Royal Agricultural University has been selected to lead research into calf welfare and productivity.

Funded by AHDB Beef and Lamb, The Cirencester based university will lead the project aimed to produce guidance on the best practise for rearing dairy-bred beef calves, helping producers run a more efficient and profitable calf rearing business.

Research will address significant challenges facing the calf rearing sector, including reducing antibiotic use and maintaining welfare.

A large part of the work will rely on data and knowledge sharing, and to facilitate this a Project Advisory Group of key stakeholders will be established to guide the project.

Dr Mary Vickers, senior scientist at AHDB Beef and Lamb , the organisation for beef and lamb levy payers in England - said: “The project team brings together expertise in animal health and welfare initiatives and strong links with the calf rearing industry which means they are well placed to tackle some of the challenges facing the sector.

“With the industry encouraged to reduce the use of antibiotics, the team will look at all aspects of calf management, including situations such as collections centres and livestock markets, to understand stressors experienced by calves. The aim is to manage these better, which will improve calf health, welfare and productivity." and reduce the need for medicines

A large part of the work will rely on data and knowledge sharing, and to facilitate this a Project Advisory Group of key stakeholders will be established to guide the project.

Emily Edwards, lead researcher at the university, added: “This is extremely important research for the RAU to be undertaking. We will be actively encouraging dairy farmers, rearing facilities and industry stakeholders to help input into our work in order to develop clear and consistent guidance which is led by the sector."

AHDB Beef and Lambs has developed a questionaire aimed at dairy farmers and calf rearers to help shape their guidance. To take the questionaire, visit beefandlamb.ahdb.org.uk/best-practice-dairy-beef-calf-rearing.