Press releases from Countrywide:
Supplement feed to make up for lack of ewe condition
Supplement feed to make up for lack of ewe condition
Countrywide acquires Gommes Country Stores
Countrywide, leading supplier of products and advice to the rural community, has announced the acquisition of Gommes, the Chilterns based equestrian and farm supply business.
Founded at the turn of the 20th century, Gommes specializes in equestrian, rural and smallholder products, running a delivery service to business customers throughout Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.
Mike Gommes, the third generation involved in the successful family business, and equine specialist Chris Potts, will now be based at Countrywide’s recently re-launched Thame store where they are looking forward to welcoming Gomme customers.
“We are delighted to have joined with Countrywide,” says Mike. “It is a great move for a business that has always enjoyed such strong links with the rural community. We share the same ethos: strong personal service, value and providing our customers with friendly, expert advice. This integration now means that we can continue to offer our own brand of personal service but with the added benefit of an increased product range, and services too. I am really looking forward to introducing Gommes customers to all that is on offer.”
Countrywide’s Thame store, re-launched in 2012 following the acquisition of H&C Pearce and Sons, one of southern England’s largest animal health and farm supply businesses, now offers a comprehensive range of products and services.
Steve Collard, Stores Director for Countrywide, thinks that Gommes and Countrywide Thame make the perfect combination. “Both businesses share a strong equine heritage and customer base. The Thame store’s equine department now offers over 1,000 product lines and, in store, we have AMTRA qualified staff fully trained to dispense animal health products, fit and supply riding hats and body protectors. New and existing customers will also find a truly comprehensive range of rural, Pet and farm supply products from feed, bedding, seed and fertiliser to clothing, tools and handling equipment. We look forward to welcoming the Gomme team in store and working with them to make the most of our combined knowledge and expertise, to provide best value to all our customers.”
Investing in reseeding pays
Investing in reseeding pays - click here to download the article
3 keys to dairy productivity – now delivered by Countrywide
Dairy farmers wanting to boost productivity are invited to visit the Countrywide stand at Livestock Event 2013 to find out about their new integrated service, ‘Delivering Productivity: A New Approach’. The UK’s leading rural supplier, Countrywide is now able to deliver all three key areas that drive dairy profitability - health, nutrition and genetics – in a truly unique offering.
“As any livestock farmer will know health, nutrition and genetics are inextricably linked and for a cow to achieve her full dairy potential all must work together,” says Countrywide Agriculture Director Alistair Folly. “This is why, at Countrywide, we find it so important to be able to take this approach, we understand the pressure for farmers from rising input costs in relation to milk price.”
We have always been able to offer farmers a wealth of nutritional expertise, as demonstrated in the launch of Elite Nutrition in 2011. Our livestock healthcare is also second to none, backed up by our wide range of animal health products and expertise. Our investment in Sterling Sires in 2012, added the final piece of the jigsaw, bringing genetics into the Countrywide dairy portfolio.”
Sterling Sires supplies leading bulls, and bull semen, to both the dairy and beef industry - including the world famous Aberdeen Angus Melview Gareth. Semen sales for Countrywide customers in 2012 are already in excess of £500,000. “The range and quality of milk genetics available from Sterling is tremendous,” says Mr Folly. “Combined with our expertise, it gives our dairy farmers the opportunity to maximise profits from both milk and calves.”
Countrywide has over 200 AMTRA trained animal health experts, all qualified to give advice and dispense animal health medicines.
The Countrywide feed business, which last year supplied over 180,000 tonnes of compound and almost 200,000 tonnes of blends and straights, works closely alongside its 40 dairy specialists, all highly experienced experts dedicated to the nutrition and welfare of dairy cattle on over 400 dairy farms.
“Both new, and existing, compound feed customers automatically become members of Countrywide’s Dairy Plan 2013, giving seasonal discounts and preferential deals – alongside topical advice and guidance.” concludes Mr Folly.
Farmer case study - Integrated approach takes effect for dairy farmer
Dairy farmer Nick Jones, who milks 90 Friesian/Holsteins at Elmcote Farm, Cambridge in Gloucester has already benefited from Countrywide’s new integrated approach, increasing his margin per litre by 1.8p. Working alongside dairy specialist Colin Hair, he has improved his grassland management and adjusted the dairy ration to incorporate more home grown forage and add minerals to the dry cow diet. Mr Jones is also working with Countrywide to improve the genetic status of his herd, using a specific gene type from Sterling Sires.
To find out more about ‘Delivering Productivity: A New Approach’ – visit the Countrywide Stand at Livestock 2013 on 3rd and 4th July
New traders strengthen Countrywide Arable team
In a move highlighting its commitment to building its arable operation, leading rural supplier Countrywide has announced the addition of two new arable traders.
Scott Leader, as Senior Arable Trader, will work from company’s new trading office at Wetherby - and at its equally new Wardle Countrywide Store – from where he will serve cereal growers in Lancashire, Cheshire and north Shropshire.
Mark Hammond, who joins the Hereford Countrywide team as Arable Trader, will work with farmers in the Herefordshire, south Shropshire, Monmouthshire and Powys areas.
We have a clear vision for Countrywide,” says Paul Selby, Countrywide’s Arable Business Manager, “and intrinsic to that is a vibrant arable business that connects strongly with its farmer customers and provides a real alternative to the large corporate traders. Bringing two enthusiastic and experienced traders of the calibre of Scott and Mark into the business is part of that strategy and we are delighted to welcome them to the team. Whilst our aim is to trade at least half a million tonnes of grain a year we will never lose sight of the fact that farming depends on people building strong, long term relationships. Countrywide is also a significant end consumer of grain with a feed business selling over 400,000 tonnes per year, we want to buy the grain that goes into our feeds from our own customers and through our own grain trading team.”
Scott Leader
Scott Leader, who has experience of both the agriculture and food industry, previously worked at Grainlink, where he launched a new grain trading business in the north west, and also at Frontier Agriculture as Farm Trader supplying feed wheat to Manchester’s new wheat processing plant.
“My experience so far will stand me in great stead at Countrywide, says Scott, “and I am looking forward to being able to improve on what I can offer my farmer customers. I’ll be working closely with Countrywide Agronomist John Hood who can, if required, offer customers on-farm agronomic advice and support - it can be the complete package. With markets being so volatile, it is vital that farmers have the knowledge of where best to place their crops and the most suitable contracts, taking full advantage of risk management tools to manage both risks and budgets.”
Mark Hammond 
Mark Hammond, who will work alongside agronomists Gareth Evans in Herefordshire and Richard Robinson in Shropshire, brings a wealth of experience of the agricultural industry, including eight years as a grain trader and another eight managing a potato farm. “As a grain trader in the Herefordshire area I have a lot of contacts, including at some of the areas biggest feed mills. For me, Countrywide’s great advantage for farmers is that they are big enough to have all the contacts and command the best prices, but small enough so that when farmers call, they still know who they’re talking to.”
For more information about Countrywide Grain trading visit www.countrywidefarmers.co.uk To contact Scott Leader call 07967 485556. To contact Mark Hammond call 07825528962
San Diego GIS – winners reap rewards of prize trip
As prizes go, a trip to February’s San Diego Golf Industry Show wins hands down. “It’s the biggest turf exhibition in the world,” says Sam Honeyborne, Turf & Amenity Manager for Countrywide, “an opportunity to see the latest in turf care products, technology and machinery.
During the visit, in celebration of the natural fertiliser company’s 25th anniversary, and Countrywide’s appointment as European distributors, four lucky winners, accompanied by Sam Honeyborne and David Smart joined the Sustane team on their stand and attended educational seminars. Here we ask them what impressed them most.
GARY HAWLEY, Course Manager, Henbury Golf Club
“I’ve been in the industry for over 24 years. One thing I have learnt is that you need education to keep on top of things. That’s why I was so pleased to win the trip to the GIS. With our beautiful 100 year old course, we are always working to maintain facilities and standards and have just installed four new, free draining sand bunkers.
‘To roll or not to roll’
The seminar on green rolling was of great interest to us all. Here we roll greens mostly to benefit green speed, with the only downside being compaction. However, modern technology is alleviating this problem. So the seminar reported on three years’ research and, in all cases, presumed the use of a PGR. With speakers including Dr Rob Golembiewski and Tom Nickolai the conclusion was that, providing conditions are correct regular rolling of greens brings the following benefits:
- Increased disease prevention (especially Dollar Spot)
- Healthier plants, due to less cutting and more rolling
- Physiological benefits due to rolling off, rather than brushing, morning dew
- Rolling up to 3 times a week, long term, increases plant health
Rules and regs
Many fertiliser companies had new products that would benefit the European market, especially new phosphite products. This is where working with someone like Sam from Countrywide is so valuable. He is always up to date on regulation changes and good at advising me from the chemical point of view.”
WAYNE VINCENT, Course Manager, Cotswold Hills Golf Club
“For me, visiting the Golf Industry Show was a fantastic opportunity – one to grasp with both hands. 850 feet above sea level, the Cotswolds Hill Club is a free draining site on limestone brash, so we play all the year round and are very rarely closed. But we are always doing lots of projects to keep facilities up to standard. Winning the trip to the GIS was a great way to keep up with the latest technology.
Justifying investments
One seminar in particular, Communicating Capital Improvements as Justifiable Investments, we could all relate to. Like us, in the US they look at capital investments very carefully - simply saying ‘I need it’ isn’t enough any more. The lead speaker, Nick Janovich explained how to communicate projects, and their benefits, to decision makers. So collect, record and analyse costs. If you need a new greens mower, for example, look at its history and its increasing running costs.
Contacts
Talking to the experts on the Sustane stand about their organic, slow release fertilizers was a great opportunity. They gave excellent advice on the different feeding programmes, including what to use for winter dormant feeding. Making contacts was a valuable aspect of the show. I already work very closely with Sam Honeyborne of Countrywide. It’s good to deal with someone that you can take out onto the course and have a knowledgeable conversation. If he hasn’t got an immediate answer, he does the research and comes back with a solution, which gives us great peace of mind.”
Stand-out item: PortaPump from Flextool is designed so that a single person can clear large bunkers in minutes.
NIGEL COLLEY, Course Manager at Rothley Park Golf Club
“Our team here are constantly working to improve the playing conditions, and wider environment, and have several projects on the go, so visiting the show was great for new technology. We’re into the third of a six year programme of levelling tee surfaces and are also improving drainage on two greens. We’ve also put in planning consent to build a holding reservoir. Like most clubs, if the issue isn’t drainage, it’s irrigation!
PGRs and green speed
One seminar that particularly interested me was Professor Frank Rossi’s talk on the use of PGRs to deliver green speed – as I know that a fast ‘Augusta style’ green is what my members would love, 52 weeks of the year! Based at Cornell, Professor Rossi has undertaken rigorous tests, measuring grass two and three times a day, to discover if the dense, tight sward given by a PGR reduces friction and increases ball speed. Surprisingly to me, he concluded that PGRs alone don’t, but combining PGRs with a combination of processes – fertilising, mowing and rolling – brings results. It’s something I’m looking to put into practice.”
Stand-out item: A clever labour saving device – an attachment for a bunker rake that was also a turf edger and cutter.
Lee Relf, Deputy Course Manager, Wildernesse Golf Club, Sevenoaks
“I was amazed to win the prize and it was a great chance to see how everything is done in the States. It came at an ideal time for us. We have recently undertaken a course review by designer Jonathan Gaunt which highlighted several areas that we could improve, including a bunker renovation project. Visiting the GIS gave me the opportunity to look at all the new technology in bunker liners including:
Bunker Lining
Capillary concrete bunker lining. A resin or mix of aggregates applied to your specification which, being porous, drains well, is very durable and keeps the sand moist and compact.
Polymer/acrylic resin spray-on bunker liners. Forming a resin barrier on top of the top soils they are quick and easy to apply allowing water to percolate through with no soil contamination.
Astro-turf Matting bunker lining
I now need to find out what is available in the UK. One of the best aspects of the trip was sharing ideas and information with the other winners and all the contacts I made, especially working with the team on the Sustane stand. I already work closely with Countrywide, who provide both products and technical advice.
Stand-out item: PC Drainage by SubAir, like a garden hose - a stainless steel mesh core wrapped around fibre glass fibre which helps draw the water using capillary action. Laid across the green and the suction drains water away.
Sustane Fertilisers – Exclusively through Countrywide
Since 1980 over 500 independent studies on Sustane place it at the top of most researched organic fertilisers in the world. Sustane fertilisers have proven benefits on turf establishment, disease suppression, colour, quality and reduced environmental impact by providing slow, efficient release of nitrogen to plant life without volatilization, leaching as nitrates or immobilization in the soil.
Product Focus
Sustane’s Bolster Granular 4.4.4+3Fe with V.A Mycorrhizae
Bolster Granular is a new pre-seed fertiliser for winter sports pitches, which contains a powerful, synergistic blend of mycorrhizae and plant biostimulants proven to promote rapid root development and enhance germination.
- 90% slow release nitrogen
- Increases root mass and depth
- Enhance seedling establishment
- Increases the plant’s water absorption and retention
- Contains seaweed, calcium and humic acid
- Can be used as a complete pre-seed or in heavy wear areas such as goal mouths and centre circles.
Improving herd health boosts margins
Improving herd health boosts margins - Click here to download the article
Making the most of slurry this year
Making the most of slurry this year - Click here to download the article
National Herdsmens Conference line up announced
The 2013 National Herdsmens Conference theme and line up have recently been announced by organiser Ian Lindsay of LKL.
With a theme of Measure to Manage and taking place at Harper Adams University College on 15th and 16th April 2013, the conference has yet again attracted some worldclass speakers.
Leading the way is US feed specialist Dr Dana Tomlinson from Zinpro who’s talk is entitled ‘Linking performance between the cow and the manager’. Other highlights include Bryn Davies from Advanced Nutrition who’s talk will look at measuring transition cow performance and Paul Westaway from Countrywide and Melview Farming who will discuss how to make the leap from relief milker to start-up tenant to owner and successful farmer.
With a specific animal health focus, vets Jonathan Statham and Dr Richard Booth will present a paper called ‘Controlling BVD in England: learning and opportunities from the national programme’. Continuing the theme, Cheshire-based vet James Allcock’s paper is intriguingly titled ‘Managing Milk Quality - how to eat the elephant’.
Supported by DairyPro, the conference will also feature a talk from the organisation’s Tom Rawson looking at ‘Managing skills progression and development’.
A firm favourite at previous conferences has always been the herdsmen’s talks, and 2013 looks set to continue this with talks from Richard Evans, LKL herdsperson of the year who will examine the role of measuring as a way of implementing change and Will Morgan who will talk about key performance indicators as a foundation for herd management.
As with previous years, a series of practical sessions ahead of the main conference will take place featuring a milking parlour tutorial with James Allcock, grass measurement masterclass with Noel Cowan, Cow Signals talk from Owen Atkinson and a look at the new anaerobic digester at Harper Adams.
“We have been able to put together a top list of speakers and practical sessions for the 2013 conference and would like to thank sponsors Countrywide, Promar, LKL and Metacam for Cattle for helping us do this,” says organiser Ian Lindsay.
For more information, or to register for the event visit www.nationalherdsmansconference.com
Countrywide in Melton receive prestigious award
At the recent British Equestrian Trade Association business awards, Equestrian Specialist, Andrea Leavis from Countrywide received the accolade of Retail Employee of the Year.
“Judges and customers concluded her professionalism, good product knowledge and excellence in customer service put her ahead of the other nominees.” Comments Sara Blackshaw, Countrywide’s Equine Category Manager. “I would like to congratulate Andrea on her hard work and dedication to her customers in Melton.”
“Along with Andrea two further Countrywide employees were nominated for this award.
We invest in training colleagues to develop their expertise in specialist areas they are really passionate about, so this is a real testament to them. It also enables us to provide our customers with a more comprehensive service in areas such as Equine,” says Michelle O’Connor head of HR and Training at Countrywide.
Countrywide’s Melton Mowbray store will again hold their specialist equestrian event on Friday 8th to Sunday 10th March 2013. The event will provide customers with unique in store activities, great savings and expert advice on essential products.
“Spring brings new challenges for looking after our horses and ponies; paddock maintenance, worming, laminitis and getting our horses in great condition for the competition season. To help out we are offering 10% off all equestrian accessories as well as discounts on brands including Horseware, Shires, Lansdown and Kadence., our way of saying thank you to our customers an helping out ahead of spring,” comments Andrea Leavis, Event Organiser.
“Come in and talk to me for hat and body protector fitting, rug cleaning services, paddock maintenance tips and worm counts,” continues Andrea. “Whatever your equestrian activities are this spring, Countrywide are on hand to make things that little bit easier for many horse owners.”
One of the UK’s leading equine retailers, Countrywide has an extensive equestrian range that meets the needs of all ages and riding abilities – and all sizes of horse and pony. Each year Countrywide host specialist equine events providing continued expertise and additional value for money to their equestrian customers.
Making the most of slurry in 2013
Making the most of slurry in 2013 - Click here to download the article
Getting set for spring crops
Getting set for spring crops - Click here to download the article
Countrywide bounces back at half year with record result
Leading supplier of products and advice to the rural community, Countrywide, today announced a record half year result to 30 November 2012, transforming an operating loss of £1.2m in 2011 to a profit of £0.5m. Group sales jumped 12% to £138.8m from £123.4m with strong growth in Retail sales and higher Agri feed sales with the sales team winning new dairy feed customers.
“We are pleased with these results”, said Chairman Nigel Hall “in what is traditionally our weaker trading half and I fully expect end of year results to be well ahead of last year. This progress reflects significant effort by the business in repositioning our retail offer and investing in our core agriculture business. Retail in particular has responded well with a like for like sales increase of 5%, a tremendous result in a competitive and challenging market place. Our store ranges and pricing strategy have been reviewed to better meet the needs of farming customers. We believe our retail operational standards are industry leading and by making these changes we now have the best platform for growth in the sector”
In 2012 Countrywide reduced its annual operating costs as part of a strategic review which has seen the business respond to the challenging trading environment and improve its focus on meeting the needs of the rural community.
Alongside the positive retail results and the relocation of our Wardle store, the agribusiness grew with feed volumes up 5% boosted by the opening of a new trading office in Wetherby, West Yorkshire and the acquisitions of Hackett’s and H&C Pearce. TheLP Gas business performed well and traded above expectations.
“We have taken significant steps in the growth of our agricultural business and set a positive platform for the future” said Chief Executive John Hardman. “We recognise the considerable long term growth opportunities in the arable sector and the Hackett’s business in Leicestershire adds weight to our arable portfolio. We have positioned key staff to lead our specialist arable and livestock teams, who continue to engage and work with farmers throughout our traditional trading areas and further afield.
“We also acquired a stake in Sterling Sires Ltd, a specialist genetics provider to the livestock sector which further strengthens the advice and service we provide to dairy and beef farmers across the country.”
“Farming has had a tough time over the last year” concludes Mr Hardman, and indeed the next twelve months is going to be a real challenge across all sectors. We have and will continue to work hard in bringing competitive advantage to our customers through quality, choice and price whilst ensuring service and sound advice remain at the heart of what we do.”
“I wish to thank all Countrywide staff for their dedication, hardwork and for striving to help the business achieve its goals and to further improve the services we offer to our customers.”
Countrywide has also made changes at board level with the appointment of two new non-executive directors bringing further experience in both agriculture and the food supply chain. John Elliot has experience running a range of farming businesses, and is also a non-executive director of United Oilseeds Limited and the NFU Mutual where he is chair of the Audit Committee. Paul Freeston is Chief Executive of Apetito UK, an organisation providing frozen food and catering solutions to the public sector as well as providing a frozen meal delivery service to consumers via Wiltshire Farm Foods.
New Year resolution for lactating cows: a healthy rumen
Article first appeared in British Dairying Magazine, Feb 2013
Having addressed calving and dairy fertility, the fifth in our series of six articles addresses the ultimate challenge of turning feed into milk, profitably. Dave Hinkins, Ruminant Nutritionist at Countrywide and Graeme Smith, Alltech National Ruminant Manager offer advice at the start of a new year that will test every farmer’s resolution.
“Every year we expect our cows to perform better than the year before,” says Dave Hinkins, “and that surely can’t be a given this year. Poor weather conditions, stressed plants, over compacted soil – these will all have caused masses of mycotoxins, yeasts and moulds to find their way into forage. I believe the answer, however, lies not just in the feed lorry but a better understanding of the conditions, both environmental and management, which influence the production of quality forage– which in turn optimises rumen health.”
“Our long term goal has to be keeping the cow healthy, fertile and productive,” says Graeme Smith, “ and able to achieve a minimum of five lactations. So I agree, with compromised forage and high feed prices for the foreseeable future, a new focus on rumen health is essential.”
With poor forage quality the temptation will be to feed more concentrates to make up for the energy shortfall in early lactation. Too many concentrates, however, leads to larger less frequent meals being taken which can cause acidosis, reduced fertility, a reduction in forage intake and subsequently falling yields from forage. “It is always better,” advises Mr Hinkins, “to regard concentrates as ‘the icing on the cake!’
Beware acidosis
- Cud balls
- Cows panting
- Reduced cudding rates
- Laminitis
- Sole ulcers
- Variable dung consistency
- Damage to rumen wall
- Reduced feed efficiency
Efficient milk production
With a negative energy balance in early lactation, the second and third parts of the lactation curve are the most cost effective: the cow is now pregnant and can be challenged with forage. (Cows in ideal body condition will go on to achieve longer persistency of lactation with every additional 1 litre produced at peak, leading to an extra 200 litres over the complete lactation).
“Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) in cows can be confusing”, says Mr Smith. “Whilst early lactation cows can have a calculated FCE of 2:1 (1 kg of feed provides 2kgs of milk) this ignores body weight loss (‘milking off the back’) giving a false picture. For efficient production, it is better to have a lower FCE when feeding a high proportion of forage than an apparently better FCE using a high level of purchased feeds. In an ideal year, the ration should be 60% forage for mid lactation cows and more than 70% forage for later lactation diets, giving a target of 8p/l for purchased feed costs. However, this year will be far from ideal. Poor forage, more concentrates, whatever the issues, providing the right feed for rumen bugs will help the cow to cope, improving feed efficiency.”
The rumen needs a steady, regulated supply of starch, sugars and soluble protein (ammonia). Supplying large amounts of urea (+50-80gms per cow/day) can lead to reduced reproductive performance due to high blood urea, with the cow having to use valuable energy to remove the excess protein. (A milk urea count over 0.2mg/l should be checked and the ration re-evaluated and adjusted if necessary).
“Rather than adding expensive soya, says Mr Hinkins, “100g of Alltech’s protein supplement Optigen®, provides rumen bugs with a steady supply of rumen degradable protein, boosting their fibre digesting capacity to better utilise home grown forage - even the tough lignin fibres produced by stressed plants this year – and it leaves extra space in the diet for another forage that can also increase rumen health.”
High mycotoxin risk
Bought-in feeds also introduce an increased mycotoxin risk and contaminated cereals used to produce moist feeds and co-products will multiply their mycotoxin loading by the power of 3.
Of particular concern are Fusarium mycotoxins and also, just as importantly, the Penicillium mycotoxins that can have an antibiotic effect on the rumen bugs. “Remember, like any ‘new mother’, the lactating cow needs the very best conditions,” says Mr Smith, “fresh, clean water, plenty of rest, a comfy bed and the very best forage and feed. At Alltech we can now test for 37+ mycotoxins, so if you have any doubts at all about your feed materials, we can help identify both problem toxins and levels and offer advice on including our broad spectrum, non-clay based binder Mycosorb A+.”
Given the challenging conditions faced by dairy farmers this year it is prudent to review everything you do: from feeding to forage quality, cropping to soil nutrients and aeration. Yes there are solutions to problems but everything should be done to ensure forage in particular is the best quality it can be; from disease resistant seed mixtures to slurry application policy. Whatever the future holds, however, improved rumen efficiency will always pay dividends from longevity and reduced heifer replacements to improved milk production and profitability.
Key lactation data
- 44% of milk produced in first 100 days
- 33% of milk produced in the second part of lactation
- 23% of milk produced in 3rd part of lactation
- Every extra 1L produced during peak lactation will lead to an extra 200L over the whole lactation
- Multiplying peak yield by 220 indicates lactation yield
Farmer Case study
Flexibility ‘saves the day’ on Somerset farm
“You could see the problem in the growing crops,” says Chris Wilson, Farm Manager of Dillington Farm, the 2,500 acre Somerset estate which is also home to the Knott Oak herd of 200 Friesian/Holsteins.
“Nationally, energy levels are down across all food groups,” continues Mr Wilson. “Even when we were harvesting the maize, it wasn’t fully ripe. Half the time we had to forage grass in the rain and it was mouldy before we started silaging. No wonder mycotoxin levels are high. In the end, I think the cows were as fed up with the weather as we were.”
Selling wheat, rape and potatoes, the farm also produces maize, grass and wholecrop wheat for the dairy operation. “We always have plans as to what we’re aiming to do. The advantage we have, as a bigger estate, is flexibility,” says Mr Wilson. “Running short of forage for the dairy herd meant that we had to use a lot of our wheat as wholecrop - that really saved the day.”
Careful planning between Mr Wilson, his Ruminant Nutrionist Dave Hinkins of Countrywide and Independent Nutritionist Diana Allen means that, despite conditions, the herd’s health and welfare always come first.
“We resist chasing yield by just throwing concentrates at them,” says Mr Wilson, “which can get expensive, instead we make sure we have plenty of home grown forage and aim to keep them as healthy as possible.”
The farm uses a Keenan Feeder and all cows in the first 100 days of lactation get a standard ration, including maize silage, a Countrywide dairy blend and cow cake in out of parlour feeders. The herd is split into high, medium and low yielding groups. Once cows are pregnant, or their yield falls, they are moved into the middle then low group and fed less accordingly to keep body condition right.
Mr Wilson strongly believes that good rumen health helps cattle to cope, whatever challenges they face: “We added Alltech’s Optigen to the diet two winters ago, to improve the digestion by feeding the rumen bugs, and since then, even despite the difficult seasons, yields from forage have gone up to 6000/L, with yields from concentrates at .25/L. Milk quality is also better than in previous years at 4.1 fat and 3.35 protein with blood urea lower than before. And they keep on getting pregnant too.”
“With the mycotoxin challenge being so high,” adds Dave Hinkins, “we have also added Alltech’s Rumenate. As a binder and yeast supplement combined, it not only eliminates the mycotoxin burden but helps to restore the rumen population, improving animal health and boosting feed conversion efficiency.”
“I like to think we do all the right things here,” concludes Mr Wilson. “Good feed, clean water, enough trough space, attention to detail. Just what everyone does. But it depends on having a good team to carry things though, and that’s what I’ve got.”
Countrywide Store - a ‘big deal’ for Amesbury
A new 22,000 sq ft store opened by Countrywide, the UK’s leading supplier to the rural community, is aiming to be a ‘big deal’ for the local community in and around Amesbury.
Open from 4th February, and specialising in bulk essentials, the new store has been designed to meet the needs of farmers, smallholders, equestrians and pet owners by providing easy access to key items from feed, bedding and fertiliser to pet supplies. Also in store will be work and safety clothing such as body protectors for riders, ‘high viz’ jackets, boots and wellingtons.
A new venture for Countrywide, the spacious store allows bigger items such as feeding troughs and cattle crushes to be out on display. As well as a Bulk Order counter it has a ‘pick up and buy’ section for smaller items and offices where customers can discuss bulk deals with Account Managers and talk with a range of Countrywide staff and specialists.
“We are very excited to welcome customers, old and new, to the Amesbury store,” says Steve Collard, Countrywide’s Stores Director. “Countrywide are always seeking new, better ways to meet the needs of our rural communities. Here at Amesbury, the Countrywide Store offers our customers - farmers, smallholders, equestrians and pet owners - the best of all worlds: they can see the products and judge the quality, but also sit down and discuss bulk deals and opportunities with their Account Managers. They can also set up meetings with qualified Countrywide staff and specialists all of whom are dedicated to the health and welfare of their animals and the profitability of their businesses.”
In store specialists at Amesbury include an AMTRA qualified animal health expert, trained to advise on and dispense animal medicines including pet and equine products. On farm visits can also be arranged: by nutritionists to provide livestock rationing and management advice; arable agronomists offering services from soil sampling to crop walking and BASIS qualified Turf & Amenity experts.
Called ‘Countrywide Store, in association with H&C Pearce’ the store incorporates products and personnel from the specialist animal health and farm supply business H&C Pearce purchased by Countrywide in 2012.
Opening offers for Account Holders
Countrywide Account Holders will be offered regular monthly and seasonal discounts and Free Delivery is available for larger orders. Opening Offers will be available to Account Holders visiting or calling the Amesbury Countrywide Store and Special Introductory Offers will also be available for new Accounts Holders.
Amesbury’sCountrywide Store will act as a central depot for the Countrywide sales teams in and around Amesbury with Field Sales Manager Mark Gendall in the west and Steve Fuller to the east who will be supported by new Account Manager Emily Dovey.
“The Countrywide Store will provide a really worthwhile option for farmers,” says Mr Fuller. “Countrywide is the major player in agricultural supplies and can offer great bulk deals at very competitive prices – and free delivery on bigger orders. And, as you would expect, that comes with the practical knowledge that Countrywide customers value so much.
“2012 was a challenging year for farmers,” continues Mr Fuller, “and therefore it is more important than ever that we are seen as a reliable source of sound advice, always able to offer solutions. I like to think that the Amesbury Countrywide Store is yet another solution, another way that Countrywide is thinking, talking and meeting the needs of its customers.”
- Countrywide Store, in association with H&C Pearce, opened on the 4thFebruary 2013
- Minton Distribution Park, London Road, Amesbury
- For further details call 01264 711032
New Year resolution for lactating cows: a healthy rumen
Having addressed calving and dairy fertility, the fifth in our series of six articles addresses the ultimate challenge of turning feed into milk, profitably. Dave Hinkins, Ruminant Nutritionist at Countrywide and Graeme Smith, Alltech National Ruminant Manager offer advice at the start of a new year that will test every farmer’s resolution.
“Every year we expect our cows to perform better than the year before,” says Dave Hinkins, “and that surely can’t be a given this year. Poor weather conditions, stressed plants, over compacted soil – these will all have caused masses of mycotoxins, yeasts and moulds to find their way into forage. I believe the answer, however, lies not just in the feed lorry but a better understanding of the conditions, both environmental and management, which influence the production of quality forage– which in turn optimises rumen health.”
“Our long term goal has to be keeping the cow healthy, fertile and productive,” says Graeme Smith, “ and able to achieve a minimum of five lactations. So I agree, with compromised forage and high feed prices for the foreseeable future, a new focus on rumen health is essential.”
With poor forage quality the temptation will be to feed more concentrates to make up for the energy shortfall in early lactation. Too many concentrates, however, leads to larger less frequent meals being taken which can cause acidosis, reduced fertility, a reduction in forage intake and subsequently falling yields from forage. “It is always better,” advises Mr Hinkins, “to regard concentrates as ‘the icing on the cake!’
Beware acidosis
- Cud balls
- Cows panting
- Reduced cudding rates
- Laminitis
- Sole ulcers
- Variable dung consistency
- Damage to rumen wall
- Reduced feed efficiency
Efficient milk production
With a negative energy balance in early lactation, the second and third parts of the lactation curve are the most cost effective: the cow is now pregnant and can be challenged with forage. (Cows in ideal body condition will go on to achieve longer persistency of lactation with every additional 1 litre produced at peak, leading to an extra 200 litres over the complete lactation).
“Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) in cows can be confusing”, says Mr Smith. “Whilst early lactation cows can have a calculated FCE of 2:1 (1 kg of feed provides 2kgs of milk) this ignores body weight loss (‘milking off the back’) giving a false picture. For efficient production, it is better to have a lower FCE when feeding a high proportion of forage than an apparently better FCE using a high level of purchased feeds. In an ideal year, the ration should be 60% forage for mid lactation cows and more than 70% forage for later lactation diets, giving a target of 8p/l for purchased feed costs. However, this year will be far from ideal. Poor forage, more concentrates, whatever the issues, providing the right feed for rumen bugs will help the cow to cope, improving feed efficiency.”
The rumen needs a steady, regulated supply of starch, sugars and soluble protein (ammonia). Supplying large amounts of urea (+50-80gms per cow/day) can lead to reduced reproductive performance due to high blood urea, with the cow having to use valuable energy to remove the excess protein. (A milk urea count over 0.2mg/l should be checked and the ration re-evaluated and adjusted if necessary).
“Rather than adding expensive soya, says Mr Hinkins, “100g of Alltech’s protein supplement Optigen®, provides rumen bugs with a steady supply of rumen degradable protein, boosting their fibre digesting capacity to better utilise home grown forage - even the tough lignin fibres produced by stressed plants this year – and it leaves extra space in the diet for another forage that can also increase rumen health.”
High mycotoxin risk
Bought-in feeds also introduce an increased mycotoxin risk and contaminated cereals used to produce moist feeds and co-products will multiply their mycotoxin loading by the power of 3.
Of particular concern are Fusarium mycotoxins and also, just as importantly, the Penicillium mycotoxins that can have an antibiotic effect on the rumen bugs. “Remember, like any ‘new mother’, the lactating cow needs the very best conditions,” says Mr Smith, “fresh, clean water, plenty of rest, a comfy bed and the very best forage and feed. At Alltech we can now test for 37+ mycotoxins, so if you have any doubts at all about your feed materials, we can help identify both problem toxins and levels and offer advice on including our broad spectrum, non-clay based binder Mycosorb A+.”
Given the challenging conditions faced by dairy farmers this year it is prudent to review everything you do: from feeding to forage quality, cropping to soil nutrients and aeration. Yes there are solutions to problems but everything should be done to ensure forage in particular is the best quality it can be; from disease resistant seed mixtures to slurry application policy. Whatever the future holds, however, improved rumen efficiency will always pay dividends from longevity and reduced heifer replacements to improved milk production and profitability.
Key lactation data
- 44% of milk produced in first 100 days
- 33% of milk produced in the second part of lactation
- 23% of milk produced in 3rd part of lactation
- Every extra 1L produced during peak lactation will lead to an extra 200L over the whole lactation
- Multiplying peak yield by 220 indicates lactation yield
Farmer Case study
Flexibility ‘saves the day’ on Somerset farm
“You could see the problem in the growing crops,” says Chris Wilson, Farm Manager of Dillington Farm, the 2,500 acre Somerset estate which is also home to the Knott Oak herd of 200 Friesian/Holsteins.
“Nationally, energy levels are down across all food groups,” continues Mr Wilson. “Even when we were harvesting the maize, it wasn’t fully ripe. Half the time we had to forage grass in the rain and it was mouldy before we started silaging. No wonder mycotoxin levels are high. In the end, I think the cows were as fed up with the weather as we were.”
Selling wheat, rape and potatoes, the farm also produces maize, grass and wholecrop wheat for the dairy operation. “We always have plans as to what we’re aiming to do. The advantage we have, as a bigger estate, is flexibility,” says Mr Wilson. “Running short of forage for the dairy herd meant that we had to use a lot of our wheat as wholecrop - that really saved the day.”
Careful planning between Mr Wilson, his Ruminant Nutrionist Dave Hinkins of Countrywide and Independent Nutritionist Diana Allen means that, despite conditions, the herd’s health and welfare always come first.
“We resist chasing yield by just throwing concentrates at them,” says Mr Wilson, “which can get expensive, instead we make sure we have plenty of home grown forage and aim to keep them as healthy as possible.”
The farm uses a Keenan Feeder and all cows in the first 100 days of lactation get a standard ration, including maize silage, a Countrywide dairy blend and cow cake in out of parlour feeders. The herd is split into high, medium and low yielding groups. Once cows are pregnant, or their yield falls, they are moved into the middle then low group and fed less accordingly to keep body condition right.
Mr Wilson strongly believes that good rumen health helps cattle to cope, whatever challenges they face: “We added Alltech’s Optigen to the diet two winters ago, to improve the digestion by feeding the rumen bugs, and since then, even despite the difficult seasons, yields from forage have gone up to 6000/L, with yields from concentrates at .25/L. Milk quality is also better than in previous years at 4.1 fat and 3.35 protein with blood urea lower than before. And they keep on getting pregnant too.”
“With the mycotoxin challenge being so high,” adds Dave Hinkins, “we have also added Alltech’s Rumenate. As a binder and yeast supplement combined, it not only eliminates the mycotoxin burden but helps to restore the rumen population, improving animal health and boosting feed conversion efficiency.”
“I like to think we do all the right things here,” concludes Mr Wilson. “Good feed, clean water, enough trough space, attention to detail. Just what everyone does. But it depends on having a good team to carry things though, and that’s what I’ve got.”
Countrywide Kadence Stikki Bum breeches
Countrywide's new Kadence range of jodhpurs offer the security of a sticky seat, and the comfort and style of stretch-denim breeches. H&R took a pair on over the winter to see just how sticky these stikki bums are...
Countrywide Kadence Stikki Bum jodhpurs
RRP: £49.99
www.countrywidefarmers.co.uk
Countrywide's Kadence is an update on the traditional stikki bum jodhpur. Made from tough, stretch black denim incorporating a synthetic suede seat with silicon pimples, they boast real stickability where the riders legs and bum make contact with the saddle. The Kadence Stikki Bum jodhpurs are available in black online and in Countrywide stores, in sizes 10-18.
Pros: "The first thing I noticed about these jodhpurs was the silicon pimples, which feel really grippy to the touch. The cut and style is really flattering - when I have these babies on, I look at least a clothes size smaller than I am, always a bonus! The stretch of the fabric makes the Kadence really comfortable to wear in and out of the saddle, and they have a high waist so there is no gapping at the waist band when I'm riding. The stikki bum does really work, I have to peel myself off my saddle - it's that good. The Kadence jodhpurs have washed really well and they have shown no sign or sagging or giving at the seam, so I'm really impressed with them."
Cons: "I can't think of any."
Click here to view the full article
Courtesey of Horse & Rider
Country Keeper links with The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation
Country Keeper – a specialist game shooting supplier – has pledged to donate a cut of its sales to the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation whenever any NGO member buys its products*. Country Keeper will donate two per cent of the purchase price from these sales to the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation under the terms of the newly signed deal, which begins on 1 Febuary 2013.
Country Keeper, which is owned by leading rural retailer Countrywide, has more than 30 years’ experience in all things game related. It offers a wide range of products, specialist direct delivery services and expertise to the game shooting sector. Gamekeepers and shoot managers can tap into Country Keepers’ know-how via its national team of more than 40 experts both out in the field and at its base in Evesham, Worcestershire. For more details visit www.countrykeeper.net
Andrew Davies, manager of Country Keeper, said: “The NGO was formed by keepers and is a well-liked and respected organisation. Country Keeper recognises the NGO represents the majority of keepers in the UK, and as a result wants to work with and offer its support to the organisation.”
Andrew Davies added: “The partnership will benefit all those involved as the NGO will gain some extra funding and Country Keeper will benefit from an increased association with a prestigious organisation such as the NGO. I am delighted all parties have agreed to this proposal.”
Lindsay Waddell, the Chairman of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation, said: “I am delighted that Country Keeper, a well-known and respected name in the keepering world, has kindly agreed to support the NGO’s mission to defend and promote gamekeeping. Country Keeper’s far-sightedness is much appreciated. All NGO members should be aware that every time they buy from Country Keeper two per cent of the purchase price goes to the NGO. I promise the income will be well spent on securing a healthy future for gamekeeping.”
Lindsay Waddell added: “The NGO speaks for gamekeeping in England and Wales and each individual donation to the NGO from Country Keeper – whenever a member buys from its extensive product range – will collectively be a huge help in letting us make the organisation’s voice that little bit louder. Let’s turn up the volume.”
Members of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation should look out for the “Country Keeper Product Catalogue” enclosed with the Spring issue of the NGO’s magazine, Keeping the Balance, which will be posted to members in February.
Under the terms of the deal, goods can only be bought by members of the NGO. Members must provide Country Keeper with their membership number when ordering items eligible for a two per cent donation.
*Country Keeper will donate to the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation two per cent of the purchase price from the sale of gamekeeping and game rearing equipment as well as from clothing sales. (Goods such as feed, cover crop seed, LPG and cartridges are excluded under the terms of the deal.)
