Deep Concerns Over Decline in Dairy Replacement Stocks
Source: dairynews.today
The Irish Farmers Association warns that declining dairy replacement stock trends could lead to a collapse in dairy herds in two years.
The Irish Farmer Association’s dairy chair, Martin McElearney, has expressed 'deep concerns' over current trends in dairy replacement stocks, indicating potential major issues for dairy herds by 2025. According to recent data from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF), there has been a significant reduction in dairy female calf registrations, with 45,000 fewer replacement calves born in the first four months of 2025 compared to 2024, and 60,000 fewer than in 2023.
McElearney warns that without change, the supply will not meet the demand, especially considering current losses due to bovine TB. He urges farmers to utilize more dairy AI, including sexed semen, to ensure sufficient replacements. The ICBF advises farmers to prioritize early insemination and use high-EBI sexed semen to maximize outcomes.
McElearney warns that without change, the supply will not meet the demand, especially considering current losses due to bovine TB. He urges farmers to utilize more dairy AI, including sexed semen, to ensure sufficient replacements. The ICBF advises farmers to prioritize early insemination and use high-EBI sexed semen to maximize outcomes.
