News 

Welsh Charolais - HCC suckler herd award winners host open day

Suckler herd management will come under the microscope at an open day hosted by James and Alec Cowan, winners of the Welsh Charolais – Hybu Cig Cymru Welsh Suckler Herd of the Year, at Synod Inn, Llandysul, Ceredigion on Thursday, September 13th.

Visitors will be able to find out more about how the brothers’ attention to management, health status, genetics and marketing is enabling their 100 cow suckler herd to deliver high value finished bulls along with heifers either retained as replacements or sold through local markets to repeat buyers for finishing purposes.

The day, which is being organised by HCC, will be opened by the Welsh Charolais region’s David Lewis. James Cowan will discuss the unit’s strategy which features the use of high genetic merit Charolais bulls, health planning, minimal reliance on bought-in feed and adding value by finishing home-bred stock.

Genus’ Arwel Owen will explain the importance of genetic selection and how to get it right, while Angus Wyse of Castle House Veterinary Practice will discuss the herd’s health plan together with how to maximise cow and bull fertility.

HCC’s Dewi Hughes said: “The Cowans are maximising output from limited resources, with the help of the latest technology and advice, whilst maintaining a close eye on environmental impact. The brothers measure and monitor the performance of their herd to help meet with targets and ultimately to enable them to expand the beef enterprise along with the area farmed.”

The open day commences with presentations at 3pm, followed by a tour of the cattle.