Publications

Private water sources are a great way to lower water costs on dairy farms, but failure to routinely monitor and address water quality issues can lead to problems with udder health. As such, it's vital that any non-mains water sources used in and around the parlour are tested for bacteria levels every 6-12 months. This DAIRY insight looks at the risks surrounding private water supplies, how to monitor contamination and how to address any problems that arise.

In order to achieve Net Zero by 2040, British Farming needs to capture more carbon (C). Hedgerows, woodland and soils have all been identified as key areas for C-sequestration (permanent removal of C from the atmosphere). Grassland has a major role to play, because unlike woodland, where the majority of C is stored in the vegetation, as much as 90% of the C in pasture is located in the soil. In this DAIRY insight we look at why you might want to measure your soil organic carbon (SOC), what analysis is available, taking an accurate soil sample and what else you might want to measure.

Computerised calf feeders are becoming increasingly popular to help labour efficiencies. Managed well, they can improve milk feeding consistency, drive weight gains and optimise calf performance. However, top notch hygiene and careful use of data is needed to realise their true potential. This DAIRY insight explores the key considerations when choosing a calf machine.

An average of 13,000 tons of plastic is produced by UK farms each year. Reducing waste on your farm can reduce costs, reduce time as well as being better for the environment. This DAIRY insight covers; ways to reduce plastic waste, the laws surrounding waste, how to reuse and recycle plastic, farm plastic schemes and plastic alternatives.

Heifer calves are the future of most dairy herds, and you don't get a second chance at getting it right. Therefore, time taken for attention to detail pays dividends, not only for the calf but for the lifetime of the animal – time and money that could be recouped many times over. This RESEARCH insight explores two recent studies, and asks if their findings can positively impact your heifer rearing management.

This Soil Carbon Report, 'Soil – completing the carbon jigsaw' combines the key findings from the Kingshay Soil Organic Carbon Project, alongside other research and knowledge. The aim of the project was to better understand the current soil organic carbon (SOC) levels of grassland soils and gain a better knowledge of carbon sequestration and how management practices on farm may influence carbon levels. It is intended to be a practical guide for farmers who want to improve or maintain soil organic carbon in their grassland soils. This report will help farmers to understand how they can play their part in climate change mitigation whilst improving the health of their soil, having a positive impact on their profitability.

E. coli is one of the primary causes of clinical mastitis in the UK, presenting in various guises from mild cases to severe toxic mastitis that few cows will survive. With that in mind, the emphasis should be on preventing infection by ensuring cows are kept in a clean, dry environment.

Cameras are no longer just seen as a security tool; they now have multiple uses on farms from monitoring cows during calving to staff training. Nonetheless, there are key legal obligations to abide by when installing such equipment. This DAIRY insight will look at potential uses, price ranges, camera features and legal requirements

Working with livestock will always involve a level of risk. One risk area that is often overlooked is zoonotic diseases (pathogens that are passed from animals to humans). These can threaten both your heath and the well-being of your staff. In an era of a global pandemic with a zoonotic origin, it highlights the need for understanding more about disease transmission from animals to humans. This DAIRY insight looks at some of the main zoonotic diseases in cattle and considers how you can protect yourself and your staff.

This DAIRY insight examines how to avoid antibiotic failures and looks at the on-farm test kits available and helps you choose the right one for your farm.

Milk fever (or hypocalcaemia) is a potentially fatal metabolic disorder where dairy cows experience calcium (Ca) deficiency. With the estimated economic cost per case between £200 to £250, this DAIRY insight looks at symptoms, investigates risk factors and highlights key areas to consider when managing milk fever.

Bedding conditioners form an important part of a mastitis control strategy by drying the cubicle beds and making an inhospitable environment for bacteria. However, their use is no substitute for good bed management. Correct application is also a must to ensure optimum efficacy and to avoid both human health and safety issues and animal welfare challenges. With little independent research surrounding individual products, caution is also advised. This DAIRY insight explores the types of conditioners available, when to use and how to get the most out of conditioners.