Beef Cattle

Milk Fever in Suckler cows on Machair Land

Hypocalcaemia, also known as milk fever, is typically not an issue in suckler cows, although experience shows that the conditions on the Uists are just right to be an exception…

Mineral Requirements in Out-Wintered and Grazed Cattle

In a housed system, dietary intake of minerals can be regulated as the diet is formulated to provide the same quantity of minerals each day, depending on the stage of…

The Golden Hoof

In this episode Mark and Kirsten reflect on their highlights from 2024 and are joined by David Ross (Principal Consultant, SAC Consulting) to discuss integrating livestock and arable. They explore options for integrating livestock, share top tips and farmers experience as well as the benefits this can bring to both the arable and livestock farmer.

Kenneth Bone: Diversifying for a Thriving Island Community

Kenneth Bone farms Glenkiln Farm on the Isle of Arran with his family. They won the Diversified Farm of the year award at last year’s Scottish Agriculture Awards, as well as taking home the Champion of Champions trophy. The business has an impressive portfolio, from the farming business to hydro scheme, pub, equestrian centre and housing. Kenneth tells us where it all began, and how the business diversified to be the success it is today.

Agri Culture – Jim Chapman: Adapting to Life After an Accident

Listener Advisory Note : This episode contains a mention of suicide, please listen with care.

Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined by Jim Chapman, farmer and farm safety ambassador. Jim talks openly about the farm accident that changed his life when he lost his arm in a PTO shaft. He talks about the impact that had on him, and how he got through the dark times. He tells us how important the support he received from friends, family and young farmers was to him. He went on to do a Nuffield scholarship on farm safety and is now an ambassador for the Farm Safety Foundation.

Agri Culture – Stephanie Berkeley: Yellow Wellies

Stephanie Berkeley is Manager of the Farm Safety Foundation, which you might know also as Yellow Wellies. The Farm Safety Foundation was established in 2014 with the aim of improving farm safety in the UK. The Foundation runs successful campaigns such as Farm Safety week and educates young farmers across the UK in colleges and young farmer clubs. Stephanie talks to us about the importance of the charity, and resources available to all farmers.

Body Condition Scoring Suckler Cows

What are the benefits of body condition scoring? Ensuring that cows are at the right body condition means: Efficient use of feed and supplemental feed is not given to cows that don’t need it. Reduced risk of calving difficulties associated with very lean or over-weight cows. Better calf vigour at birth and improved growth until weaning. Improved fertility, making it easier to get the cow pregnant again. How to body condition score Cows…