MDC communicates to cut dairy costs

By FWi staff

COST savings of 3ppl and more could be made by many UK dairy farmers by applying information supplied by the Milk Development Council (MDC), according to chairman, Brian Peacock.

He claimed that the setting up of eight new focus centres would be a turning point for the whole industry, provided farmers play their part and show sufficient commitment.

The focus centres mark the beginning of a permanent national communications network that is available to all dairy farmers in Great Britain, said Mr Peacock.

“They are open to everyone on an equal basis, from the smallest herds to the largest, from intensive to extensive, and from adventurous to risk-takers to the most prudent and cautious.

The centres will be located at SAC Crichton Royal, Myerscough, Harper Adams, Gelli Aur, Writtle, Cirencester, ADAS Bridgets and Duchy College.

Each centre will have an advisory panel with local farmer members to make sure real needs are tackled in its own region.

Mr Peacock believes that producer involvement is very important. He urged farmers to get involved with the running of these centres and to steer the way they develop.

MDC technical manager, Kevin Bellamy also welcomed the announcement saying that events through the centres would aim to drive down production costs and maximise profits.

“The approach will be deliberately thought-provoking and controversial, with relevance into current needs a prime factor, said Mr Bellamy.

The centres have been welcome news to farmers around the country. Many are trying to cut costs in the face of falling milk prices.

Mike Morgan who farms in mid Glamorgan, Wales said that the regional focus centres were good news.

“Especially at this time. Its essential that I have access to R&D information to help me reduce my production costs, and the regional centre allows me to view this impartial work in a farming environment similar to my own,” said Mr Morgan.

Each centre will have a full stock of MDC literature and reports on site, where a member of staff is designed specifically as MDC co-ordinator.

• For further details and dates of the events contact Kevin Bellamy, MDC technical manager on 0171-629-7262.