Smart dairying: running Jerseys on pasture

The dairy farming sector has seen innovation in milk parlour and cow comfort technology that have allowed farmers to not only yield higher volumes, but extend the productive lifespan of their cows. Albrecht de Jager told Henning Naudé about his approach to maintaining a pasture-raised Jersey herd while utilising precise data measuring technology to ensure quality milk output and optimal cow comfort.

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Albrecht de Jager is a sixth-generation dairy farmer on his farm, Rheeboksfontein, located near Great Brak River in the Western Cape. His family settled in the area in the early 20th century in search of fertile soil and a moderate climate for farming. De Jager attributes his drive to maintain Rheeboksfontein under the de Jager name to his father and grandfather, who introduced him to dairy farming.

“Being able to carry on a legacy that has stood for many years is an honour. It keeps me motivated. Milking seven days a week for most of the year means early hours and late nights. It requires sacrifice, but I would not want to do anything else,” he says.

De Jager took over the reins in 2013 after learning everything he needed to from his father, who laid the foundation of what the farm is today.

The Rheeboksfontein dairy herd started predominantly with Holstein genetics, later converting to Jersey. De Jager explains that while Jerseys offer multiple advantages, the choice to convert was ultimately dictated by market demands from his sole buyer, Nestlé.

“Buyers like Nestlé will pay more for milk with a higher percentage of solids. On average, Holsteins do not produce as much protein and butterfat, so the decision was made to move towards Jerseys for the high solid concentration in their milk,” he says.

Additionally, Jerseys also have a lower feed intake due to their smaller frame and lower average body weight compared to Holsteins. Therefore, the chosen breed would not only produce better milk for market needs, but would also consume less feed, thus lowering production costs overall.