Dairy Newsletter - April 2025

Download Publication (PDF)

In this month's edition:

• Top five tips for April
  1. Invest in reseeding: spending on reseeding over the last number of years has declined (Profit Monitor data 2022-25). A spend of about €45/cow is required to maintain a 10% reseeding rate. In 2024 this figure was at €26/cow or similar to a reseeding rate of 5%.
  2. Grass intake drives your margin: as your cows hit peak and move closer to the breeding season, ensure that they are receiving large quantities of high-quality grass daily. This will drive profitable milk solids output while maintaining costs.
  3. Select the best: as breeding season approaches it is important that you select a good bull team for future herd requirements. We also need to select our best genetic cows to breed replacements from, rather than randomly breeding cows to dairy.
  4. Heifer weights: if you are hoping to use a synchronisation protocol this season, make sure you have the correct protocol with the proper dosage and product worked out in advance.
  5. Don’t forget sulphur fertiliser: research over many years has shown that there is a good grass growth response where sulphur is included in the fertiliser plan. April is a good time to apply.
• Deal with problem cows in good time
  April is a critical month in dictating the success of your breeding season. Pre-breeding heat detection is an extra chore but is an integral part of your breeding plan. Tail paint the entire herd in early April to help identify any cows not actively cycling.
• Herd nutrition notes for April
  March 2025 was excellent in terms of getting cows to grass and utilising swards. However, allocating sufficient grass in April can be a significant pinch point for maintaining herd performance and body condition when cows are approaching peak milk solids production.
• Health & Safety - Safe fertiliser spreading
  Check your tractor and machine before spreading fertiliser. Ensure that PTO guards are in place and secure. Lifting equipment for large fertiliser bags must be in good condition. Use long-handled knives to open bags, stay clear, and always lower equipment when it is not in use. Drive carefully at all times, especially in the farmyard. If you must travel on slopes, carefully assess the risk of overturning. Stay vigilant.