The core research focus at the ABP Demo Farm has precisely been on enhancing dairy-beef genetic merit. This is achieved primarily through the strategic use of bulls with superior beef genetics when breeding dairy cows. This targeted approach aims to ensure that offspring from dairy herds contribute more significantly to the beef supply chain, providing an additional revenue stream and maximizing the overall economic output of dairy operations, a model closely watched by analysts.

Stephen Connolly, ABP’s agri-sustainability manager, brought attention to a concerning trend: despite dairy cows generally increasing in size, their beef merit has often been declining. He passionately advocated for a truly balanced dairy cow – one that not only produces excellent milk solids but also breeds efficiently, maintains longevity within the herd, and importantly, yields a high-quality beef calf. This holistic view is crucial for sustainable dairy farming.

To systematically address this decline and further elevate the genetic beef merit of dairy-beef calves, a significant proposal emerged from the event. It was suggested that a minimum beef genetic merit standard be formally implemented for all artificial insemination (AI) and stock bulls utilized within dairy herds. Such a policy would enforce higher standards across the board, ensuring that beef potential is consistently integrated into dairy breeding programs.