Thinking Ahead for Better Suckler Returns: Turriff – Event Summary

Planning ahead could help improve the efficiency and profitability of suckler herds

The topic for the meeting was how planning ahead could help improve the efficiency and profitability of suckler herds with bulling and sowing around the corner.  George Chalmers gave an overview of the current financial performance of the suckler sector using QMS data. This led onto to Alan Bruce giving the group pointers on why it was important to ensure bulls are in optimum condition, showing the benefits of fertile bulls in terms of reduced costs per cow and also improved margin through tighter calving patterns. Alan’s presentation is available to read using this link.

Kirsten Williams then discussed the options to reduce the housing period looking at delayed housing, early turnout and overwintering. While each option had its own merits she felt there was most mileage in overwintering and the use of forage crops.

Simon Jacyna followed on looking at the benefits of shelter belts and wooded grazings as an option to reduce housing costs before discussing the grant aid that was available.  Read Simon’s presentation slides here.

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Please use the links below to download related material and information available to take away during the event.

Read Case Studies on farm woodlands at the Farming For A Better Climate webpage, where you can also find information on other ways to improve the profitability of your farm business whilst reducing your carbon output.