In the heart of Cheshire, Manley Old Hall Farm stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of Guy Ford and his family. Guy, in partnership with his parents, oversees a thriving dairy farm spanning 220 hectares. Together, they manage a herd of 320 Kiwicross/New Zealand Holstein cows, known for their robustness and productivity.
Central to their operation is a 95-hectare milking platform, which ensures optimal conditions for their dairy cows. The farm also rears the next generation of their herd, with 75 R1s (cows aged 3 to 10 months) and 75 R2s (cows aged 10 to 22 months).
A key feature in the Ford’s farming calendar is the Spring Calving 10-week block. This intensive period requires precise planning and teamwork.
"The cows yield an average of 5,500 L, which we sell to Yew Tree in Skelmersdale where the milk is dried, so constituents are important, and our milk quality averages 3.92% CP and 4.87% fat." He adds.
The milking parlour was expanded from 12 a side to 17 a side without structural changes, significantly reducing milking time.
In addition, adopting a "10 in 7" milking system, (milking 10 times across 7 days), from mid-July to the midpoint of lactation, (150 days from the mean calving date), has improved work-life balance for the Ford family.
Looking ahead, the farm is planning to enhance its calf facilities, continuing its commitment to innovation and improvement.
“Focus on the systems and key performance indicators (KPIs) specific to your farm and its unique needs. Establish non-negotiables and set clear targets to meet the expectations of all business partners. Embrace the challenges, learn from each experience, and adapt to make your farm work best for you.”
Guy has been using Herdwatch for the past eight years. Here’s how Herdwatch has become an indispensable tool for Guy and his family:
Guy explored various herd management programs but found Herdwatch to be the most suitable and cost-effective solution for his needs. The app's easy setup and user-friendly interface made the transition seamless.
Before Herdwatch, the farm relied on paper records, which were time-consuming and prone to errors. Missing an input or batch number was a common issue. Now, everything is recorded with the touch of a button, significantly reducing the effort and time required. All data is automatically organised into spreadsheets, making it easy to access and review when needed.
Guy and his team record births, deaths, movements, heats, and serves directly on their mobile devices, with three users having access to the data. Real-time recording ensures that all information is up-to-date and easily accessible. The batch registering feature for calves, services, and heats is a massive time-saver, especially during busy periods.
Herdwatch has allowed Guy to streamline and improve breeding management. Guy can review historical data to make informed decisions about which straw to use on which cows. This ability to access and analyse simple data helps in making sound breeding decisions.
Guy comments: “One of the biggest advantages of Herdwatch is its ability to handle the paperwork side of audits efficiently. The app makes data easily transferable and accessible, reducing the hassle and time spent on paperwork.”
Herdwatch has made all aspects of herd management more efficient, allowing Guy to focus on the practical side of farming during the busiest times of the year.
However the greatest benefit by far for Guy has been “spending more time with family rather than catching up on paperwork in the evenings.”
Guy has recommended Herdwatch to both his discussion groups and the buying group he is involved with.
“Herdwatch is an extra pair of hands, and is an easy to use app with all the important information at the touch of a button whilst on the move.”
For Guy, Herdwatch is an essential tool he wouldn’t be without.
To join Guy and over 22,000 farmers on the Herdwatch app, simply download the app for free today!