When heifers are turned out to grass, it is vital that their performance is carefully monitored and plans are in place to ensure key growth targets are maintained. You do not want to find yourself in the difficult position of bringing heifers back indoors at the end of the grazing season, and realising that they are well behind and not ready to calve at 24 months.
Failing to achieve growth targets at grass can result in delayed service, resulting in significant additional rearing costs. It is often a far more cost effective option to supplement heifer rations with concentrates during the grazing period to maintain good growth rates and ensure optimum conditions for bulling and first calving.