Special software for flockmasters
NEW PRODUCTS
Now top Canada semen for UK
SUMMERSHADE Inquirer (daughter pictured), the bull that reclaimed top position in the Canadian Holstein sire rankings last month is now available through Semex UK.
A son of Ked Juror from a Mascot dam, he offers strong feet, leg and udder traits, says the company. On production, he has a converted proof of 841kg milk, 20kg fat and 21kg protein, giving him a PLI of £50.
The bull is also an easy calving sire, with a rating of 86. His semen costs £32/dose (01292-671525, fax 01292-671418).
Booklets to give variety pointers
HAVING trouble deciding on which forage variety to choose this season? Several booklets are available which provide a reference tool for selection of varieties to match different enterprises and growing conditions.
Recommended forage maize varieties 2001 from the MGA, is free for members and costs £15 for non-MGA members (01189-761276, fax 01189-761451).
Seeds for organic farmers 2001, published by Cotswold Seeds is free (01608-652552, fax 01608-652256).
Grass and forage 2001, a free brochure from Oliver Seeds is also available (0800-0561122, fax 01522-731069).
Grass and fodder crop handbook 2001, is a free booklet published by Sinclair McGill (01529-304511, fax 01529-413137).
Whiff of garlic sees off flies
KEEP your milking parlour and collecting yards free from flies and other insects with the Exorsect system, says developer Marabo.
The system comprises an electrical fogger and fast-acting spray which contains only natural oils and garlic extract. One part concentrate is diluted with four parts water, making 25 litres, which when used twice-a-day will last for a month, claims the company.
The spray is safe to handle and can be used in intensive livestock housing.
The 240v fogger costs £185 and the concentrate is £38.50 (01772-627101, fax 01772-554301, web-site www.exorsect.com).
Special software for flockmasters
COMMERCIAL and pedigree sheep producers can monitor and efficiently manage their flocks using Kingswood Sheep computer software, says manufacturer TGM Computer Systems.
The software processes information from individual animals and allows analysis of performance as well as comparison of data between years. Information can be used to select breeding stock and provide profit measures for flocks, says the company.
Kingswood Sheep also maintains individual health records, including vet and med details, highlighting persistent problems.
The software is available for a 30-day trial period and costs vary according to flock size, starting at £200 for a 250-ewe flock (028-9268 9681, www.kingswood.ie).