Publication Date
1993
Description
A programme that centres on monitoring the performance of sheep and beef farms is being used to encourage farmers to make decisions based on objective measurements, Monitor farmers are supported by their farming peers in groups that include extension and science personnel. Key biological performance indicators such as animal numbers, weights; weight gains, pasture production; and financial returns from meat and wool are monitored. Farmers are encouraged to be in a position to use this information and identify opportunities. Processors of sheep and beef products are demanding the production of livestock to tighter specifications. Close monitoring by farmers will be necessary to achieve these specifications. The experiences gained by this programme are reported in this paper. The benefits of on-farm information are more fully appreciated and the interpretation skills of the groups have improved.
Citation
Webby, R W. and Sheath, G W., "Farm Monitoring, A way to Improve Performance on Sheep and Beef Farms" (2024). IGC Proceedings (1993-2023). 2.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1993/session19/2
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Farm Monitoring, A way to Improve Performance on Sheep and Beef Farms
A programme that centres on monitoring the performance of sheep and beef farms is being used to encourage farmers to make decisions based on objective measurements, Monitor farmers are supported by their farming peers in groups that include extension and science personnel. Key biological performance indicators such as animal numbers, weights; weight gains, pasture production; and financial returns from meat and wool are monitored. Farmers are encouraged to be in a position to use this information and identify opportunities. Processors of sheep and beef products are demanding the production of livestock to tighter specifications. Close monitoring by farmers will be necessary to achieve these specifications. The experiences gained by this programme are reported in this paper. The benefits of on-farm information are more fully appreciated and the interpretation skills of the groups have improved.