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Ensure calves stay healthy

Young calves should be housed for at least four weeks to ensure they stay warm and are using their energy for growth.

Calf rearing facilities should be set up and maintained well to ensure calves stay healthy.

Colostrum is produced only in the first milking after calving, it is higher in protein and fat than milk, contains a wide array of other beneficial bioactive molecules, specific nutrients, hormones and growth factors, and has a distinctive yellow colour.

Hygiene, health routines vital while raising calves

From the get-go, colostrum is the most important source of nutrients for calves.

Heifers that reach target weights make the most successful milking cows, so it’s important to invest in their health from the get-go to ensure a healthy, happy, and profitable dairy farm.

Ensure calves are always cared for

Ensure that all calves are always cared for, including in the paddock and on their way to the calf sheds.

Successful calf rearing starts as soon as the calf is born.

More farmers DNA testing calves

With DNA testing, farmers can confidently select the best replacement animals, allocate sexed semen to genetically superior cows, and increase the rate of genetic gain in their herd.

An increasing number of Otago and Canterbury dairy farmers are realising the value of DNA testing their calves to help them make better breeding decisions, according to local CRV sales consultant Deborah Adair-Dagg.

Maize silage – a great tool for managing wet soils

There is a lot of maize silage being fed already and with calving starting and the wet continuing, it looks like this level of feeding will continue into the spring.

For many North Island farmers, the wet weather just keeps on coming.

Power to the women!

Dairy Women's Network chief executive Jules Benton.

Women in the dairy sector are being empowered to successfully farm for the future thanks to a network of Business Groups and a far-reaching leadership programme it drives.

Lip balm wins gong

St Paul’s Collegiate students, from left, Emma Lobb, Lucy O’Meeghan, Mackenzie Lenton.

Once again, the sharp minds at St Paul’s Collegiate School in Hamilton were the 2023 Young Innovator of the Year Winner at Fieldays.

Integrated farm plan helps businesses

Integrated Farm Plan (IFP) lead consultant Paul Reese discusses IFP outcomes with Swannanoa farmer Andrew Gilchrist.

Swannanoa farmer Andrew Gilchrist has delved deep into the business and people side of his family-operated farm through completing an Integrated Farm Plan (IFP).