Dairy cost meeting gives food for thought for farmers

Last updated 09:55, Friday, 03 October 2008

Dairy farmers gathered at Peastree Farm, Durdar, to learn more about efficient feeding as part of a national campaign.

Talk: From left, grazing and forage expert Piers Badnell, heifers expert Chris Cox, extension officer Kate Cross and nutrition expert Adam Clay

The meeting at Mike Hayton’s 300-acre farm was an introduction to the year-long DairyCo campaign.

DairyCo has claimed farmers could reduce costs by up to 2ppl if they implement the advice given.

Adam Clay, who helped put the campaign together, said: “We’re looking for a feed balance. We will be looking to increase feed conversion as part of the campaign.

“You can look at protein percentage to see if your diet is working.”

DairyCo’s economics team analysed every cost that goes into producing a litre of milk for UK dairy farmers. It revealed a marked difference in feeding costs between the most and least efficient producers.

Around eight farmers attended Wednesday’s meeting. Each was given a folder of information and invited to six meetings that will be held as part of the campaign.

Piers Bradnell said it was possible to work out how much silage was costing per tonne. He will also be looking at alternative crops.

For more information call Alix Bridges on 01285 646540.