Beef cattle feeding seminar in Estonia 26.03.2024

Project “Sustainable Silage” Estonian partners arranged a practical seminar in 26.03.2024 in Setomaa region for beef farmers introducing environmentally friendly practices in feed production and winter grazing. More than 60 Estonian beef farmers and specialists took part in the seminar, who were interested in how to produce silage for beef cattle using new knowledge. ECAC silage expert Kristiina Märs and local farmer Valter Kooser shared the experiences and lessons learned in feeding and in production of high quality silage in Aberdeen Top Genetics farm. Airi Külvet from Puutsa farm introduced the regenerative farming practices in beef farming, especially in organizing outdoor bale grazing of animals in winter time. She shared the practical experience of Puutsa farm, where the bale grazing of beef cattle in winter is taking place already 2-3 years. Ann Riisenberg from Estonian Ministry of Climate explained the main principles of water protection related regulations, which are applicable for outdoor feeding and grazing of animals especially in winter time. Farmers participated actively in discussion how to adapt new regenerative farming practices regarding grazing with current regulations. Kiido Levin from Agricultural Registers and Information Board explained the procedures, how the data about the farming location has to be inserted to the register regarding outdoor grazing and feeding of cattle. The seminar ended with the farm visit of Aberdeen Top Genetics.