Dr. Paul Crosson:

In terms of the farm system we model, we assume exceptional levels of management, that is, very high efficiency in terms of the performance levels on the farm. If we look at this in terms of grass and management and forage consumption within the system, the percentage of grazed pasture as total feed budget, weaning weights achieved, calves and calving intervals, we are assuming the highest level of management. In terms of reflecting best practice and what farmers are achieving, particularly in our demonstration herds and our research farm herds, we are certainly replicating that within the economic model.