Project 1 - Improving Feeding Efficiencies in the Dairy Herd
The primary goal of this project is to enhance feed efficiency in the dairy herd by evaluating and optimising the current feeding regime. With an all year round calving herd and aiming for 9,000 litre yield per cow, continuous evaluation and monitoring of the rations is important to maintain yields as economically as possible. A main objective is to reduce the concentrate feed usage from 0.39kg/litre to under 0.30kg/litre, aligning rations with available forage quality and monitoring cow nutritional status using metabolic profiling.
Progress to date:
- Silage analysis completed to determine nutritional content and inform ration formulation
- Blood metabolic profiling conducted to assess the herd's nutritional status
- Dry cow rations adjusted following metabolic profiling showing low cow energy and protein status
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