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FEBRUARY 2010 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: PERFORMING WELL... THE SELECT RANGE... THE ENHANCE RANGE... FATS... OPTILAC... CS PLUS... OMEGA GOLD... MEGALAC... NEWSDESK... PERFORMING WELL Blowing our own trumpet is something that we do only on rare occasions but when we do blow it, we feel that everyone should know about it. Just three months ago we launched two new dairy compound ranges - the SELECT RANGE and the ENHANCE RANGE. During the last twelve weeks the response has been remarkable with many new customers taking deliveries of these competitively priced dairy nuts. Having taken advantage of some astute buying we launched these products at the beginning of November and almost immediately farmers were interested. Since taking delivery the following points have been noted by our new clients: "I don't know how you get such a low cost price for such a quality ration - your opposition can't touch it" (Cheshire farmer) "Not only are they reasonably priced but they are also very palatable" (North Wales farmer) "I am using them for all my dairy cows, my youngstock and beef. They have never looked better" (Shropshire Farmer) "They can't be any good at that price" (Another compounder in our trading area) Currently 5 new clients have swapped to our products from this compounder and all are pleased with the outcome. Why not follow our new customers' example and give the office or your agent a ring for more details - you might just make it a really happy new year! THE SELECT RANGE Available in 17%, 19% and 21% crude protein Products contain: Wheat, Citrus, Rape, Palm Kernal, Soya Hulls, Barley, Wheatfeed, Sunflower, Molasses, Minerals and Vitamins, Vegetable Fat Spray. THE ENHANCE RANGE Available in 18% and 20% crude protein Products contain: Wheat, Biscuit, Rape, Wheat Distillers, Soya Hulls, Barley, Molasses, Megalac, Sopralin, Minerals and Vitamins, Vegetable Fat Spray All products available in nut or coarse blend form. FATS Getting enough energy into high yielding dairy cows cost-effectively is a major challenge. A cow producing 40 litres a day need 290 MJ ME/day and will have a dry matter intake of around 20kg DM per day. Diets based on forages and dry feeds alone will often be inadequate to meet the demands of high yielding cows and a failure to supply sufficient energy will results in: Reduced milk yields Reduced compositional quality Excessive bodyweight loss Poorer reproductive performance The Roles of Fats Oils and fats are components of the diet of the dairy cow. As they contain up to three times the energy levels of cereals they can be a valuable ingredient for dairy diets. Cows have a specific dietary need for fat, and butterfat is largely derived from fats and oils in the diet. For efficient milk production cows should ideally be receiving 1600 - 2000g of fats and oils per day. These fats should be a type that is slowly released in the rumen. Cows on lush spring grass will consume up to 500g of fat per day. TMRs with a high cereal content can typically contain 700g per day. This shortfall is equivalent to 32MJ, enough for nearly 6 litres or the energy released when 1kg of bodyweight is mobilised. Adding carefully formulated fat supplements can increase energy density of the diet and total energy intakes without affecting rumen function or appetite. Energy supply for the dairy cow Sources of energy to consider are those from oils, fats and sugars. Straight fats contain over three times as much estimated ME as cereals so can raise the nutrient energy density of a diet. Adding the right type of fat product can increase the energy component of the diet and butterfat in milk without affecting rumen function or appetite, consequently giving better performance in terms of milk yield and quality, cow condition and fertility. Which fat should you choose? We supply the following fats: OPTILAC - £495/t Optilac is a blend of fats and oils with a ratio of unsaturated and saturated fats which closely matches the requirements of dairy cows. It is produced from fat sources which ensure a slow release in the rumen, similar to the way fats from grazed grass are digested by the cow. New research carried out at Hartpury College (Gloucester) demonstrates the effect of feeding Optilac compared to feeding a protected dairy fat for the first six weeks of lactation. Despite the protected fat having a higher energy level the Optilac fed cows produced as much milk. However, they started gaining weight sooner after calving and continued to gain weight faster than cows fed the protected dairy fat. Feeding Optilac will support milk yields and ensure cows are gaining weight soon after calving - vital for shortening calving intervals Feeding A free flowing, dust free premix designed for incorporation into compound feeds and home mix diets. The recommended usage rate is 500g per cow per day although levels as high as 1500g can be used with high performance cows. Optilac can be included in compound feeds at rates up to 100kgs per tonne. CS PLUS - EXCLUSIVE TO GP FEEDS - £550/t A specially formulated fatty acid blend processed with a selected glucose preparation into a free flowing dust-free meal. CS Plus has been designed for the high performing dairy cow, in particular for raising butterfat levels and milk yields while maintaining cow condition. The blend of protected and slow release fatty acids rich in C16, has been put together to maximise synergistic effects on net energy yield and milk quality. The unsaturated to saturated ratio is close to 3:1. The glucose blend enhances liver function and the hormonal, nervous and enzymic systems to increase overall animal performance. Benefits Specific fat profile high in C16:0 to maximise butterfats A high energy content to encourage milk yield Designed to maintain body condition High glucose sugars to sustain milk yield Promotes optimal liver function Highly palatable, free flowing and easy to use Feeding CS Plus is designed for mixing into compound feeds or home mix diets. The recommended usage rate is 500g/cow/day. Levels of up to 1500g can be used with high performance dairy cows. CS Plus maybe included in compound feed at a rate of up to 50kg per tonne. OMEGA GOLD - EXCLUSIVE TO GP FEEDS - £585/t Omega Gold is a specially formulated fatty acid blend high in Omega-3s processed with a selected glucose preparation into a free flowing dust free meal. Omega Gold has been designed for the high performing dairy cows, in particular for improving fertility, supporting butterfat levels and driving yield while maintaining cow condition. The blend of protected and slow release fatty acids rich in C16, has been put together to maximise synergistic effects on both fertility and production parameters. The unsaturated to saturated ration is close to 1:3. Certain fatty...
FEBRUARY 2010 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: PERFORMING WELL... THE SELECT RANGE... THE ENHANCE RANGE... FATS... OPTILAC... CS PLUS... OMEGA GOLD... MEGALAC... NEWSDESK... PERFORMING WELL Blowing our own trumpet is something that we...
DECEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: BUILDING FOR A SUCCESSFUL DAIRY HERD... VOLAC MILK POWDERS... GP FEEDS YOUNGSTOCK RANGE... CHRISTMAS ORDERING... MYCOTOXINS... NEW FOR 2010 ECOSYL 100... WORD SEARCH - A LITTLE LIGHT HEARTED FUN... NEWSDESK... BUILDING FOR A SUCCESSFUL DAIRY HERD For a profitable and successful future, no matter what type of livestock enterprise you have, you must start right from the beginning with healthy and well grown youngstock. This applies particularly to dairy heifer replacements which need a solid foundation on which to build a frame, and in subsequent years produce their own calf and yield up to 10,000 litres per annum. Feeding a well proven milk replaces (such as Volac) will ensure each calf receives the nutrients required for healthy and sustained growth. From weaning off whole milk, or milk replacers, all calves need to continue growing quickly in the most economical way possible. Certain management techniques need to be implemented especially monitoring liveweight gains against set target standards. Failure to reach target weights, can lead to small heifers at bulling, small heifers at calving and small cows at the lactating stage. If heifers do not reach these set target weights you could have problems in the future such as difficult calvings perhaps leading to fatalities. At GP Feeds we have acknowledged all these facts and have produced a range of calf and youngstock products to meet all you requirements and targets. When fed with quality forages (hay, silage or straw) all aspects of growth patterns throughout their young lives will be taken care of. VOLAC MILK POWDERS Blossom Range Protein 23%, Oil 18%, Ash 7.5%, Fibre 0% Forms the heart of the Volac range of milk replacers since it's launch in the early 90's. It is formulated to achieve the required growth rates to maximise lifetime performance for both dairy and beef calves. Blossom Easymix (20kg bags) is ideal for once or twice day feeding and some ad lib systems requiring an instant mixing powder. Blossom Freeflow (25kg bags) is ideal for use through the Volac automatic calf feeder and any feeder requiring a free-flowing type powder. Enerlac Range Protein 20%, Oil, 20%, Ash 8%, Fibre 0% Developed specifically for modern beef enterprises and traditional dairy units to give exceptionally cost effective growth rates. The formulation is high in lactose and oil levels to provide a very high energy feed for well grown, good looking calves. Particularly suited to use with automatic rearing systems. Enerlac Instant (20kg bags) is ideal for once or twice day feeding and some ad lib systems requiring an instant mixing powder. Enerlac Freeflow (25kg bags) is ideal for use through the Volac automatic calf feeder and any feeder requiring a freeflowing type powder. Heiferlac (20kg Bags) Protein 26%, Oil 16%, Ash 7%, Fibre 0% Developed specifically for the modern dairy heifer calf and offers very high levels of pure dairy protein, lactose and a specially selected blend of vegetable oils. Heiferlac has been formulated after careful consideration of the effect the first few weeks of life can have on the modern dairy cow when she joins the milking herd. It helps deliver the rapid early frame growth necessary to achieve high target weights to bulling and beyond. Ideal for once and twice a day feeding, cold ad-lib (pH 5.8) and some ad-lib systems requiring an instant mixing powder. Milk Powder prices are due to rise by around £70/t as of 11th December - so place your order now! GP FEEDS YOUNGSTOCK RANGE Coarse Calf 16 Mix Extremely palatable mixture fed ad lib from 2 days to 10 or 12 weeks of age. This mixture cannot be beaten for speedy growth and healthy, glossy coated calves... Calf Starter 18 Pellets 3mm pellet to be introduced from 2 days of age and fed through to weaning. Carefully balanced for palatability and good healthy growth... Supergro Heifer Rearing 20 Nuts A specialist heifer replacement product to be fed from 10 or 12 weeks of age to calving. Well balance ration providing in excess of 1 - 1½ LWG per day. Especially recommended where straw forms the base forage... GPF Heifer 18 Nuts Popular and cost effective alternative to our Supergro Heifer Rearing 20 Nuts, still proving excellent results and uniform growth. This product is suitable for all types of youngstock... GPF Beef 16 Nuts Although primarily aimed at the beef market, the mineral pack can be changed to suit anytime of youngstock... As with all our feeds the ingredients have been carefully chosen for digestibility, with well balanced starch and sugars and quality protein sources, along with FIXED FORMULATIONS. All these products are available in 25kg bags, 1t tote bags or bulk*. (*Coarse Calf 16 Mix not available in bulk) Phone the office today on 01948 661602 to discuss your Youngstock needs. CHRISTMAS ORDERING If you haven't already placed your Christmas and New Year orders with us, don't delay call the office today on 01948 661602. To guarantee delivery, we need your Christmas and New Years requirements (through to Friday 8th January) in the office by TUESDAY 8th DECEMBER Limited deliveries on: Wednesday 23rd December Thursday 24th December (Christmas Eve) Tuesday 29th December Wednesday 30th December Thursday 31st December (New Years Eve) Monday 4th January 2010 Tuesday 5th January 2010 No deliveries on: Friday 25th December (Christmas Day) Saturday 26th December (Boxing Day) Sunday 27th December Monday 28th December (Bank Holiday in lieu) Friday 1st January (New Years Day) Saturday 2nd January 2010 Sunday 3rd January 2010 Normal deliverys will resume on Wednesday 6th January 2010 Please note that the Christmas Holidays falling over a weekend mean 4 consecutive days are none delivery days. MYCOTOXINS Are you experiencing problems? It could well be Mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are produced naturally from all types of mould, there are hundreds of different known mycotoxins. Mycotoxins affect animals is a variety of ways and since there are many types, identifying and diagnosing is often very difficult... 48 Hour delivery service available if required. Call the office today on 01948 661602 to place your order. NEW FOR 2010 ECOSYL 100 What Applicator? Which Contractor? What Application Rate? Which Harvester? PROBLEM SOLVED Now TAKING ORDERS "ONE FOR ALL" For treating all grass and legume silage Available for liquid or dry application in 100 tonne packs Liquid can be applied from 20mls up to 2 litres per tonne Can be applied by any applicator, on any harvester Recommended for conventional or organic use Applies 1 million MTD/1 bacteria per gram of treated silage 2 year shelf life in a cool, dry place ORDER BY XMAS for the best price for April 2010 delivery (Pay June) NEWSDESK COMMODITY COMMENTS PERIOD 29T BULK TIPPED (CHESHIRE) Hipro Soya GM gene still an issue. Tight supplies at present, hence the hefty pricing from the shippers. 2nd Half Dec...
DECEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: BUILDING FOR A SUCCESSFUL DAIRY HERD... VOLAC MILK POWDERS... GP FEEDS YOUNGSTOCK RANGE... CHRISTMAS ORDERING... MYCOTOXINS... NEW FOR 2010 ECOSYL 100... WORD SEARCH - A LITTLE...
NOVEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: FEEDING FOR A BETTER MARGIN... THE SELECT RANGE... MILD AUTUMN = WARMER DIET MIXES?... NEW FOR 2010 ECOSYL 100... CHRISTMAS ORDERING... MOLASSES... NEWSDESK... FEEDING FOR A BETTER MARGIN 'Margin' is a word that is foremost in most farmers thoughts at present. The everlasting balancing act to produce milk or beef and leave a margin or profit at the end of all the hard work. With ever increasing input costs the job gets no easier, especially when the EU and the UK government seem not to care about milk or beef production in this country. Some of us pay 61p a pint for our milk to be delivered to our doorstep - where does the differential of over a pound a litre go to? With this in mind the rationing of dairy cows and beef animals is even more critical this winter than ever. We have seen reports coming through from Frank Wright Trouw Nutrition regarding the big differences between 1st and 2nd cut silage analysis and the likelihood of variable maize silages changing starch degradability over the winter period. However, in the main, there is plenty of forage available but what you do with it is critical for you profits. We at GP Feeds spend a lot of time discussing and planning rationing with our customers. We have the technical expertise within the company to cover all eventualities experienced on farm, especially with the range of product we produce. For this winter, after careful monitoring and consideration, we feel there is a need for a new range of products not only to balance this years' forages but also to remain economic within the framework and constraints that you as producers are put under. Working within our quality list of ingredients, we are pleased to announce the following products that make up a range of products designed to produce lots of milk in the most economic way. For more information and prices please ring your agent or the office for a down to earth conversation and recommendation. We can assure you that these products are extremely competitive in price but at the same time will produce you lots of good quality milk. For the sake of a phone call you just might get on the right track for better margins. THE SELECT RANGE The SELECT range is made using the following ingredients: Wheat, Barley, Rape, Soya Hulls, Biscuitmeal, Wheat Distillers, Molasses, Minerals & Vitamins, Limestone, Palm Kernal, Sunflower, Citrus, Wheatfeed and Vegetable Fat. SELECT 17 NUTS SELECT 19 NUTS SELECT 21 NUTS SELECT 17 BLEND SELECT 19 BLEND SELECT 21 BLEND MILD AUTUMN = WARMER DIET MIXES? If you are having a spot of trouble with diets warming quicker than you are used to at this time of year, it may be due to a particular component of the mix, but bear in mind that the speed of aerobic spoilage is directly related to ambient temperature. The addition of certain chemical salts while the diet is in the mixer, has been demonstrated to really slow down the rate of deterioration, giving the mix more time in front of the cows. EcoTMR Is a mixture of 2 chemical preservatives Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Proprionate. It is delivered farm as a prilled product in 20Kg bags, 1 bag treats 60 tonnes of diet mix, minimum order 1 bag delivered to you. Buy more feeding time with EcoTMR and keep your cool. If you require further information on this product, please ring the office on 01948 661602 NEW FOR 2010 ECOSYL 100 What Applicator? Which Contractor? What Application Rate? Which Harvester? PROBLEM SOLVED Now TAKING ORDERS "ONE FOR ALL" For treating all grass and legume silage Available for liquid or dry application in 100 tonne packs Liquid can be applied from 20mls up to 2 litres per tonne Can be applied by any applicator, on any harvester Recommended for conventional or organic use Applies 1 million MTD/1 bacteria per gram of treated silage 2 year shelf life in a cool, dry place ORDER BY XMAS for the best price for April 2010 delivery (Pay June) CHRISTMAS ORDERING Limited deliveries on: Wednesday 23rd December Thursday 24th December (Christmas Eve) Tuesday 29th December Wednesday 30th December Thursday 31st December (New Years Eve) Monday 4th January 2010 Tuesday 5th January 2010 No deliveries on: Friday 25th December (Christmas Day) Saturday 26th December (Boxing Day) Sunday 27th December Monday 28th December (Bank Holiday in lieu) Friday 1st January (New Years Day) Saturday 2nd January 2010 Sunday 3rd January 2010 Normal deliverys will resume on Wednesday 6th January 2010 Please note that the Christmas Holidays falling over a weekend mean 4 consecutive days are none delivery days. MOLASSES Following on from this years grass and maize silage analysis, there is a need for a slow release protein molasses (Nutrimaize), if you are using a good proportion of maize silage in your diet. We are amazed at how many farmers are not aware of the inferior products to Nutrimaize, that are being recommended on farm by so called nutritionists / reps etc. For example, we had a customer who had bought a load of Regumix 27, having been told by a rep that is was the same as Nutrimaize 28. We questioned this and then compared the two products with the customer: Regumix 27 Nutrimaize 28 Crude Protein 27% 28% Sugars 55% 62% When you look at the difference in the sugar and protein content, there is no question that Nutrimaize 28 is a far better product than Regumix 27 and when the customer found out that we were cheaper on a per tonne basis as well, then it was Christmas come early. The same can be said, when you compare the range of Nutrimaize products we sell, against what is in the market place, we have better quality products and cheaper prices on a per tonne basis. If you are going to use molasses in whatever form this winter, whether it be for as a protein or sugar source, then ring us before you make your buying decision, so you do not get duped into buying a substandard product, against what we can supply you with. We have a customer who has just added 1kg of Nutrimaize 46 to the overall diet and who is now producing 300 litres / day more than a week ago from the same number of cows. It's worked for him, it can work for you - call the office today on 01948 661602. NEWSDESK COMMODITY COMMENTS PERIOD 29T BULK TIPPED (CHESHIRE) Hipro Soya Still awaiting decision from the EU on the GM issue. Nov ASA Dec - Jan Feb - April ASA May - Oct £288 £284 £277 £233 Rapemeal A lot has been bought due to being...
NOVEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: FEEDING FOR A BETTER MARGIN... THE SELECT RANGE... MILD AUTUMN = WARMER DIET MIXES?... NEW FOR 2010 ECOSYL 100... CHRISTMAS ORDERING... MOLASSES... NEWSDESK... FEEDING FOR A...
OCTOBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: WINTER FEEDING... YEAST... DON'T MISS A TRICK - TREAT... TEXT US... SAVE TIME - SAVE MONEY!... ARE YOU GETTING THE BEST OUT OF YOUR MIXER WAGON? NEW ECOSYL 100 - ONE FOR ALL... Winter Feeding If you are thinking of using Hi-Pro Soya or Brazilian Soya then you won't get much change out £300.00 per tonne. Even when you use Rape and Soya in a 50:50 mix its well over £200.00 per tonne. Oh! and that is just to get to your farm, never mind the storing, handling, mixing, energy bills etc after its been delivered. Let us put this thought to you, if you have a molasses tank and are planning on using molasses this winter in your diet, think about using Tate & Lyle Nutrimaize 46. On a one to one replacement of a Rape/Soya mix by using Tate and Lyle Nutrimaize 46 saves you around £50/tonne. (Rape @ £150/t, Soya @ £290/t (combined £220/t), Tate and Lyle Nutrimaize 46 £168/t) Tate & Lyle Nutrimaize 46 is a high protein liquid feed based on pure cane molasses and bonded urea. Suitable as a major dietary protein source to balance maize silage and other low protein forages and feeds. Not only ideal as a maize balancer but can be used in diets based on whole crop wheat. The high nutrient density of Tate and Lyle Nutrimaize 46 is designed to make it perfect for very high yielding dairy cows. This allows sufficient nutrients to be supplied in a relatively small volume. Tate and Lyle's unique process of bonding together molecules of sugar and urea gives a phased release of energy and protein sources for rumen microbes to utilise. Tate and Lyle Nutrimaize 46 can be used for types of livestock, dairy, beef and sheep. Tate and Lyle Nutrimaize 28 and Nutrimaize 40 are also available and supplied through GP Feeds. Whatever type of molasses you are using, we will not be beaten on price for the equivalent product. Don't delay call us today! YEAST Yeast is proving to be very valuable on many dairy and beef farms again this year. Yeast is designed to maintain a healthy rumen, aid fibre digestion, improve liveweight gains along with food conversion. Yeast is helps to raise the overall rumen PH (reducing the risk of acidosis) and increase fibre-digesting bacteria - helping many farmers to get the most from their silage. Yeasts work effectively in both dairy and beef animals by: Reducing digestive disorders Improves feed efficiency Drives dry matter intake Increases milk yield Improves weight gain We have a product that is used at ½ the usual rate, feeding at 25 grams per head per day reducing your bill by half! So call the office on 01948 661602 for more information. DON'T MISS A TRICK - TREAT Should you be investing in an additive for your maize silage? Are You Still Unsure Which Product To Choose? Start With A Very Simple Question You Need To Answer? Is significant reduction of heating, energy loss and waste, best achieved by treating maize with a bacterial additive or is a chemical preservative more likely to produce a reliable, consistent result??? The independent work including recent research from MGA and Kingshay shows that chemical preservative treatments, keep the silage cooler for longer and the effects are more consistent than bacterial treatments. Now make your choice!!! Ecocorn is based on the most commonly used chemical food preservative Potassium Sorbate. As you consider your options weather to us Ecocorn or not, there are 2 facts to take on board. 1. The Typical Dry Matter Loss from the maize silage process (from field to cow) is recognised as being at least 20%. These losses at 32% Dry Matter can be represented as follows 2. Recent figures put the value of maize in a ration at around £100/tonne of Dry Matter SO HOW CAN YOU SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCE THESE LOSSES? Fill clamp with long ramp in thin layers Roll continuously… no dual wheels Only lengthen chop under 30% DM With a late crop, chop under 1cm Fill in one day or sheet at night Apply Ecocorn with a focus on the top half Use double top and enveloped side sheet Use New Clamp Film under the black plastic Top weight must be consistant Ecocorn Treatment - The Facts and Figures from Independent Trials You can reduce typical Energy Losses from £90 down to £45/acre so saving £45 /acre You can increase Milk Yield By £90/acre (assuming: 8t/acre:25p/L:50/50maize,grass) Cost of treatment £26/acre so a 5:1 return after product cost can be achieved So give us a call on 01948 661602 for Ecocorn, Clampfilm or just for good advice. TEXT US Moving forward in this technological age, you can now can text us on our dedicated text line if you need an urgent price on something. Simply just text us the details such as: Product Load size Tipped or blown Delivery period (such as spot or month(s)) Your address details - for delivery purposes Then we will gladly text you back with a price, saving you the hassle of locating a piece of paper to write it down on - especially if you are busy out and about on the farm. Our text number is: 07969 808188 Don't forget you can also get in touch with us through our website www.gpfeeds.co.uk, e-mail us directly on admin@gpfeeds.co.uk or if you want a chat on 01948 661602. SAVE TIME - SAVE MONEY! Taking the hassle out of calf rearing and putting you in control, the benefits of computerised calf feeding are obvious. The systems are specifically designed to feed and manage group housed calves on an individual basis. Entering the feeding pen, the calf is identified automatically and is provided with the quantity of milk that is allowed appropriate to its age and the time of day. The systems are geared to rear up to 100 calves at a time and can, depending on which system you choose, accommodate both milk powder and whole milk thus fitting easily into your farm management system. On farm trials have shown conclusively that calves reared on this system benefit from a managed and consistent feeding curve, significantly reducing digestive upsets early on and encouraging solid feed intake and good rumen development. Nutritional scours are virtually eliminated and consistent growth is achieved with no checks at weaning. Any calves not feeding as they should are highlighted on the daily alarm list therefore allowing you to pick up early any problems that may occur. These computerised systems are reassuringly easy to use and come with a dedicated customer support system from Volac. If you are interested and require further information and/or a farm visit from a Volac specialists to discuss the matter further, please call us...
OCTOBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: WINTER FEEDING... YEAST... DON'T MISS A TRICK - TREAT... TEXT US... SAVE TIME - SAVE MONEY!... ARE YOU GETTING THE BEST OUT OF YOUR MIXER WAGON?...
SEPTEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: STATE OF THE ART PRECISION BLENDING... EXPECTATIONS OF DAIRY PERFORMANCE FOR WINTER 2009-10... EARLY SEASON FIRST CUT GRASS SILAGE RESULTS... STATE OF THE ART PRECISION BLENDING As the major manufacturer of blended and compounded feeds supplied to GP Feeds Ltd customers throughout Cheshire and surrounding counties, SC Feeds have invested to provide our customers with the only precision blending plant built in this country within the last 20 years. This plant is now fully up and running and providing state of the art blends. By precision blending we mean a fully enclosed, computer process controlled system where raw materials are stored in enclosed bulk bins and weighed precisely through weighers controlled by the most modern computer systems - not raw materials stored on floor or bunkers and loaded into mixer wagons using inaccurate buckets as is the norm of most blending plants. The accuracy and precision of our blending operation is second to none with weighments available to the nearest gram. Our mixer is also one of the most accurate and efficient in the industry, primarily designed for precision mixing in the pet, equine and mineral business, it mixes in seconds and provides recovery test results better than any other mixer used in animal feed manufacture. Recovery tests, are tests we have to do twice yearly as part of our feed assurance audit to check accurate mixing and vitamin/mineral dispersion. The vast majority of our blends are custom own blends or bespoke blends requested by you the customer or your consultant or feed advisor. This is, and will remain, a very important part of our business to provide the right feed to compliment your feeds and forage, and to fit your own system and requirements. High quality feeds and proteins continue to be of high value and therefore warrant correct and accurate mixing, which is why precision blending will give our customers exactly what they want - to the last gram. We at GP Feeds have recently taken on a new customer and are supplying them blend through the new precision blending plant. The customer asked us to price up a blend which they were currently using, and when we quoted them our price, it was satisfactory with the customer so they booked a contract. Since beginning to supply this blend in July the customer has seen some excellent results. He is supplying his milk on a cheese contract so the following results are all good news for him. Butterfat was 3.82% now 4.20%, Protein was 2.80% now 3.16% and he has also seen an increase of 4 litres per cow. He asked us how this could be, our answer is simple - we are supplying you exactly what you requested and with precision blending. So our question to you is: are you getting exactly what you ask for from your current supplier - you will with us! EXPECTATIONS OF DAIRY PERFORMANCE FOR WINTER 2009-10 (Reproduced with kind permission of Frank Wright Trouw Nutrition International) Milk from grazing and early season grass silage average With over 600 grass silage samples analysed from this season's first cut, comparison with the equivalent averages from the previous 2 years' first cuts show this year's average silage to be of very similar quality, despite the very different growing seasons. Therefore, if history repeats itself, we could be facing another winter of general under performance on many dairy farms this year. Over the past 2 winters many herds typically averaged 2 litres per cow per day short of target yields, particularly in cows calving from now to the end of the year. The reasons for this centred on two main issues. Firstly, underfeeding at summer grazing lead to cows with inadequate body condition entering the winter and secondly winter forages had very average nutrient supplies with which to feed both the rumen bugs and the cow. Milk yield from grazing update Over the past two summers, many cows at grazing lost excessive body condition due to an over expectation of the potential milk production from grass. Consequently, when those cows were housed the dietary energy that should have been used for milk production was diverted to replenish body condition. The good news is that the current estimations of the average potential milk yield from grazing during early summer is on average of some 2 litres per cow per day more than the past two years, being M+15 litres this June. Similarly July to date and is currently averaging M+12.3 litres compared to M+10 litres last year. Milk yield from grazing update Careful attention to grass management, potential milk from grazing (ideally using the FWTNI milk from grazing system, including the ready-reckoner), cow performance and body condition are critical to year round profitable milk production. Early season first cut grass silage averages Over the past two winters the average grass silage and subsequently also the maize silage, has lacked the rumen energy required to maximise rumen digestion and microbial protein production to promote milk yield. Unfortunately, the early season average for this year's first cut grass silages is very similar. Comparative results are summarised on the attached table. The dry matter, crude protein, energy and intake potential are acceptable at 31.5%, 13.6%, 10.8 MJ/kg DM and 97.5 g/kgLW0.75 respectively, whilst fermentation quality and clamp stability, measured as pH, ammonia and fermentation acids (lactic acid and VFA), is good. Both NDF and rumen stability value (RSV) are somewhat lower than last year at 46.9% and 283 respectively and therefore careful attention should be given to fibre intake and rumen health this winter. Ensuring sufficient rumen energy supply coupled with the balance with rumen nitrogen will once again be important when formulating this winters grass silage based rations. A daily intake of excess rumen nitrogen can significantly reduce milk production because of the energy expended by the cow to remove that nitrogen. It is estimated that each 500g excess rumen N (MPNMPE) requires the equivalent energy of over 1 litre of milk to deaminate and excrete. Cow fertility can also be seriously compromised associated with excess blood urea status. Simple ration formulation for M+35 litres suggests that 11kg of concentrate per head per day will be needed to balance an ad libitum grass silage based ration. The crude protein content of the concentrate should be around 18% but in association with a good balance of rumen energy and by-pass protein. A minimum NDF of 14% will be needed in the concentrate to ensure the total dietary minimum of 33% NDF is achieved for optimum rumen health. EARLY SEASON FIRST CUT GRASS SILAGE RESULTS July 2007 July 2008 July 2009 Average July 2009 Minimum July 2009 Maximum % 30.4 30.8 31.5 15.8 64.2 Crude Protein % 13.2 13.1 13.6 8.1 18.6 'D'...
SEPTEMBER 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: STATE OF THE ART PRECISION BLENDING... EXPECTATIONS OF DAIRY PERFORMANCE FOR WINTER 2009-10... EARLY SEASON FIRST CUT GRASS SILAGE RESULTS... STATE OF THE ART PRECISION BLENDING...
AUGUST 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: DRY COW MANAGEMENT... EXCEL PRE-CALVER ROLLS... EXCEL DRY COW MINERALS... DRY COW BUCKETS... WHOLECROP SILAGE - MAKING THE MOST OF DIFFICULT WEATHER... DRY COW MANAGEMENT The dry period is a critical time in the management of the modern dairy cow. It is essential that the cow is properly prepared for the subsequent lactation. During this period the cow will rebuild her mammary tissue, replenish her body reserves, and condition her digestive system to achieve high intakes in early lactation. Below we have listed the risk factors: Tick if they apply to you One group of cows for the whole dry period Heifers and cows on transition for less than 21 days Inadequate vitamins and minerals in the diet Out of sight out of mind Diet short of effective fibre Diet lacking in energy and protein Weight loss before calving Forages too high in specific mineral: e.g. potassium Pre-calving diet different from post-calving diet Poor cow comfort Inadequate clean water Inadequate feed space Unpalatable stale feed presented to cows Feed not available around the clock Lame cows Cows too fat or too thin WHAT IS YOUR SCORE? 12 TICKS - VERY HIGH RISK 8 TICKS - MODERATE RISK 6 TICKS - BELOW AVERAGE RISK 4 TICKS - LOW RISK The risk is not just milk fever, but mastitis, lameness and infertility. Each farm is unique, our aim is to work alongside the farmer to improve the overall health of the cow. By achieving this aim a substantial amount of money can be saved by reducing vet visits and managing mastitis, fertility and lameness. If the cow is fed properly the fertility, mastitis and lameness problems can be controlled, thus improving the overall health of the animal, which will set the foundation for higher yields and better milk quality. Aims of the early dry period: Maintain dietary fibre content, but not necessarily with extreme levels of straw in the diet. Limit energy intake to prevent excessive calf growth but ensure that the level is adequate and the diet contains some fermentable starch. Avoid excessive crude protein, however, this can be difficult on a grazed grass system. Meet vitamin and mineral requirements. This is rarely done, some cows get mineral blocks but we have found that some competitors blocks are low specification and inadequate for the job. Aims of the transition or close up diet To acclimatise the rumen to post calving feeds including concentrate sources. The end products of starch digestion are absorbed through the rumen wall via papillae. If the cow is fed a coarse, high straw diet in the dry period, these papillae are reduced in size by up to 70%. After calving, when high starch diets are fed, the lack of absorptive papillae cause an increase in lactate hence rumen acidosis and laminitis. You get the most sole ulcers and white line disease, two and three months after calving. These lesions take this period to develop and the cause can be tracked back to management at calving. Diet can contribute not only to laminitis but also difficult calvings, retained cleansings and mastitis. Please remember these other factors can also be reduced by correct dry cow management as can lameness. When feeding maize or wholecrop to high yielding dairy cows these forage should be in the transition diet also. To provide adequate protein nutrition to enhance the immune system, improve colostrum quality and build up protein reserves. To maintain dry matter intake of feed and improve fertility. There is a sharp decline in the feed intake before calving but then the requirement increases rapidly when calving has taken place. A high density diet is needed and high fibre low energy feeds should be minimised, long fibre is important however at this stage. Extra dry matter intake in the dry period is important, as this carries through to early lactation. This can well be 2kg / day more which is about 4 litres of extra milk at peak and it also leads to reduced body weight loss and improved fertility. Cows in good energy balance at calving will resume heat activity much earlier and stronger, and these are the cows that are easy to get in calf. But remember fertility, the eggs are being developed in the dry period and need the correct nutrition to be viable at the time of service. To provide adequate vitamin and minerals. These are vital in meeting the aims of the dry period. Many dry cow feeds are well below their requirements for minerals or vitamins. An example is vitamin E requirements. The modern dairy cow should have at least 1,000 iu Vit E / day. Does your dry cow diet provide this? DRY COW RATION FAULTS Trying to slim dry cows in the dry period Low quality forage Poor cow comfort Roughing" it approach Low vitamins and minerals Mouldy feeds One dry group Wrong diet formulation The use of milking cow minerals in a dry cow diet. The importance of minerals and vitamins during the dry period Vitamin A A constant dietary supply is essential for the general well being of the animal, it has a vital role in growth, reproduction, resistance to infections and parasitic diseases. It is essential for skin development, normal vision and the development of bones in growing animals. Vitamin D Synthesised in the skin of farm animals through the action of solar ultra violet radiation, associated with calcium and phosphorus metabolism, deficiency indirectly gives rise to rickets. Vitamin E Anti sterility vitamin, deficiency in young animals gives rise to muscular dystrophy or white muscle disease, main role is prevention of damage to cell membrane. Minerals The correct balance of Calcium and Phosphorus has been applied and protected forms of Selenium, Copper and Zinc provide the strongest binding combination together with Cobalt, Iodine, Manganese and Magnesium for optimum health. Common problems often related to the Dry Period MASTITIS 50% of clinical mastitis develops in the dry period. If the immune system is poor, then cows are likely to get infections which is usually down to poor vitamin and mineral status. Excessive weight effects liver and immune system post calving LAMENESS SARA (sub acute rumen acidosis) is linked to pre/post calving diet causing laminitis. Horn growth poor in dry period linked to hormone changes. Supplements such as protected copper, protected zinc and biotin will improve horn growth. Infections such as mastitis, whites all can contribute to laminitis. INFERTILITY Dry cow diet promoting high intakes will increase intakes post calving, reduces liveweight loss at peak yield. Evidence of more than 50Kg (1 condition score) liveweight loss reduces infertility. Good dry cow diet stops dry cows losing weight. Follicle development in dry period linked to egg quality at service. Link with mineral availability in dry period in areas of...
AUGUST 2009 NEWSLETTER
This months linked article's: DRY COW MANAGEMENT... EXCEL PRE-CALVER ROLLS... EXCEL DRY COW MINERALS... DRY COW BUCKETS... WHOLECROP SILAGE - MAKING THE MOST OF DIFFICULT WEATHER... DRY COW MANAGEMENT The...