The number of calves born on Irish dairy farms has increased by almost 300,000 over the past decade to an estimated 1.3 million in 2018, according to Teagasc.
In a statement the Agriculture and Food Development Authority said that the improving dairy herd fertility is resulting in a more concentrated calving season.
“Our research shows that well reared calves are more productive and profitable during their lifetime.” George Ramsbottom, Teagasc said.
“While things are improving, only sixty of replacements born in 2014 calved at two years of age and one in five never calved. So, further improvement in the standard of calf rearing is essential”.
CalfCare Events
With this in mind, Teagasc and Animal Health Ireland in conjunction with the dairy milk processors Arrabawn, Aurivo, Centenary, Dairygold, Glanbia, Kerry Agribusiness, Lakeland Dairies and Tipperary Co-op supported by Volac, have joined forces to organise a series of ten CalfCare events the statement read.
David Graham, CEO, Animal Health Ireland said: “AHI is delighted to be working in partnership with Teagasc and the eight Dairy Coops involved in the running of these CalfCare events.”
The series of events will run nationwide from the 10 – 25 January, 2018.
© 2017 - Checkout Magazine by Donna Ahern
