Changing herd trend continues

Th elong-term trend of fewer but larger dairy herds in Scotland has continued with figures released by the Scottish Dairy Cattle Association for the first six months of the year showing that herd numbers are down to 902 herds but cow numbers have continued to increase.

The latest figure for milking cows now stands at 179,931 – an increase of 1,003 from January – making the average herd size 199.

The net decreases mainly affect the Lothians and Lanarkshire with a collective loss of seven herds with the traditional dairying county of Ayrshire also dropping, down by four herds.

Wigtownshire lost three herds but also saw three new dairies start milk production giving a net increase of 894 cows.

Cows being officially milk recorded decreased by 652 but the average cows increased by seven to 214.

Commenting on the first six months of the year Janette Mathie, the secretary of the SDCA, said: “The wet spring, lack of forage and the uncertain milk price proved too much for some farmers and they made the decision to sell up whilst others have made a huge investment for their future within the dairy industry and increased cow numbers accordingly.”

She added: “Many dairy farmers took advantage of the EU funded incentive scheme to start milk recording last year, and have found the information invaluable in managing their herds.

“This has been especially so with added health and pregnancy services as well as the ability to check details of their herd by using smart phone apps or management programs.”

Mathie concluded: “Indications are that cow numbers will continue to increase, with a few new farms due to start production before the end of 2018”