Monitoring the performance of different breeds of cattle on commons or rough grazing

The aims of which are to increase understanding of  how grazing breeding or growing cattle on a common, allotment or other rough grazing affects:

•             growth rates of the animals

•             the quality and quantity of grass available in-bye for conservation or feeding other stock

•             the rough grazing vegetation

And identify any problems with grazing rough ground or a common

We are monitoring:

•         Growth rates or condition score changes

•         Grass quality on rough ground

•         Grass quality and some growth rates on in-bye

•         Fertiliser inputs on in-bye

•         Any health problems or management issues

•         Cost/ benefit analysis

6 of the 12 farmers participating have some Simmentals or Simmental crosses in their herds.