Rodney Down: Harvest, the milk price and an imminent new arrival

My only regret was drying 100 tonnes that we had stored for the cows on a wet day when I was getting worried.

Our decision to min till most of the second wheat ground is looking to be correct at the moment as we have retained all the moisture and achieved a reasonable chit.

I can’t believe moisture retention would be an issue after the wet August but we have seen no rain in September.

The high yielders and fresh calvers are in at night but the big increase in yield as a result of this is hard to come by.

I think they are in protest (or strike) at the new cubicle shed not being quite ready, but after a delay in starting the project it is now progressing nicely.

Every day starts with a question and answer session to see if I can be ambitious with the day’s jobs

Rodney Down

Our Tesco price is up for renewal and if the rumours circulating today of only a very minor reduction, then I will be a happy man.

If the milk price is maintained at its current level then it can only add stability to the whole industry - but at the time of writing they are only rumours.

Like many farmers we received our new maps. If anyone has a 2.8ha (7 acre) field in the middle of our farm at Wrantage can they return it please!

My thanks must go the staff for a tremendous effort over a difficult few months. We have a committed and dedicated team, and a pleasure to work with.

Claire is currently in the “steam up” group and is due to give birth any day. Every day starts with a question and answer session to see if I can be ambitious with the day’s jobs.

She has been told that over the weekend is not a good option as we are cutting maize and grass…

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