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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
Question 5
Describe how a farmer can ensure the production of high quality milk under the following headings: (i) hygiene, (ii) composition. For a spring-calving dairy herd, ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer: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
Step 1
Describe how a farmer can ensure the production of high quality milk under the following headings: (i) hygiene
Answer
To ensure high quality milk production, hygiene is paramount. This can be achieved through several practices:
- Clean housing: Regular cleaning of housing facilities prevents the buildup of bacteria and pathogens.
- Udder care: Washing cows' udders and teats reduces the risk of microbial contamination before milking.
- Fly control: Implementing fly control measures helps to minimize stress and infection.
- Milk cooling: Milk should be cooled to 4°C or lower before entering the bulk tank to inhibit bacterial growth.
- Operator hygiene: Milking equipment and operators must adhere to high hygiene practices.
Step 2
Describe how a farmer can ensure the production of high quality milk under the following headings: (ii) composition
Answer
To ensure the milk’s composition is optimal, farmers can consider the following:
- Genetic merit: Replacement of old cows with high-quality dairy breeds ensures better milk composition.
- Good feeding practices: A balanced diet rich in nutrients is vital for milk quality. It should include high-quality forage and concentrates tailored to the lactating cow's needs.
- Milking intervals: Maintaining appropriate milking intervals helps to stabilize milk production quality.
Step 3
For a spring-calving dairy herd, describe the feeding practices for a cow during the following periods: (i) early lactation
Answer
In early lactation, a cow requires:
- High energy diet: The feeding regimen should include a high-energy ration and good quality silage to meet the increased energy demands of lactation.
- Forage allocation: Grazing on paddocks rich in leafy grass enhances nutrient intake.
Step 4
For a spring-calving dairy herd, describe the feeding practices for a cow during the following periods: (ii) mid-lactation
Answer
During mid-lactation, the feeding practices should focus on:
- Maintenance of body condition: Cows should continue to receive a balanced diet with adequate energy and protein to support steady milk production.
- Grazing management: Offering strip grazing or paddock grazing helps maintain a balanced intake of nutrients.
Step 5
For a spring-calving dairy herd, describe the feeding practices for a cow during the following periods: (iii) late lactation
Answer
In late lactation, emphasis should be placed on:
- Transition ration: Feeding practices should transition cows to a diet that prepares them for drying off, reducing any excessive body weight gain.
- Forage management: Adequately managing forage intake ensures that cows remain healthy and prepare for the next breeding cycle.
Step 6
Two criteria used to measure the breeding management of a suckler herd are; (i) reproductive efficiency
Answer
Reproductive efficiency is measured by assessing:
- Calves weaned per 100 cows served: This metric indicates the effectiveness of the breeding program.
- Cow condition: Ensuring cows are fed well prior to mating to optimize reproductive health.
Step 7
Two criteria used to measure the breeding management of a suckler herd are; (ii) calving interval
Answer
Calving interval relates to:
- Time between successive calvings: Aiming for a shorter calving interval helps maximize productivity within the herd.
- Heat detection: Accurate heat detection and correct timing of mating increase the chances of successful breeding.
Optimizing both aspects involves consistently monitoring cattle health and nutritional needs.