Spring block calving fertility review with vet Dave Gilbert

Join us for an interactive Teams workshop to analyse your 2021 fertility results, compare your spring-block herd with other spring-calvers and set your herd up for a successful mating season this year.

Vet Dave Gilbert, of Dairy Insight, will be helping you understand where things have gone well and identify those areas you can look to improve.

AHDB Dairy has found that block calving herds who calve 90% of their cows in the first 6 weeks of calving outperform those with longer calving periods. Achieving this requires planning and focus.

A tight block allows cows longer recovery time post calving (before next mating), more days in milk, calves in closer age groups, and can help reduce fatigue within your work force.

During the discussion, we will cover some of the following:

• Setting and hitting ambitious targets
• Pre-mating checks – when and what to look for?
• Heat detection techniques & tools
• Semen handling and AI protocols
• What to do with non-cyclers

Those who book for the workshop will be asked to complete a worksheet ahead of the meeting which will form the basis for discussion on the day. Spaces are limited. If you are interested in attending, please contact Shirley Macmillan (shirley.macmillan@ahdb.org.uk) by Friday 11 March.

Who should attend?

This workshop is aimed at spring block calving farmers and farm staff with a responsibility for heat detection and service.