The Benefits of Using Cover Crops in Your Rotation
Cover crops are gaining momentum amongst arable farmers as a practical and sustainable tool to improve soil health, protect the environment and potentially fix nitrogen. Integrating cover crops into crop rotations delivers a multitude of benefits. Soil Health and Structure The primary benefit is the improvement of soil structure. Cover crops, especially multi-species mixes, develop extensive […]
Lungworm in Northern Ireland: The Costly Impact of “Husk” on Cattle Health and Farm Profits
Lungworm, otherwise known as “Husk” is very common in Northern Ireland. It is caused by the parasite Dictyocaulus viviparus and can lead to serious lung disease. It is estimated that the losses associated with lungworm in growing cattle can be up to £50-£100 per head. In adult lactating cattle the condition can lead to losses […]
Preparation for Dry Off: Managing Late Lactation Cows at Grass
The building blocks of a productive lactation begins with good foundations laid in the dry period. More and more is expected of modern dairy cow and in order to ensure an effective transition from the dry-cow period, we need to assess late lactation cows and plan accordingly. While much emphasis is placed upon the importance […]
Photosensitization in Cattle
Over the last few weeks, there have been numerous reports from farmers all across Northern Ireland of cattle showing signs of severe skin irritation and what appears to be ‘sunburn.’ Cattle can experience photosensitization, commonly known as sunburn. This a skin condition caused by a reaction of certain substances in the body with sunlight, leading […]
Optimising Fertility in Grazing Herds: Challenges and Solutions
Fertility remains a key performance indicator for grazing cow herds, particularly in spring-calving systems where compact calving blocks are essential. One of the major challenges in maintaining high fertility levels is ensuring cows, especially high-yielding, early lactation animals, achieve adequate energy intakes at grass. These cows have high nutritional demands and failure to meet these […]