White River Dairies own a stud called, White River Holstein Friesians. The herd is made up of Friesian and Friesian cross cows (F12), which was established with LIC genetics when we bought it but we have changed to CRV Ambreed genetics, and have continued with these genetics for several years.

 

The traits that we look for when selecting the future genetics of the herd are:

• Udder strength and conformation which helps to reduce mastitis and prevents saggy udders (ligament collapse)

• Capacity – essentially how big the factory is – heart room, depth of the gut. How far the gut dips below the level of the elbows.

• Protein – As we are paid for milk components rather than by the litre, milk higher in protein is worth more.

 

We synchronise the heifers and then AI them with Jersey semen for an easy calving, and to produce a high genetic merit cross bred calf for our herd. We then follow up with belted Galloway bulls that colour mark their calves with a belt.