Dairy farmers can find out how to make more from forage by attending a Milking Grass for Profit farm walk on Tuesday 11 March at Vaynor Farm, Bethesda, Narberth organised by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, British Grassland Society and Milk Development Council.

Host farmer, Bill Ridge who manages a 440 cow herd plus followers, will discuss how introducing an extended grazing policy, together with detailed attention to grassland management is helping him to take 70% of yield from forage, with the majority of that figure from grazed grass.

In addition to grassland management, nutrition, herd health and genetics, several other timely topics will be up for discussion including plans to reduce the use of concentrate currently costing over £300/t, tight calving blocks, low cost calf rearing and achieving a parlour throughput of 200 cows/hour. The day will commence at 10.30am with an introduction from RABDF, and will include a short technical presentation on MDC's Grass+ Improvement Programme, a soil assessment by Kingshay Farming Trust followed by a discussion on the benefits of using clover from the Grassland Development Centre (IGER)

Bill Ridge will lead the guided farm walk followed by lunch and an opportunity for visitors to discuss their business with local suppliers and event supporters.

"Attending this farm walk will be time well invested whether you are managing a 10,000 litre herd or a lower output system," says RABDF's chief executive, Nick Everington. "Despite higher milk prices, farmers are still struggling to cover their production costs, in particular fertiliser which has soared by 50% in the last nine months. This event will provide all visitors with the opportunity to rethink their systems and improve their efficiency. Grazed grass continues to remain the cheapest form of forage, therefore if they start to optimise its management from turnout, then they should be well placed to maximise its potential throughout the season and subsequently have the opportunity to reduce input costs."

For further information or to book a place on the farm walk and reserve a place for lunch please contact the RABDF on 0845 458 2711.