Advice

Following weather extremes that led many livestock farms to have a shortage of forage over winter, the outlook for soil health and forage quality and quantity this year is full of challenges. Dairy Farmer asked three industry experts what can be done to better understand and improve forage in 2026

Changing how you approach your business can help control costs and improve performance during periods of low milk price, says Evie Rogers from Kite Consulting

To get heifers to the optimum size and stature to calve easily at 24 months, consistent daily growth rates and remaining disease-free are important, says Dr Emma Bleach, of Harper Adams University

Graeme Hills, director and head of tax at Duncan & Toplis reflects on what changes to business property relief will have for business owners

Vet, Rebecca Hodgson of Oakhill Farm Vets, shares her advice on how to treat, prevent and control environmental infections on-farm

Balanced energy and rumen stability at turnout are vital to protect butterfat levels and fertility

Standing and stagnant water are the main risk areas for dogs to contract lepto infections on-farm, with humans also at risk

Roythornes' Gavin Faber takes a look at how farmers can minimise the risk of will and inheritance disputes

The Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust and the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) have launched an online guide to highlight advice and practical case studies to help new entrants thrive

Farmers are advised to test forage planned for in-lamb ewes to ensure correct supplementary feeding and optimal nutrition