Articles
11 August 2022

Tillage update - Stubble management and Cover Crops
Tillage specialist Shay Phelan gives a timely update on the current harvest situation. He also has information on stubble management and some tips to get the maximum benefit from cover crops. Catch up on this weeks The Tillage Edge Podcast.
11 August 2022

Update from Signpost Hill Sheep Farmers Denis and Esther O'Riordan
Denis and Esther are in the Teagasc Signpost programme as a Hill Sheep Farmers. They carry 350 breeding ewes, predominantly Scotch Blackface and 6 Limousine suckler cows and a Charolais Bull. Here their Teagasc advisor Michael Connolly gives an update on the farm
11 August 2022

Harvest almost finished in the UK
Andy Mahon, who is a farm manager in North Bedfordshire in the UK joined this week's episode of The Tillage Edge Podcast to give an update on the harvest. Andy who is originally from Dublin, is almost finished the harvest already.
11 August 2022

Meet Signpost Tillage Farmer Vincent Macken
Vincent Macken mainly grows winter and spring crops. He has completed the winter barley harvest with yields averaging at 9 t/ha at a moisture of 15 %. Quality was generally very good. He also farms collaboratively with a neighbour sharing both machinery and labour. Get his latest farm update here
11 August 2022

Tillage Newsletter - August 2022
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Tillage team in the August newsletter. It includes: Winter oilseed rape; Post-harvest stubble management; Catch crops; Planning for Harvest 2023; Health & Safety - Take care with machinery; and more.
10 August 2022

12 Steps for Beef farmers to Reduce Gaseous Emissions
On the 28th July 2022, the Irish government reached agreement on Sectoral Emissions Ceilings to ensure Ireland plays a leading role in combating climate change. John Galvin, Teagasc Athenry advisor, explains how the Signpost Programme led by Teagasc will pave the way for farmers to achieve this
10 August 2022

Grass10 Newsletter - 9th August 2022
Get your weekly tips from the Grass10 team. It includes: PastureBase Ireland Dairy and Drystock figures; Predicted Grass Growth and Rainfall; P & K requirements; Grass10 featured farmer - Micheal Casey; The Clover Reporter with Trevor Boland; Autumn Grazing Targets; and more.
10 August 2022

Respect the power of the Sun
In current hot weather it is very important to take lots of drinks, stay indoors during periods of high temperatures and avoid exposure to the damaging effects of UV radiation from the sun. Farmers are one of the highest risk groups for skin cancer. Find some advice here.
10 August 2022

Future Beef: Autumn Calving update with Cork farmer, Ed Curtin
Future Beef farmer, Ed Curtin from Co. Cork is on this week's episode of The Beef Edge Podcast to discuss how he manages his autumn calving herd pre and post-calving.
10 August 2022

Beef Newsletter - August 2022
In this month's Beef newsletter get details of Scanning of suckler cows, Lime applications, Building grass covers, Weighing actions and Dosing and faecal egg testing
09 August 2022

Time to get a handle on condition
Condition score is very much a hands on assessment of ‘fatness’ or more appropriately the level of body reserves in the form of muscle and adipose tissue deposited on an animal. Ciaran Lynch, Teagasc Sheep Specialist discusses using this tool to improve flock productivity, health and labour input
09 August 2022

Water supply important in dry weather
The current hot, dry grazing conditions will result in an increase in the intake of water by dairy cows. A jump in intake will put pressure on water systems where trough reserve or size is poor. George Ramsbottom, Teagasc Dairy Specialist, discuses the importance of water supply and recommendations
09 August 2022

Tackling Ovine Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma (OPA) in a hill flock
Patrick Dunne, who is a participant in the Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep programme, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss the impact of OPA on his flock and how he has addressed the issue over the past number of years.
09 August 2022

Meet Signpost Dairy Farmer Steven Fitzgerald
Steven Fitzgerald is a dairy farmer milking 170 cows in Co. Waterford. He has a beef enterprise also. The plan is to milk 200 cows and decrease the beef enterprise over time. As part of the Signpost programme Steven strives for more efficiency on farm through breeding and grazing improvements
09 August 2022

Sheep Newsletter - August 2022
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in the August newsletter including: Grassland management, Minimising lameness, Preparing rams for mating season, Take care with machinery, BETTER farm update - Grass quality challenges, Research update: Lambs thriving in good conditions
08 August 2022

On the scent: the aroma of raw milk
Pioneering research undertaken by Teagasc, in association with University College Cork, has shown how cows’ diets affect the aroma of raw milk.
08 August 2022

New Teagasc Organic Cropping and Integrated Systems Specialist
Teagasc have appointed Martin Bourke as a new Organic Cropping and Integrated Systems Specialist. He joins Elaine Leavy and Joe Kellegher as Teagasc national organic specialists who support organic farmers and advisers.
08 August 2022

Meet the Poultry farmer - Belview Eggs
Dermot Herlihy began egg production in 1978 with 5,000 hens expanding to 3 Enriched Colony Systems by 2010. In 2020, Belview established their free-range unit at Carrickbaggot, Co. Louth. Find out the Signpost farm measures undertaken in Energy Efficiency, Carbon Footprint and Manure Management
08 August 2022

Lameness: its cause and appropriate treatment strategies
Ger Cusack and Ned Dunphy join Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to discuss common lameness conditions, its cause and appropriate treatment strategies.
08 August 2022

Dairy Newsletter - August 2022
In this month's Dairy newsletter get details of Setting grazing up for the Autumn, Teagasc fodder survey, Lame cows - the next 6 weeks are crucial, Preparing for clean and comfortable cows next winter and Health & Safety - Take care with machinery
07 August 2022

Agricultural diversification – Have you considered horticulture?
This article by Carol Melody Lecturer of Biodiversity, Ecology and Plant Science, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture will convince you to consider horticulture, if you haven't before, as a diversification option for your farm. There is ample information too about Teagasc horticulture courses
07 August 2022

Wind Energy
Domestically, the Irish Government is now focused on securing 70% of all electricity from renewables by 2030. In 2019, wind energy provided 32.5% of our electricity. Barry Caslin, Teagasc, Rural Economy and Development Programme has more Wind Energy information here in this factsheet
07 August 2022

Meet Ruairi Cummins - Future Beef farmer, Co. Kilkenny
Ruairi is farming on 35Ha of owned land split into two main blocks in Kilmoganny, Co. Kilkenny. He also works off farm with a local suckler farmer. The whole farm is paddocked. Find out the changes to soil fertility that Ruairi is making on his farm this summer and how he is managing animal health
06 August 2022

Potato blight disease research
Potato late blight, continues to be the most economically destructive disease of global potato crops. The primary potato disease remains Phytophthora infestans (late blight), responsible for €1,000,000,000 of annual losses in the EU alone. Read about the focus of Teagasc Late Blight Research here
06 August 2022

Energy-Saving Usage in Lighting
Good lighting is a fundamental requirement for the efficient operation of a farm. It is also an important element of farm safety during the winter months. As lighting is also costly to provide and run, now is the time to consider efficient lighting on the farm in advance of the longer nights.
06 August 2022

What do Irish consumers think about farming and animal welfare?
Analysis: consumers have generally positive views of animal welfare on Irish farms, but there is a growing knowledge gap about farming practices. This article, by Áine Regan and John Hyland, Teagasc was first publsihed recently on RTÉ Brainstorm. You can read it here
05 August 2022

Is stubble cultivation necessary on your farm this harvest?
Ted Massey, from the Nitrates Section at the Department of Agriculture, joined the Tillage Edge this week to discuss the new rules around stubble cultivation. These rules are intended to encourage plants to grow and mop up nitrogen, which could be leached to ground water.
05 August 2022

Farming for a Better Future -Technologies for Today & Tomorrow
A major Teagasc Open Day is planned for Tuesday, 30th August at Teagasc Environment Research Centre, Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford. This Open Day will demonstrate technologies and practices that can be adopted on farms to help maintain farm productivity and profitability and increase sustainability
05 August 2022

Freedom to Move: Free Lactation Pens Improve Sow Welfare
Orla Kinane and Dr. Keelin O’Driscoll from Teagasc Pig Development Department, along with Dr. Fidelma Butler from University College Cork have recently published ‘Freedom to Move: Free Lactation Pens Improve Sow Welfare’. You can find the details of this interesting study here on Teagasc Daily
05 August 2022

Review of Beef 2022 Open day
The Beef 2022 open day took place just a month ago on the 5th July. If you missed the open day tune into an episode of the beef edge podcast to get the key messages for your beef system. Catherine Egan, Teagasc Beef Specialist reviews key points from the day with a series of Beef Edge podcasts here
05 August 2022

Forestry at the Tullamore Show 2022
The Tullamore Show, on Sunday 14 August, is Ireland’s largest agricultural one-day event. With its location on an all-weather site, the show will provide a spectacular country living showcase with over 700 trade stands and displays. Make sure you visit Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department there
04 August 2022

Reseeding - Getting it right
The main advantage of reseeding grassland is it increases both the quantity and quality of grass grown, by somewhere in the region of 20- 40%, mostly in spring and autumn. At the cost it must be done right. Michael Donoghue, Dairy Advisor, Teagasc Tuam, covers all of the additional benefits here
04 August 2022

Teagasc Signpost Programme Newsletter August 2022
In this month’s newsletter we have an article encouraging all farmers to take just one action on their farm to reduce emissions this Autumn as well as a useful article on cover crops; 3 Signpost farmers profiled. Our climate actions focus on catch crops, liming, building Autumn grass and more here
04 August 2022

Jessy’s Farm Safety Champions announced in Farm Safety Competition
Jessy the Sheep Dog, the Teagasc Farm Safety mascot, loves to help keep everyone safe on the farm. To celebrate end of school term and highlight safety during the recent Farm Safety Week, Jessy and her friends ran an art competition in which 4 lucky winners were chosen to receive a toy shop voucher
04 August 2022

Tillage Update – Changes to Shallow Cultivation Post-Harvest Requirements
Mark Plunkett, Teagasc Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist, remarks on the exceptionally good weather and soils conditions with 25% less rain in 2022 than normal. Mark has the details on the Amendment to the requirement to shallow cultivate post-harvest, under the Nitrates Directive, SI 113 of 2022
04 August 2022

Taking the first step to reducing emissions on your farm
The EPA report released on the 21st July was stark. Greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from Agriculture (and other sectors) continues to rise. For 2021, emissions from Agriculture increased by 3% compared to 2020 levels. This is going in the wrong direction, say Siobhán Kavanagh & Karl Richards, Teagasc
03 August 2022

Will the benefits of pregnancy scanning cows far outweigh the cost?
Is it at least 30 days since the last cow in your herd could have been served? If your answer is yes, then you should consider scanning your cows. It offers many advantages and is a vital tool used on well managed herds around the country. Catherine Egan, Teagasc Beef Specialist talks scanning here
03 August 2022

Teagasc launch new guide: Reducing lameness in Irish dairy herds
Reducing lameness on Irish dairy farms will result in a higher standard of cow welfare, which is crucial to maintain Ireland’s image as a producer of high quality sustainable dairy products; will also decrease the use of antimicrobials on dairy farms and result in many other benefits. Read more here
03 August 2022

Swards for the Future Grassland conference launched
Teagasc are organising and hosting an exciting two-day conference and workshop on Thursday, 8th & Friday, 9th of September 2022 to explore Resilient Swards for the Future. The event will take place at the Teagasc, Animal & Grassland, Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork
03 August 2022

Grass10 Newsletter - 2nd August 2022
The Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition 2022 has been launched! The Grass10 team bring us the details in this week's newsletter. Also get the regular PBI dairy & beef figures, grass growth predictions, Grass10 Weekly Checklist & tips, Grass10 Featured Farmer, Clover reporter and more here
03 August 2022

The Key Messages for Suckler Farmers from Beef2022
Teagasc Advisor, Alan Nolan, based in Ballinrobe Co. Mayo, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to review key messages for suckler farmers from Beef2022
02 August 2022
BovINE making an impact – the farmer view (An interview with John Dunne)
John Dunne runs a suckler to beef production grassland farm selling steers and heifers at under 24 months of age on approx. 120ha of good quality land in Co Laois. In this short interview with Kevin Kinsella, Irish BovINE Network manager, John gives his views and insights into the BovINE project
02 August 2022

BETTER Sheep Farming with Francis Gonely
Francis Gonley and his family run an all-sheep farm on the outskirts of Sligo town. Since Francis joined the Teagasc BETTER farm programme in 2017, the lowland flock has greatly improved in terms of output per ewe. Damian Costello, Teagasc Sheep Specialist outlines these improvements here
02 August 2022

Reducing the impacts of high input costs on Tillage Farms
Maintaining current crop yields and margins while managing higher costs of fertilisers, fuel and possibly fertiliser supply issues in the year ahead is today's challenge. Mark Plunkett, Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist, Teagasc Johnstown Castle, advises on getting more from each kilo of fertiliser
02 August 2022

Grassland management focus
Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss grazing management as we head into the autumn.
02 August 2022

Signpost Series Webinar - The Ecological Value & Condition of Irish Uplands
This webinar as part of The Signpost Series focused on the ecological value and condition of Irish uplands. Moderated by Andy Boland, Teagasc with feature guest speaker Caitriona Douglas, Ecologist, NPWS and Catherine Keena, Countryside Management Specialist.
01 August 2022

Johnstown Castle Winter Milk Herd – Dry Cow Management
Ensuring autumn calving cows are in the correct condition for calving down will significantly reduce the risks of metabolic disorders and the increased workload and loss of production that goes with it. Dairy Specialist James Dunne outlines the dry cow practices in the Johnstown Castle research herd
01 August 2022

Early indications of the success of the 2022 breeding season
Dairy farmer and AI technician, Colm O’Connor, joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to discuss the early indications of the success of the 2022 breeding season.
01 August 2022

How to help pollinators and the wider biodiversity on farm
Ruth Wilson, Farmland Pollinator Officer with the National Biodiversity Data Centre working on the All Ireland Pollinator Plan, joins Deirdre and Cathal on the latest Environment Edge podcast to discuss what we can do on the farm and other initiatives going on to help our pollinators.
31 July 2022

Is it necessary to complete the Green Cert?
On completion of the Green Cert course, students meet the requirements of a qualified farmer for the purposes of all Revenue and Department of Agriculture (DAFM) schemes. Serena Gibbons, Education Officer, Teagasc Athenry discusses the wider benefits of completing the Green Cert
31 July 2022

It’s hard to be green, when in the red
Farmers are facing a big challenge when it comes to balancing economic sustainability with environmental sustainability, says Michael Hayden, Assistant Professor of Accounting at Maynooth University. This External Insights article featured in the TResearch Summer 2022 Magazine. Read more here
31 July 2022

The Signpost Series Webinar - Glanbia Ireland’s Living Proof Sustainability Strategy
On this episode of The Signpost Series which took place on Friday, 15th July, Andy Boland, Teagasc Environment Specialist was joined by Thomas Ryan, Senior Sustainability Manager, Glanbia to discuss Glanbia Ireland’s Living Proof Sustainability Strategy.
30 July 2022

Summer safety on farm
Summer is always a very busy time on farms and there is so much happening with silage, harvesting of crops and ongoing management of livestock, but we all need to remain mindful of health and safety on the farm. Marion Fox, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Athenry focuses on a few areas to consider
30 July 2022

Dairy Start-up Farm in Ballindine, Co. Mayo
Donal Ronayne and his uncle Liam Trench started milking 205 heifers in 2021. Historically the farm was a suckler to beef enterprise. The conversion to dairying started in 2019 and a Farm Partnership was set-up. Donal Kelly, Dairy Advisor, Teagasc Claremorris talks about this great change on the farm
30 July 2022

Is rural Ireland really dying? What the facts and figures tell us
The question of whether rural Ireland is dying or not, is complicated, and requires nuanced geographic analysis. This article By Josh O'Driscoll, Frank Crowley, Justin Doran, Mary O'Shaughnessy, UCC; David Meredith and Jesko Zimmermann, Teagasc first appeared on RTÉ Brainstorm
29 July 2022

Discover forest fungi at the Woodland Festival 2022 with Teagasc
The Woodland Festival will take place this year on Sunday the 28th August 2022 at Clonalis Estate, Castlerea, Co Roscommon from 12 noon to 6pm. Jonathan Spazzi, Teagasc Forestry Adviser, outlines how the Teagasc Forestry Department will actively participate in this Woodland Festival. You are invited
29 July 2022

Buying a ram? Make use of the genetic information
With ram sales in full swing, Kevin Mc Dermott Sheep Ireland Manager joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss using genetic information when making your purchasing decisions.
29 July 2022

Adoption of Breeding Technologies on Future Beef Farms
The aim of Future Beef is to demonstrate to beef farmers how they can produce a quality product as efficiently as possible. This will make beef farming more profitable while also making it more environmentally and socially sustainable. FutureBeef advisor Gabriel Trayers gives further advice
29 July 2022

Pig Newsletter - July 2022
Get the latest information and advice from the Teagasc Pig Team. In this month's edition: Heat stress, African Swine Fever Update and Implementing an optimised hygiene programme in farrowing rooms increases piglet weaning weight and reduces the need for medicinal treatment in suckling piglets.
29 July 2022

Francis Hewitson - Green Cert Experience
Francis Hewitson competed the Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Forestry at Ballyhaise College. He says the Green Cert in forestry opened up a range of job opportunities. He particularly enjoys the machinery side of forestry and worked with the contractor, Stewarts while on work placement.
29 July 2022

The Signpost Series Webinar - Initiatives undertaken at Ballyhaise College to reduce emissions
On this episode of The Signpost Series which took place on Friday, 1st July, Andy Boland, Teagasc Environment Specialist was joined by John Kelly, College Principal, Teagasc Ballyhaise College to discuss the initiatives undertaken at Ballyhaise College to reduce emissions.
28 July 2022

Tillage Update on Crop Yields and Stubble Cultivation
As harvest continues around the country there are some very disappointed winter barley growers especially those with earlier sown (and harvested) crops, as yields rarely surpassed 3.5t/ac. Michael Hennessy Head of Teagasc Crops KT suggests why this might be. He also discusses stubble cultivation
28 July 2022

Controlling weeds in the horse paddock
Teagasc Equine Specialist, Wendy Conlon explains how best to deal with certain noxious weeds, some of which can be deadly to horses.
28 July 2022

Quality grass now will reduce meal required to finish lambs
The majority of weaning of March-born lambs has already been done. Some first drafting of lambs for sale has taken place or is getting underway. Andy Ryder, Teagasc Advisor Westport takes a look at your market options, while Edward Egan, Teagasc Advisor Navan discusses finishing lambs from grass
28 July 2022

Wheat yields down 43% - harvest update from Jim McCarthy in Romania
Jim McCarthy joined the Tillage Edge podcast from Romania this week to give an update on the progress of his harvest and an overview of the harvest in his part of the world.
28 July 2022

Cliona Beirne - Green Cert experience
“What I loved about being in college was that you would be learning about measuring grass in the morning and you would be in the field in the afternoon putting it into practice" says Cliona Beirne about the Teagasc Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture (Dairy Herd Mgt) at Mountbellew College
27 July 2022

Grass10 Newsletter - 26th July 2022
The Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition 2022 has been launched! The Grass10 team bring us the details in this week's newsletter. Also get the regular PBI dairy & beef figures, grass growth predictions, Grass10 Weekly Checklist & tips, Grass10 Featured Farmer, Clover reporter and more here
27 July 2022

Using TAMS to improve Farm Sustainability
Séamus Nolan, Dairy Advisor, Teagasc Castlerea, discusses using TAMS to improve farm sustainability. Séamus outlines a sample of eligible investments under TAMS which benefit both the farmer and the environment. If considering applying for a TAMS grant consult your Teagasc advisor. Read more here
27 July 2022

10 Reasons to Download the New Teagasc App
Teagasc have launched a new exciting app which will provide regular news and information updates to the farming, agricultural & food communities directly to users’ phones. These daily updates are provided 7 days a week through a phone App, available for both Android and iPhone. Download it today!
27 July 2022

The Best Kept Secret of the Beef2022 Open Day
Dr Eddie O’Riordan, Teagasc Researcher, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the key points from Beef2022 for growing and finishing cattle farmers.
27 July 2022

Meet Dominic White past Equine Student Kildalton
“I always wanted to have a career which wasn’t heavily office based. I had a strong interest in horses and getting the Green Cert. The Stud Management course at Kildalton seemed ideal,” says Dominic. He completed the L6 Advanced Certificate in Equine Breeding - Stud Management at Kildalton College.
26 July 2022

All you need to know about Covid and losing your sense of smell
One of the big things that came out of the pandemic was that many people who got Covid also lost their sense of smell. Some have got it back, others have got it partly back and others haven't got it back at all. Dr Emily Crofton,Teagasc researcher joined the Ray D'Arcy Show on RTÉ Radio 1 to discuss
26 July 2022

Addressing lameness on the dairy farm
One of the hidden costs when it comes to milking cows is lameness. Also, lameness is a repeat offender problem. Mark O’Sullivan, Business & Technology Dairy advisor at Teagasc Clonakilty discusses the causes but more importantly the steps to take to correct and prevent lameness in dairy cows
26 July 2022

Maria Keane - Green Cert experience
“The Green Cert gives you a great foundation in agriculture,” says Maria about the Teagasc distance Level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farming course, which she completed at Gurteen College. Maria talks about her distance "Green Cert" course which she found flexible and accommodating
26 July 2022

Approaching Deadline for Fodder Support Scheme 2022
The deadline for submission of applications for the Fodder Support Scheme is Tuesday August 2nd 2022. It is important that all eligible farmers apply even though the maximum payment of €1,000 per applicant may look small to some. Matt O’Sullivan Teagasc Advisor, Killarney has the details here
26 July 2022

Designing a breeding programme for your flock
Every flock no matter how big or small should have a clearly defined breeding programme. The programme should identify the type of ewes that you wish to have in your flock and the type of lambs that you wish to produce. Michael Gottstein Teagasc Head of Sheep, sums up the main points to consider
25 July 2022

Newford Update -TB testing, Cattle weights & heifer replacements arrival
Michael Fagan, Technician at Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm, Athenry has the latest Newford report including a setback from TB testing, Cattle weights for beef bullocks & heifers, 2022-born heifer replacements arrive on-farm and Progressive Young Farmers visit Newford. Read all on Teagasc Daily
25 July 2022

Dave Moloney - Green Cert student experience
“My only regret is that I didn’t do it years ago!” says Dave Moloney, Co Cork about the Teagasc part-time Level 6 Specific Purpose Certificate in Farming course, which he completed at Teagasc Macroom. Dave, who won 2021 Teagasc Student of the Year Competition, talks about his "Green Cert" course
25 July 2022

Teagasc PhD Walsh Scholarship Opportunity on Mastitis
Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland, most commonly caused by bacterial infection. Teagasc Researcher Dr. Pablo Silva Boloña has full details here of a Teagasc PhD Walsh Scholarship opportunity at Teagasc Moorepark, on mastitis. Closing date for applications is 31st August 2022
25 July 2022

The optimum feeding rates to complement grass supply
Head of Dairy Knowledge Transfer, Joe Patton, joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to discuss optimum feeding rates to complement grass supply.
25 July 2022

Signpost Series Webinar - Reduce N surplus on an intensive dairy farm
On this episode of the Signpost Series which took place on Friday, 8th July, Mark Gibson, Head of Teagasc Outreach & Innovation Department was joined by Donal Patton, Teagasc to discuss reducing N surplus on an intensive dairy farm.
24 July 2022

Anaerobic Digestion Plant - Teagasc Grange
A pilot-scale anaerobic digestion plant is currently under construction at Teagasc Grange. It is due to be commissioned in 2022. The plant will produce biogas using grass silage & cattle slurry. Find out more from our team in Grange Paul Crosson, Ciara Beausang, Sofia Tisocco & JJ Lenehan.
24 July 2022
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The Clover Reporter with Peter Doyle, Derrypatrick Herd Grange
Peter Doyle, Derrypatrick Herd Grange is this week's Clover Reporter. We get an update on the management of the existing grass- clover swards for the summer, of 2022 oversown paddocks and of the 2022 reseeded paddocks on the Derrypatrick farm.
24 July 2022

Growing wild - dog rose and meadowsweet
Catherine Keena, Teagasc Countryside Management Specialist takes a closer look at some of our native Irish biodiversity to look out for in the countryside. Here she shares some interesting facts of nature about dog rose and meadowsweet
23 July 2022

Grass margins a simple but effective environmental measure!
Grass margins are strips of untouched vegetation around field boundaries. These margins are typically fenced off and left alone to provide habitat cover and food for flora and fauna to thrive in. Why do we need grass margins? And are they effective? Eanna Loughrey, Teagasc Ballinrobe has answers
23 July 2022

Enhanced rates for Organic Farmers
The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Senator Pippa Hackett recently announced proposed new enhanced rates for farmers participating in the Organic farming scheme. These are subject to approval by the European Commission.
23 July 2022

The Signpost Series Webinar - Incorporation and Benefits of Trees on the Farm
On this episode of The Signpost Series which took place on Friday, 24th June, Pat Murphy, Head of Environment Knowledge Transfer Department, Teagasc was joined by Tom Houlihan, Teagasc Forestry Specialist to discuss the incorporation and benefits of trees on the farm.
22 July 2022

Forest Genetic Resources Trust (FGRT)
In 2018 the Forest Genetic Resources Trust (FGRT) was established to carry on improvement work on oak, ash, sycamore, birch, cherry, Spanish chestnut and walnut plus selection, progeny testing and seed orchards. Teagasc is a member of FGRT and carries out the birch and alder improvement work
22 July 2022

Fatal Farm Incidents in Ireland 2008 – 2021
As farm safety week draws to a close today, Teagasc Staff Dr David Meredith, Rural Economy Development Programme (REDP), Dr John McNamara, Health & Safety Specialist and Dr Mohammad Mohammadrezaei, REDP, show us the statistics on Fatal Farm Incidents in Ireland 2008 – 2021 to raise safety awareness
22 July 2022

Promoting Positive Mental Health among Farmers
Mental Health Awareness is today's Farm Safety Week theme. Farmers live in constantly changing times with possibilities of farming problems and many issues that can cause stress and associated mental health challenges. John McNamara, Teagasc Health & Safety Specialist discusses managing stress here
22 July 2022

Teagasc Pig Research Update - assessing dietary efficiencies
Jordi Camp Montoro, Teagasc PhD student, with David Solà Oriol, Ramon Muns, Josep Gasa, Núria Llanes & Edgar Garcia Manzanilla recently published a research paper: ‘Blood and faecal biomarkers to assess dietary energy, protein and amino acid efficiency of utilization by growing and finishing pigs'
22 July 2022

Minister Heydon announces major investment in farm safety
Minister of State with responsibility for Farm Safety at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, T.D., on Thursday 21st July, announced the provision of funding to Teagasc for the procurement of 18 farm machinery simulators, for use in agricultural colleges.
21 July 2022

Quitting smoking success - A Farmer study
Farmers have been identified as a high-risk group for cancer mortality compared to other occupational groups. Cancers of the lungs and respiratory tract are major killers and are particularly associated with smoking tobacco. John McNamara, Teagasc Health & Safety Specialist informs us of more here
21 July 2022

Do companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep?
Post-graduate student, Sarah Woodmartin, and Dr Fiona McGovern join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss ongoing work examining the effect of companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep as part of a wider Grass2Gas project.
21 July 2022

Tillage Update - Fire risks at harvest & Winter Barley
Shay Phelan, Teagasc Tillage Specialist cautions on the increased risk of fires on tillage farms right now. He advises farmers to put safety measures in place and lists 10 tips farmers should follow. Shay also reflects on the Winter barley harvest, advising growers to analyse how the crop performed
21 July 2022

Harvest 2022: the progress so far
On this week’s Tillage Edge podcast, John Pettit and Conor Kavanagh, both Teagasc tillage advisors, discuss the results so far from the south east and the south of the country.
21 July 2022

Preventing Occupational Respiratory Diseases in Farming
On Thursday 21st July Respiratory Health is the #FarmSafetyWeek theme. Farmers are at high risk for developing respiratory (lung) disease. About 60% of non-smoking Irish farmers report having some lung or breathing issues. John McNamara, Teagasc Health & Safety Specialist discusses preventing this
20 July 2022

Grass10 Newsletter - 19th July 2022
This week's Grass10 Newsletter includes; Grass10 featured farmer-Paudie O'Brien; the clover reporter with Peter Doyle, Teagasc Grange; Grass10 weekly tips; weekly checklist; plus grass growth predictions, PBI figure and a New Feature on PastureBase Ireland - Record the level of clover in paddocks
20 July 2022

Mid-season weighing – ‘knowledge is power’
DairyBeef 500 Programme farmers are in the midst of mid-season weighing. Not only does this management practice give an excellent indication of how animals have performed since turnout, it also provides valuable information for decision making and planning for the remainder of the year.
20 July 2022

Farm safety champions and farm accident survivors
It's #FarmSafetyWeek and Wednesday's theme is farm safety champions and farm accident survivors. Teagasc Health and Safety Specialists, Francis Bligh and John McNamara encourage you to be a farm safety champion this July. They introduce Ann Doherty, a south Kilkenny farmer and accident survivor
20 July 2022

DairyBeef 500 and what it hopes to achieve in the next five years
DairyBeef 500 campaign manager, Alan Dillon, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to review the key messages from Beef2022 for dairy beef farmers. He discusses the lessons learned from the Green Acres Programme and outlines the new five year DairyBeef 500 campaign launched recently
20 July 2022

Labour saving: 13 times per week milking
Fancy taking some time off on your dairy farm? Reducing the number of milkings per week is a practice used to allow farmers to take time off from the farm, from July onwards. Martina Gormley, Teagasc Dairy Specialist examines this approach and emhasises that consistency is important to make it work
19 July 2022

The Energy and Farm Business Show 2022
The Energy and Farm Business Show is the business event for forward thinking farmers and landowners looking to explore ways to address climate change and enhance their business through the generation of renewable energy, the implementation of low carbon technology and environmental best practice.
19 July 2022

Grass management in dry weather conditions
Soil moisture and high daily temperatures are beginning to impact on daily grass growth in many parts of the country. While fields and paddocks remain green growth is impaired. Teagasc specialist, Joe Patton has advice and tips for managing grass in the current prolonged spell of dry weather.
19 July 2022

BETTER Hill Sheep Farm Walk with Patrick Dunne
Join us on Wednesday, 27th July at 6:30pm on the farm of Patrick Dunne, Glenmalure, Co. Wicklow for a hill sheep farm walk. Patrick is a participant in the BETTER Farm Sheep Programme. Find out how the farm is progressing and get details on this year's flock performance and health and more.
19 July 2022

Thomas Curran is New Head of the Teagasc Advisory Service
Thomas Curran has been appointed as the new Head of the Teagasc Advisory Service. The appointment was approved by the Teagasc Authority today, Tuesday, 19 July. Thomas Curran will lead the Teagasc advisory service, which is delivered to farmers nationwide by a team of agricultural advisors
19 July 2022

Young persons - be safe around farm vehicles and machinery
Health and Safety Authority figures tell us that sadly 22 children lost their lives as a result of farm accidents in the past 10 years. HSA figures also tell us that 91% of childhood deaths on farms had a farm vehicle or a machine involved. Get some advice here on keeping young persons safe
19 July 2022

Child Safety on Farms in 2022
The farm safety week theme for Tuesday is Child safety on farms. Francis Bligh, Teagasc Health & Safety Specialist outlines ways to keep children safe on farm. He discusses the importance of teaching children about farm safety and lists various resources for children including ‘Stay Safe with Jessy'
18 July 2022

Biodiversity Farm Walk in Wexford
Colm Doran, Teagasc advisor, Gorey extends an open invitation to what promises to be an informative evening at a Biodiversity Farm Walk on the dairy farm of Alan & Cheryl Poole on Wednesday, 20th July at 7pm near Craanford, Gorey, Co. Wexford. Attendees will see good on-farm biodiversity in practice
18 July 2022

Minister McConalogue’s Vision for the Future of Dairy
Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to discuss his vision for the future of Dairy Farming in Ireland.
18 July 2022

Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition 2022 is launched
The Grassland farmer of the year competition for 2022 was officially launched on Friday 15th July in Johnstown Castle Estate by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD.
18 July 2022

Highlights from Beef2022
On the latest Environment Edge podcast, listen in to hear from advisors, researchers and farmers who spoke with Deirdre and Cathal in the Signpost Village at Beef 2022, discussing topics such as soil health, biodiversity, hedgerows, water quality and what interested farmers on the day.
18 July 2022

Let's Talk Dairy Webinar - IHFA role in Irish dairy breeding
On this episode of Let's Talk Dairy which took place on Thursday, 30th June, Stuart Childs, Teagasc Dairy Specialist was joined by Laurence Feeney, CEO of IHFA to discuss the role of the IHFA in Irish dairy breeding.
17 July 2022

Profitable and sustainable dairy system
The Dairy Research programme in the Teagasc Agricultural College in Ballyhaise, County Cavan has been running for 17 years with a continued focus on developing profitable grazing systems for the Border, Midlands and Western regions
17 July 2022

Teagasc Fodder Survey Results
Teagasc dairy and drystock advisors completed feed budgets with a selection of over 500 farmer clients on PastureBase Ireland in late June/early July. The Teagasc Fodder Survey Results were presented to the National Fodder & Food Security Committee on Wednesday, 13th July. Get a summary here
17 July 2022

‘A spit seals the deal’ in the Teagasc Beef Photo Competition
Teagasc ran a photo competition in the run up to their National Beef Open Day, BEEF2022 and invited entries from beef farmers all over the country, which depicted what beef farming means to them and what day-to-day life is like on an Irish beef farm.
16 July 2022

Energy In Agriculture 2022
The Energy and Farm Business Show is set to bring you an incredible day full of unmissable insights into the latest revolutionary products transforming the agri-industry. Gurteen College will be transformed into the ultimate hub on Tuesday, 19 July ready to turn your ideas into a reality.
16 July 2022

Labour Review Mid-Year on the Dairy Farm
2022 has now passed the half-year mark. How has it gone for you so far? Tom Murphy, Dairy Adviser, Teagasc Athenry says Now is a good time to assess what went well on your farm so far in 2022 and identify areas for change. He has helpful suggestions and tips for re-organising work on the dairy farm
16 July 2022

Farmers encouraged to view new SunSmart video
Working outdoors for long period’s means farmers are one of the highest risk groups for skin cancer. High temperatures are predicted over the next few days. Teagasc encourages farmers to watch the SunSmart video. Read also details on Healthy Ireland SunSmart steps for farmers.
15 July 2022

Lung worm, Hoose, Dictyocaulus viviparous – The Facts
Lungworm infection is one of the most important respiratory diseases of cattle in Ireland. Outbreaks can be widespread and unpredictable resulting in reduced animal performance and in severe cases animal losses. Martina Harrington, Teagasc Cattle Specialist has detailed advice on Lungworm in cattle
15 July 2022

Teagasc Pig Research Facility Farm Update - July 2022
In this video Tomás Ryan, Farm Manager at Teagasc Pig Research Facility updates us on what has been happening on the unit over the past few months. He reviews the six month performance from the unit. Find out more here
15 July 2022

Why July is the most dangerous month
Grim figures suggest greater caution than ever is needed on farms in summer. Farm Safety Week 2022 takes place from Monday 18 to Friday 22 July. This is timely as Francis Bligh, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist demonstrates that July is the most dangerous month on farms. Read more here
15 July 2022

Woodlands and Lough Oughter – from the air
Lough Oughter is a complex of lakes on the river Erne in Co. Cavan covering about 9,000 hectares. The area is a designated Natura 2000 site and is also part of the UNESCO Marble Arch Caves Geopark. Kevin O’Connell, Teagasc Forestry Development Officer discusses integration of forestry and the lakes
15 July 2022

Today's Farm - July/August 2022
The July/August edition of our bi-monthly magazine is now available online. In this edition Meet our Green Cert graduates. With Farm Safety Week in July we learn it's the most dangerous month. Also Seven steps to maximise lamb performance, Growing demand for oilseed rape; joining ACRES and more
14 July 2022

Drinks Ireland partners with Teagasc Signpost programme to support sustainable future supply of Irish grain
The Teagasc Signpost programme has announced a partnership with Drinks Ireland, which represents Irish drinks manufacturers and suppliers, to further reduce the environmental footprint of grain production, which is key to underpinning the future sustainability needs of Ireland’s drinks industry.
14 July 2022

Tillage Update - Harvest management
Harvest time is upon us and it is usually the busiest time on any tillage farm. Shay Phelan, Teagasc Tillage Specialist has simple tips here which can make the job in hand a bit more efficient and which can also have long term benefits on soil structure.
14 July 2022

Water requirements for beef cattle
In current dry weather conditions water systems may come under pressure to meet herd demand, especially if temperatures are persistently high for a number of days. Niall Kerins, Teagasc Drystock Advisor, Kilrush Co Clare, has guidelines on how to meet the water requirements for beef cattle here
14 July 2022

The combine harvester settings to harvest crops more efficiently
Shay Phelan talks to Dermot Forristal and Brendan Burke from Oak Park on this week’s Tillage Edge podcast to discuss combine harvester settings to ensure that crops are harvested as efficiently as possible.
14 July 2022

Tillage Newsletter - July 2022
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Tillage team in the July newsletter. It includes: Nitrate regulations – green cover on tillage ground; Straw Incorporation Measure; Grass weeds; Planning for Harvest 2023; Health & Safety - The most dangerous month and the Teagasc tillage podcast
13 July 2022

Irish Sport Horse (ISH) Young Breeders crowned World Champions
The Irish Sport Horse Studbook Young Breeders team were crowned World Champions at the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses International Young Breeders World Championships in Ermelo, Holland July 7-9 2022.
13 July 2022

The weights are in – BETTER farm update
Dr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch for this episode of OviCast with an update of how performance has stacked up on the lowland flocks at weaning.
13 July 2022

Teagasc Signpost Programme Newsletter July 2022
In this month’s newsletter we've a short article on improving nutrient efficiency on tillage farms by Mark Plunkett. We profile two Signpost farmers – pigs farmers Miriam & Mattie Moore, Co. Offaly & organic farmer Bill George, Co. Laois. We've our usual climate actions for the month of July & more
13 July 2022

Grass10 Newsletter - 12th July 2022
See this week's advice from the Grass10 team. Keep up weekly walking of the farm. Get the takeaway messages from Sean O'Donnell's farm walk in Mayo. The Condons of Kilkenny are the Grass10 featured farmer; Clover reporter with Ger Pardy. How to manage low covers; PBI grass growth figures and more
13 July 2022

The Beef2022 Forum on Supporting Sustainable Beef Farming
This week’s Beef Edge episode is a recording of the Beef Forum that concluded the open day in Teagasc Grange on the 5th July.
13 July 2022

Beef Newsletter - July 2022
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Beef team in the July newsletter. It includes: Sustainable parasite control; Five July jobs; Research Update - Reducing enteric methane emissions using feed additives and Health & Safety - The most dangerous month