In Co. Down, Northern Ireland, the Murray family’s dairy farm successfully demonstrates that high-yielding Holstein/Friesian cows can thrive on a grass-only diet. Despite challenging weather conditions, the herd shows strong performance and high milk yields. CAFRE highlights that grazing can save up to $150 per day for a herd of 100 cows, offering a cost-effective and sustainable model for dairy farming.
A New Approach to Grazing High-Yielding Cows
In Northern Ireland, the Murray family’s dairy farm near Ballyroney, Co. Down, has successfully demonstrated that high-yielding Holstein/Friesian cows can be grazed on a grass-only diet. Traditionally, many dairy herds in the region are housed indoors and fed a total mixed ration (TMR). However, the Murray’s approach is proving to be a viable alternative.
Impressive Herd Performance Amidst Challenges
Despite a challenging year with poor weather impacting grass growth, the Murray family’s herd has achieved impressive results. Their cows produce an average of 8,455 liters of milk per cow annually, with 3,498 liters coming from forage. Currently, the herd averages 24.5 liters of milk per cow per day, with milk composition at 4.25% butterfat and 3.60% protein. This success is achieved with a concentrate input of 2.2 tons per cow per year and effective management practices.
Financial Benefits of Grazing Highlighted by CAFRE
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has analyzed the Murray’s grazing system, with Michael Verner, CAFRE’s dairying development specialist, highlighting the financial advantages. Verner noted that a herd of 100 cows grazing full-time could save $150 per day in diet costs compared to a housed herd. Additionally, Teagasc reports that each extra day at grass in autumn can increase milk price by approximately $2.10 per head.
Sustainable Practices and Future Outlook
Andrew Murray and his father David maintain a grass-only diet for their herd through regular reseeding and pre-mowing practices, ensuring high-quality forage. Their farm also includes 2023-born calves and in-calf heifers grazing full-time. The herd’s rolling replacement rate is 22%, with heifers calving at 24 months and cull cows leaving with an average lifetime performance of 43,150 liters of milk.
The introduction of Friesian semen into their herd, now comprising 75% Holstein and 25% Friesian, has further enhanced performance. Recent bull sires include Westcoast Almamater, Bomaz Fynn, Seagull Bay Applejax, and Bomaz Vader.
The success of the Murray family’s farm provides a compelling case for the viability of grazing high-yielding cows, offering a sustainable and cost-effective model for dairy farming in Northern Ireland.
