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To contact one of our “Forage for Profit” team, call the Seed Office on 01769 576232
or Graham Ragg on 07798 583667 or email info@molevalleyfarmers.com.

Mole Valley Farmers invest in research

In recent years, funding for agricultural research by Government has been considerably reduced, particularly on practical, near market issues, at a time when innovation, backed by scientific data is critical. If the industry is to meet the Governments’ targets on increasing productivity, whilst lowering the impact on the environment, investment in research is a vital part of a progressive and profitable industry. Mole Valley Farmers believe it is essential that we identify and invest in projects which could improve returns on members livestock enterprises’.

Dr Chris Bartram heads up our Research and Development team, part of his role is to identify those projects around the UK, in which it is appropriate for Mole Valley Farmers to invest. Chris sets out more information and the rationale below.

A key feature of our business is the commitment to become involved in new projects that are designed to improve the bottom line for the ruminant grassland farmer. This focus is unique in the industry and has involved considerable financial investment. It has been achieved through increased links with leading research institutes, close relationships with suppliers and routine reviews of the latest scientific literature.

Specific areas of work completed recently are:

  • Optimum mineral nutrition to help prevent milk fever in dairy cows.
  • The use of new mycotoxin binding agents.
  • Achieving high yields at low dietary crude protein levels through improved amino acid nutrition.
  • The use of new feed materials from the biofuels industry in the ruminant feed sector.
  • The inclusion of biotin in ewe diets to improve lamb growth rate.
  • The potential for specific ingredients and additives to improve fertility in dairy cows.

Current areas of investigation are:

  • The use of a new additive in intensive beef production (Harper Adams University College trial).

  • Methane reduction in ruminants. Mole Valley Farmers are part of a five year industry consortium study at IBERS (Aberystwyth) and about to start a specific trial at Harper Adams.
  • Founder member of the new SilAC project. This is a joint IBERS and supply industry initiative. Their aims include exploring the strategic use of big bale silage and red clover for silage.
  • Farm evaluations of new feed additives designed to improve fertility in dairy cows.
  • Discussions are in place with a view to developing stronger links with other leading research institutes in Europe.

We will continue to provide updates on specific projects as they develop. The product management team are committed to being at the forefront of ruminant nutrition and to developing exciting new products and services as requirements change and new opportunities emerge. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any ideas or thoughts on where we should be focusing in the future.
 

 


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