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When is the latest dry-off date to meet BCS targets at calving?

This tool estimates the latest date to dry cows off to ensure they meet BCS targets at calving.

Please note:

  • This calculator does not consider the costs and benefits of drying cows off earlier.
  • The financial implications of culling cows, feeding cows, or drying cows off earlier should be considered when making final dry-off decisions.

How to use this tool

  1. Step 1: Select options from the green dropdown boxes.
  2. Step 2: Enter values in the white boxes or use default estimates in shaded boxes.
  3. Step 3: If needed, click on the i icon for more information.

Useful links

Body Condition Score strategies

Body Condition Score (BCS) plays a crucial role in dairy farming in New Zealand. You should aim for a BCS of 5.0 for mature cows and 5.5 for first and second-time calvers.

BCS Strategies

How to Body Condition Score

Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is a method to monitor the health and productivity of dairy cows by assessing their body fat.

How To Body Condition Score