News

09 Jul 2018

New research to benefit calf enterprises

Dairy-bred beef calf enterprises are to benefit from a new research project aimed at boosting efficiency and profits.

Led by The Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and funded by AHDB Beef and Lamb, the project will produce guidance on best practice which will address the major challenges facing calf rearing businesses.

Dr Mary Vickers, senior scientist at AHDB Beef and Lamb said, “The project team brings together expertise in animal health and welfare initiatives and strong links with the calf rearing industry which means they are well placed to tackle some of the challenges facing the sector.

“With the industry encouraged to reduce the use of antibiotics, the team will look at all aspects of calf management, including in situations such as collections centres and livestock markets, to understand stressors experienced by calves. The aim is to manage these better, which will improve calf health, welfare and productivity and reduce the need for medicines.”

A large part of the work will rely on data and knowledge sharing, and to facilitate this a Project Advisory Group of key stakeholders will be established to guide the project and shape more than 20 various knowledge exchange activities.

Emily Edwards, lead researcher at the RAU, said, “This is extremely important research for the RAU to be undertaking. We will be actively encouraging dairy farmers, rearing facilities and industry stakeholders to help input into our work in order to develop clear and consistent guidance which is led by the sector.“

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