Calf Rearing and Grazing Challenges on the ABP Demo Farm

ABP Demo Farm is an agricultural enterprise that has been at the forefront of modern farming practices. The farm, located in Waterford, Ireland, is known for its innovative approach to rearing cattle and getting them to pasture. With a focus on sustainability and animal welfare, ABP Demo Farm has become a leading model for other farms across the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at how ABP Demo Farm has managed to rear 340 calves and get cattle to graze on grass, even in challenging weather conditions. We will explore the farm’s techniques and strategies, as well as its broader vision for a sustainable future in agriculture.


Calf rearing is currently underway on the ABP Demo Farm as the last of the 2022-born cattle were turned out to grass on April 5th. Despite difficult grazing conditions, the cattle have shown strong performance over the winter housing period with an average weight of 390kg and some high performers weighing over 480kg. The first cattle turned out to grass in February will soon be weighed to monitor their progress. Due to heavy rainfall, cattle are being grouped in smaller bunches and moved more frequently. Grazing has also been affected, with all first-cut silage ground grazed earlier in the year and chemical fertiliser applied. Slurry will now be targeted on areas in need when conditions allow. In terms of calf rearing, there are currently 340 calves on the farm with an average arrival weight of 60kg. 40 of the first calves have been weaned at an average liveweight of 85kg, showing strong gain since arrival at the farm. The changeable weather has made the last few weeks of calf rearing tricky, with close monitoring of calf health being essential. All calves are fed milk once a day until they are consuming enough concentrate and can then be gradually weaned. Store lambs weigh 51kg and are being drafted with a target carcass weight of 23kg. The lambs have shown good performance at grass, allowing meal to be added to their diet.


In conclusion, the ABP Demo Farm in Ireland is leading the way in sustainable and efficient cattle rearing practices. With over 340 calves under their care, they have implemented various innovative techniques to ensure the welfare of the animals while also reducing their carbon footprint. By getting the cattle to grass as early as possible, they are not only providing a natural diet for the animals but also contributing to the preservation of grasslands. The ABP Demo Farm is a prime example of how the agricultural industry can adopt environmentally-friendly practices without compromising on production. We hope that more farms can follow in their footsteps, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to lead the way in the future.