Herd Testing

Overview

HERD TESTING IS A VITAL TOOL FOR ON-FARM DECISION MAKING

Beyond immediate action, herd testing reports and their effect on breeding values will play a huge part in making the farm more effective, efficient and profitable. This information is a fundamental tool in making sound breeding plans, supporting culling decisions and will provide the data needed to evaluate the profitability of additional feeds or preventative treatments such as dry cow therapy.
 

It’s easy to see that herd testing has huge benefits. However, it’s important for the herd test data to not only be accurate and credible, but also to impact as little as possible on business as usual. To manage this, CRV AmBreed Herd Testing includes a certified herd tester who assists with the set up, collects samples during the milking and helps to clear the gear away again when milking is completed.

Testing options:

Full Herd Test:

A full herd test is where two tests are carried out in a 24 hour period, one in the “am” and one in the “pm”. A qualified CRV Herd Tester will arrive at your shed, set up all your meters and then assist you throughout the test. The qualified tester assists with the recording of the volumes which is done as they collect the samples and replace with new sample vials. This process ensures the accuracy of the sample as the milk meters collects a proportionate volume of each section of the cow’s milk (from start to finish). The tester will also assist with the entire pack-down process.

A further option of a second herd test assist is available for larger sheds or to reduce cost, the farmer may supply the assist. Your certified herd tester will inform you of the expectations of any assist that you provide.

OAD Test:

The Once a Day test follows exactly the same process as a full herd test however is only carried out once in a 24 hour period.

Somatic Cell Count Test:

CRV AmBreed also offers the option for a Somatic Cell Count (SCC) test. This option can be performed on the whole herd or just selected problem cows. There is no need to record milk volumes in a SCC test and you will receive test results within a 48hour period. There is also an optional text service which will send you the top 10 high SCC cows in a text message.

Our meters:

Tru Test Meter Waikato Meter
Our process

Herd Testing reports:
Not only will your herd testing results feed into breeding values and indexes but they also tell you exactly how each member of the herd is contributing – and sometimes, can yield a few surprises! High and low producing cows can be identified, as can those with high somatic cell counts in need of treatment. CRV AmBreed’s herd testing reports are colour-coded, allowing farmers to see good news and bad at a glance and there is also a text service available to provide farmers with the knowledge they need to address urgent issues.

Benefits of using CRV AmBreed for your Herd Tests:

• Fully trained herd test technician provided as part of the fee
• Farmer’s choice of record provider
• Small sample volumes, much less space required in the shed
• Volumes recorded on-farm
• Samples are paired before lab submission
• Independent laboratory used to analyse samples
• OAD & SCC tests are provided at a significantly reduced price
• Accurate readings due to larger proportion of milk contributing to sub sample (less fat issues)
• Able to check double-up tags instantly
• Flexible date scheduling
• No hidden costs for cancellations and postponements
• Don’t need to wait for samples to be collected as they are taken for analysis with the tester
   

CRV Herd Testing pricing for 2011 Season

Visit Fee:

• $260 per test for the first four tests (includes qualified herd tester)
• $210 per test from the 5th test

Meter Fee:

• $3 per meter, per test

Cow Fee:

• Full test $1.75/cow per test
• SCC or OAD test $1.45/cow per test
• Extra assist if required: $210 per test

South Island Freight Charge: $42 per 125 cows (approximately)

SCC Txt Service: $10 per season (Top 10 high SCC cows texted to client)

Frequently asked questions:

Can I herd test with CRV AmBreed but still record with MINDA?
Yes, you can. All herd test data is uploaded onto the National Database so will appear on your Minda herd records, unfortunately the reverse does not apply i.e. farmers cannot herd test with LIC and record with CRV.

Does herd testing always include a herd tester? How many cows before I have to pay for an extra herd tester?
Yes, as the herd tester is responsible for recording litres. An extra tester is dependent upon shed size, but generally 28 cups is maximum for one herd tester. However, the farmer has the option of supplying the extra assist (and saving on cost).

Are the milk meters any more accurate against what actually goes in my vat?
The milk meters CRV AmBreed uses collect a proportionate volume of each section of the cow’s milk (from start to finish), resulting in a more accurate sample. This set-up also remains consistent throughout the entire season.