Breeding Bonsmara for tough production environments
The Bonsmara is a breed par excellence in any beef production system, especially when selected over a quarter of a century in an environment that’s tough on the slightest weakness. Johan and Michiel Geldenhuys told Chris Nel how they do it.
Dairying in Argentina – making small farms work
While some South African dairy farms can number more than a thousand cows in milk, the average dairy herd in Argentina is far smaller. But dairy farmers in Argentina share a major obstacle with their SA counterparts: unfavourable agricultural policies.
Dexter stud invests in rare genetics
Klerksdorp Dexter cattle breeders, sisters Kelpie Oosthuizen and Bienkie du Preez, recently imported new genetics for polledness
and the dun colour for their Marso Uthando Farming herd.
Free-range and carbon credits pay off for Farmer Angus
Angus McIntosh and his wife Mariota returned to SA from London 10 years ago. In 2009, they took the plunge and began farming on rented land. Since then, they have concentrated on diversification, biodynamic production, and value-adding.
Working together for better beef
Ten farmers developed and adapted the genetics of their beef cattle to their environment and now produce profitable progeny.
Livestock Disease Trends – May 2014
Roundworms: Although conditions in the summer rainfall area are not so conducive for new wireworm infestations, there were still numerous reports of losses due to this parasite.
The Hugenoot makes its mark in the Waterberg
Mike Burgess recently visited Franci-Mari van Heerden, owner of the Witrots Hugenoot stud, and secretary and board member of Hugenoot SA, to find out why she chose the breed.
Livestock Disease Trends – April 2014
Due to late rains that fell in many parts of the country infestations of roundworm and especially wireworm were widespread, leading to production losses and mortalities. Lambs were the most susceptible.
Choosing the future with Simbras
When Krisjan Kruger returned to the family farm near Elliot in the Eastern Cape in 2004, Simbra cattle would become central to his operation. Mike Burgess recently visited him on his farm Oransay to see how his Beide Simbra Stud and cropping complement each other.
Warm reception in Chile
Dohne Merino sheep are improving wool production profits in Chile, with a reduction in fibre diameter already evident. Dohne Merino consultant Cameron McMaster reports.
Veld test: Santa Gertrudis proves its worth
The North West Veld Santa Breeders’ Study Group has demonstrated the breed’s efficiency and ability under extensive conditions, confirming its value as a beef breed.
Livestock Disease Trends – March 2014
Wireworms: Late continuous rainfall, especially in the summer rainfall areas, led to severe wireworm infestations in smallstock
Strict selection is key, says top Dohne breeder
Michael Swart of Swartriver Esate near Caledon believes there is no better investment than a good sheep. He should know – his Swarco Dohne Merino stud has, over the past 15 years, consistently been rated among the top in the country.
Hard work and dedication pay off for female farmer
Rachel Mamonare Mathabathe, the 2013 ARC National Emerging Beef Farmer of the Year Limpopo finalist, farms near Mookgophong on the farm Klipfontein with 300 cattle, 150 goats and 300 sheep. Mike Burgess visited her to better understand her success as a livestock farmer.
Livestock Disease Trends – February 2014
For the month of February 2014, 104 reports were received from veterinarians belonging to the Livestock Health and Production Group of the South African Veterinary Association. In addition reports were received from feedlot consultants and laboratories.
Huntersvlei Sussex: introducing polled English genetics to SA
A Sussex stud herd near Viljoenskroon has imported polled genetics from the UK to capitalise on the advantages offered by the polled gene and to develop its own world-class polled genetics.
Stray dogs in perspective
The growing stray dog problem calls for greater co-operation between municipalities, animal welfare groups and farmers before it escalates out of control.
The best dairy breed: A comparative study
In her informal study, Jane Holliday investigates the differences between Holsteins and Jerseys.
Tattooing and ear notching techniques
Here are two tried-and-tested alternative permanent marking techniques that are suitable for both large and small livestock. Each has its distinctive advantages and disadvantages.
Petana Beefmaster, fit and work-ready
Petana Beefmaster Stud’s success is ascribed to strict adherence to the six principles of Tom Lasater, father of the Beefmaster breed. Annelie Coleman visited the stud in the Wolmaransstad district.
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