From pasture to plate, genetic improvements led by Stabiliser Cattle Company (SCC) have the ability to profit every player in the beef production chain. Benefits for key stakeholders, including beef producers, abattoirs and consumers, will be the main focus of SCC’s Open Day on Wednesday, 30th May at Wold Farm in Bishop Wilton, York.
“Suckler herds using Stabiliser genetics already see significant profit gains from an increase in fertility, calving ease and feed efficiency – which is driven by a disciplined system of collecting performance data to make genetic selections backed by science,” explains David Alvis, managing director of SCC. “In return, cattle sent to the abattoir are more consistent in size and age, resulting in improved meat quality and an enhanced eating experience for the consumer.”
These benefits, which have become the “triple bottom line” of SCC, are the foundation for suckler herd sustainability, at a time when the beef sector is facing a challenging future.
“The need for change has never been greater as we approach Brexit, increasing the attractiveness of lower input, higher output systems,” explains David. “This sits at the core of the Stabiliser breed, with its moderate frame, feed conversion efficiency and fast growth allowing producers to increase stocking rates without taking on more land and have cattle market ready as early as 12 months of age.”
Other open day speakers and topics include:
“Net Feed Efficiency’s role in profitable beef systems”
Jimmy Hyslop, Beef and Sheep Consultant for SRUC, will explain the importance of feed efficiency in beef systems while sharing results from the most recent Net Feed Efficiency study at Wold Farm. Attendants will be able to see the 80-head of Stabiliser bulls from the 8-week trial using GrowSafe units to track feed conversion.
“Stabiliser Semen in the beef & dairy industry”
Boomer Birch, Beef Programme Manager for Cogent, will discuss the driving factors behind Stabiliser semen becoming the fastest growing breed in their offering. He will also share the value Stabiliser genetics are bringing beef and dairy sectors through AI.
“Suckler herd health management”
Alex Corbishley of The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh will highlight the importance of proactive herd health management in beef production systems, enabling producers to fully exploit the genetic potential of their stock and optimise both animal welfare and financial performance, whilst reducing reliance on antibiotics.
“Environmental and social benefits of efficient beef production”
Jude Capper, Livestock Sustainability Consultant, will conclude the day with a presentation on how efficient beef production benefits producers, consumers and the environment. This draws on her extensive experience gained from commercial and academic research in both the UK and the US.
The open day will be held at Wold Farm Bishop Wilton, York YO42 1SX, with registration beginning at 10:30am. The event also includes lunch and a tour of the Stabiliser herd at JRS Givendale Farm. For more information or to register, please contact Ursula Taylor at Ursula.taylor@jsr.co.uk or phone 07790 018637.
