Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module the student should be able to: Critically evaluate beef production in Ireland relative to our main international competitors both within Europe and world wide. Evaluate alternative production strategies for beef cattle and be able to advise producers on appropriate production strategies for the future. Discuss critically selected aspects of beef production including an analysis of the issues in terms of the most up-to-date information available. Analyse systems of production both from the biological/technical and financial perspectives, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and make recommendations for remedial action as appropriate. Access and interpret information from a variety of sources and evaluate the reliability of alternative sources of information.
Indicative Module Content:
The specific components addressed include:
The beef sector/industry at farm, national and international level - current position and future trends.
suckler beef and dairy beef production systems,
veal production;
beef production from young bulls and cull cows;
reproductive strategies to augment efficiency;
manipulation of growth and efficiency;
meat quality and product specification
nutritional requirements and nutritional physiology,
metabolic and health issues pertaining to beef cattle,
sustainable cattle production systems and environmental constraints on beef production.