ABP Advances Sustainable Dairy Calf-to-Beef System in Northern Ireland
ABP, a major player in the agri-food sector, is reinforcing its commitment to an integrated dairy calf-to-beef system in Northern Ireland. This initiative is critical for promoting sustainable farming practices among local farmers. The system involves milk producers using specific semen to breed calves, which are then reared and finished for beef production.
Currently, ABP processes approximately 15,000 calves each year through this system. The majority of these calves are sired by Aberdeen-Angus bulls, with an increasing number of Wagyu cross-breeds also being integrated. The initiative has shown significant potential for further expansion, aiming to support a more sustainable future for those involved in the farming process.
The scheme also accommodates a smaller number of Friesian-bred calves from local dairy farms. Recognizing the challenges posed by bovine tuberculosis (bTB), ABP is advocating for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to allow movement of calves from bTB-affected dairy farms to designated rearing units, where comprehensive disease testing can be conducted.
During a visit organized by ABP for the Guild of Agricultural Journalists of Ireland (Northern Section), attendees explored the calf-rearing operations at James and Rachel Davison’s farm near Glenarm, Co. Antrim. The Davisons manage the rearing of 2,500 calves annually, supported by facilities that guide calves through both the milk phase and post-weaning stages. Their diversified farm operation also includes broiler houses, a flock of EasyCare sheep, and a small-scale beef finishing enterprise.
The Davisons are participants in ABP's PRISM 2030 program, a £1.5 million initiative designed to aid beef and lamb producers in reducing their environmental impact. The program involves over 300 farmer suppliers across the UK, with more than 50 from Northern Ireland. Each participant undergoes a detailed carbon footprint assessment and receives tailored sustainability recommendations.
As part of their sustainability efforts, Northern Ireland farmers involved in PRISM 2030 have adopted practices such as rotational grazing, the use of multi-species swards, reduction of fertilizer use, and investments in renewable energy. These measures have yielded a reduction in the age at slaughter, aligning with the beef carbon reduction scheme set by DAERA.
