Dairy farmers across the country are invited to attend their local ForFarmers youngstock roadshow this autumn.

 The events are part of a nationwide roadshow titled 'Growing the next generation' taking place in venues from Cumbria to Cornwall. As well as looking at how to optimise calf health and performance, ForFarmers youngstock specialists will also discuss the importance of the transition diet on the unborn calf and the role of automation in calf rearing.

 "Youngstock are the future of all dairy herds and one of the most valuable assets on farm," said Ann Combes, youngstock product manager at ForFarmers. "Making sure they are in good health, are given the correct nutrition and housed in the best possible environment is vital to ensure the best possible performance, not only as a calf but also in the milking herd.

 "Industry figures put the total cost of heifer rearing at between £1,000 and £2,000, demonstrating both the investment and range in costs that can be associated with youngstock rearing. As input costs continue to rise and efficient heifer rearing is proven to be crucial to farm sustainability, giving youngstock the right start is life is more important than ever."

 To learn more about the roadshow and reserve your place go to www.forfarmers.co.uk/nextgeneration