Extended lactation is emerging as a potential option for dairy farmers looking to reduce labour pressure, improve flexibility and significantly cut the number of non-replacement calves being born each year. Anne Lee speaks with DairyNZ senior scientist Dr Paul Edwards about the research behind the system and the results emerging from farmlet trials at Scott Farm and a new study in Northland.

Host:

• Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country

Guest:

• Dr Paul Edwards, Senior Scientist, DairyNZ

Paul explains how a 24-month calving interval works in a pasture-based system, where half the herd calves in alternate springs, and discusses its impacts on milk production, feed demand, profitability and cow performance. He also shares insights into the opportunities extended lactation could create for replacement rates and beef-on-dairy, and why researchers believe the system is worth continuing to explore as a future option for some New Zealand dairy farmers.

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