Herd Profile

The animals used in this experiment consist of two different breeds, Holstein Friesian and Jersey x Holstein Friesian. The experiment examines three alternative autumn & spring feed budgets x 2 grazing intensities, resulting in 6 treatment groups of 20 cows per group. Animals are randomly assigned to one of three alternative autumn spring pasture-based systems differing in overall peak feed supply (Low -1,000 kg DM/ha), Medium- 1,200 kg DM/ha and High – 1,400 kg DM/ha) established based on alternate autumn rotation lengths. To each feed supply system, 2 grazing intensities (lax – 4.5 cm post grazing residual and severe -3.5cm grazing residual) will be applied for the duration of the autumn and spring. 

Mean Calving Date: 23-Feb

First Lactation Cows: 36

Sires of Cows: ABT, CWJ, EKE, GUV, GXY, HFL, MJS, OKM, PKU, SOK,