Farmers' cow crossbreed plan 'could boost beef production'

  • Published

Farmers in Jersey are hoping to boost beef production by crossing Jersey cows with an English breed.

Farmers David Le Cornu, from Grouville, and Darren Quenault, from Classic Herd, in St Peter, are crossing Jersey's with the British Belgian Blue.

The farmers want to crossbreed with the bull prized for its growth rates and meatiness.

The first calves from this scheme are expected to be in Jersey fields by February 2013.

In 2009, black cows, which are a cross between Jersey bulls and the Aberdeen Angus breed, were introduced in the island.

Since the laws on bringing in bull semen were relaxed, farmers have been able to cross their Jersey animals with another variety for beef but have to keep them separated from the pure bred Jerseys.

Related internet links

The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites.