A 2-day training course on how to use InCalf's innovative resources and tools to help improve the reproductive performance of dairy herds.

Waikato farmer Peter Miedema and his InCalf Adviser Katrina Roberts explain how down cow issues led to the uncovering of a widespread magnesium deficiency in his herd.

Artificial surfaces in off-paddock facilities are designed to enhance cow comfort and welfare by providing a suitable environment for resting and other natural behaviours.

Mastitis generally falls into two categories: environmental and contagious. Good milking routine, teat spray and hygiene reduce contagious spread. Clean, well-managed sheds, dry bedding and managing cow traffic help minimise environmental exposure.

A loose-housed barn is a type of dairy housing system where cows have the freedom to move around and rest in a large open area that has a roof. There are several loose housed systems, with different bedding materials, constructions and design.

Milk feeding strategies play a key role in giving calves the best start, supporting their growth, health and wellbeing from day one. Choosing the right system will ease the demands of calf rearing and set your calves up for a productive life.

Fodder beet is a feed option for cows that requires careful planning to avoid health issues such as acidosis. Before feeding it, you should measure your crop yield and test the leaf and bulb to determine its nutritional content.

The transition period in a cow's life requires precise feed management to ensure health and optimal milk production. It’s important to set BCS targets, monitor those targets and adjust your feed budget as required, especially pre- and post-calving.

Understanding calf digestion and rumen development is crucial for successful growth and future production.

Dairy shed feeding systems are tools to deliver concentrated feed to cows during milking, supplementing their pasture-based diet.

Table to Calculate Value of Feeding Supplements to Dry Cows for Condition Score (BCS) Gain