CAFRE launches suckler cow fertility themed groups to boost herd efficiency

Rachel Megarrell, CAFRE Beef and Sheep Adviser, urges farmers to apply before Friday 15 August to join the new CAFRE Suckler Cow Fertility Themed Groups.

Farmers across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to apply for the new College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) Suckler Cow Fertility Themed Groups, aimed at improving herd fertility and supporting profitability in suckler beef production.

CAFRE Senior Beef and Sheep Adviser, Rachel Megarrell, emphasised the critical role of fertility in modern suckler operations.

“Fertility and getting live calves on the ground has always been fundamental in any suckler operation. A cow’s primary job on farm is to get in-calf and then rear that calf. Not only that, but fertility now plays a critical role in payments to cow enterprises and therefore should be at the forefront of farmers’ minds.”

The Themed Groups will help farmers develop a clear understanding of herd fertility, how to measure it, and how their own herds compare to industry targets. Without accurate data, effective herd management becomes impossible, CAFRE says.

Key fertility metrics for suckler herds

• Herd Calving Index: Average calving interval for all cows, measured in days.

• Calving Interval: Days from one calf to the next; ideally 365 days.

• Replacement Rate: Percentage of cows replaced each year; high rates may indicate fertility issues.

• Reappearance Rate: Percentage of cows calving again within 390 days; target 75%.

• Calving Spread: Time between the first and last calf born in a season; aim for less than 12 weeks.

A herd fertility report provides a simple traffic-light guide:

• Green – Calved within 390 days.

• Amber – Calved between 391–450 days.

• Red – Calved over 451 days.

These targets are especially important under the Suckler Cow Scheme, where eligibility requirements tighten from 415 days in year one to 385 days in year four.

Putting fertility into practice

Using an example of breeding 50 cows:

• Scanning 48/50 (95%+) is excellent.

• Scanning 45/50 (90%) is very good.

• Scanning 43/50 (85%) is around the industry average.

CAFRE says industry standards recommend weaning 90% of bred cows, highlighting the need for strong fertility performance from the outset.

Working with a CAFRE adviser offers tailored advice, access to new technology, and ongoing support to help farmers reach these targets.

How to apply

Applications for the CAFRE Suckler Cow Fertility Themed Groups are still open and can help increase the number of calving events meeting Suckler Cow Scheme targets.

Farmers can apply via the CAFRE website at www.cafre.ac.uk or contact their local CAFRE adviser.

Applications close Friday 15 August 2025.