Articles
26 February 2021
Improving Litters Per Sow Per Year
Improving litters per sow per year is the topic for this month’s Pig Edge podcast and Pat Varley, Research & Development Coordinator with PIC Hermitage joined Ciaran Carroll with more details and information.
25 February 2021
How to deal with Toxoplasmosis abortion
Three mistakes are often made when ewes abort: Failure to quickly isolate aborted ewe(s) & potentially infectious material; Failure to clearly identify the cause of abortion; Failure to put in place prevention methods; Edward Egan, Teagasc Advisor, Co. Meath has advice on dealing with Toxoplasmosis
25 February 2021
Tillage Edge Update 25th February 2021
Mark Plunkett, Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist reports from a number of tillage fields in the southeast on how crops have developed over the recent months. Crops have over wintered will with well rooted and good tiller development. Crops look to have greened up well despite the cold, wet weather
25 February 2021
CatchmentCare & Teagasc Sheep Dipping Demonstration
Teagasc Donegal is part of a very important educational tool for sheep farmers and Agricultural Advisers in every county in Ireland. It's the first video where a best practice approach to plunge sheep dipping, and the correct disposal for the spent dip afterwards, has been demonstrated and explained
25 February 2021
Malting Barley Conference 2021 – the Q&A panel session
Teagasc hosted a Malting barley webinar on Tuesday 23rd of February which covered many areas such as liquid nitrogen, cover crops, ramularia and the activities as part of the Teagasc Boortmalt joint programme. The questions and answers session is the focus of this week’s Tillage Edge podcast.
25 February 2021
Malting Barley Conference February 2021
The Teagasc Malting Barley Conference in conjunction with Boortmalt, took place virtually on Tuesday 23 February at 11.30 am. An interesting line up of speakers from Teagasc, Boortmalt and farmers presented on a range of topics from nitrogen application to disease control and Joint Programme update
24 February 2021
What do I need to feed from now until turnout?
With current weather conditions getting out to grass is challenging on most farms at the moment. However, where land is dry and free draining there is a great opportunity to start grazing to take advantage of spring grass early. Catherine Egan, Beef Specialist has advice for various cattle groups
24 February 2021
Are you interested in coming to a Teagasc College?
Interested in pursuing a career in the land and agri-food sector? Have you considered applying for a course at a Teagasc college? Teagasc colleges offer a wide array of full-time and part-time courses in agriculture, horticulture, equine, forestry and more. Sign up & Join our March Virtual Open Days
24 February 2021
Farm Business Options Webinar - Enterprising and Sustainable Energy Communities in Louth and Kerry
On a recent Farm Business Options Webinar held on Tuesday, 16 February, host Barry Caslin, Teagasc was joined by Gerry Reaburn, Rural Community Development Specialist; Kevin O’Sullivan, Teagasc Kerry/Limerick Advisor & Deirdre de Bhailís, Dingle Hub Manager to discuss Sustainable Energy Communities
24 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 23rd February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Continue to walk your farm & monitor ground conditions; Research project on ability of on-off grazing to extend grazing & more
24 February 2021
What do I need to know about my Basic Payment Application 2021?
In recent days farmers have been receiving a BPS information pack in the post containing maps and land details. On this week’s Beef Edge podcast, Teagasc Farm Management Specialist James McDonnell, joins Catherine Egan to discuss all you need to know about your basic payment application online form
23 February 2021
Brexit Trade Deal prevents Predicted Drop in Farm Income
A new report by economists at Teagasc published today, 23 February estimates that the average family farm income (FFI) in Ireland may increase by 3 per cent in 2021. Overall, some price inflation for farm inputs will be more than offset by higher prices for some farm outputs. Read more here
23 February 2021
New water protection measures
Under the Nitrates Action Plan and since 1st January 2021 further measures for the protection of water are required. Here, Eamonn Grace, ASSAP Advisor, discusses two important measures worth noting; Exclusion of bovines from watercourses and Location of water troughs away from watercourses
23 February 2021
Pregnancy scanning a key management tool for hill farmers at this time of year
Nearly all of the Teagasc BETTER Farm hill sheep flocks have finished pregnancy scanning in the past couple of weeks. Overall the scanning rates and litter sizes are quite good. Pregnancy scanning is a very important management tool for all sheep farmers, as Frank Campion, Teagasc Researcher details
23 February 2021
Spring fertiliser – the key considerations
Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the key factors to consider for fertiliser application this spring.
23 February 2021
Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference 2021
The Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference took place virtually, across two evenings at 8pm on Wednesday, 17th February and Thursday, 18th February. In this conference there were four papers, each of which had important take home messages.
22 February 2021
Nitrogen Use Efficiency
The Environment Edge is Teagasc’s environment podcast focusing on challenges and opportunities in agriculture. In the first episode of The EnvironmentEdge, presenters Cathal Somers and Deirdre Glynn speak to Dr. David Wall, Teagasc researcher in Johnstown Castle on improving nitrogen use efficiency
22 February 2021
Try Horticulture - Virtual Focus on courses
The Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture in the National Botanic Gardens will hold the second of a series of virtual information events on Friday 26th February at 12:30 pm for one hour.
22 February 2021
The Calf Show - Preparing your farm and choosing calves
'The Calf Show' is a Teagasc Green Acres Calf To Beef Programme series taking place from Monday, 22 to Thursday, 25 February at 7:30pm each evening, in conjunction with AgriLand. The first episode in 'The Calf Show' series (tonight) focuses on preparing your farm and choosing calves.
22 February 2021
How to maximise the health and welfare of the cow and calf around calving
Vet John Mee joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast with practical tips to maximise the health and welfare of cow and calf around calving.
22 February 2021
February Grass - Opportunities and Challenges
Grazing grass represents the Irish farmer’s greatest advantage in livestock production. It costs 3 to 4 times less than either silage or meal, stock performance is better and labour input is drastically reduced. Michael Donoghue, Teagasc Dairy Advisor, Galway sets out a good spring grazing plan
21 February 2021
Safety Tips when Handling Fertiliser
Fertiliser spreading season is upon us and so health and safety must always be a priority. Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist, Francis Bligh, looks at the actions that can be taken to prevent injury when handling fertiliser.
21 February 2021
Could you grow 14Ton of grass with 200 units of Nitrogen?
The European Green Deal calls for EU farmers to reduce their chemical Nitrogen inputs by 20% by 2030. Nationally the Ag Climatise document re-iterates this target but also sets an interim target of a 15% reduction by 2025. Joe Kelleher, Dairy Advisor Teagasc, Newcastle West looks at achieving this
21 February 2021
Research Insights Webinar - Viruses - The Fightback and the Future
On a recent Research Insights webinar which took place on Wednesday, 17 February, Muireann Egan - Communications Officer, Teagasc Food Research Programme was joined by Teagasc Researchers Fiona Crispie, John Kenny and Olivia McAuliffe to learn more about viruses…the good and the bad.
20 February 2021
Safety at calving time
As we enter a busy period on many farms with calving occurring we should always take account of safety. A quarter of Irish farm accidents and one fifth of farm deaths are livestock related. Attacks by recently calved cows are a common cause of such accidents. Enda Geoghegan, Teagasc Advisor has more
20 February 2021
Teagasc Carrot Fly Webinar
A Vegetable Webinar focusing on Carrot Fly, hosted by the Teagasc Horticulture Development Department, took place on Tuesday, 26th January 2021. Webinar hosts Andy Whelton & Eoin Sweetman, were joined by Prof. Rosemary Collier of Warwick University and UK carrot and parsnip consultant Colin Noble
20 February 2021
Let it Bee Project- A community approach to tackling pesticide issues in Newport
In order to pollinate crops and wild plants we need an abundance and diversity of wild pollinators and honeybees. Looking for a solution to the many pesticide exceedances in the Newport river catchment, the “Let It Bee” project begins. Mary Roache, Teagasc ASSAP Advisor, Westport has details
19 February 2021
Weather and Soil crucial to making great Whisky
A new academic study has provided conclusive proof of terroir’s influence on whisky, settling decades of an industry-dividing debate for both whisky drinkers and producers alike. Terroir is the French principle that factors like soil, microclimate, and topography together can influence flavour
19 February 2021
€2.7million funding for Ireland-Wales ‘Healthy Oats’ collaboration
The ‘Healthy Oats’ project – €2.18million of which has been granted from the European Regional Development Fund as part of the Ireland-Wales Cooperation Programme will help farmers and industry prepare for the changes pending under the EU Green deal, including reduced use of fertilisers & pesticides
19 February 2021
Let’s Talk Dairy Bonus Episode: The practicalities of Spring grazing
In this bonus podcast episode of the Let's Talk Dairy webinar series Stuart Childs is joined by Donal Patton where the topic up for discussion is the practicalities of Spring grazing.
19 February 2021
Step-by-step guide to online forestry premium applications
The annual forestry premium is often an important, very welcome, source of income for a farm family. The most popular rate amongst farmers tends to be €510 per hectare per year for a period of 15 years. Steven Meyen, Forestry Advisor has a Step-by-step guide to online forestry premium applications
19 February 2021
The Signpost Series - Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Emissions – New Zealand’s story
Recently on the Signpost Series Mark Gibson was joined by Dr Sinead Leahy, Deputy Director and Senior Science Advisor with New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre (NZAGRC) to discuss how the farming community in New Zealand are responding to challenges presented by climate change
18 February 2021
Tillage Update - 18th February 2021
Shay Phelan, Teagasc Crops Specialist has the update on winter barley and winter oilseed rape crops for the week. He advises carrying out plant counts at this time in winter barley. He refers to pigeon grazing and light leaf spot in winter oilseed rape and also has advice on dealing with cover crops
18 February 2021
2021 National Tillage Conference
The 2021 National Tillage Conference took place virtually, split over two days, on Wednesday, 3rd February and Wednesday, 17th February.
18 February 2021
Ten Points on Good Farm Soil Practice – ‘LESS’ IS MORE VALUE
Soil sampling is the starting point of good farm soil practice. It leads on to correct N,P,K and lime applications, slurry efficiency and managing peat soils and GHGs. Anne O'Malley, Teagasc Advisor, Mayo outlines Ten Points on Good Farm Soil Practice and emphasizes that ‘LESS’ IS MORE VALUE!
18 February 2021
Winter Crop agronomy – a Q&A session with Teagasc experts
Teagasc hosted a Winter Crops Agronomy update webinar on Tuesday 9th February which covered the management needs of winter barley, winter wheat and oilseed rape for the coming few weeks. This week’s Tillage Edge podcast features the questions and answer session from that webinar.
18 February 2021
Malting Barley Conference 2021
The Teagasc Malting Barley Conference in conjunction with Boortmalt,takes place virtually on Tuesday 23 February at 11.30 am. An interesting line up of speakers from Teagasc, Boortmalt and farmers to present on a range of topics from nitrogen application to disease control and more. Register online
17 February 2021
Two important Breeding Key Performance Indicators
In recent weeks herds participating in BDGP and in ICBF’s Herdplus have been issued with a 5 Year Trend Report. The report tracks the performance of an individual’s herd on 6 Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) over the last five years. Aidan Murray Teagasc Beef Specialist, examines two of these here
17 February 2021
BETTER Farm Hill flock update
Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with an update on the hill sheep flocks in the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme.
17 February 2021
Newford Notes - Week of 8th February 2021
Calving is over a third of the way through at Newford Farm. Michael Fagan,Technician of the Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm in Athenry, gives an update on progress, details of calving scores, calf weights and sires used. Slurry spreading (LESS) continues while Urea will depend on soil temperature
17 February 2021
How to reduce your fertiliser costs in 2021
If you want to reduce fertiliser bills on your farm, listen to this week’s Beef Edge podcast with Teagasc specialist Mark Plunkett joining Catherine Egan for top tips and advice.
17 February 2021
Let's Talk Cattle Webinar - Early Spring Grassland Management
Alan Dillon, Teagasc Beef Specialist was joined by John Douglas, Teagasc Grass10 on this episode of Let's Talk Cattle which took place on Thursday, 11th February to discuss Early Spring Grassland Management.
16 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 16 February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Dairy On - Off grazing; 1,2,3 for Spring N; Protected Urea use at Johnstown Castle; Beef benefits of Spring grazing and webinar details
16 February 2021
Spring Fertiliser on sheep farms
All going to plan ewes can be turned out to grass as they lamb with minimal supplementary feeding, if any, required post turn-out. From a management, cost and labour point of view, this must be the aim. An early application of Nitrogen is important, as Philip Creighton Teagasc Researcher outlines
16 February 2021
Teagasc Mayo Webinar - Farming for a Sustainable Future
Teagasc Mayo is hosting a series of online events consisting of relevant and practical advice for farmers in the Region. This first webinar, on Wednesday 17 February at 8pm, moderated by Brendan Garry, Teagasc will focus on farming for a sustainable future. More details here on speakers and topics
16 February 2021
Let's Talk Sheep Webinar - Reducing Mortality at Lambing Time
Ciaran Lynch, Teagasc Sheep Specialist was joined by the team of Teagasc Sheep Specialists on this episode of Let's Talk Sheep which took place on Thursday, 4th February to discuss Reducing Mortality at Lambing Time.
16 February 2021
Lambing 2021
For the best results at lambing, the key point to remember is to be prepared. Have ewes in good condition, feed accordingly as per scan results and have all equipment and pens ready in advance to help with workload. Marion Fox, Teagasc Drystock Advisor, Galway has advice on preparing for lambing
15 February 2021
2021 Tillage Conference Session Two
The 2021 National Tillage Conference takes place virtually, split over two days. The first session took place on Wednesday, 3rd February. The second session is on Wednesday, 17th February at 11.30 am. Details on how to register and information on the speakers and topics can be found here
15 February 2021
Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland - Webinar
Are you looking to begin your journey measuring grass with PastureBase Ireland? On this webinar which took place on Thursday, 4th February, John Douglas & Joseph Dunphy, Teagasc Grass10 and Micheal O'Leary, PastureBase Ireland go through a step-by-step process of using PastureBase Ireland
15 February 2021
Mastitis Control in Early lactation
There's a number of issues that can impact on how smooth a calving season will run. Milk fever, retained foetal membranes, calf scour, difficult calvings and mastitis/SCC are only some of the issues. Here, Don Crowley, Teagasc Dairy Advisor, Clonakilty, focuses on Mastitis Control in early lactation
15 February 2021
The potential of Protected Urea to reduce emissions whilst maintaining grass production
Soil scientist David Wall joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge to discuss the potential of Protected Urea to reduce emissions whilst maintaining grass production.
15 February 2021
Lets Talk Dairy - The practicalities of Spring grazing
On a recent Let's Talk Dairy Webinar, Stuart Childs is joined by Donal Patton, where the topic for discussion is the practicalities of Spring grazing. In this webinar, Donal outlines the steps to approach Spring grazing and how to make it work for you no matter what land type you're working with.
14 February 2021
Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference 2021
The Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference will take place across two evenings, Wednesday, 17th February and Thursday, 18th February, as a Zoom webinar between 8pm and 9pm. An exciting line up of speakers have been assembled for the two sessions.
14 February 2021
Teagasc Research Insights Webinar - Viruses
Don't miss the next Teagasc Research Insights Webinar: Viruses - The Fightback and the Future, on Wednesday 17th February at 9.30 am, when Muireann Egan Communications Officer, Teagasc Food Research Programme meets Teagasc researchers playing a key role in the fightback against Covid -19
14 February 2021
Let’s Talk Dairy Bonus Episode: Night time calving
In this bonus podcast episode of the Let's Talk Dairy Webinar Series, Stuart Childs is joined by Marion Beecher where they discuss tips for night time calving, including research on the effect of silage feeding time on calving time. Covid planning and Calf rearing organisation were also discussed.
13 February 2021
Calving the cow and caring for the newborn calf
Calving the cow and caring for the newborn calf are important tasks on every spring suckler herd in the coming weeks. It is important to manage calvings to reduce problems as much as possible. Vet Tommy Heffernan discussed these important topics on the Beef Edge podcast with Catherine Egan recently
13 February 2021
6th Infogest Webinar on Food Digestion: In silico models of food digestion
The 6th Infogest Food Digestion Webinar, hosted by Dr Andre Brodkorb of the Teagasc Food Research Centre, took place on Wednesday, 3 February 2021. The theme of the webinar was “In silico models of digestion”
13 February 2021
Environment Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Environment team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Dates for your diary; Think before you plant a new hedge; Message from ASSAP - Don’t lose any fertiliser you spread; & Message from Signpost Programme - Now is the time for climate action.
12 February 2021
The Forest Carbon Tool
Teagasc, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and Forest Environmental Research and Services (FERS) Limited, have developed an indicative online Forest Carbon Tool. Tom Houlihan, Teagasc Forestry Specialist has more details
12 February 2021
Teagasc Pig Research Farm Update - 11 February 2021
Tomás Ryan, Farm Manager in the Teagasc Pig Research Facility in Moorepark gives us an update on what's been happening in the unit so far this year and plans for the year ahead.
12 February 2021
Forestry Workshops: A new forest – getting started
Connect with your local Teagasc forestry advisor by registering for three informal online workshops to learn about starting a new forest. From Monday 15 February through March, landowners can join their local one-hour online workshops with Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department to find out more
12 February 2021
Farm Business Options Webinar - Value added food production in the Kerry/Limerick Region
On a recent Farm Business Options Webinar, which took place on Tuesday, 2 February, host, Padraig Fitzgerald, Teagasc Kerry/Limerick was joined by Nick Cotter, Cotter Organic Lamb; Kate Carmody, Beal Organic Cheese & John Hassett, Ballyhoura Development CLG to discuss value added food production
12 February 2021
Forestry Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Forestry team in this month's newsletter. It includes: A new forest – getting started; Online Forest Carbon Tool; and Winter/spring management tips.
11 February 2021
Winter Crop Agronomy Webinar: 9 February 2021
Teagasc researchers, specialists and advisors will update growers on crop agronomy in the coming weeks. Session One, which took place on Tuesday 9th February 2021, covered crops from across the country with advice on nitrogen, P&K, weed control, PGR and disease control
11 February 2021
Teagasc celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science
The United Nations, partners worldwide, women and girls mark today, Thursday 11th February 2021, as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. It’s an opportunity to take a stand for women and girls in science and break the stereotypes that hold them back. Teagasc features women in science
11 February 2021
Tillage Update - 11th February 2021
As many tillage farmers are preparing for the commencement of field work Teagasc tillage advisors took to the fields this week to assess the condition of winter crops for the first Teagasc tillage crop walk held on Zoom this week. Teagasc crops specialist Ciaran Collins reports from the event
11 February 2021
The Dublin man farming 750ha in the UK
Andy Mahon, from Dublin is a farm manager on the Bromborough Estate Farm in North Bedfordshire, which is roughly halfway between London and Birmingham and firmly in the heart of arable country and he joins Michael Hennessy on this week’s Tillage Edge podcast.
11 February 2021
Tillage Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Crops team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Cover crops; Spring beans; Winter oilseed rape; Upcoming Teagasc events; Teagasc Tillage Podcast; and Health & safety - Review your risk assessment.
10 February 2021
Be Winter-Ready
Although Spring is here we are still experiencing wintry weather with snow and hazardous conditions forecast for the coming days. It is with this in mind that Teagasc advises farmers to be 'winter-ready' and provides some useful tips for farming during severe weather conditions and advance planning
10 February 2021
Breeding performance on the up on Beef Farms
Isn’t it great to see a positive story coming from the suckler herd. In the last six years things have really improved in suckler breeding. On average across all suckler herds calves/cow/year increased, calving interval decreased and more. Martina Harrington, Beef Specialist outlines what it's worth
10 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 9 February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Images from farmers beginning spring grazing, details of a new Clover Research Programme, sheep farm spring grazing tips & more
10 February 2021
Let's Talk Cattle 2021 February
The second Let's Talk Cattle webinar of 2021 commences on Thursday the 11th of February at 8pm and will focus on Early Spring Grassland Management. John Douglas from the Grass10 team will chat with Alan Dillon on how to ensure earlier turnout, maximise grass use, fertiliser and closing for silage
10 February 2021
The Beef Edge Masterclass with James Madigan
James Madigan, a suckler farmer from Co. Kilkenny, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast for the latest in the show’s Masterclass series.
10 February 2021
Beef Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Beef team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Early spring nitrogen; BEAM -5%; Spring rotation planner; Grazing courses 2021; Research update - More space for more weight; & Health & Safety - Review your risk assessment.
09 February 2021
The Signpost Series - Reduction of Methane gas emissions in agriculture
Recently on a Signpost Series webinar from 29 January, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd and Pat Murphy, Head of Environment KT, Teagasc were joined by Sinéad Waters, Principal Research Officer, Animal & Bio-science Research Department Teagasc, to discuss reducing methane emissions from agriculture
09 February 2021
Sheep market focus and outlook for 2021
Seamus McMenamin, sheep meat sector manager with Bord Bia joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast with a focus on the sheep market and an outlook for 2021.
09 February 2021
Split system developed in the Wicklow hills
Farming in the picturesque setting of Glenmalure in the Wicklow hills BETTER farm participant Patrick Dunne is operating a sheep and suckler beef system. The sheep enterprise is split into 2 separate units, a hill sheep flock and lowland flock which Ciaran Lynch & Kevin Sheehan, Teagasc discuss here
09 February 2021
Check Your Ewe Ration For Energy
Edward Egan, Teagasc, Meath received ingredient labels from farmers for their late pregnancy ewe ration. He was surprised to see so many rations with average quality ingredients making up 40% plus of these rations. This results in rations that are low in energy. Edward advises to check ration energy
09 February 2021
Sheep Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; Feeding management of ewes in late pregnancy; BETTER Farm Update- Pregnancy rates similar to last year; Research Update- Lambing season is fast approaching; Health & Safety.
08 February 2021
Choosing a concentrate for freshly calved dairy cows at grass
Joe Patton, Dairy Specialist outlines the nutritional requirements of the freshly calved dairy cow while at grass. He gives examples of two good quality spring rations and discusses ingredients and their inclusion rates. Joe advises using high energy ingredients and offering high quality feed
08 February 2021
New Regulations on Farm Roadways & Waters
Mark Treacy, Teagasc Dairy Advisor, Clonakilty advises on the New Regulations on Farm Roadways & Waters which have come into effect since 1st January 2021. The new measures aim to further reduce Irish farming’s environmental footprint, with particular regard to water, climate and air quality
08 February 2021
David O’Leary, 2020 Young Grassland Farmer of the Year
2020 Young Grassland Farmer of the Year David O’Leary joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to give an insight into his pathway into dairy farming and the excellence in grassland he is achieving on a challenging soil type.
08 February 2021
Lets Talk Dairy Webinar - Night time calving
On a recent Let's Talk Dairy Webinar which took place on Thursday, 4th February, Stuart Childs, Teagasc Dairy Specialist was joined by Marion Beecher to discuss night time calving and how Covid-19 has an impact on it.
08 February 2021
Dairy Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Dairy team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Start milk recording this spring; Feeding the young calf; Complete the first milk recording by St Patrick’s Day; Lameness around calving time; and Health & Safety.
07 February 2021
Let's Talk Equine - Movement of equines between Ireland and the UK (including as a landbridge) since Brexit
The eleventh webinar in the Let's Talk Equine series took place on Tuesday, 2nd February 2021. Teagasc Equine Specialist, Wendy Conlon was joined by a panel of speakers from the DAFM and Revenue to discuss the Ireland - UK movement requirements for equines since Brexit.
07 February 2021
Teagasc Kildalton College - 2021 Equine Courses
"Hands on courses for hands on people" is how Rosemary Gaffney, Equine Course Director, Kildalton College describes the suite of equine courses on offer for 2021 at Teagasc Kildalton College. These programmes are practically based and industry focused. Rosemary profiles students who trained there
07 February 2021
Let’s Talk Dairy Bonus Episode: Milk Fever
In this bonus podcast episode of the Let's Talk Dairy Webinar Series, Stuart Childs is joined by Joe Patton, Teagasc Nutritionist to discuss milk fever.
06 February 2021
Creating a farm plan that secures your future in farming
Sometimes in order to be successful, a business must reset – Bob McNair. Farmers are a resilient breed - they have faced many challenges over the last few years. Farmers who hope to improve their business must plan. Farm Management Specialist James McDonnell has some advice and guidance
06 February 2021
Digital Solutions to drive a green rural recovery
Teagasc & SRUC have long collaborated on issues of mutual interest, in a series of annual conferences aimed at identifying solutions and helping create new opportunities for our rural economies. The role of digital in securing a green rural economy is the focus of the 9th February virtual conference
06 February 2021
The development of soil mapping in Ireland
Soils are the interface between geology and the living world. In Ireland, a number of significant soil mapping campaigns have been undertaken since the late 1950s. The January Map of the Month looks at the more well known and widely used soil maps and data products produced for Ireland so far.
05 February 2021
Being Sustainable
What is sustainable in the ordinary farmer’s language? Our key marketing organisations such as Bord Bia use it as a primary selling point for Irish produce. Bernie Leahy, Drystock Adviser, Teagasc, Galway defines Sustainability, has sustainable ideas and reminds us that we have only one planet
05 February 2021
Tillage Update - 5th February
The forecast is for very cold weather next week so this will keep soil temperatures low, stopping any chance of growth for a few weeks at least. However, Michael Hennessy, Teagasc Head of Crops, suggests that it is a great time to get out and follow the water flow on your farm to identify problems
05 February 2021
Virtual Farmyard Tours
Due to COVID lock down restrictions,for farmers currently in the planning stages of building a new milking parlour one of the challenges is not being able to go and visit other farms. In the absence of farm visits Teagasc has started building a library of virtual farm tours on its website. See below
05 February 2021
A new forest – getting started
Teagasc will run a series of online workshops on forest establishment during February & March 2021 entitled “A New Forest – Getting Started”. It is a great opportunity to interact with your local forestry advisor to learn about starting a new forest. Liam Kelly, Teagasc Forestry advisor has details
05 February 2021
Farm Business Options Webinar - Irish Farmers Connecting to the Grid
On the Farm Business Options Webinar, on Tuesday 26 January, host, Barry Caslin, Energy & Rural Development Specialist, Teagasc was joined by Grainne Blount, Natural Forces; Tom Marren, Astatine and Rory Mullan, MullanGrid Consulting to discuss the options for Irish farmers connecting to the Grid
04 February 2021
Increasing soil pH reduces fertiliser derived N2O emissions
A new scientific paper from Teagasc shows that getting soil pH right through liming can significantly reduce emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. The AGEE published paper is from researchers at the Teagasc Environment, Soils and Land-Use Department in Johnstown Castle.
04 February 2021
The Signpost Series webinar – Organic Farming – Steps to on farm conversion and opportunities
On the latest episode of The Signpost Series webinars, on Friday, 22 January, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd and Pat Murphy, Head of Teagasc Environment KT were joined by Elaine Leavy, Organic Specialist, Teagasc to discuss the steps to on farm conversion and opportunities of Organic Farming
04 February 2021
What Milk and Concentrates Should be in the Diet of the Calf?
During Animal Health Ireland & Teagasc Calf Care Virtual Week held recently, Pauline O’Driscoll, Dairy advisor Skibbereen, asked Teagasc Researcher Dr Emer Kennedy & Dr Joe Patton Teagasc Nutritionist to discuss the guidelines for feeding milk and concentrates in the diet of the calf.
04 February 2021
Brexit effects for tillage farmers
Tillage farmers were always likely to be the least affected whether there was a Brexit agreement or not according to Fiona Thorne, an economist in Teagasc. However, areas such as goods stuck in the supply chain may be affected. Join Michael Hennessy on this weeks Tillage Edge podcast to hear more
04 February 2021
Why not sign up to PastureBase Ireland?
PastureBase Ireland is the number one tool to help Irish dairy, beef, and sheep farmers manage their grass production and utilisation. Additional features are continuously being added to improve the user experience and quality of the information available to the farmer.
03 February 2021
Spring Nitrogen, How much and where?
For a small country we have huge variation in conditions, from Wexford to Donegal, from south to north Wexford and even within our own farms. Therefore we cannot have a one fits all recommendation on fertiliser or grazing for the spring. Martina Harrington, Beef Specialist advises on Spring Nitrogen
03 February 2021
The Importance of Knowing the Nutritional Value of Silage
Eamonn Dempsey, Teagasc Kerry, highlights the importance of knowing the nutritional value of silage and discusses analysis by visual & lab assessment, while Gerard Cregg, Teagasc Roscommon, focuses on the differences in silage quality from grass cut at different times and locations
03 February 2021
Newford Notes - Week of 25th January 2021
Calving has commenced at Newford Farm. Michael Fagan,Technician of the Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm in Athenry, gives an update on progress, highlights the hygiene & disinfection practices on the farm and labour-saving calving tips. Yearling performance is also profiled and LESS was practiced
03 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 2 February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Using “On - Off grazing” this February to maximise days at grass; Using a Grass Budget to map out grazing and more
03 February 2021
The key tips for caring for the newborn calf
Calving the suckler cow and caring for the new born calf are important tasks on every spring suckler herd in the coming weeks and for the second in a two-part interview, vet Tommy Heffernan joins Catherine Egan to discuss the key tips for caring for the newborn calf.
02 February 2021
2021 Tillage Conference
The 2021 National Tillage Conference takes place virtually, split over two days. The first session takes place tomorrow, Wednesday, 3rd February at 11.30 am and the second session is on Wednesday, 17th February. Details on how to register and information on the speakers and topics can be found below
02 February 2021
How to reduce lamb mortality
Every lamb that is lost represents a significant loss to the sheep farmer as the cost associated with keeping the ewe has already been incurred. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep KT Programme, looks at the key issues that sheep farmers should concentrate on as the main lambing season approaches
02 February 2021
Virtual Sheep Conference 2021
The Teagasc Sheep Conference 2021 took place virtually, across two evenings at 8pm on Tuesday, 26th January and Thursday 28th January. This is the 9th Annual Teagasc Sheep Conference which forms an integral part of Teagasc’s knowledge transfer programme to stakeholders involved in sheep production.
02 February 2021
Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland - Webinar
Are you looking to begin your journey measuring grass with PastureBase Ireland? This is the theme of this Grass10 and Pasturebase webinar on Thursday 4th February at 7pm. Join the Grass10 & PastureBase team on a step-by-step process of using PastureBase Ireland. Follow the link to register below.
02 February 2021
Let's Talk Sheep 2021
The Teagasc Drystock Specialists invite you to join them in a new series of Sheep and Cattle webinars for 2021. These are live monthly interactive webinars. The first Let's Talk Sheep is on Thursday 4th February at 8 pm focusing on Reducing Mortality at Lambing Time. Registration details below
02 February 2021
Farmer Focus: John O’Connell – Scanning, feeding and managing ewes in Co. Leitrim
Co. Leitrim native John O’Connell who runs a mixed sheep and dairy contract rearing system in Ballinamore joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast.
01 February 2021
Getting the basics right – Robotic milking
On the recent special edition of Let’s Talk Dairy, Patrick Gowing and Stuart Childs, Teagasc discuss robotic milking in Ireland. Robotic milking is an increasing trend on Irish dairy farms with over 1,000 milking robots milking in the south of Ireland at present (~ 3.8% of the national herd).
01 February 2021
6th INFOGEST Webinar on Food Digestion
The INFOGEST webinar on Food Digestion is hosted by Dr Andre Brodkorb of the Teagasc Food Research Centre on the first Wednesday each month at 2PM. The theme of the 6th webinar on 3 February is “In silico models of digestion” from Working Group 6 of the INFOGEST network. Muireann Egan has details
01 February 2021
Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm - Pre-Calving 2021
Iarlaith Collins, Farm Manager and Michael Fagan, Teagasc Technician to the Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm give an insight into how the farm is preparing for the 2021 calving season. There are 92 cows to calve down this year on the farm and are all in-calf to 5 star terminal bulls.
01 February 2021
A suitable fertiliser programme for the spring months ahead
John Maher, the Teagasc Grass10 Manager, outlines a suitable fertiliser programme for the spring months on Irish dairy farms on this week’s episode of the Dairy Edge.
01 February 2021
Let’s Talk Dairy Webinar – Milk Fever
On this episode of the Let’s Talk Dairy for January 28th 2021, Stuart Childs, Teagasc Dairy Specialist is joined by Joe Patton, Teagasc Nutritionist to discuss milk fever.
31 January 2021
Let’s Talk Dairy Bonus Episode: Once-a-Day Milking with Farmer Michael John Delaney
In this bonus podcast episode of the Let's Talk Dairy Webinar Series, Stuart Childs and Brian Hilliard spoke to dairy farmer, Michael John Delaney, at the recent Once a Day Milking Conference 2021 about his move to once-a-day milking and why it works for his farm.
31 January 2021
2020 Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards Ceremony Webinar
On Tuesday, 19 January, the Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards Ceremony took place as a live webinar. During this live webinar, the 15 finalists were profiled and winners of each category along with the overall winner were announced.
31 January 2021
Agricultural Courses-What are the options?
We are in a fortunate position that technology has allowed us to continue with courses throughout lockdowns and classroom restrictions. Students will now be considering third level course options so Serena Gibbons, Education Officer, Teagasc Galway/Clare, outlines what's available from Teagasc
30 January 2021
Teagasc re-introduce COVID-19 telephone helpline for farmers
Teagasc have confirmed today Friday, 29 January that the telephone helpline to assist with queries in relation to COVID-19 issues is re-opening for all farmers. The helpline 076 1113533 is open to all farmers Monday to Friday.
30 January 2021
There’s no vaccine for climate change
Climate change is a major global risk which requires our attention, if it is not to cause great havoc. Feeding the world while taking climate action will require an industry-wide effort involving farmers, industry stakeholders, Government and consumers, writes Tom O’Dwyer, Head of Signpost Programme
30 January 2021
Teagasc Research Insights Webinar - Balancing demands from land
The final Research Insights Webinar, which took place on Wednesday, 20th January 2021, focusing on Land Use: Balancing demands from land. Teagasc economists use microeconomic data from Teagasc’s National Farm Survey to examine different aspects of the sustainability challenge and food demands
29 January 2021
Planning and priming our soils for the year ahead
Over the last month weather conditions have reduced any opportunity in the fields to get some winter ploughing done. Soils are saturated. Wait until soils are dry enough before carrying out field operations such as ploughing, advises Mark Plunkett, Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist, Johnstown Castle
29 January 2021
Teagasc Online Slurry Spreader Calibration Calculator
Many farmers will use Low Emission Slurry Spreading (LESS) methods such as a dribble bar, for the first time in place of the traditional splash plate. When using a new application method it's important to apply the slurry accurately as Francis Quigley, Teagasc Farm Machinery Specialist explains
29 January 2021
Young farm forests – time for a winter check-up
It's been a long winter and it’s still not letting go. But with Spring around the corner and nature about to burst into life, now is the time to check the progress of your young farm forest, to see what might need attention now and in the weeks ahead. Noel Kennedy, Teagasc Forestry advisor has more
29 January 2021
The Benefits of Pig Manure for Reducing Chemical Fertiliser Usage
Mark Plunkett, Teagasc’s soil and plant nutrition specialist, joins Gerard McCutcheon on this month’s Pig Edge podcast to explain how farmers using pig manure or any organic manure can reduce their chemical fertiliser usage.
29 January 2021
Let's Talk Dairy Webinar January 21st 2021 - Spring Nitrogen Strategy
As part of the Let’s Talk Dairy webinar for January 2021, Stuart Childs discusses the Spring Nitrogen Strategy for 2021 outlining some reminders and pointers relating to the strategy itself.
28 January 2021
Calving time is here- prepare your farm
Feeding pregnant heifers and cows the majority of their daily ration as late as possible in the evening has been shown to minimise the number of animals calving at night and is increasingly becoming common practice in many suckler herds. Alan Dillon, Beef Specialist has more calving tips.
28 January 2021
Maximising rotations – the Scottish experience
On this week’s Tillage Edge podcast, Dr Cathy Hawes, from the James Hutton Institute near Dundee in Scotland, joins Michael Hennessy to discuss the Scottish experience of maximising rotations.
28 January 2021
Lambing: Lights-Camera-Action
The lambing season is fast approaching for the midseason flock with most of the early lambing completed. Good preparation and planning will help in achieving a better outcome. Eamonn Patten, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Ballinrobe has some advice on how to be prepared and what facilities are required.
28 January 2021
Lessons learned from BEEP-S
Having made the effort to weigh the cow and her calf for BEEP-S it’s now time to study and analyse the results. Which cows and sires are giving the best performance for your farming system? Tom Coll, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Donegal, looks at how future breeding decisions can improve profitability
28 January 2021
Spring Tillage Seminars - Webinar 2
Last week Teagasc Crops hosted two interactive Tillage webinars with Teagasc Tillage Specialists & Advisors. See recording of the second of the Spring Tillage Seminars webinar on topics of BREXIT, organic manures and Beans below
27 January 2021
Consider planting a hedge this Spring
Ever thought of planting a new hedge using native species of hedgerow to help improve biodiversity on farm? Planting can be done up to end of February while plants are dormant, to allow settling in time before growth starts. John Crowley, Beef & Sheep advisor Teagasc Clonakilty, has planting advice
27 January 2021
Care of the Purchased Dairy Beef Calf - Webinar
Alan Dillon, Teagasc Beef Specialist was joined by Suzanne Naughton, a vet with MSD on this episode of Let's Talk Cattle which took place on Thursday, 14th January to focus on the care of the purchased dairy beef calf.
27 January 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 26 January 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week; Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; completing a Spring rotation planner; upcoming webinar “Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland" & Spring Nitrogen Action Plan