Ration formulation: With animals being housed across the country, many farmers are looking to winter feed purchases. Meal companies are not required to publish the energy content of their rations, but are required by law to list ingredients in descending order on inclusion rate. It can sometimes get confusing trying to compare rations. Energy is the most important feed value for finishing cattle, especially protein and energy when feeding autumn calved cows, sucking calves and weanlings. The table below lists some commonly used ingredients in rations. Cereals will be highest in energy, while soya bean meal, rapeseed meal and maize distillers are all good sources of protein. If purchasing a ration, look for an inclusion rate of the different ingredients to make sure you are getting good value. Keep things as simple as you can, with a good energy source, a good protein source and some fibre.

Irish Farmers Journal Mart Events: The Irish Farmers Journal, in association with FBD insurance, are kicking off their beef and sheep mart demo series in Gortatlea mart next Tuesday night 12 November at 7pm and Balla mart, Co Mayo next Thursday night 14 November at 7pm. The theme of this years events is “ Health, housing breeding and feeding - Getting it right this winter.” The livestock team will cover all aspects of winter management, including presentations on feeding cattle for growth this winter, dosing plans for cattle and sheep, tips on farmer schemes and programmes and making sure drystock farmers maximise their payments. A livestock demo will also take place at each of mart venues. This year, the Irish Farmers Journal, in association with Croi, are providing free health checks for farmers at each venue from 5pm-7pm. This includes blood pressure checks, pulse checks, individual health plans and identifying high risk individuals. Attendance is free and everybody is welcome. See www.farmersjournal.ie for details.