Gift Aid Declaration: I want the National Beef Association to treat all subscriptions I make from the date of this declaration until I notify you otherwise as a Gift Aid donation. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/ or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay any difference.

TO GIFT AID PLEASE TICK HERE...

Please return this form to: The National Beef Association, Tanners House, 20 Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD. THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

45

GIFT OF THE GAVEL

GIFT OF THE GAVEL

MATTHEW PROBERT NORTH WEST AUCTIONS - NWA J36 RURAL AUCTION CENTRE

AUCTIONEERING & MARKETS HAVE ‘LOTS TO OFFER’ As a young lad growing up on a small mixed family farm in South Wales farming and agriculture was ‘in my blood’, but unfortunately like most young people nowadays following parents into farming was not a viable option so my thoughts turned to other potential work opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Following my reluctant time at school I was

market operators to continue to offer the service

life with little interaction with other people during

fortunate enough to attend Harper Adams

customers have come to expect and deserve.

their working day. At any Auction Mart you will

University College to study Rural Enterprise &

Markets have adapted to use a range of modern

always find someone willing to share a brew and

Land Management. Those years at University

technology to assist with sales and services offered

a buttie in the Mart cafe or leaning over a pen of

allowed the opportunity to meet many like minded

and I believe that the mobile phone has become as

stock due to be sold that day and the value of this

people both teaching and being taught. Those

valuable to the modern day auctioneer as the gavel

cannot be underestimated, particularly through

contacts have proved to be invaluable in my career

as we are expected to be available to answer the

harsh winters and dry summers.

so far and many have become close friends.

call of the customer at any time of the day.

Following graduation I packed my bags and

Auction Marts have long been the chosen place

horizon will continue to give the opportunities

headed to the renowned auctioneer training

to not only trade stock but also provide a much

to youngster keen to attend auction marts that

grounds of Northern England as a trainee at North

needed regular gathering place for people who can

generations of farmers before them have had,

West Auctions at Kendal & Lancaster Auction

otherwise live a relatively secluded and isolated

wherever they may stand on a sale day.

Lets hope that the changes which are on the

Marts covering Cumbria & Lancashire. My career as an auctioneer to date has seen me fortunate

MATTHEW IS SENIOR AUCTIONEER AT NORTH WEST AUCTIONS AND IS

enough to sell an extraordinary range of livestock

RESPONSIBLE FOR LIVESTOCK SALES AT NWA J36 RURAL AUCTION CENTRE.

of exceptional quality for which British Farmers and Producers are rightly proud of. A personal highlight to date saw me being given the duty to conduct the opening sale of cattle at the relocated North West Auctions NWA J36 Auction Site in 2013 and selling Herdwick Prime Hoggs in-front of HRH Prince Charles.

The modern day Auction Mart site will now host a wide range of rural enterprises and businesses all on one site giving customers the opportunity to do all their off farm jobs on one site in one day. These changes have seen the relocation of many traditional town centre sites to out of town business park locations. These new sites provide modern facilities which are fast, efficient and well located to transport links which allow the

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THE NATIONAL BEEF ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2018

New & Improved Milk Powders Contains

& • • • •

Promotes fibre digestion Earlier weaning Improved weight gain Improved health

Give your stock the best start For more information contact

Customer Services 01228 518860 carrs-billington.com

UPDATE THEIR IMMUNE SYSTEM

B OVINE RE SPIR AT OR Y DISE A SE IS A REL EN T L E S S H ACKER

Hostile organisms are threatening your business, with direct impact estimated at £43 per dairy calf and £82 per suckler calf 1. Make sure you have proven protection against circulating strains of BRD-causing pathogens2.

IMMUNITY UPGRADED References: 1. Andrews AH (2000) Calf Pneumonia Costs! Cattle Practice 8(2). 2. Phillippe-Reversat et al. (2017) Acta Vet. BRNO 86: 325-332.

BOVALTO® Respi 3 Suspension for Injection and BOVALTO® Respi 4 Suspension for Injection contain inactivated bovine respiratory syncytial virus, strain BIO-24, inactivated bovine parainfluenza 3 virus, strain BIO-23 and inactivated Mannheimia haemolytica, serotype A1 strain DSM 5283. BOVALTO Respi 4 also contains inactivated bovine viral diarrhoea virus, strain BIO-25. UK: POM-V. Further information available in the SPC or from Merial Animal Health Ltd, RG12 8YS, UK. UK Tel: 0870 6000 123. Bovalto and the steerhead logo are registered trademarks of Merial. ©2018 Merial Animal Health Ltd. All rights reserved. Merial is now part of the Boehringer Ingelheim Group of Companies. Date of preparation: Apr 2018. AHD10808.

Use Medicines Responsibly.