Galway company secures distribution rights for Urban calf feeder 

This technology, introduced to Irish farmers in 2002, is available via Tirlán, Aurivo, Arrabawn, Dairygold, Drinagh and Kerry co-ops.  
According to Urban data, several benefits of such a feeding system include potential additional daily-weight gain of up to 300g, up to 100 per cent increased udder development, up to 40 per cent reduced mortality, and up to 1,000 litres of additional milk in the first lactation. The system also promotes earlier insemination and pregnancy of heifers, constant high temperature to reduce energy losses, and a steady temperature and mixture to minimise the risk of diarrhoea, according to the company. 
Farmers who invest in a new Urban system will receive complimentary calf-rearing and calf-welfare consultations, according to Creva International. This will take the form of visits from experienced calf specialists from local co-ops to farmers to guide them through shed design, drainage, ventilation and calf management. In addition, advice on calf jackets, hutches and troughs will also be provided. Already, across the island of Ireland, in excess of 2,000 Urban systems have been installed on farms. 
CEO of Creva International, Noel Kelly, commented: “As dairy farmers ourselves, we understand the challenges faced by farmers and the significance of ensuring excellent calf welfare. The Urban system is, without a doubt, the finest in the market, and we are thrilled to work with them on this new venture.
“Our distribution agreement guarantees that farmers adopting the Urban system will receive top-tier calf-rearing advice and best-practice information from their local co-op calf specialists.” Creva International will be present at the National Ploughing Championships later this month, where further information will be available.