Julie Bradshaw has been empowered to make decisions on which cows to focus on by using genomic data.
Over the past two years, Fernside farmer Julie Bradshaw has refined her dairy herd size through the use of genomics, while maintaining the same level of milk production.
Bradshaw has been participating in a Next Generation Farming project designed to help farmers meet tough nitrate caps while maintaining their viability.
As part of this project, farmers like Bradshaw use innovation to demonstrate productivity and environmental benefits to their neighbours in the region and beyond.
Waimakariri Landcare Trust (WLT) and Waimakariri Irrigation Limited (WIL) have partnered with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) for the project, with support from MPI’s Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund along with Environment Canterbury, Ballance, and DairyNZ.
The biggest change Bradshaw has made on her farm over the last two years is closely examining her herd selection process using genomic data.
She has already reduced her herd size by 15 cows and is planning to remove 10 of last year’s calves based on genomic data she has received from Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC).
Bradshaw found the information reliable and said it helped her to make these science-based decisions.
“The advances in the data we are getting now, and the reliability of that data means that we can be certain about which animals to keep.
“There is no point paying for grazing for animals for three or four years that don’t end up being productive dairy cows.”
Bradshaw said the reductions she made resulted in the same level of milk production.
“So I know I have made the right decision.”
In the past, she would have retained cows with low BW (Breeding Worth).
However, with the possibility of reductions in the number of cows on farms in the future, she wanted to ensure her herd performed at its best.
Fernside dairy farmer Julie Bradshaw has been empowered to make decisions on which cows to focus on by using genomic data.
“When you look at what is happening overseas you can see that farmers have already reduced their herd numbers and it is only a matter of time before it happens here.”
While it was challenging, Bradshaw said it paid to look at the entire farming operation to see how to farm more efficiently.
“With all the science and data that we can access now, it makes sense to use all the tools you have in your toolbox.”
She believed genomics and scientific innovation would play an increasingly significant role in New Zealand farming in the future.
“When I look at the data I am getting now compared to a few years ago it is amazing.
“I think the data will continue to improve as more herds get involved and this will be a huge benefit to everyone involved in the farming industry.”
Bradshaw shared her knowledge from the innovation project with local farmers and said most of them were keen to know more about her journey.
She said they saw the benefits of using science to improve their farms.
“Farmers are supportive and willing to share what they have learned.
“If you are a farmer who is open to innovation and new ideas, I believe you will be able to continue to farm into the future and have a successful farming business.”
