Gain Programme aims to improve efficiency and profitability

DIET dry matter for Glanbia herds at the end of April last week ranged from 14% to 20%, DMD from 75% to 85%, crude protein was relatively high, and ADF in the overall diet was less than ideal.

DM4, which measures the amount of dry matter degraded within four hours of ingestion, is being measured on four farms in Cos Cork, Laois, Wexford and Wicklow. Last week, it averaged 55%, compared to the ideal 50%, so cows faced possible rumen function and acidosis challenges.

The figures come from the dairy group’s Gain programme of services to improve farm efficiency and profitability.