A GRADUATE from Somerset has been appointed to a new role to boost farm efficiency and sustainability.

Cannington College graduate Olivia Parker has been chosen by ForFarmers to be a Youngstock Technician in the South and South West.

The role will see Olivia work on improving the performance of young cattle by weighing calves and heifers, creating specific feed plans, and setting up colostrum protocols.

A key part of her new role will be helping farms reduce their milk production carbon footprint, by aiming for an age of 24 months for first calving.

Olivia said: "Youngstock within the dairy sector has been a passion of mine for a while.

"Although I don’t come from a farming background, I’m lucky to have a career I love.

"My role as Youngstock Technician for the South and South West will allow me to support farmers across the region and contribute to their business by expressing the importance of early growth rates to achieve target calving age, while helping herd performance."

ForFarmers is keen to help farms manage their young livestock to ensure the future success of their herds.

Ann Combes, ForFarmers Youngstock Product Manager, said: "Youngstock often have the best genetics in the herd and have the biggest potential to drive future efficiency, profitability and sustainability.

"Our Youngstock Technicians offer a Target 24 service and can help with the correct management protocols, nutritional plan and a weighing regime that tracks progress and highlights any issues before they become a problem."

For more information, contact ForFarmers on 0330 678 0982.