L9 - Dairy Calving System

Calving System

Method determining breeding and calving schedule.

All Year-Round (AYR)

Cows calve continuously throughout the year.

Block Calving

Cows calve within a specific time frame.

12-Week Window

Timeframe for block calving, in spring or autumn.

Peak Milk Yield

Highest milk production period for the herd.

Dried Off Together

Whole herd stops milking simultaneously.

Fertility Issues

Challenges affecting breeding success in herds.

Farm Limitations

Constraints like housing affecting calving choices.

Flat Milk Profile

Consistent milk supply desired by buyers.

Seasonal Calving

Calving aligned with specific seasons for efficiency.

Higher Price for Autumn Calvers

Autumn block calvers receive premium prices.

Cost of Production

Expenses incurred per litre of milk produced.

2.4 Pence per Litre

Cost difference favoring spring calving over AYR.

Continuous Milk Flow

AYR calving allows steady milk supply.

Labour Requirements

AYR systems typically need more workforce.

Forage Availability

Access to feed impacting calving system choice.

Milk Buyer Requirements

Criteria set by buyers influencing production decisions.

Correct Breed of Cow

Choosing suitable breeds for specific calving systems.

Resource Management

Efficient use of labor and assets in farming.

Net Returns by Calving Date

Profitability varies with timing of calving.

Condition Management

Monitoring body condition score during lactation.

Bull Fertility Checks

Assessing breeding bulls for reproductive performance.