It is a full-day programme for the whole farm team.
Farmers can choose from a series of sessions for different experience levels, enabling them to develop practical skills that will help the calving season go well.
For senior management, there is a session on calf care and farmers’ responsibilities under the new draft animal welfare regulations.
Other sessions include new colostrum research, management approaches to the prevention of lameness and mastitis and how to keep teams healthy and motivated throughout the calving season.
For new entrants and farm assistants, the junior workshop will provide hands-on training.
Participants will learn to identify the signs of calving, stages of labour and normal and abnormal calf presentation.
They will also get some practical tips on how to look after themselves during what is a hectic time of year.
DairyNZ’s animal husbandry and welfare team manager, Chris Leach, said everyone in the farm team could benefit from attending a CalvingSmart event.
“Everyone onfarm has a part to play in ensuring that all animals are treated with respect and cared for in a healthy and safe environment. Being prepared and staying healthy will make for an easier stress-free spring,” Leach said.
Events are free for all levy-paying dairy farmers and their staff.
Registrations are essential and can be completed online at dairynz.co.nz/calvingsmart.
CalvingSmart events by region
Taranaki
Stratford – June 7
Waverley – June 8
Northland
Kaiwaka – June 14
Kerikeri – June 15
Bay of Plenty
Whakatane – June 20
Waikato
Morrinsville – June 23
Te Awamutu – July 6
Reporoa – July 7
Putaruru – July 8
Lower North Island
Palmerston North – June 29
Masterton – June 30
South Island
Lincoln – July 11
Temuka – July 12
Tapanui – July 14
Winton – July 15
Greymouth – July 19
Takaka – July 21
To register visit dairynz.co.nz/calvingsmart
