Strathspey Monitor Farm meeting to focus on livestock autumn tasks

Cattle condition scoring, nutrition, winter housing preparation and back-end grazing will be key topics at the Strathspey Monitor Farm autumn meeting. Livestock producers will hear about some of the changes happening at the farm, and specialists who work closely with the Monitor Farmer will discuss preparing farms for a successful autumn and winter.

The open meeting, on Wednesday 18 September at Auchernack, Grantown on Spey, will include a chance for visitors to test their skills and get their eye in with body condition scoring cattle, so numbers are limited and booking is essential.

The importance of nutrition planning and its impact on decision-making at Auchernack will be a key focus, with Monitor Farmer Malcolm Smith and SAC ruminant nutritionist Karen Stewart discussing results of their recent collaboration. Visitors will hear how forage measuring and management has improved profitability of the suckler herd, and where there is potential to drive performance further through use of body condition scoring, improved shed ventilation and better grass quality.

Professor Simon Turner, SRUC expert in animal behaviour has been working with Monitor Farmers on the production, health and welfare benefits of maintaining cows in good condition. He will demonstrate hands-on, efficient and accurate body condition scoring, with attendees having the opportunity to assess a selection of Malcolm's cattle.

Jamie Robertson, specialist in animal housing, will discuss how to get the environment right for housed stock. He will highlight how well-designed buildings can impact positively on health, growth and financial return; ventilation, hygiene and space are all critical.

He will use Auchernack’s steading to explain which parts of it could slow growth and then suggest practical improvements, as well as discussing costs and return on investment of potential changes to these typical farm buildings.

Back-end grazing and nutrition will be the focus for Euan Campbell, Watson Seeds’ seed specialist. He provided Auchernack with a new mixed species sward, sown in late spring 2024, and will explain the idea behind the mix plus management methods to ensure its long-term success. He will also be looking at the farm’s mature swards; while the Smiths manage their grazing well, can it be improved further?

Peter Beattie, Monitor Farm regional adviser says: “This will be a really practical afternoon for livestock farmers and stock managers, with plenty of opportunity to discuss autumn and winter planning with hands-on specialists.”

The meeting starts at 2.30pm. Numbers are limited, so booking is essential. Please car share if possible. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing, and clean vehicles, footwear, and clothing before attending for biosecurity. No children under 16 or dogs are allowed.

• Strathspey Monitor Farm autumn meeting - Wednesday 18 September, 2.30pm-5.30pm at Auchernack Farm, Grantown On Spey, PH26 3NH. Booking: https://bit.ly/3LNnu8K