Just how important is breeding on dairy farms? Your chance to have your say…

Improvements in the way each bull and cow is assessed for its potential to improve dairy herd profitability have been introduced by the Milk Development Council (MDC) through its new breeding+ package. Now MDC is looking for a group of farmers to help guide the genetics programme over the coming months.

Marco Winters, technical director for breeding+, says: "This group will mean a powerful new voice for farmers in the dairy breeding industry.

"Cattle genetics is a complex area but producers have been able to make great progress adapting the breeding of their herds for modern-day milk production. This group will help ensure this work continues and farmers are breeding to produce the milk that will meet market needs, in the way that best suits their system."

MDC is inviting interested farmers to put their names forward for the new group, which will meet two or three times a year. Mr Winters continues: "We would like all breeds to be represented and ideally to attract farmers from all over the United Kingdom.

"It only takes a minute to breed a cow, but a lifetime to breed out a poor mating decision. We would like more producers to take advantage of the genetic information available to them and this new group will help us get these messages across."

The first meeting is being planned for January 2006. For more information on how to get involved write to Marco Winters at breeding+, Milk Development Council, Stroud Road, Cirencester, GL7 6JN.

For further information:

Philippa Stagg on 01285 646519; philippa.stagg@mdc.org.uk