14 July 2020

 

A farmer who is aiming to improve the lifetime productivity of his cows by selecting efficient genetics will broadcast live from his farm this month for the second in a series of Farming Connect Demo Farm Live events.

William Hannah is screening the genomics of his heifer calves to select the best replacements for the milking herd at Mountjoy, a Farming Connect demonstration site near Haverfordwest.

Farmers who want to know more can watch on Zoom from 19.30 on July 22 to hear Mr Hannah discuss the project live from the farm with Farming Connect Technical Manager Dewi Hughes.

As one of Farming Connect’s demonstration sites, Mountjoy has embarked on a project to improve the lifetime productivity of cows by selecting efficient genetics for the herd.

Simon Pitt, Dairy Technical Officer at Farming Connect, who is overseeing the project, says genomic selection offers many advantages with regards to improving the rate of genetic gain in dairy cattle breeding programs.
“One benefit of interest to this project is that genetic testing can predict a greater accuracy of predicted genetic merit for young animals,’’ says Simon Pitt.

Joining the discussion remotely will be Fern Pearston of AHDB who will offer advice on developing an effective breeding programme and the accuracy of genomic selection while independent grassland specialist Chris Duller will give guidance on reducing nitrogen input on grassland and incorporating clover in the sward. 

“As well as discussing the projects, our experts will be answering your questions live and offering general advice and recommendations, with the aim of helping you improve your business,’’ says Dewi Hughes.

To sign up for the event click here or email simon.pitt@menterabusnes.co.uk

Farming Connect, which is delivered by Menter a Busnes and Lantra, has received funding through the Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.


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