The InCalf Project - Identifying risk factors for reproductive performance in Australian dairy herds

Two large prospective observational studies were completed in Australian dairy herds to describe herd reproductive performance currently being achieved and to identify risk factors for reproductive performance. The larger study involved a total of 29,462 cows from 168 study herds. The project results demonstrate that reproductive performance varies widely between commercial dairy herds in Australia, suggesting there is considerable scope for improvement in many herds. The results also demonstrate that high-producing Australian dairy herds can achieve high 6-week in-calf rates. Using project results, six management areas currently limiting herd reproductive performance by important amounts in Australian dairy herds were identified. These are: . Calving spread (seasonal calving herds)/voluntary waiting period duration (year-round calving herds) . Heat detection rates . AI practice . Body condition pre-calving . Extent of negative energy balance in early lactation . Heifer liveweights pre-calving. Managers of Australian dairy herds planning to increase herd reproductive performance should assess management in these areas. The research phase of the project has provided an essential base for a national extension programme to improve herd reproductive performance. Based on research results, the project is now developing an extension programme focussed on and supporting herd manager decision-making.