Latest dairy technologies demonstrated at CAFRE Open Days

Date published: 1 February 2018

The farmers were able to see first-hand how the herd is managed day to day on the dairy unit. They were provided with an update on current performance and feed efficiency, with the rolling herd average of 8,779 litres of milk sold per cow per year at a feed rate of 0.31kg/litre.

Key performance indicators at Greenmount are: 700 kilos of combined butterfat and protein per cow per year and a lifetime yield of 40,000 litres per cow. Good herd fertility is essential in achieving these targets and the latest technologies available to improve heat detection and conception rates were considered.

A healthy calf, leading to the achievement of growth rate targets for dairy replacements are vital to ensure two year old calving.

The practical points around both transition cow and calf management at calving were demonstrated. The production of high quality colostrum through dry cow feeding and then ensuring the new born calf receives sufficient quantity of this quality colostrum, were shown to those visiting the unit. This very practical information presented to the farmers generated a lot of discussion.

The feedback from farmers was very positive and they valued and appreciated the opportunity for the technical update on many aspects of milk production and herd management at Greenmount.