The drop in milk price seen recently has led to discussions on farm being focused around improving efficiency and cost control.

Intestinal worms are a familiar feature in many poultry systems, particularly where birds have access to range or are kept on the same ground for extended periods. Because they are so common, low level worm challenges are often accepted as part of the job.

At the end of last year, Crediton Milling welcomed Zinpro’s Dr Huw McConochie, Research Nutritionist, to the South West for a series of Rumen Roadshow workshops. These interactive sessions challenged traditional thinking around dairy nutrition, focusing on the vital role of rumen health and muscle tissue development in heifers to support long-term lactation success.

Creep feeding lambs in late winter/spring can be a highly effective management tool when both grass supply & quality can limit performance. Where used correctly it improves growth rates, shortens finishing time, and reduces risk in variable spring conditions. It isn’t for every system but is an effective tool for many sheep businesses.

As temperatures rise and daylight hours extend, conditions inside laying sheds quickly become more favourable for flies. While it may still feel early in the season, this is exactly when proactive control measures have the greatest impact. Waiting until flies are visible and causing issues often means you are already on the back foot.

The dairy industry is facing a tough period, getting through this will rely heavily on feeding strategies that protect cow health. This is not an area where corners can be cut without consequence.

Last year’s drought was a stark reminder that forage production remains one of the greatest risk areas on livestock farms.

Weather is outside our control, but exposure to risk can be reduced through better cropping choices, closer grassland management and a more considered approach to fertiliser use.

Last month Crediton Milling Company were thrilled to host Amy Hughes, EmpowerAg Ltd. in the delivery of a new course that aims to address a critical gap in agricultural training focused on the essential ‘human skills’ needed to run a modern farm business. Supported by the Frank Parkinson Agricultural Trust, the course invests in farmers as people, moving beyond purely technical training.

Spring grass is one of the cheapest and most valuable feeds on the farm, but it is not without its challenges. While fresh grass can drive performance, it also creates several nutritional issues that can quickly affect milk output and cow health if they are not managed carefully.

Most lambing problems are predictable and preventable. If lamb losses rise, look back at ewe nutrition first. Good feeding doesn’t just improve performance; it prevents disease before it starts.