Heifers

Heifer grazing involves estimating your farm's ability to support the growth of dairy heifers to meet their target weights. It's important to evaluate the number of heifers your land can sustain based on the amount and quality of pasture.

Contract heifer growing involves the collaboration between a dairy farmer and a grazier. This page emphasises the significance of clear communication, mutual benefits, and solid health programmes.

Feeding and nutrition play a critical role in a young heifer's development. A well-fed heifer grows more, produces more milk, and competes better with mature cows. Your heifer's diet needs sufficient energy and protein for optimal growth.

A heifer's health plan needs to adapt to her age and grazing farm, especially if she moves farms within her first two years.

Successful heifer mating is essential for their productive future. Targets include reaching puberty at 12-13 months, conceiving by 13-15 months, and being of adequate weight at calving.

Heifer growth, best measured by liveweight, is a vital aspect of dairy farming. Consistent weigh-ins, ideally every 4-8 weeks, help monitor growth and spot issues early on.

Heifer liveweight at first mating and calving influences reproductive performance and milk production potential. Achieving liveweight targets is crucial; otherwise, first calving may delay, and fertility may decrease.

Heifer rearing is essential for your dairy farm's success. The page discusses three basic methods: rearing stock on your dairy farm, contract grazing, and purchasing grown replacements.