Heifer rearing tool could save farmers money

Dairy farmers spend an average of £950 on rearing each replacement heifer but could dramatically reduce costs by changing their system according to the DairyCo.

To help farmers find the rearing approach best suited for their farm DairyCo has produced the Heifer rearing calculator CD, into which farmers can enter their own figures and assess potential outcomes virtually and without risk.

The CD allows farmers to compare six different rearing methods ranging from extensive rearing calving at 33 months old, to a high input system calving at 22 months, as well as contract rearing and flying herds.

Heather Wildman, DairyCo extension officer, says: "It is important to work out what you are spending per head and ensure it is money well spent. The two main ways to cut rearing costs are to use lower inputs and calve later or to increase inputs and calve earlier. The most suitable answer will depend on individual facilities."

Warwick Bastard of Model Cow Nutrition, speaking at a DairyCo event focusing on heifer rearing, said: "Achieving the correct type of growth in dairy heifers from birth to point of service is of importance and is the factor which impacts most on the rearing costs for a herd. Such things as ensuring new born calves suckle as soon as possible to benefit from colostrum, introducing water as well as milk and coarse ration into the calf’s diet and reducing any stress by allowing young stock to stay in the same pens when weaned for a number of days all make a difference."

Heather concludes: "Using the Heifer rearing calculator identifies the optimum system for your own circumstances and could save farmers a significant amount of money."