Grass growth is rising to meet feed demand, writes Robert Craig

We seem to be enjoying what could possibly be the earliest spring seen for years up here in Cumbria.
As I write this in the middle of March the soil temperature is already into double figures and with grass growth rapidly rising towards feed demand on both farms almost a month earlier than expected, it almost seems to good too be true.
On the new unit near Penrith, the newly calved herd of heifers have been day grazing since late February and should go out during the night this week – a very satisfying sight for everyone involved given the considerable efforts setting up the farm in the past few months. About 340 of the 400 heifers due in February and March have calved and look to be settling in well to their new routine. Back at home our main herd is out night and day making the most of the opportunity the weather has given us, taking 8kg of DM from grazed grass – a real bonus for us in March.
I enjoyed two weeks off the farm at the end of February, which was spent in the company of fellow Nuffield Scholars from around the globe at the Contemporary Scholars Conference hosted both in London and The Netherlands. A wonderfully stimulating experience packed with excellent visits and inspirational speakers focusing on the pros and cons of the CAP, leadership and co-operation, to name but a few of the highlights.
The range and diversity within international scholars was fascinating; we really are so lucky to be involved in such a great industry which will see progress and innovation as never before in the coming few decades. This year’s new scholars can be tracked around the globe on Twitter #Nuffield12.