10/03/08
Dairy farmers can find out how to make more from forage by attending
a Milking Grass for Profit farm walk on Tuesday 18 March at Thornhill
Hall Farm, Thornhill, Dewsbury organised by the Royal Association
of British Dairy Farmers, British Grassland Society and Milk Development
Council.
Host farmer, Tom Rawson who manages a 250 cow herd plus
followers with his wife, Catherine and parents, Gary and Linda,
will discuss how his detailed attention to grassland management
is helping him to take 60% of yield from forage.
In addition to grassland management, nutrition, herd health and
genetics, several other timely topics will be up for discussion.
They will the include a 10 month extended grazing policy which
saves £8,000 in February alone, the benefits of spring and
autumn calving blocks, reseeding using red and white clovers, low
cost calf rearing systems and the benefits of contracting an East
European workforce.
The day will commence at 10.30am with an introduction from RABDF,
followed by a short technical presentation on MDC’s Grass+
Improvement Programme, a soil assessment by Kingshay Farming Trust
and a discussion on the benefits of using clover from the Grassland
Development Centre (IGER).
Tom Rawson will lead the guided farm walk followed by lunch and
an opportunity for visitors to discuss their business with local
suppliers and event supporters.
“Attending this farm walk will be time well invested whether
you are managing a 10,000 litre herd or a lower output system,” says
RABDF’s chief executive, Nick Everington. “Despite
higher milk prices, farmers are still struggling to cover their
production costs, in particular fertiliser which has soared by
50% in the last nine months. This event will provide all visitors
with the opportunity to rethink their systems and improve their
efficiency. Grazed grass continues to remain the cheapest form
of forage, therefore if they start to optimise its management from
turnout, then they should be well placed to maximise its potential
throughout the season and subsequently have the opportunity to
reduce input costs.”
For further information or to book a place on the farm walk and
reserve a place for lunch please contact the RABDF on 0845 458
2711.
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