Describe how a farmer can ensure the production of high quality milk under the following headings: (i) hygiene, (ii) composition - Leaving Cert Agricultural Science - Question 5 - 2008

To achieve optimal composition of milk, farmers should:

1. Genetic Selection: Use cows from a high genetic merit breed to improve milk yield and components.
2. Good Feeding Practice: Provide a balanced diet rich in energy and nutrients tailored for lactating cows, ensuring they meet their dietary needs.
3. Monitoring: Regularly check milk composition through testing to adjust feeding and management practices as necessary.

Feeding practices during early lactation should focus on:

1. High Energy Rations: Providing high energy feeds to meet the increased energy demands of lactation.
2. Forage Quality: Ensuring access to quality forages like silage to support milk production.

During mid-lactation, feeding practices should include:

1. Balanced Diet: Offering a balanced diet with adequate protein and energy.
2. Adjustments: Making adjustments based on milk yield and the cow's body condition.

In late lactation, practices should consist of:

1. Maintaining Condition: Focusing on maintaining body condition rather than increasing milk production.
2. Transition Feeding: Preparing cows for the dry period by adjusting their feed to support a smooth transition.

Reproductive efficiency can be measured by:

1. Calves Weaned: The number of calves weaned per 100 cows served.
2. Management Practices: Implementing effective heat detection and ensuring timely breeding of cows.

Calving interval can be optimised through:

1. Timing Management: Managing the timing of mating and calving to ensure regular intervals between calvings, ideally targeting a 12-month interval.
2. Health Monitoring: Keeping cows in good health to improve fertility post-calving.