Semex conference: The challenge of herd health

The number of heifers leaving the herd before completing their third lactation is a challenge for the industry, but should also be viewed as an opportunity to improve, said Sarah Tomlinson, lead veterinary science expert at AHDB

Katie Jones
clock • 3 min read
Sarah Tomlinson speaking at the Semex Conference
Image:

Sarah Tomlinson speaking at the Semex Conference

Ms Tomlinson said according to last year's Dairy Costing Focus Report from Kingshay, 50.2% of heifers were leaving the herd before the end of the third lactation and, she added, lameness and mastitis were...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Dairy

How a Cornish grazed dairy herd maximises butterfat for Rodda's creamery contract

How a Cornish grazed dairy herd maximises butterfat for Rodda's creamery contract

The Warren family run a mixed breed herd on their Cornish unit, with quality bonuses from a local creamery contract making up a large percentage of the milk cheque

Katie Jones
clock 14 January 2026 • 6 min read
Dairy sector under 'intense pressure' following a Christmas which saw farmers pour milk away

Dairy sector under 'intense pressure' following a Christmas which saw farmers pour milk away

Several processors asked farmers to dump milk over the Christmas period as oversupply impacts the markets

clock 08 January 2026 • 4 min read
Letters: "When Government ignores its own dairy marketing rules"

Letters: "When Government ignores its own dairy marketing rules"

This week from Farmers Guardian readers: Tony Goodger, from the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, discusses a dispute over the term 'milk' being used for plant-based products

clock 06 January 2026 • 2 min read