Output per hectare key to BGS grassland farmer of the year success
John has combined improved animal genetics with better forage production. He’s breeding more efficient ewes, with a mature liveweight down from 110kg to 80kg, and boosting the productivity of his grassland by including the best available varieties.
Quality grazing and grass silage comes from leys predominantly reseeded with Aber High Sugar Grasses and Aber white clovers, with grass silage typically analysing at over 12MJ/kg ME with good protein content.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Helen Mathieu of Germinal GB, one of the sponsors of the BGS Grassland Farmer of the Year Award, says that measuring and monitoring grass growth, as a basis for more effective management, was a stand-out feature in John’s day-to-day management.
“The principles of measuring in order to effectively manage are being applied to the finest detail,” she says. “This approach is now well established in the dairy sector, but less so on beef or sheep units, so John is leading the way and showing what is possible.
“We’re proud to sponsor the BGS Grassland Farmer of the Year award and congratulate John on his achievements. Our main purpose in sponsoring this award is to highlight best practice in grassland management and this is done most effectively by recognising those who are setting the standard and provide a great example for others to follow.”
John’s expertise in silage making has also been recognised this year with first place in the Ulster Farmers’ Union beef and lamb silage competition.