What does it take to breed a high performing herd - now and into the future?
Earlier this year, DairyNZ and Fonterra co-hosted a series of on-farm events focused on lifting genetic gain through better breeding decisions. One of those events was held at Clovalley Farms, run by Donovan Croot and Sophie Cookson in South Taranaki. Now, we’re bringing that conversation to you.
In this episode of Talking Dairy, hosted by DairyNZ Taranaki Area Manager Talissa Squire, Donovan and Sophie share how they’ve built a herd that ranks in the top 1% nationally for Breeding Worth (BW). They explain how they’ve applied DairyNZ’s 'Five ways to a high BW herd' in a way that fits their farm, their values and their goals.
They talk openly about what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way.
Whether you're just starting out with genetics or already fine-tuning your approach, this is a must-listen for any farmer wanting to breed a better herd.
Listen now to learn how to make smarter breeding decisions, improve genetic gain in your herd, and future-proof your business.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Breeding Worth - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
- Tools - Animal Herd Averages | DairyNZ
- Bull Search - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
- Bull Team - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
- Ranking of Active Sires (RAS) | DairyNZ
- InCalf reproduction gap calculator - DairyNZ | DairyNZ
Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz
Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates:
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy And Charlamagne Tha God!
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.