Spring calving is just weeks away from getting into full swing.

Before the workload ramps up during the busiest period of the year, get as many of the smaller, overlooked jobs completed before the first cow calves down, as time will be limited thereafter.

Getting these jobs out of the way now will free up time, leave your better organised and take the pressure off in late spring.

Outlined are examples of some jobs to complete as early as possible.

1. Order ear tags now

Check how many ear tags are left from last year and place your order for additional tags now.

The guidelines on ordering new ear tags changed in 2020, with a limit on the volume of tags that can be ordered at any one time.

This may create issues on farms that have expanded breeding numbers.

Enquire with your tag distributor now, so as there are no problems or delays in getting spring-born calves registered and BVD tested on time.

2. Wash and prepare calving pen

Calving pens should be washed and disinfected in advance of calving, then left clear of stock until calving starts.

Ideally, pens should be cleaned with hot water through a pressure washer. Allow pens to dry before applying disinfectant.

3. Set up calving pens

If shed space permits, set up as many pens as possible in advance of calving.

Getting this job out of the way early takes the pressure off, once calving moves in to full swing in February or March.

The same goes with housing cows after calving.

If time and housing space permits, get larger loose pens set up, so cows can be moved from individual pens as quickly as possible after calving.

If necessary, can roofed silos or passageways be set up to serve as straw bedded loose pens for young calves?

4. Stock up on calving aids

Stock up on all the essentials before calving starts, such as gloves, lubricant, iodine and electrolytes, and store in a location where they can be easily accessed.

Replace calving ropes if the old ones are frayed or hard.

Replace the stomach tube if the pipe has become scuffed or damaged in any way. Keep a second stomach tube for just treating sick calves.

5. Replenish straw and fodder supplies if reserves are low

The vast majority of farms will have adequate silage on-farm. But if reserves are running low, act now to source additional silage.

The same goes with straw. How much straw is currently on farm ahead of the calving period?

If straw is required, buy it now, as prices may well rise as demand increases when calving starts.

Read more

Thrive: preparing the calf rearing shed

Managing straw usage and minimising waste this winter