Publications

An increasing number of processors are introducing plans to encourage farmers to phase out calf euthanasia of healthy, young bull calves. Such a move is undoubtedly the right thing to do from both a moral and animal welfare perspective. However, it means some farmers will have to find ways to rear higher stock numbers, whilst also identifying an outlet for those calves. Arla's recent announcement that no calf should be euthanised under eight weeks old will impact on a large number of UK farmers. The key is to plan ahead to maximise the value of every calf, this DAIRY insight publication explores the key considerations.

Business planning and succession planning are often seen as two separate topics, but fusing them together is a must if farming families want to safeguard their business's future. After all, if the long-term business objectives of the current farming generation do not fit with that of the successor this could result in long-time business challenges. At the same time, if different people have varying expectations of how the farm will be divided, this could lead to a will being contested and potentially the end of the business. This BUSINESS insight explores the succession process with this in mind.

This issue of DAIRY insight looks at the importance of keeping bacteria out of milk, from a farm, processor and consumer point of view. It examines the main causes of high bactoscans and provides solutions to issues seen on farm.

Employing the wrong person can be costly to a business, not only financially but to the team as a whole. Therefore, the interviewing process is incredibly important, but how can you make sure you get the best candidate for your farm? This dairy insight publication explores best practice around the interview process. Issued August 2019. […]

Many publications focus on the identification and prevention of lameness and much less emphasis has been given to the practical treatment of the animal once it has been identified as lame. Hoof blocks are routinely used as part of the treatment regime. In recent years, more hoof blocks and shoes have become available with innovative […]

Volatile feed markets and increasing pressure on margins mean that the role of the farm nutritionist in creating a well-balanced ration to meet specific farm requirements and boost efficiencies, has never been more important. Combining sound nutritional advice from a competent advisor, with top-notch, on-farm management will ultimately maximise herd performance and help farmers meet […]

Expanding dairy export markets and increasing consumer interest means processors are tightening up on milk quality standards, which means an effective parlour circulation cleaning routine is more important than ever. This dairy insight looks at getting the most from your parlour chemicals: Why is a circulation clean so important? Achieving the optimum CIP How to […]

to the public is something that both industry organisations and individual farmers can – and many say, should – be doing. This insight publication looks at what initiatives are under way, and how producers can get involved. About Kingshay insight publications insight publications replace the Farming Notes which have been produced by Kingshay […]

Many farmers see the benefits of maintaining their machinery, but what about their minds? It is often things that are out of farmers' control; financial pressures, weather, market fluctuations, harvest and livestock diseases – as well as changing policies and an uncertain future post-Brexit – that can take their toll on the mind. This insight […]

New data protection rules are coming into force on 25th May 2018, which are likely to affect almost all farming businesses to some extent or another. In this issue of business insight, we cover the key points to help you comply. The new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) are designed to ensure businesses take proper […]

What is the most cost-effective dairy system? With Brexit just around the corner, and global dairy markets remaining volatile, farmers are going to have to manage risk more carefully than ever. This demands a critical focus on profitability, which needs a complex blend of technical efficiency and business focus. This report encourages readers to align […]

Sourcing and maintaining high-quality staff is key to making a farming business run smoothly. However, there are several recruitment routes and trying to decide which works best for your farm can be a daunting task. There are also some major differences in legal responsibilities, depending on whether you employ or contract staff. This Farming Note […]