http://www.farmersguardian.com http://www.farmersguardian.com http://www.farmersguardian.com/magazine/graphics/logo.png http://www.farmersguardian.com http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/easy-calving-pedigree-charolais-a-key-priority-for-diverse-enterprise/56320.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/easy-calving-pedigree-charolais-a-key-priority-for-diverse-enterprise/56320.article The pedigree Burradon Charolais herd is farmed alongside an arable enterprise, a commercial sheep flock and laying ducklings. Neil Ryder speaks to the farm owner, Chris Curry, to find out more. Thu, 20 Jun 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/health-planning-top-of-agenda-for-healthy-livestock-initiative/56197.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/health-planning-top-of-agenda-for-healthy-livestock-initiative/56197.article The Healthy Livestock initiative will be drawing to a close towards the end of this year after three years of operation. Jane Brown finds out what it has achieved over that time. Wed, 19 Jun 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-benefits-of-pasteurising-milk/56151.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-benefits-of-pasteurising-milk/56151.article The batch pasteurisation of colostrum and calf milk is commonplace in North America and the practice is gaining popularity in the UK. Wendy Short spoke to a vet and farmer about the potential benefits. Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-making-best-use-of-genomics/56153.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-making-best-use-of-genomics/56153.article GENOMICS is still a talking point in dairy cow breeding at present, but it is important to ensure any decisions on genomically tested sires are planned into your herd breeding strategy. Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-optimum-heifer-rearing-pays-dividends-later-on/56154.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-optimum-heifer-rearing-pays-dividends-later-on/56154.article HOLSTEIN Friesian heifers calving at 23 to 25 months of age achieve the highest level of performance in terms of yield, fertility and survival during their first five years according to a study at the Royal Veterinary College, London. Fri, 14 Jun 2013 11:12 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-new-entrants-take-opportunity-of-calf-rearing/56150.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-new-entrants-take-opportunity-of-calf-rearing/56150.article CALF rearing requires tremendous attention to detail, but it can provide excellent opportunities for new entrants, as Jane Brown discovers. Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/rural-life/new-outlet-for-farm-business-in-north-yorkshire/56068.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/rural-life/new-outlet-for-farm-business-in-north-yorkshire/56068.article The development of a multi-faceted business has transformed the supply outlet at Bonnie Hill Farm and more changes just keep on coming. Wendy Short visits North Yorkshire to find out more. Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:39 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-importance-of-colostrum-management/56152.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-importance-of-colostrum-management/56152.article WORKING to ensure the survival and successful productive life of each individual calf is becoming ever more important as producer margins are squeezed. Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-thorough-cleaning-underpins-better-performance/56149.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/breeding-and-calves-thorough-cleaning-underpins-better-performance/56149.article CALF rearers who place the cleanliness of buildings top of the agenda are being rewarded with faster growth rates and lower incidence of disease. Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:57 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/be-aware-of-trace-element-status-of-pasture-and-forage/56159.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/be-aware-of-trace-element-status-of-pasture-and-forage/56159.article With silage cuts now being taken across the country, many nutrition specialists are increasingly concerned about the late spring’s effects on trace element status of pasture and forage and its impact on fertility and health in the future. Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:50 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/couple-capitalise-on-enthusiasm-and-experience/55626.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/couple-capitalise-on-enthusiasm-and-experience/55626.article Entering the sector as new starters has been a challenging but enjoyable ride for Neil and Sally Grigg. Olivia Midgley reports. Thu, 6 Jun 2013 10:28 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/young-farmers/getting-started/couple-capitalise-on-enthusiasm-and-experience/55626.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/young-farmers/getting-started/couple-capitalise-on-enthusiasm-and-experience/55626.article Entering the sector as new starters has been a challenging but enjoyable ride for Neil and Sally Grigg. Olivia Midgley reports. Thu, 6 Jun 2013 10:28 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/showmanship-and-success-run-in-dorset-familys-blood/55767.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/showmanship-and-success-run-in-dorset-familys-blood/55767.article There is nothing quite like watching a supreme showing animal in the ring at an agricultural show – but what goes on behind the scenes to get it there? Jane Brown finds out. Thu, 30 May 2013 04:01 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/using-science-to-improve-suckler-herd-performance/55788.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/using-science-to-improve-suckler-herd-performance/55788.article The ‘golden triangle’ of management, genetics and nutrition is key to the phenomenal performance of Simon Frost’s commercial suckler herd. Chloe Palmer learns more about the science behind the story. Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-plan-now-to-ease-forage-worries-later-in-season/55631.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-plan-now-to-ease-forage-worries-later-in-season/55631.article Careful planning and a review of options will help dairy farmers overcome some of the problems caused by the late spring and a potentially disappointing first cut. Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-managing-forage-shortages-will-be-key-to-good-buffer-feeding/55628.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-managing-forage-shortages-will-be-key-to-good-buffer-feeding/55628.article ?Dairy cows may be suffering from the effects of low energy supply over the most challenging winter for many years. Farmers Guardian spoke to experts to get some advice on how to tackle the problem. Mon, 27 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-commitment-to-dairying-in-challenging-times/55624.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-commitment-to-dairying-in-challenging-times/55624.article A dairy herd is now a rarity in north Nottinghamshire, but Edward Baddiley is investing in the future at Carlton Forest Farm. Chloe Palmer finds out more. Sun, 26 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-agricultural-sector-needs-to-work-together-to-tackle-johne’s-disease/55619.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-agricultural-sector-needs-to-work-together-to-tackle-johne’s-disease/55619.article Johne’s disease often remains hidden for years, but outbreaks of the condition can have devastating effects both on individual animals or entire populations. Neil Ryder talks to vet David Black and farmer Mike Bowe who both believe the disease can only be brought under control by an industry-wide approach. Sat, 25 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-watch-out-for-signs-of-heat-stress-this-summer/55632.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-watch-out-for-signs-of-heat-stress-this-summer/55632.article AFTER the severe winter and such a cold, late spring, preparing to manage the performance-depressing effects of heat stress in dairy cattle may not be near the top of most dairy farmers’ ‘to do’ lists. Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-reducing-the-risk-of-abortion-in-cattle/55637.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-reducing-the-risk-of-abortion-in-cattle/55637.article Early investigation of abortions can identify infectious disease enabling you to stop its spread and steps can be taken to prevent common causes of abortion. Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-poor-forages-leading-to-tough-grazing-decisions/55635.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-poor-forages-leading-to-tough-grazing-decisions/55635.article A lengthy winter combined with the legacy of poor quality forages may hsve led a growing number of producers to consider adopting an all year round housing system rather than turning cows out to grass this season. Fri, 24 May 2013 08:45 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/dairy-changes-to-flukicide-use-explained/55653.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/dairy-changes-to-flukicide-use-explained/55653.article Recent changes to the regulations which apply to the labelling of flukicides for dairy cattle have been causing confusion for milk producers, according to a spokesperson for Merial Animal Health. Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-know-the-value-of-your-marginal-litres/55636.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-know-the-value-of-your-marginal-litres/55636.article ?Decisions to push for increased yields must be based on an understanding of the cost of marginal litres if extra milk in the tank is to be converted into money in the bank. Fri, 24 May 2013 08:53 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-managing-heifer-nutrition-and-grazing/55639.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-managing-heifer-nutrition-and-grazing/55639.article ?Heifer rearing can either be co­nsidered as a cost to a dairy herd or an investment in the future, says Dr Robin Hawkey, senior nutritionist at Mole Valley Farmers, highlighting the importance of managing nutrition when feeding heifers at grass. Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-focus-on-herds’-mineral-status-to-help-prevent-hidden-losses/55662.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-focus-on-herds’-mineral-status-to-help-prevent-hidden-losses/55662.article Dairy farmers need to be watchful of the mineral status of their cows, particularly where low forage stocks mean less buffer feeding will be possible. Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-methodical-parlour-hygiene-still-essential/55640.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/dairy-methodical-parlour-hygiene-still-essential/55640.article ?There is a real risk of attention to detail with routine tasks slipping at busy times of the year. Thu, 23 May 2013 09:40 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/family-farming-against-the-odds-in-meirionnydd/55617.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/family-farming-against-the-odds-in-meirionnydd/55617.article With major Common Agricultural Policy changes on the way and public purse strings tightening, there are mounting fears over the future of farming in the hills and uplands. Barry Alston reports from a Meirionnydd family farm. Wed, 22 May 2013 10:25 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/family-farming-against-the-odds-in-meirionnydd/55617.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/family-farming-against-the-odds-in-meirionnydd/55617.article With major Common Agricultural Policy changes on the way and public purse strings tightening, there are mounting fears over the future of farming in the hills and uplands. Barry Alston reports from a Meirionnydd family farm. Wed, 22 May 2013 10:25 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/quality-beef-production-with-established-targets-in-aberdeenshire/55512.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/quality-beef-production-with-established-targets-in-aberdeenshire/55512.article The Buchan family run one of the biggest feed units in Aberdeenshire and over the years have honed their skills when buying store cattle at markets across Scotland and also when fast finishing their cattle to meet specification. Eddie Gillanders reports. Tue, 21 May 2013 08:46 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-news/reduce-fertiliser-costs-with-nutrient-management-plan/55519.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-news/reduce-fertiliser-costs-with-nutrient-management-plan/55519.article North Wales beef and sheep producer Arwyn Williams is determined to reduce his bought-in fertiliser costs and has opted for a subsidised nutrient management plan undertaken through Farming Connect. Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/online-sales-helping-boost-saltmarsh-lamb-business/55502.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/online-sales-helping-boost-saltmarsh-lamb-business/55502.article STUART and Caroline Lawson’s saltmarsh lamb is a hit with the public as Neil Ryder discovered when he visited their farm in Lancashire. Fri, 17 May 2013 11:18 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/selecting-the-right-maize-variety-for-your-farm-location/55349.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/selecting-the-right-maize-variety-for-your-farm-location/55349.article FORAGE maize has proved a cost effective part of the feed ration and rotation at one East Yorkshire farm. Tue, 14 May 2013 08:45 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/profit-from-grass/targeting-youngstock-growth-rates-at-grass/55405.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/profit-from-grass/targeting-youngstock-growth-rates-at-grass/55405.article Rearing spring-calved heifers to calve at about two years of age from grazed grass can be a challenge. Fri, 10 May 2013 03:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/positive-tb-test-on-calf-shatters-familys-show-hopes/55453.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/positive-tb-test-on-calf-shatters-familys-show-hopes/55453.article A SHROPSHIRE farming family’s carefully laid plans for another successful show season have been shattered by the discovery of bovine TB (bTB) in a three-month-old calf. Fri, 10 May 2013 03:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/profit-from-grass/looking-ahead-to-this-seasons-silage-making/55341.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/profit-from-grass/looking-ahead-to-this-seasons-silage-making/55341.article Grass growth is at a standstill for many livestock farmers across the country and here we find out how out Profit from Grass farmer in Cheshire is deadling with the situation and get advice from DairyCo on how to cope with the situation. Fri, 10 May 2013 04:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/organic-beef-farmer-learns-a-lesson-from-down-under/55338.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/organic-beef-farmer-learns-a-lesson-from-down-under/55338.article AS one of the first producers of organic milk, Irish farmer David Laughlin has advocated and developed change on his beef and potato farm. Fri, 10 May 2013 15:52 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/beef-expo-preview-dorset-dairy-farm-finds-success-following-tb-restriction/55347.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/beef-expo-preview-dorset-dairy-farm-finds-success-following-tb-restriction/55347.article Farming under TB restriction can be extremely difficult – but there are still opportunities to make money, as Jane Brown discovers. Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/expansion-has-been-the-priority-for-cumbria-monitor-farm/55342.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/expansion-has-been-the-priority-for-cumbria-monitor-farm/55342.article AFTER embarking on an expansion plan four years ago to double numbers at Hesket Farm, Dacre, on the edge of the Lake District, Matt and Sue Bland have achieved most of their objectives while at the same time maintaining milk yields. Fri, 10 May 2013 00:00 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/machinery/machinery-features/slurry-separator-system-turns-waste-into-free-bedding/55333.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/machinery/machinery-features/slurry-separator-system-turns-waste-into-free-bedding/55333.article A cubicle bedding concept which is popular on mainland Europe and in North America seems to be finding favour with UK farmers. James Rickard speaks to a recent convert from Wiltshire. Thu, 9 May 2013 15:05 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/adapting-village-dairy-farm-for-family’s-future-generations/55128.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/adapting-village-dairy-farm-for-family’s-future-generations/55128.article A dairy farm in the middle of a busy village selling milk from the door is a rare sight today. Chloe Palmer learns how the Cox family have bucked the trend to become a familiar sight in the heart of the Peak District. Wed, 8 May 2013 14:15 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/sheep-be-prepared-for-earlier-and-longer-blowfly-strike-season/55158.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/sheep-be-prepared-for-earlier-and-longer-blowfly-strike-season/55158.article WITH the timing and severity of blowfly strike being strongly influenced by the weather, changing patterns of climate are predicted to extend the blowfly season. Wed, 8 May 2013 13:17 GMT http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/sheep-uk-lamb-forecast-revised-down/55241.article http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/livestock/livestock-features/sheep-uk-lamb-forecast-revised-down/55241.article Poor weather conditions have led to the 2013 UK lamb crop being revised down to 15.8 million head, 8 per cent (1.36 million) lower than the estimated 2012 crop which it was expected to equal, according to the latest forecast from Eblex/AHDB. Wed, 8 May 2013 15:01 GMT