Pig breeder takes his stud to the top
Neil Dry, SA Studbook 2012 Stud Pig Breeder of the Year, grew his enterprise from a six-pig unit in 2004 to an 820-sow stud in 2012. He manages his operation with a strong focus on genetic excellence.
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Livestock Disease Trends - April 2013
As a result of late summer rains during the first half of April there was an increase in parasite numbers (wireworm, long-necked bankrupt worm and brown stomach worm).
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The irresistible attraction of trout
Anglers and food connoisseurs worldwide agree that trout makes exciting fishing and excellent eating. But what goes into farming these iconic fish? Lloyd Phillips visits Simon Bunn of Peak Trout in the Drakensberg to find out.
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From a driver to successful small-scale pig farmer
Marius Herman from Kraaifontein started farming with pigs six years ago and in a short time has managed to establish a viable small business. Denene Erasmus visited him.
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Farm with the breed you love
Being a part-time farmer on land surrounded by residential estates hasn’t stopped Piet van der Merwe from producing champion Dexters. Lindi van Rooyen spoke to him about breeding a uniform
Dexter with a calm temperament.
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How to produce a competition-winning carcass
At a carcass competition, a livestock producer can test his
production methods and standards through the expert eyes of the judges. Producers and consumers also benefit from top quality meat. Lloyd Phillips reports.
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Livestock disease trends (as informally reported by vets in South Africa) March 2013
In the summer rainfall area numerous reports were received of wireworm infestations. This internal parasite sucks blood and symptoms in sheep and goats are anaemia (pale mucous membranes) and bottle jaw. As it may be resistant to some of the anthelmintic groups farmers should consult their vet on how to control the parasite.
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The milk trait in the Nguni: a lost value?
Selecting animals on appearance only is detrimental to the breed. When gene pools are narrowed, the strength of diversity is lost and, along with it, traits such as disease resistance and milk production. Dr Paul Meulenbeld, an Nguni stud breeder from the Bronkhorstspruit area, talks about improving the trait without losing diversity.
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Careful calf rearing makes a difference
Improved heifer rearing at Byron and Ronelda Orpwood’s dairy farm in Creighton has given their enterprise a vital boost. They talk to Robyn Joubert about heifer management and the value of good teamwork.
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For the love of Brahman
The Osterloh Grey Brahman Stud is making a name for itself beyond the borders of the Eastern Cape. Mike Burgess visited Eugene Osterloh on
the family farm, Mimosa Park, near Komga to find out how he manages his stud.
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