Alternative management policies to the induction of parturition in dairy cows: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours)

Abstract

Six alternative reproduction management policies were compared by running a herd reproduction and lactation simulation model. The various different policies were compared to a base data set and each other to assess their success, in terms of total herd production and various measures of reproductive efficiency. The management systems trialled investigated the impact of no induction, the timing of induction, synchronisation of heifers and high culling/replacement rates, under three levels of management. The results showed a high replacement rate to be the best treatment option, producing milk yields of 2.8, 2.6, and 6.4 kgMS/cow/lactation above the control treatment, at each of good, average and poor management levels, respectively. It was also the only treatment to require no inductions, as the concentrated calving spread was maintained by restricting the breeding period. Mid period induction produced the most favourable result of the induction policies, while late induction served no useful purpose. Further studies into the financial implications of the various policies trialled would be useful in drawing any strong conclusions as to the most appropriate method for minimising the negative effects of induction and maximising milk production.