Zoe Lemarechal
FdSc Agriculture
I live on a dairy farm and hope eventually to take on the tenancy myself. It’s a very exciting industry and quite fast changing, particularly in the area of technology. You need specific skills and knowledge to be a successful farm manager and I felt that this degree would deliver both.
For my research project I investigated the effect of enrichment on the growth and milk intake of dairy calves. Although enrichment such as hanging playthings in the calf pens are known to benefit growth rates, there has been little research on how regularly it should be changed for continued growth rates. My research indicated that it needs to be changed after 50 days.
My results were showcased as a poster to UK dairy farmers and industry experts at the prestigious Total Dairy 2019 event. It was one of my greatest achievements yet, although a little scary!
Apart from the scientific research which I’ve carried out as part of my degree, I’ve taken advantage of other training opportunities such as an artificial insemination course.
I’m now planning to work full time in partnership with my Dad, maintaining and building on the success of our British Friesian herd. Already I’ve taken the responsibility of adding Ayrshire cows to the herd.
FdSc Agriculture 2019 (distinction)