Contents

• Gibberellic acid: a technology for managing feed shortages on dairy farms?
  Use of gibberellic acid is increasing on dairy farms to stimulate pasture growth in autumn/early winter or late winter/early spring, when feed shortages are anticipated. Gibberellic acid should be applied within five days of grazing to a residual of about 1500 kg DM/ha and yield responses are greatest 3-4 weeks after application.
• Recently published by DairyNZ
  DairyNZ researchers publish their findings.
• The science and art of detecting oestrus
  The science of behavioural oestrus in cattle is a fascinating subject, but successfully detecting oestrus is an art that requires skill, commitment and attention to detail. Oestrus and ovulation are rigidly coordinated by reproductive hormones and neural networks to ensure the cow has the best chance of being inseminated at the right time. There are two possible errors with oestrus detection: missing heats and putting up cows for AB at the wrong time.
• Chicory and plantain – your questions answered
  Chicory and plantain are two increasingly popular forage herbs grown on dairy farms. They offer a large amount of high quality feed during summer/autumn and increasing summer milk production when ryegrass pasture quality is low. To get the greatest benefit from these forages, it is important to be aware of the risks and follow best practice guidelines for establishment and management.
• Focus on international research
  Brief summaries of key international science papers recently published.