Target weights for replacement heifers
Lower survival rates to third lactation and reduced milk yields are the consequences of failing to achieve the target weight for age when rearing replacement heifers. The maintenance sub index determines the appropriate target weight. Dairy Specialist George Ramsbottom outlines the calculations
The maintenance sub index determines the appropriate target weight. Most dairy replacements have a maintenance sub index of between €0 and €20.
The accompanying video clips detail how to calculate the appropriate target 1st October weights for spring born in-calf and weanling heifers respectively while a third summarises the target weights for heifers of different maintenance sub index.
Calculating heifer target weights
Weanling target weights
Summary target weights
Finally the Replacement heifer target weights spreadsheet used in the videos enbables you to calculate the target 1st October weights for your own replacement heifers. 