Wilson Marshall, adviser with the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, led recent calf rearing meetings across County Armagh. The sessions covered calf health, housing, nutrition, and management for participants in the Armagh Business Sustainability Group.

Chris Keys, a participant in the Armagh Business Sustainability Group, stated that providing optimal conditions early in a calf's life offers the best start. Marshall explained that weaning marks a biological shift from a monogastric-like system to a functioning ruminant digestive system.

Discussions focused on colostrum delivery within two hours after birth to supply immunoglobulins and energy. Milk or replacer feeding at 750-900g powder equivalent per day supports growth when given at proper temperature on a regular schedule.

Starter feed introduction from the first week aids rumen development through volatile fatty acids. Calves ready for weaning consume 1-1.5kg of starter daily, with milk reduction over 10-21 days to avoid growth interruptions.

Post-weaning diets maintain high energy and 16-18% crude protein until calves reach 100-120kg. Several group members increased milk replacer volumes to accelerate weight gains and address cold stress.