CASE STUDY
Empty Rates, Nearly Cut In Half
- Wilson Farm, Matamata
- In partnership with Chrissy Alexander - Nutrition Sales Specialist
A progressive dairy operation focused on improving reproductive performance and system consistency. Initial challenges centred around high empty rates and transition management.
Challenge
- High empty rates (18–19%)
- Transition period not optimised
- Inconsistent performance year-on-year
Poor transition performance was limiting reproductive outcomes.
Approach
- Implemented a structured transition programme
- Aligned nutrition to pre-calving and mating
- Introduced ongoing monitoring and adjustments
Focus shifted to setting cows up before mating begins.
Result
- Empty rate reduced to ~10%
- Improved consistency across seasons
- Stronger reproductive performance overall
What made the difference?
- Transition cows were better prepared for calving
- Nutritional support reduced metabolic stress
- Earlier cycling improved conception rates
System View
By improving the transition period, the entire reproductive cycle was strengthened – delivering more consistent outcomes year after year.
Key take
Get the transition right, and the rest follows.
