Three Dairy Farms in Romania

A wise man once said “Travel makes you wiser” and I couldn’t agree more. I spent this week working in Romania alongside Dr. Catalin Necula learning about how he implements the Alltech system on farm. Catalin took me to visit three of the farms he works with over three days. Catalin studied veterinary medicine in college but now enjoys working in the nutrition sector of the agricultural industry so as you can imagine, this was a great opportunity for me to spend some time with a very knowledgeable man.

The three farms we visited were all different in their own ways but all very impressive operations. I completed a farm audit, TMR evaluation and manure assessment on all farms as well as carrying out some urine pH and ketone tests. It was an intense week with plenty of travelling across Romania and long working days but it was all worth it. One of the farms that stood out to me most on my trip was a 300 cow herd consisting of pedigree Montbeliarde and Jersey cows. It was a well-run farm with very happy cows! After each farm visit Catalin would help me complete a farm report and optimise diets where necessary.    

What Size is the Average Dairy Herd in Romania?

As I visited large dairy farms (200 cows plus) I could not believe it when I heard that the average herd size in Romania was 3 cows. However, while travelling through some of the villages I then realised why. Lots of Romanian people own 1 and 2 cows and keep them at the side of their house where they are fed and milked. It was interesting to see different ways of dairy farming in different parts of the country. I had a busy but brilliant week of learning and practical experience with Catalin but for now it’s back to Ireland to spend next week on a dairy farm in County Cork!