Within this time, it became apparent to me about the importance of getting the basics right on farm and how many farmers don’t understand the impact this can have upon their efficiency and profitability. In today’s world of precision farming, performance data, and high-spec nutrition, it’s easy to overlook the simple factors that are the fundamentals to your farm’s success. Even the best ration in the world won’t perform if the basics aren’t right on the farm. It seems that most herds can benefit from small tweaks in day-to-day management, and this could unlock major gains in yield and herd health.
Arriving on farm, I quickly learnt about the importance of feed space. Crowding at the feed barrier can suppress intakes, increase competition, and cause stress particularly for younger or lower-ranking cows. Aiming to provide at least 2 feet of feed space per dairy cow in a TMR or self-fed silage system. This ensures cows can eat when they want, reducing slug feeding and rumen disruption. Push-up frequency also matters. Cows naturally feed 10–14 times per day, if fresh feed isn’t accessible, intakes drop, and so does performance.
Water is a vital commodity to a cattle herd in terms of keeping on the correct side of animal health, milk yield and heat stress. A dairy cow at peak can drink up to 150l of water per day so there must be a safe and reliable supply in place. Milk is 87% water and yet water access is often compromised by poor flow rates, dirty troughs, or not enough space. Each cow needs 10 cm of trough space minimum, and at least 3 drinking points per 100 cows, ideally located near feed and resting areas. Water should be clean, cool, and freely available. There are many examples of were performance lifts simply by cleaning troughs more regularly. It’s one of the easiest wins on-farm. If you wouldn’t want to drink it why should your cows?
Another simple but key factor is feed space cleanliness as It’s not just what you feed, it’s how it’s presented. Mouldy feed, stale TMR, and dirty troughs can lead to reduced intakes, poor rumen function, and even toxin exposure. This will put you animal health at risk which no farmers will want to be doing. Keeping feed troughs and barriers clean is key as mouldy feed spreads and means fresh feed heat quicker especially in hot weather. And don't forget clamp face management means a fresher, more palatable silage at every feed-out that will help dry matter intake for your herd.
Whether its dry cow management or intensive beef systems there are lots of new products you can implement onto your farm, but they will be hopeless if the basics are right. Build solid foundations then you can build as high as you like from there but without that there are only certain highs you can reach before you fall.