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Two recent studies conducted at the Southern Dairy Hub in New Zealand have provided valuable insights into optimizing winter nutrition for dairy cows. The studies focused on the role of winter crops such as kale and fodder beet in providing optimal nutrition for non-lactating dairy cows. The research found that crop yield and quality can vary throughout winter, and factors such as sowing date and environmental conditions can influence crop productivity. The studies recommend that farmers closely monitor the yield and quality of their crops, regularly test the crops for nutritive value, and analyze supplementary feeds to ensure a balanced diet for the cows. By applying these findings, farmers can improve the health and productivity of their dairy herds. [Extracted from the article]

A special report on genetic modification in New Zealand reveals that farmers and growers have higher levels of awareness about genetic engineering and genetic modification compared to the general population. However, knowledge levels among farmers and growers are low, with many answering "don't know" to identification questions. The report also highlights that public acceptance of genetic engineering is significant, with a third of the general public believing that genetically modified (GM) food products would benefit them or their families. Acceptance levels vary depending on the application, with GM in fresh meat seen as less acceptable than GM in fruit and vegetables. The report concludes that there is a need for more education and widespread consultation on changes to legislation regarding genetic technologies in New Zealand. [Extracted from the article]

A young farming trio in New Zealand is furthering their farm training through a combination of online and in-person courses. Stephen and Sophie Smyllie, along with Sophie's stepbrother Gary, have all studied Primary ITO courses to enhance their knowledge and skills in the industry. Stephen, who has won several awards, has completed a Diploma in Agriculture and a Diploma in Farm Management, while Sophie is studying online to gain her Level 3 Training Dairy Apprenticeship. Gary prefers in-person classes and is also studying Level 3 Dairy courses. The training is flexible and allows the trio to apply their learning directly to their contract milking business. [Extracted from the article]

Farmers may need to collaborate effectively in order to drive more value from each calf born on dairy farms, Focus Genetics' Rebecca Hickson says. As part of Pamu's dairy-beef breeding programme, Focus Genetics is going to start measuring more traits from artificially reared dairy beef calves which require different characteristics to beef calves reared on their mothers. At some farms they had the heifer replacement calves, then pens of dairy crossbred bull calves and a smattering of beef calves. [Extracted from the article]

Saving peat with a barn: A barn housing 1000 Holstein Friesian cows won the 2023 Waikato Regional Supreme Award at the Ballance Farm Environment Awards, for its commitment to productive genetic gain and precision effluent management. Those genetics have shown their true value since the cows moved into the barn system, Arjun says. Sheryl Haitana visited the three siblings who are the fifth generation of the Singh family dairy farming in New Zealand "We were System 5 before the cows went in the barn and the cows were producing 500kg MS/cow, now they're producing 750kg MS/cow. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the experiences of Andrew Hamilton, a dairy farmer from south Auckland, who spent 18 months working on a dairy farm in Canada. This experience opened his eyes to the potential of well-fed cows. Upon returning to New Zealand, Hamilton focused on growing and utilizing more quality pasture, despite challenges such as insects, summer dryness, and invasive kikuyu grass. He developed a cropping and pasture renewal system that includes summer crops like chicory and turnips, which are grazed by cows from January to March. Hamilton also pays close attention to feed availability and uses a mix of palm kernel, soy hull pellets, and citrus pulp pellets as a cost-effective supplement. He aims to breed cows that efficiently convert feed into milk and focuses on increasing the average liveweight of his herd. [Extracted from the article]

A Westpac economic bulletin on farm costs published in April noted the key causes of the inflationary spike (feed, fertiliser and fuel) which saw rural cost inflation reach 15.3% at the end of 2022, are in retreat. At a high-level, the inflation-led rise in farm production costs over the past 18 months has squeezed margins to the point where ANZ and Rabobank economists have recently indicated farmgate price forecasts will mean some farmers' costs may eclipse their income. As significant as the need to pay for new energy infrastructure, Treasury has reportedly advised the Government that electricity prices would increase by up to 8% for industrial and commercial users if the current New Zealand carbon price was used to cut emissions. [Extracted from the article]

Farmers in New Zealand are increasingly investing in technology and data solutions for their farm dairy operations. However, it is important for farmers to see clear evidence that the data is adding value to their bottom line. The functionality of the technology is crucial, as it needs to accurately perform tasks such as drafting cows. Some farmers may be hesitant to adopt technology, but it can actually help educate farm staff and free up time for more important tasks. When considering technology investments, farmers should focus on their specific goals and how the technology will work with their current setup and long-term business plans. One example of technology available is the SenseHub Dairy system, which includes milk and somatic cell count sensors that provide valuable insights for farmers. The company is continuously investing in system upgrades to improve practicality and functionality. [Extracted from the article]

Identifying lame cattle is a challenge for dairy farmers in New Zealand and worldwide. Currently, New Zealand farmers are missing 75% of lame animals and taking over three weeks to identify clinically lame animals. Early detection and prompt effective treatment (EDPET) is crucial for preventing permanent damage and future cases of lameness. The article proposes a four-point plan for implementing EDPET, which includes regular lameness scoring, examination and treatment of lame cows, pain management, and monitoring recovery. Improving the detection and treatment of lameness is applicable to all dairy farms and can have significant benefits. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the need for dairy farmers in New Zealand to improve their practices in order to attract and retain employees. The author emphasizes that as the labor pool shrinks and competition for workers increases, it is important for employers to shift their mindset and prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of their employees. The article suggests that offering more attractive job conditions, such as flexibility and different roles, as well as valuing and leveraging the skills and experience of women and older men, could help address the labor shortage. Additionally, the author highlights the importance of hiring qualified individuals and addressing health and safety concerns in order to make the industry more appealing. [Extracted from the article]

But the Step Change project at Dairy Trust Taranaki (DTT) Gibson farm has proven the strategy can improve profitability by 15% while reducing overall GHG by 18% and methane by 15% Stock sales for the Future farm at $83,610 and $1532/ha were higher than the Current farm at $52,952 and $970/ha, adding to profitability. Imported feed was 1.8t DM/ha for the Current farm compared with only 0.4t DM/ha for the Future farm and utilisation rates were 79% for the Current farm and 78% for the Future farm. [Extracted from the article]

The herd is close to the top 10% for BW/PW and this allows Hayden to sell cows he doesn't need in-calf and in-milk, calving 360 cows and milking 340 through the season. Five herd tests over the season help Hayden identify any high SCC cows and allow him to identify surplus cows to sell on. Hayden, now 37, his partner Danielle Zentveld, and baby Arlo are very happy living on home turf just around the corner from Hayden's parents and his first employers and would love to buy a farm in the area. [Extracted from the article]

There is more work involved with young animals up to a year old, and while some graziers will ask for a premium to take on the younger animals, Peter's grazier only accepts R2s. GLO:16PJ/01Jan23:62n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): As new graziers Brian and Rachael are learning the ropes on winter grazing. gl Winters in Northland are usually fairly mild. [Extracted from the article]

Participants talked about social grouping and social stress with one farmer saying: "the bigger the herd, the more social stress they have because they find it really hard to find their friends If you had 1000 cows in one herd it would be very stressful". "Getting a deeper understanding of what good farm design might look like from the cow's perspective helps identify the role of technology in delivering more "cow-centric" future farms. [Extracted from the article]

The spring-loaded Easy Entry Calf Trailer is one of several practical designs to come out of a collaborative design project involving farmers that aims to reduce the risk of sprains and strains. Callum says the current version is the third prototype with feedback from farmers in the workshops and onfarm resulting in tweaks. A one-way, saloon-door style gate for a calf trailer already has farmers clamouring to buy it even though it's still in the prototype stage. [Extracted from the article]

Ed grazes calves through Vet Care(Wanganui Vet Services) and for a handful of privateclients and says the target for most of the heifers toarrive is 220-250kg on May 1. STOCK HEIFER GRAZING Keeping the heifers growing and the owners happy isat the heart of a Manawatu contract heifer-raising operation Ed Jackson is a former dairy farmer now dairy heifergrazier, and he has kept a lot of his old dairy farmingtricks to maximise growth and make sure his young chargesreach their targets. OLDIES BUT GOODIES Ed Jackson gave up dairy farming in favour of grazingdairy heifers but he kept his two favourite oldest cows. Too many heifers are falling out of the national herd atage three, when they fail to rebreed because they are notgrown well enough, Ed says. [Extracted from the article]

Two dairy farmers in New Zealand have found success by partnering with First Light and using Wagyu beef. Victor Rutherford now breeds Wagyu across his entire herd and buys in dairy replacements, citing the secure return for his calves and a good relationship with First Light. Paul Scheres uses 30-35% of Wagyu semen across his herd and rears the calves to improve cashflow and reduce bobby calves. Both farmers praise First Light for their reliability and the calving ease of the Wagyu beef. [Extracted from the article]

A new online platform called Ag Assist has been created to help dairy farmers connect with available workers in their local community. This platform allows farmers to find skilled individuals who can provide relief during busy times, such as calving, or assist with various tasks on the farm or around the house. Ag Assist aims to provide flexibility and support to farmers, allowing them to structure their work and personal lives in a way that suits them. The platform also offers a solution for unexpected events, such as injuries or illnesses, by providing access to additional staff when needed. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides a list of upcoming events and resources for farmers and rural professionals in New Zealand. The events include a young farmers' competition, mental health discussions, a body condition score rally, a farm bike ride course, a book club, mastitis management advice, a coffee and connect gathering, a skiing event, a virtual livestreaming event on smart farming, and a focus day at Owl Farm. These events and resources aim to support and educate individuals in the agricultural industry. [Extracted from the article]

Sweden has a mild climate, affordable land, and subsidies that make it an attractive destination for dairy farmers. The number of dairy farms in Sweden has been decreasing over the years, but the government supports the industry and listens to farmers' organizations. Sander and Janet Dijkstra, Dutch immigrants to Sweden, have found success on their dairy farm by focusing on animal health and producing high quantities of milk. Animal welfare is highly valued in Sweden, with strict regulations and penalties for offenses. The local market prefers products from their own region, and the rise of alternative milk products like soy and oat milk is posing a challenge to organic milk. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges faced by dairy farmers in New Zealand due to a decrease in milk prices and an increase in on-farm costs. Despite these challenges, successful dairy farming systems remain the same. The article highlights the importance of pasture utilization and the ability to adapt to changes in pasture supply for increased profitability. It also examines the performance of the top 10% of dairy farmers, who achieve exceptional results in terms of net margin over feed. The article concludes that pasture management is the key driver of profitability in the dairy industry. [Extracted from the article]

The number of women working in the dairy industry in New Zealand is steadily increasing, with more women taking on on-farm and leadership roles. However, there are still challenges to address, such as the gender pay gap and better parental leave policies. The gender pay gap in the dairy industry is around -37.6% for dairy farm employees and -21.2% in dairy processing. While progress has been made in bringing more women into the sector, the retention rate for females remains lower than that of males. This article explores what some of the top dairy organizations in New Zealand are doing to address these issues and support women in the industry. [Extracted from the article]

The farm is now 100% pasture-based since organic conversion in 2017 and all supplements are made onfarm and on the farm's organic support blocks. The farm undertakes total soil carbon monitoring, soil mineral testing, milk urea nitrogen monitoring, forage mineral testing and farm water runoff testing. GLO:16PJ/01Oct21:22n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): A busy day at the marae when the Ahuwhenua Trophy comes to town. gl GLO:16PJ/01Oct21:22n2.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): . gl GLO:16PJ/01Oct21:22n3.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): . gl GLO:16PJ/01Oct21:22n4.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): . gl GLO:16PJ/01Oct21:23n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): Documenting the smiles on the faces of the Tataiwhetu Trust farm team. gl "The win is not just for ourselves, but also for Maoridom as it helps set a platform for others to strive to achieve.". [Extracted from the article]

Family basis of NZ farming appeals to Chinese Exchanges between the New Zealand dairy industry and China could be developed at a technical level during the next few years. Christmas rain As well as the usual Christmas greetings and wishes this year, I am earnestly wishing for RAIN. [Extracted from the article]

Because they're only being mated every second year and calving every second year the age structure of the extended lactation herd would end up with more older cows faster than in a typical annual spring calving herd if the replacement rate remains the same. Calving half the herd on alternative years may mean being able to cut the number of non-replacement calves back by more than 50% each year given the proportion of replacement calves reared could be higher to maintain the age structure of the herd, Paul says. [Extracted from the article]

DairyNZ's Selwyn Hinds -- Meeting a Sustainable Future programme has come to an end, but farmers remain committed to reducing nitrogen (N) loss and we continue to support that. The Selwyn and Hinds programme was an extension of previous DairyNZ-led N loss farm systems research, such as Pastoral 21 and Forage for Reduce N leaching, and several of the options identified by science were implemented by many of the partner farms. [Extracted from the article]

BUSINESS SUSTAINABLE PASTURES Canterbury sharemilkers Glenn Jones andSarah Brett are embracing sustainabilitywhile making a profit Operating anenvironmentallysustainable andprogressive dairybusiness energises and sparksexcitement for Glenn Jones andSarah Brett. Right: Helping out dadon the farm. gl The farm has a grass fed contract withSynlait and uses up to 500kg/cow ofbought-in pasture silage -- 1/3 fed throughspring and 2/3 fed over autumn. Their sharemilking job is returningresults for them and their farm owners CUTTING N LOSS The Te Pirita farm is in the Selwyn/TeWaihora zone. [Extracted from the article]

TheHalter team put the collars on the cows lastSeptember and Fraser has been workingclosely with the team giving feedback onhow the collars are working on the farm, asthe company rolls out commercially. "Hands solo" for cow collar farmer STOCK NEW TECHNOLOGY Pirongia dairy farmer Fraser Hasnip recently wentto Waiheke for the weekend and was able to shift cowsfrom his phone using virtual fencing technology. [Extracted from the article]

GLO:16pj/01jul21:17n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): Cows graze in a meadow. gl ROYAL FRIESLANDCAMPINA CHANGESFINANCING OF COMPANY Netherlands-based Royal FrieslandCampina(RFC) will drastically change memberfinancing from 2022 on. UPFRONT RESTRUCTURING Netherlands-based Royal FrieslandCampina (RFC) paid oneof the highest milk prices in Europe for many years. GLO:16pj/01jul21:14n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): Retiring Royal FrieslandCampina(RFC) cooperative chairman Frans Keurentjes -- "RoyalFrieslandCampina is in better shape than five yearsago". gl The dairy co-operative is in severetrouble. [Extracted from the article]

It was their reputation that saw their farm owner agreeto take them on as variable order sharemilkers on their900-cow farm and it was their absolute focus on buildingfarming skills and the strictest of cost control that allowedthem to build equity. GLO:16pj/01jul21:50n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): Malcolm Ellis, John Donkersand Carlos Cuadrado: find your rhino. gl GLO:16pj/01jul21:51n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): Kerry and Carol O'Connelland Sam and Anna O'Reilly on farm: doyour due diligence. gl O'Reilly's path to farm ownership Sam and Anna O'Reilly have also achieved farmownership through an equity partnership. SPECIAL REPORT: BUILDING A PORTFOLIO Dairy farmer Carlos Cuadrado urged others wanting togrow their business to behave like an Oxpecker bird andpartner with a bigger player. [Extracted from the article]

Alongside the 40ha at Clive, the original Hohepa block is a 12ha support block on the hill at Poraiti with an expansive view out over Napier where children and young adults live in supported homes and attend the Hohepa Special School. A farm with a higher purpose, Hohepa is a small dairy unit in the heart of the Hawke's Bay region offering living and working opportunities to people with intellectual disabilities to interact with nature through dairy farming and market gardening. The cows are split into an autumn herd, with 20 cows calving on 20 March and a spring herd of 35 cows, with a couple of carryovers. [Extracted from the article]

GLO:16PJ/01apr21:72n1.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): Hold the gate: Vet Ellie Howard is Sam Howard's secret weapon on all things dairy reproduction and animal health. Sam's parents are retired sheep and beef farmers and are always keen and willing to help out, and with them and very competent and experienced relief milkers, Sam and Ellie are able to get off the farm and not worry. Ellie also developed and managed best practice protocols for calf rearing, making sure keeper calves are picked up as soon as they are born, and are fed 2 litres of gold colostrum twice in the first 24 hours from fresh cows. [Extracted from the article]

A dairy farmer in New Zealand named Brad Payne has successfully reduced his use of antibiotics in his herd by using plant-based boluses from AHV (Animal Health Vision) for udder health. Payne was concerned about the constant use of antibiotics and the recurring cases of severe udder health challenges in his cows. Instead of antibiotics, he started giving his cows regular probiotics and used AHV boluses for early onset severe udder health challenges. The boluses disrupt bacterial communication, break down biofilm, and clear up udders. As a result, the number of severe udder health challenges in Payne's herd significantly decreased, and he is spending less on the AHV Udder Health Program compared to antibiotics. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the challenges faced by dairy farmers in the United Kingdom. Milk prices have dropped significantly, while input costs have increased and pollution regulations require expensive investments. Additionally, the government's focus on encouraging food imports and lack of interest in national food security have further impacted farmers' optimism. As a result, many dairy farmers have quit, and there are now only 7,500 dairy producers in Britain. However, some farmers remain optimistic and have found success through diversification and direct milk sales. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the importance of support for women and mothers in the workplace, particularly in the dairy farming industry. It highlights the need for employers to provide accommodations such as parental leave, childcare, and good working conditions to help women have successful careers and retain them in the industry. The article also includes a special report on optimizing feed and profitability in dairy farming. The author expresses gratitude for their time working for the magazine and acknowledges the changing nature of the industry. The article concludes with a mention of succession in the dairy industry and thanks the editor for their advocacy for New Zealand dairy farmers. [Extracted from the article]

Fewer milkings doesn't mean feeding the cows lessthough, and it's important that cows are still fed wellif a drop in milk production due to fewer milkings isto be minimised. Cows were keen to get to milkingso cow flow was great and furthertime savings came from using a Batt-Latchon gates earlier in the season toautomatically let cows out of the paddockbefore milkings. They found cows took longer to milkat the 5.00am Monday morning milkingbecause the long milking interval of 21.5hours meant cows were full of milk. [Extracted from the article]

Sunita assesses a lot of Southland cows,and she says teat-end damage remains asignificant challenge to achieving goodmilk quality on a lot of farms. Problem solved Southland farmers Mitchell and KateJohnston milk 1000 cows through a 54-bailrotary all year around. STOCK TEAT DAMAGE Ageing milking system liners can be a catastrophichealth threat to otherwise healthy cows A dairy cow can be destroyedin three months with wornor incorrect liners and poorhygiene, according to NewZealand specialists. [Extracted from the article]