Ladies in weighting

摘要

Managing the high index heifer is grabbing the attention of the industry. In this, our second feature on the subject (the first appears on page 60) senior consultant for Genus, Alan Hutchinson, takes a look at the MOET experience of heifer rearing. The aim to maximise the rate of genetic gain is a philosophy which sets the high index herds of this country apart from the average. The true potential of these genetics can only be achieved if attention to detail is followed from birth. The animal whichoffers the most potential for genetic advancement is the replacement heifer. At MOET, heifers are managed to grow and subsequently perform to their potential The youngstock are managed very much as a sister enterprise to the dairy herd; they are given nopreferential treatment, but are fed, monitored and managed to calve at the right size and condition score.