ABP Monitor Farm: A Glimpse into Sustainable Beef Farming in Co. Tipperary
Meet the Moran family farm, nestled near Borrisokane in Co. Tipperary, one of the eight ABP Monitor Farms transforming cattle finishing practices across the country. Each farm experiments with different systems on varied land types to optimise the cattle-finishing process. Let’s dive into the latest updates from their sustainable practices.
### Feeding Regimen and Cattle Care
The Moran family commenced their finishing diet with continental heifers in early August. A part of the batch received their finisher mix at grass, consisting of 12kg grass silage, 0.5kg straw, molasses, and 3.5kg of homegrown alkaline-treated wheat and barley. Once housed, the diet transitioned to 10kg grass silage, 0.4kg straw, molasses, and 7.5kg of alkaline-treated grains.
– Transitioning diets for optimal growth
– Balancing feed components for nutritional needs
– Incorporating homegrown grains for sustainable practices
The farm recently processed four suckler-bred Angus-cross heifers, culminating in an average carcass weight of 295kg and a grade of R-3. This showcases their dedication to quality feeding practices resulting in prime meat production.
### Animal Health and Vaccination Protocols
Prior to housing, all cattle received their Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) booster shot, prioritising animal health and disease prevention. The weanlings were also prepped with the Bovipast vaccine to strengthen their immunity before the upcoming housing phase.
– Emphasising preventative healthcare for cattle
– Boosting immunity through strategic vaccinations
– Ensuring overall well-being through health protocols
### Silage Quality and Utilisation
The final cut silage harvesting culminated in two batches with varying dry matter digestibility (DMD) percentages. The initial batch with 68% DMD is reserved for dry cow silage during the winter months, ensuring adequate nutrition for the cows. The second batch, boasting 78% DMD, is earmarked for the finisher diets and weanlings to reduce their concentrate requirements.
– Tailoring silage usage for specific cattle requirements
– Maximising nutritional benefits with quality feed
– Strategically planning for winter feeding programs
### Crop Harvest and Soil Management
Winter barley and wheat crops have been successfully harvested, with the straw and grain earmarked for winter feed and bedding. Noteworthy is the implementation of a cover crop on harvested stubble with accompanying slurry treatment to enrich soil health. This sustainable practice will enrich soil nutrients for beet sowing in the upcoming spring.
– Implementing cover crops for soil conservation
– Enhancing soil fertility through natural methods
– Planning ahead for optimal crop rotation and nutrient management
### Upcoming Maize Harvest
The farm anticipates the maize harvest, weather permitting, with optimistic yield expectations of two cobs and a 20-22t/ac crop productivity. This successful crop yield forecasts a positive outcome for the farm’s future feeding and bedding requirements.
– Adapting to weather conditions for harvesting
– Optimising crop yield for sustainable practices
– Planning resource allocation for efficient maize management
In conclusion, the Moran family’s farm in Co. Tipperary exemplifies sustainable beef farming practices, prioritising cattle well-being, nutrition, and soil health. Their strategic approach to feeding, vaccination, silage quality, and crop management sets a benchmark for modern agricultural practices. Stay tuned for more updates from the ABP Monitor Farm network as they continue to lead the way in sustainable beef production.
For more insights into sustainable farming practices and agricultural updates, subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s newsletter for the latest industry news and trends.
What are your thoughts on the Moran family farm’s sustainable practices? Share your comments and questions below to join the conversation on modern beef farming in Australia.
