Bonus Tydskrif AUTUMN 2024

Apart from the formulating, mixing, and testing a ration, on-farm services are crucial to the success of finishing animals. Rumen adaptation, feed bunk management, design and layout, animal classing etc. are vital to the success of a feeding programme. Terminal rations and feedlots Health and disease management Beef farmers face various challenges related to animal health, such as diseases and parasites prevalent in the region. On-farm veterinary and animal health services play a pivotal role in disease prevention, early detection, and treatment, ensuring the overall wellbeing of the herd. Work closely with them to tailor vaccination programmes, parasite control, regular health checks etc. for your farm. Reproductive management The success of an extensive beef production system hinges on effective reproductive management and weaner production. Skilled professionals assist farmers in optimising breeding strategies, ensuring timely calving, and improving the genetic potential of the herd. This proactive approach contributes to herd sustainability and increased production efficiency. Infrastructure development Be sure to stay up to date on developments, not only in physical infrastructure and tools, but also in monitoring systems and information technologies. On-farm services are proven to be indispensable contributors to the industry’s success. By addressing key aspects, these services play a practical role in sustaining a robust and efficient cattle farming operation. Contact your local De Heus technical advisor to assist you in this regard. Visit www.deheus.co.za/meet- our-team/ for more information. Training and knowledge transfer Industry partners play a crucial role in knowledge transfer and skills development. Training programmes, workshops and farmer’s days conducted by experts help farmers to stay abreast of the latest advancements in the farming sector. without jeopardising its extensive performance on the veld. Heifers are to be grown with a focus on frame development and not average daily gain, to name an example. Marketing strategies Extensive beef production does not simply have to be a weaner or long yearling system. Speak to a technical advisor to brainstorm the best strategies for one’s farm. It can also entail backgrounding or finishing a portion of your weaners, exploring different markets or increasing marketing efforts, changing breeding seasons, and forming buyer or study groups with your peers. www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com www.agribonus.co.za Autumn / Herfs 2024 BONUS 35