Beef breeding management

摘要

According to Teagasc statistics1 there are over 100,000 farms in Ireland producing beef calves, with approximately 64,000 of these being suckler herds2. Whilst many of these farms are small and extensively operated, the sector is still the second mostvaluable on farm enterprise in Ireland after dairy production. Irish suckler farm profitability is under increasing economic scrutiny with recent research for CAP negotiations questioning the long term viability of the Irish suckler herd. The veterinarypractitioner role in providing sound herd health advice should also take into consideration the economic implications of the herd health plans and actions.