Better Genetics, Not Better Grooming With Dr Mark Ferguson

Better Genetics, Not Better Grooming With Dr Mark Ferguson

Author: Mark Ferguson February 9, 2025 Duration: 17:50
Some rams at sales are not what they seem. Foot trimming and excessive feeding can cover up genetic faults, and buyers are paying the price. This week, Ferg breaks down what’s really happening in the industry and how we can fix it. 🐏 The problem with foot trimming in stud sales – why it hides genetic faults. 📉 How overfeeding sale rams distorts their true potential. 🏡 Why animals should be presented as they are—no sheds, no tricks. 🧬 The push for breeding values to improve foot structur...

Tune in to Head Shepherd, where Mark Ferguson draws on his deep involvement with neXtgen Agri to explore the realities of modern pastoral farming. This isn't just industry news; it's a series of conversations from the paddock and the research station, focused squarely on sheep and beef operations across Australia and New Zealand. You'll hear from the farmers, scientists, and innovators themselves-the people actually implementing new ideas in genetics, animal health, and farm management technology. Each episode digs into the practical science and the business decisions behind running a successful livestock enterprise, offering tangible insights that bridge the gap between emerging innovation and daily farm life. By focusing on real-world applications and the stories of those driving change, this podcast provides an authentic look at where these vital industries are headed. For anyone with a stake in the land or a curiosity about where their food and fibre comes from, Mark's straightforward interviews make complex topics accessible and directly relevant. The entire Head Shepherd podcast is built on the principle that sharing knowledge is key to progress, offering a genuine resource for education and improvement in the agricultural sector.
Author: Language: en-nz Episodes: 100

Head Shepherd
Podcast Episodes
Head Shepherd LIVE 2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:13
We recorded our final episode of Head Shepherd 2024 live on the Hub where Mark answered listener questions. Mark also chatted about the work he has been involved with in 2024. - GEPEP project and its applicability to com…
The Basics of Breeding Better Animals with Rudolph Linde [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:40
In this episode, Ferg is joined by Rudolph Linde, the Business Manager of Genetic Services at Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), who shares his journey from diversified farming operations in South Africa to a career acros…
Breeding Better Sheep in the North Island with Dr Emma Pettigrew [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:15
In this episode of Head Shepherd, we're thrilled to introduce Dr Emma Pettigrew, our new North Island consultant at nextGen Agri. Emma brings a wealth of experience and passion for the sheep and livestock industry, havin…
Managing Pastures for Long-Term Success with Cam Nicholson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:57
Looking to level up your pasture and crop management? This week’s guest is Cam Nicholson of Nicon Rural, an agronomist with four decades of experience. He breaks down the essentials of soil fertility, grazing management…
Foot Health Fundamentals in Sheep with MSD Animal Health [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:21
We’re talking feet on this week's podcast! Guests Jim Walsh, Veterinary Technical Advisor at MSD Animal Health Australia, and Kim Kelly, Veterinary Technical Advisor at MSD Animal Health New Zealand,join Mark in a fantas…
How Genetics Shape Sheep Immunity with Dr Kelsey Bentley [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:38
What is actually occurring within a sheep with worm resistance? This week on the podcast we have a fascinating discussion with Dr Kelsey Bentley who has spent her career so far looking into the immune mechanisms of Katah…
Ontario Sheep Farming: Insights from Dr Mark Ferguson [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:44
Sophie and Ferg catch up about Ferg’s recent trip to Ontario, Canada, where he visited 14 different sheep farming enterprises on his 10-day trip with Ontario Sheep Farmers. Highlights: - The differences in production sys…
Strategic Farm Management with John Francis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:05
John Francis, director of Agrista, an agricultural consultancy, discusses benchmarking, understanding optimum stocking rates, maximising pasture utilisation, feed efficiency and much more. Maximise pasture use and adjust…
Changing the Game with Bec Malseed [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:12
Bec Malseed, who manages AWI & RIST’s Lifetime Ewe Management course, in her spare time is a female central/field umpire in her local country footy regional league. It’s fair to say that she is trailblazing a path for ot…