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Teagasc has launched a new booklet, Guidelines to Contract Rearing, to inform farmers on both sides of agreements about the key requirements to operate a successful livestock rearing arrangement.
The booklet was launched in Sligo during a trip organised for farmer clients involved in contract rearing.
It discusses topics such as the impact on whole farm stocking rate, the contract agreement, animal performance targets, grass growth requirements, cost structure, disease control and a number of case studies are covered in the publication.
Ruth Fennell, Teagasc collaborative farming specialist, said that having heifers contract reared simplifies the system for dairy farmers.
“Due to dairy herd expansion, reduced stocking limits for derogation farmers, and reductions in leased land availability, demand for contract rearing has grown.
“Recent ICBF data estimates over 780 dairy farmers rear heifers under contract, with a similar number providing rearing services.”
Rearing arrangements
Contract rearing involves the movement of livestock from the owner’s farm to be raised by another farmer.
Typically, replacement heifers leave the dairy farm to be reared on a drystock farm, then return in-calf and ready for milk production.
It reduces not only, the stocking rate on the farm, but also the requirement for slurry storage facilities if heifers remain with the contract rearer for one, or possibly two winters.
In addition, Teagasc said there are numerous advantages associated with contract rearing for rearers, including removing the risks associated with volatile markets, better cash flow as payments are generally made on a monthly basis, no investment in livestock required and it can often complement existing farm enterprises.
“It is not only important that the contract rearer has excellent stockmanship abilities, but they must also be able to manage grass so that growth rates can be maximised to ensure that heifers reach weight for age targets,” the authority said.
“The dairy farmer must ensure that calves arrive healthy and on target on the rearer’s farm, and that payments are made in a timely manner. These arrangements need to be a “win-win” for both parties.”
SHARING OPTIONS: