Farm Business
10 April 2021

Research Insights Webinar - Increasing the value of beef from the dairy herd
On a recent Teagasc Research Insights webinar held Wednesday, 31 March, Donagh Berry, Teagasc Researcher & Director of VistaMilk SFI Research Centre was joined by Alan Twomey, Nicky Byrne & Padraig French to discuss breeding & management strategies to maximise the value of beef from the dairy herd
08 April 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Driving Diversification Through Social Media
On a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 30th March 2021, Barry Caslin was joined by Lisa Dunphy from Green Acre Marketing to discuss social media business options.
07 April 2021

7th International Infogest Webinar on Food Digestion: Starch
The 7th Special INFOGEST webinar on Food Digestion, hosted by Dr Andre Brodkorb of the Teagasc Food Research Centre took place on Monday 15th March at 2PM. The theme of the webinar was “Starch: An iconoclast view on amylopectin"
05 April 2021

Poultry farmer from Monaghan finalist in Newbie New Entrant competition
Patrick Greenan a new entrant poultry farmer from Co Monaghan was a finalist in a recent Newbie New Entrant competition. Three years ago having considered many options for the family farm Patrick decided to enter the Poultry industry and invested in new housing facilities on a Greenfield site.
04 April 2021

Beetroot Juice producer a finalist Newbie New Entrant Competition
Anne Marie Feighery from Feighery’s Farm in Kilcormac, Co. Offaly was a finalist in the 2020 NEWBIE New Entrant competition. While sourcing beetroot juice for her father Anne Marie noticed a gap in the market for an Irish produced beetroot juice and set about developing her own Beetroot Juice.
03 April 2021

Tipperary Poultry Farmer wins Newbie New Entrant Competition
Kylie Magner from Magners Farm in Moyglass, Co Tipperary has been selected as the winner of the second Newbie project new entrant competition. Kylie developed a free range poultry enterprise on the farm, initially selling eggs at local markets.
02 April 2021

Antimicrobial Resistance
Antimicrobials are drugs used to treat infections in humans & animals. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when micro-organisms that cause infections adapt & prevent an antimicrobial from working against it. Zerlina Pratt, as part of Farm Walk and Talk with AgriAware has more information
01 April 2021

Farm Business Options - Digitalisation to transform agriculture in Ireland
On a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 23rd March 2021, host Barry Caslin was joined by Teagasc colleagues Stuart Green & Áine Regan and Peter Mc Shane from GLAS Energy Technology, to discuss digitalisation to transform agriculture in Ireland.
29 March 2021

Farm Livestock Safety
Whether you work alone or as part of a team on a farm, safety when dealing with livestock is of utmost importance. Here Jamie Cahill from Kildalton College deals with safety around livestock. Part of the AgriAware Farm Walk and Talk series for Agriculture Science students.
29 March 2021

Machinery Farm Safety
Machinery Farm Safety is the first in a series of Farm Walk and Talk videos developed by AgriAware and Teagasc. In this video Stuart Goodwin talks about farm machinery and farm safety
27 March 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Farm Diversification in Co. Laois
On a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 16th March 2021, host Peter Doolan, Teagasc Laois was joined by three local farmers to discuss farm diversification into soft food produce, angling and organic dairying in Co. Laois. A Q&A session also took place
21 March 2021

Farmer Safety Health and Wellness Webinar Series: Rena Buckley
Carbery Group, Cork recently held a Webinar on Farm Safety, Health and Wellness for farmer suppliers in advance of a busy spring. The Event will now be shown as a series of Webinars for 3 Sundays. The second is Rena Buckley, giving pointers on Gaining Health through, Exercise and Diet
19 March 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Agri-Tourism and Poultry in Cavan
On a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 9th March 2021, host, Bernard Doorley, Teagasc Offaly was joined by three local farmers to discuss agri-tourism and poultry in Cavan.
18 March 2021

Teagasc Daily – One year on
Today is the 1st Anniversary of the introduction of Teagasc Daily, a new digital communication channel providing information to Teagasc audiences. It was set up in response to the first Covid related lockdown last March, as a digital tool to maintain knowledge transfer to Teagasc audiences.
17 March 2021

Saint Patrick in Ireland: Names and Places
Lá Fhéile Pádraig shona dhaoibh! For Saint Patrick’ Day we have a special map, dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint. The static map provides an overview of the townlands and settlements deriving their names from Saint Patrick, including a short summary of the mythology. Read on for more details
11 March 2021

GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme Farmer Focus - Siobhan Madden
Siobhan Madden, Co. Cork is a GLAS 3 participant who availed of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme for repairs to adjoining 200 year old buildings. Enda Maloney, Teagasc Advisor has more details. For the next three days Teagasc Daily will focus on Co Cork participants of this scheme
11 March 2021

New Head appointments in Teagasc
Congratulations to the two new Heads of Department in Teagasc, on their appointments announced recently; Valerie Farrell Head of Human Resources, and Professor David Kenny, Head of Animal and Bioscience Research and to Paul Maher as Head of International Relations and Corporate Strategy in Teagasc
08 March 2021

Today's Farm - March/April 2021
The March/April edition of our bi-monthly magazine is now available online. One of the main articles in this edition is a Q& A with the new Teagasc Head of Knowledge Transfer, Stan Lalor. It also has articles on fertiliser, Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), how birds use hedges, and more.
07 March 2021

Research Insights Webinar - Achieving Sustainable Genetic Gain in Farmed Animals
The first webinar in this mini series of three, took place at 9:30am on Wednesday, 3rd March. The panellists on this webinar give an insight into the process of how genetically elite parents of the next generation are identified and selected using modern-day breeding tools.
06 March 2021

Farm Planning – Don’t leave it to the last minute
Andy Ryder, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Westport focuses on applications for and changes to, Herd Numbers. He identifies how this impacts on Basic Payment Scheme, ANC, GLAS and Forestry schemes. Andy emphasizes the importance of planning in advance and not leaving Herd No changes until the last minute
06 March 2021

Let's Talk Equine Webinar - ‘No foot, no horse’ - nurturing a sound foundation is imperative
The 12th webinar in the Let's Talk Equine series took place on Tuesday, March 2nd 2021. Teagasc Equine Specialist, Wendy Conlon was joined by Andrew Mahon, Master Farrier to discuss ‘No foot, no horse’ - nurturing a sound foundation is imperative.
05 March 2021

Equine Herpes Virus -1 (EHV-1) Outbreak
EHV is a herpes virus. EHV-1 can cause four manifestations of disease in equines, including neurological form, respiratory disease, abortion and neonatal death. Wendy Conlon, Equine Specialist advises horse owners to be vigilant, outlines bio-security actions to take and provides further information
04 March 2021

Teagasc SRUC Digital Solutions Conference 2021
The role of digital in securing a green rural economy was the focus of a joint virtual conference, held by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and Teagasc, which took place on Tuesday, 9th February. The virtual conference was the third in a series of annual events.
03 March 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Social Farming
On a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 2nd March 2021, host Barry Caslin, Teagasc was joined by Helen Doherty, Social Farming Ireland and two social dairy farmers, to outline what anyone considering running a Social Farm enterprise needs to know.
03 March 2021

What can I apply for under TAMS?
Teagasc specialist Tim Hyde joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme, also known as TAMS which in January, the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine announced it was extending.
02 March 2021

The Role of Legumes in Reducing Fertilizer N Usage Webinar
Legumes can replace fertilizer N on grassland and arable farms, lowering greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions and improving water quality. The third Legume Innovation and Networking Workshop takes place online as an interactive webinar on Wednesday 3rd March at 9.30am. Register here
02 March 2021

Spring -Crop Management and Sowing
John Galvin, Teagasc Drystock and Tillage Advisor, Galway has advice here on winter barley management and spring barley sowing. He gives an update on the new Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM) scheme as part of Basic Payment Scheme application for 2021 and introduces the Area Monitoring System (AMS)
28 February 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Award-winning potato, cheese and pet farm enterprises in Co. Cork
On a recent Farm Business Options Webinar held Tuesday, 23 February, host Aisling Molloy, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Kanturk was joined by Norma Dinneen, Bó Rua Farm; Ned English, Castlecor Potatoes and Teresa Leahy, Leahy’s Open Farm to discuss Award-winning potato, cheese and pet farm enterprises
27 February 2021

Additional resources to meet demand for Green Cert Courses | Teagasc Virtual College Open Days
Teagasc welcomes the recent announcement by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D., giving approval for the recruitment of 20 fixed term education staff to meet exceptional demand for Teagasc Green Cert courses.
26 February 2021

Smartphone use in Agriculture: What do we know?
As the use of smartphone technology is becoming increasingly popular, there is a need to consider how farmers have adapted. Ursula Kenny gives an insight into a study that was carried out which examined the factors that influence Irish farmers’ engagement with smartphone use.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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

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

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
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.
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
23 January 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Farm Diversification in Roscommon & Longford
Webinar host, Donal McCabe, Teagasc Longford facilitated this webinar on Farm Diversification, which took place on Tuesday, 12 January 2021, with guest speakers. This webinar outlined the panellists stories including free range egg production, organic farming and farm shop, and boat & bike hire.
21 January 2021

Teagasc highlight Farm Diversification Opportunities
Farm Diversification is the establishment of a new enterprise on farm. It usually refers to a non-agricultural or novel enterprise. Many farmers and rural dwellers are interested in diversifying their farm enterprise. Teagasc has a suite of 79 Farm Diversification Factsheets and videos to help
19 January 2021

Today's Farm - January/February 2021
The January/February edition of our bi-monthly magazine is now available online. The main focus of this edition is on grass, covering topics such as getting ready for grass; Newford Herd makes gains on grass; why paddocks = profit and more.
13 January 2021

What does the Brexit deal mean for the Irish Beef Sector?
After years of uncertainty since the Brexit referendum in 2016, a deal on the future relations between the European Union and the UK has finally been sealed. On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Kevin Hanrahan, Head of Rural Economy & Development, Teagasc, outlines what this means
10 January 2021

Farmers are rapidly upskilling in Information Technology
Charlie Devaney Teagasc Advisor Roscommon, encourages all farmers not to be afraid of change, to embrace technology and discover the benefits of accessing information and meetings online. Farmers and advisors alike are adapting to IT which has been accelerated through the Covid-19 lock-downs.
10 January 2021

Hemp for a Sustainable Future – Teagasc award at BTYSTE 2021 announced
Cian Walsh, a transition year student at St. Brogan's College, Kilbrogan, Bandon, Co. Cork, is the winner of the Teagasc award at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2021 (BTYSTE). Cian’s project looked at the social, economic and environmental benefits and drawbacks of growing hemp
07 January 2021

A slurry 'no-brainer' for farmers
Emer Keane, Walsh Scholar, Teagasc, Castlerea, discusses the environmental topics of Low Emission Slurry Spreading and Greenhouse gases. She advises on availing of the TAMS 2 grant aid opportunity which exists to subsidise investment in LESS and reminds us of the TAMS 2 closing date of 15th January
07 January 2021

Teagasc at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE 2021)
Visit the Teagasc virtual stand in the ‘World of Science and Technology’ at BTYSTE 2021, taking place each day from 6th - 8th January at 9 am - 5.30pm. Find out more about the Teagasc prize that is awarded each year to an agricultural or food related project.
06 January 2021

Farm Business Options Webinar - Farm Diversification in Cork West
Webinar hosts, Áine O'Riordan & Seamus Lordan, Teagasc Cork West facilitated this webinar, which took place on Tuesday, 22 December with guest speakers Alan & Valerie Kingston, Glenilen Farm; David & Elizabeth Ross, Top of the Rock Pod Park and walking Centre; & Johnny Lynch, Macroom Buffalo Farm.
02 January 2021

Aim for Zero Farm Accidents in 2021
Aim for Zero farm accidents every day in 2021. An accident causes tragedy and leads to tragedy, pain and suffering, and possibly lifelong disability. It is in everyone’s best interests to put time and effort into preventing accidents.This is the message from John McNamara Health & Safety Specialist
29 December 2020

Outlook 2021 Conference (Webinar)
Outlook 2021 Conference took place virtually this year on Tuesday, 1st December. This webinar included details on farm financials across all the major farming systems in Ireland, including output and input prices and agricultural income.
27 December 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - The Farm: feeding the mind and body
Rachel Taylor, Teagasc Kildare was joined by Stephen Morrison, So earth projects; James Fennell, Green Barn at Burtown House in Athy and Helen Mulhall, LEADER on a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 15 December to discuss the farm: feeding the mind and body.
17 December 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - Diversifying the Farming Business in Leitrim
Cian Condon, Teagasc Leitrim was joined by Nuala McNulty, Tawnylust Lodge; Helen Hay, Glencar teaSHED & Cianán Redmond 12 Quail Farm on a recent Farm Business Options webinar to discuss the possibility of diversifying the farm business while considering the implications for your core farm business
14 December 2020

Aurivo Teagasc Joint programme 2021-2023
The Aurivo/Teagasc joint programme was launched this week by Raymond Barlow Chairman of Aurivo Co-op and Tom Kellegher, Teagasc Regional Advisory Manager. The Joint Programme aims to improve farm profitability and environmental practices while ensuring that dairy farming is socially sustainable.
14 December 2020

10 Things to Know About … Viruses
While Irish Scientists are key in the fight against coronavirus, there's a more abundant type of virus which can be used beneficially in food and medicine. Meet Teagasc researchers tackling the good & bad of viruses on 10 Things to Know About..Viruses, tonight (Mon 14th Dec) on RTÉ One at 8.30PM
04 December 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - Farm Diversification in Mayo
On the Dec. 1st, Farm Business Options Webinar, Anne O’Malley, Teagasc Mayo was joined by Catherine O’Grady-Powers, Glen Keen Farm; Joe Reilly, Glasraí Organic Farm; Patrick Kelly, The Kelly Kettle Company & Fionnán Nestor, Fáilte Ireland to investigate enterprising ventures keeping Mayo farms alive
03 December 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - Walking towards Wellness
Bernard Doorley, Teagasc Tullamore was joined by a panel of guests on a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 24 November to discuss on farm diversifications with a focus on coping with the pressures of farming.
30 November 2020

The FarmDemo Training Kit has been updated
A unique collaboration between three European H2020 projects, AgriDemo-F2F, PLAID and NEFERTITI, resulted in the development of the FarmDemo Training kit for the organization of farm demonstration events. John Moriarty Advisor on the NEFERTITI and NEWBIE EU H2020 projects has the information
29 November 2020

Food Webinar Series - Maximising value from microbiological testing and Shelf-Life studies
This Food Industry Training Webinar was hosted by Carol Griffin, Teagasc. In it Des Walsh, Teagasc spoke on Choosing the most appropriate microbiolgical tests; Good sample handing; Making use of testing data and Specialised research to support shelf-life data. A Question and Answer Session followed
28 November 2020

Sustainable Beef Farming in Europe – Policy and Practice
Beef industry stakeholders all over Europe are invited to attend the first trans-national meeting of BovINE – the first and only EU-funded Beef Innovation Network – to focus on improving sustainability across the sector. BovINE’s online meeting takes place on Tuesday 1st December
22 November 2020

‘Farming for a New Decade’ – New Kerry Agribusiness / Teagasc Joint programme
Kerry Agribusiness and Teagasc launched their new phase of the dairy joint programme on zoom on Tuesday, 17 November. ‘Farming for a new decade’ is the ninth chapter of the Teagasc / Kerry Agribusiness knowledge transfer programme that began in 1994.
22 November 2020

Breeding Sport Horses
What is a sport horse? The foundation Irish sport horse breeds are the Irish draught horse and thoroughbred, with influence also from the Connemara Pony. In recent generations, there has been an infusion of continental warmbloods resulting in a considerable amount of crossbreeding with these breeds
21 November 2020

Fresh Blueberry Production
Blueberries are one of the more unusual soft fruit crops grown in Ireland. Blueberries are perennial flowering plants, which produce berries each year. All growers must operate under the food hygiene programme of the DAFM. There are excellent opportunities for new entrants to supply the local market
20 November 2020

Transferring the Family Farm Online Event
Transferring the family farm is a business transaction with complex issues to address. An online seminar on farm succession with Teagasc Farm Management Specialists was held to help farm families with this process. It covered all aspects that need to be considered when writing a succession plan
20 November 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - Adding value to farm produced food
On a recent Farm Business Options webinar which took place on Tuesday, 17 November, host Barry Caslin was joined by Eddie O'Neill & Carol Griffin, Teagasc who gave an insight into the steps people should take when they are thinking of starting a food business and developing a new food product.
18 November 2020

Teagasc/FBD Student of the Year Awards 2019 - We have a winner!
Enda Farrell of Co. Longford, is the 2019 Teagasc/FBD Student of the Year. The announcement was made at an online virtual awards ceremony on Monday. The Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, congratulated Enda Farrell and all finalists, wishing them well in their careers
18 November 2020

“Beeing” In the Moment!
“It’s an ill wind that blows no good”. Climate change is increasing its negative impact on farm environments with the recent Storm Ellen in August creating havoc with many mature deciduous trees bowled over in East Galway farmlands. Bernie Leahy, Advisor elaborates on her Irish Native Black Bee find
18 November 2020

The Embrace Farm Accident Support Network and how it can help
From 2010 - 2019, 214 farmers lost their lives through a farming accident. On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge Podcast, founding member of Embrace FARM (Farm Accident Support Network) Norma Rohan outlines the services it offers.
14 November 2020

Transferring the Family Farm Online Event
Join us on Tuesday, 17 November at 7:30pm for a short seminar on farm succession, led by Teagasc Farm Management Specialists followed by an opportunity to submit your questions to them privately and have them answered on a one to one basis.
14 November 2020

Today's Farm - October/November 2020
The November/December edition of our bi-monthly magazine is now available online. The main focus of this edition is on the environment, covering topics such as the Teagasc Biodiversity Management Practice Index (BMPI); How to reduce energy consumption on your dairy farm; farm roadways and more.
11 November 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - Tell me everything I need to know about goats
The fifth webinar in the Farm Business Options Series took place on Tuesday, 10 November. Webinar host, Cian Condon, Teagasc Goat and Drystock Advisor was joined by Sharon Peacock, Cockerham Goat Herd , Lancaster UK and Michael Finegan, Boyne Valley Farmhouse Cheese
09 November 2020

International Whey Conference (IWC2020) - A Better Whey of Life
The IWC is a unique forum uniting the whey business and scientific community worldwide for an interactive dialogue on the most relevant aspects of whey production, processing and applications. This year, it's online for the first time with three webinars on markets, nutrition and technology.
08 November 2020

Teagasc National Farm Survey Sustainability Report 2019 Webinar
The Teagasc National Farm Survey Sustainability Report 2019 Webinar took place on Tuesday, 3 November 2020. It provided an overview of the latest Sustainability Assessment for Irish Agriculture, including outcomes for 2019.
07 November 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar - Insurance around farm diversifications
The fourth webinar in the Farm Business Options Series took place on Tuesday, 3 November. Webinar host, Barry Caslin, Teagasc was joined by Stewart Gavin & Ciaran Roche, FBD Insurance and Graham Kenny, Bike Park Ireland to discuss Insurance around farm diversifications.
07 November 2020

Festival of Farming and Food – SFI Science Week at Teagasc 2020
Join Teagasc for a series of exciting virtual events for Science Week (November 8-15) as part of ‘The Festival of Farming and Food – SFI Science Week at Teagasc’. The theme for Science Week 2020 is ‘Choosing our Future’; focusing on how science can improve our lives in the future and in the present.
04 November 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar:Solar Photovoltaic (PV) – Questions for solar developers
The third webinar in the Farm Business Options Series took place on Tuesday, 27 October. Host Barry Caslin, Teagasc Energy & Rural Development Specialist was joined by James McDonnell, Teagasc Farm Management Specialist, James Staines, Principal of Staines Law and Declan McEvoy, Head of Tax, IFAC
02 November 2020

Teagasc National Farm Survey Sustainability Report - 2019 Webinar
Sustainability is at the core of Agricultural Policy both in Ireland and in the European Union. Join Teagasc researchers to learn about the Economic, Environmental and Social Sustainability of Irish Agriculture, including outcomes for 2019.
31 October 2020

On the path to biodiversity recovery
The EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 has proposed a number of challenging targets that will inform policy, practice and research for the coming decades. Researchers John Finn and Daire Ó hUallacháin go through some that are relevant to agriculture
31 October 2020

Smarter Milking
Lighten the Load - a campaign to reduce the incidence of Musculoskeletal Disorders ( MSDs) among Farmers in Ireland. Padraig O'Connor Teagasc milking technician gives advice and tips on smarter milking which will help reduce in particular repetitive sprain injuries.
30 October 2020

EU Green Deal for a climate- neutral Europe
The EU Green Deal is the big initiative of the recently installed EU Commission. Led by Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen it has the overall aim of making Europe a climate-neutral continent by 2050. Articles on the main aspects of the Green Deal will be published here on Teagasc Daily.
27 October 2020

Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders ( MSDs) among Farmers in Ireland - Webinar
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a serious cause for concern for farmers. Research found that 57% of farmers lost full time workdays, with over 22% losing 15 days or more. Join the webinar on Thursday, 29th October to get advice and information on prevention of MSDs
25 October 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar: Steps towards an on farm diversification
The second webinar in the Farm Business Options Series took place on Tuesday, 20 October. Host Barry Caslin, Teagasc Energy & Rural Development Specialist was joined by Allen McAdam, CEO, MCA Consulting to discuss the steps towards an on farm diversification.
23 October 2020

Farmer Focus: Tomas O’ Leary BETTER Sheep Farm Participant, Kerry
The O'Leary farm in Kerry was traditionally sucklers and sheep. They joined the Teagasc BETTER Sheep Farm Programme with the aim to increase performance and profitability of both their sheep and cattle enterprises. Today they run a mid-season ewe flock and contract rearing enterprise.
22 October 2020

Bioeconomy Ireland Week - Thursday - Investments in the bioeconomy
The bioeconomy is a young & growing sector. While technologies have been developed that can advance it, opportunities need to be scaled up beyond the lab to demonstration & pre-commercial level. In this map we highlight Bio-Based Industries Joint Undertaking (BBI-JU) flagship projects across Europe.
21 October 2020

Cattle Budgets 2020 - Too many Unknowns gives Cause for Concern
Teagasc annually produces a set of beef budgets dealing with a number of finishing scenarios. No two farms are the same in terms of input costs, management, stocking rates or fixed costs. With that in mind Aidan Murray, Beef Specialist says each individual should really do their own specific budgets
20 October 2020

'On Feirm Ground’ launched to support farmer health and well-being
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Department of Health, the HSE, Teagasc and IT Carlow have collaborated to fund a programme of research resulting in a training programme that will see agricultural advisors engage with farmers on their health and wellbeing over the farm gate.
19 October 2020

What’s in Budget 2021 for Dairy Farmers?
With the Government announcing a large spending package in this year’s Budget 2021, Financial Specialist Kevin Connolly joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to discuss the agricultural measures for dairy farmers.
18 October 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar: The Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH)
The first webinar in the Farm Business Options Series took place on Tuesday, 13 October. Host Barry Caslin, Teagasc Energy & Rural Development Specialist was joined by Ray Langton, SSRH Programme Manager, SEAI & Sean Finan, CEO, IrBEA to discuss the SSRH.
16 October 2020

Working Towards Positive Mental Health
Over the last number of months, farming has been challenging. COVID-19 has made the normal demands of farming even more difficult which can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed. Francis Bligh & John McNamara, Teagasc Health & Safety Specialists have some advice on Positive Mental Health.
12 October 2020

Teagasc Horticulture College -National Botanic Gardens Virtual information event
Join the Teagasc Horticulture College team - National Botanic Gardens for a virtual information event from 4 - 5pm on Wednesday 14th October. The event will give details on the range of courses available at the college and will be in the format of a live Q & A Event
11 October 2020

Farm Business Options Webinar Series
A new weekly Teagasc webinar called ‘Farm Business Options’ will feature news, views and interviews on current topics relevant to farm business diversification in Irish Agriculture. Farm Business Options will be broadcast live from 11am to 12noon every Tuesday from October 13th 2020.
06 October 2020

Mountbellew Agricultural College Virtual Open Day- Q & A Session
Mountbellew Agricultural College wishes to welcome you to their Virtual Open Day Live Q and A session. The session will run from 11am to 1pm on Wednesday 7th October 2020.
05 October 2020
Dairy Farmer Profile - Dara & Charles Killeen
Dara and Charles Killeen from Eyrecourt, Co Galway, began dairy farming in 2019 with 95 in-calf heifers and have increased to 153 cows milking this year. Prior to this, Dara and his father were farming 500 ewes and 120 beef cattle. Martina Gormley & Patrick Gowing, Dairy Specialists have the details
28 September 2020

Teagasc Food Gateways event – online/virtual event
Food Formulation for the Future – for a fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly food system. The Virtual event takes place online this Wednesday 30th September from 10am - 12.30pm.
27 September 2020

Tractor Safety
Up to 50% of fatalities in agriculture involve a farm vehicle or machinery. Serena Gibbons, Teagasc Education Officer Athenry talks through some top tips to staying safe and making our farms safer when it comes to working with tractors
25 September 2020

Best practice for health and safety on sheep farms
Farm accidents causing serious injury average 2,500 a year. These can lead to permanent disability and interfere with a person’s ability to far. Farmers also have high levels of preventable ill health. Teagasc Health & Safety staff John McNamara, Francis Bligh and Serena Gibbons give some advice
20 September 2020

Starting a Food Business
When thinking of starting a new food business, there are many things to consider, including your market, products, premises, equipment, branding and promotion, as well as the legalities. The Teagasc Food Industry Development Department have some guidance and advice on starting a food business.
19 September 2020

Reusing Farm Buildings
Traditional farm buildings have important potential for the diversification of the rural economy in terms of branding, amenity, environmental improvements and economically viable new uses, and create an additional source of income.
17 September 2020

Managing your farm finances
James McDonnell a Financial Specialist in Teagasc joins Michael Hennessy on this week’s Tillage Edge podcast to discuss how best to manage your farm finances.
13 September 2020

Bee Keeping and Honey Production
Ireland has a long history of producing quality honey and was a major exporter of comb honey up to the mid 20th century. Dónall Flanagan, Nursery Stock/Ornamentals Specialised Advisor has more information.
12 September 2020

Production of Ice Cream
Since the turn of the century and the development of the ice cream cone, the worldwide growth in consumption has been phenomenal, with over 12 billion litres of ice cream consumed each year in the USA and China alone. The Teagasc Food Industry Development Department have more information.
11 September 2020

Anaerobic Digestion
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is the conversion of feedstock (any organic non-woody material) by micro-organisms in the absence of oxygen into biogas and digestate. Barry Caslin, Teagasc Rural Economy Development Programme provides more information.
06 September 2020

Enda Keaveney - Dairy Farm Partnership
Enda from County Galway is in a dairy farm partnership in with his parents since 2015. He studied construction first and then the recession hit Ireland. They are farming 120 cows. Find out more about the Keaveney's and their experience of the New Entrant Network - Newbie.
03 September 2020

The Signpost Series - Energy Webinar
In this edition of Sustainable Agriculture Webinars, host Mark Gibson was joined by John Upton and Barry Caslin, Teagasc to discuss Energy efficiency and generation & the role of energy efficient and renewable technologies in decarbonising agriculture.
29 August 2020
Today's Farm September - October
The September - October edition of our bi-monthly magazine is now available online. The main focus of this edition is on getting into dairy farming. Recent entrants to dairy farming are profiled. Find out more about the Dairy Start-up Course.
24 August 2020

Are you a new entrant to farming?
Could you be Ireland’s best new entrant farmer? This competition invites entries from people who have recently taken up farming or have diversified their farming business
24 August 2020

Making farming easier and more enjoyable through labour efficiencies
Dairy Specialist Martina Gormley joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast. She gives insights into labour measures and efficiencies on six dairy farms across the spring and summer months of 2020.
22 August 2020

Safety at Harvest Time
Tillage farms are busy places at present. With current challenging weather making things more difficult it is very important to maintain a focus on managing Health and Safety on the farm. Francis Bligh and John McNamara, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialists have some information and advice.
16 August 2020

Safety with Slurry
Over the next few weeks many farmers and contractors will be busy emptying slurry. Francis Bligh & Tom Fallon, Teagasc have some advice on staying safe around slurry.
16 August 2020

Jessy's Smart Kids August 2020
Jessy's Smart Kids is a fun easily downloadable kids farm safety newsletter. This edition of Jessy's Smart Kids includes: Harvest time; Pesticides and Crack the code.
11 August 2020

Which Drainage system works for you?
Now that most of the silage has been made, it might be a good time to carry out some land drainage on your farm, depending on ground conditions. Shane Devaney, Beef Advisor, Teagasc Longford has some information and advice.
05 August 2020

Impact of COVID-19 on farm incomes in 2020 now likely to be more limited
At present, fears of a sharp COVID-19 related drop in Irish farm incomes in 2020, seem to have been averted following a gradual recovery in commodity prices and the provision of additional supports to the sector, according to Mid Year Outlook for 2020 produced by Teagasc economists.
04 August 2020

Planning for the smooth transfer of the family farm
Land in Ireland continuously passes from one generation to the next. This transfer of ownership does not always go smoothly. While there is no magic formula major pitfalls can be avoided by planning ahead and putting a succession plan in place.
24 July 2020

Farm Safely with Tractors, Farm Vehicles and Machinery
Summer is a busy time on farms. Farmers are making the most of the long days and dry conditions to harvest grass and crops, get slurry spread and carry out work around the farmyard. Working safely must be at the core of each and every job.
23 July 2020

Farm Safety - Working at Height on the farm
17% of farm fatalities over the last 10 years were caused by falls from heights or being struck by collapsing or falling objects. Always take time to stop and plan before starting to work at height or in an environment where it is possible to be struck by something falling from a height
22 July 2020

Child Safety on Farms
Health and Safety Authority figures tell us that sadly 21 children lost their lives as a result of farm accidents in the past 10 years. Over 80% of childhood deaths on farms had a farm vehicle or a machine involved.
21 July 2020

Farm Safety for Older Farmers
In 2019 twelve farmers over 65 years lost their lives due to farm accidents. This represents 66% of the total number of fatalities. Getting older impacts on a person’s ability to undertake farm related tasks. Farm safety specialists Francis Bligh and John Mc Namara have some relevant advice
20 July 2020

Working Safely with Livestock on Farms
Working with livestock is responsible for 39 farm workplace deaths on Irish farms in the last 10 years. During this period 7 deaths were caused by an attack by a bull, 22 by cows and heifers and 5 were associated with cattle. Farm safety specialists Francis Bligh and John McNamara have some advice
10 July 2020

BEAM Scheme Requirements - Don’t get penalised!!
Patricia Lynch, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Westport Close to €80 million was paid to just under 33,000 Irish beef farmers in 2019 under the BEAM scheme. This aid was paid to help compensate farmers for the drop off in beef prices during the period September 2018 to May 2019.
08 July 2020

Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP)
The ASSAP is a new government / industry collaborative initiative running from 2018 - 2021. The programme offers a free support and advisory service (20 Teagasc and 10 Dairy Co-op advisors) and participation is voluntary. Its aim is to improve water quality through working with farmers.
01 July 2020

Virtual Beef Week - What's on - Wednesday
Virtual Beef Week - Sustainable Beef Production Day 3 of Virtual Beef Week Wednesday July 8th
29 June 2020

The MASTER Plan
A European consortium co-ordinated by Professor Paul Cotter of Teagasc is using next-generation sequencing technologies to investigate the microbiomes of food systems and to improve our food quality, security and sustainability.
29 June 2020

Lower production costs and exceptional aid measures led to a modest increase in average farm income in 2019
The average family farm income rose by 2% in Ireland in 2019, according to a new report by Teagasc. A combination of factors were responsible for the increase in income in 2019, which averaged €23,933.
23 June 2020

New Teagasc Sustainability Report Launched
The newly released Teagasc National Farm Survey 2018 Sustainability Report, produced by Teagasc economists, benchmarks the sustainability of a range of farm systems in Ireland, and was published today, Tuesday, 23 June.
20 June 2020

Bales can kill with lethal force
According to Health and Safety Authority (HAS) show falling bales account for about 5% of farm workplace deaths. There are many safety issues around working with bales.
19 June 2020

Teagasc and Dairy Sustainability Ireland publish the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) interim report
Teagasc and Dairy Sustainability Ireland have published the first Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) interim report. The report focuses on the establishment and implementation of the ASSAP in 2018 and interaction with farmers up until the 31st December 2019.
17 June 2020

5 Minutes to get your Cash Flowing
Teagasc are highlighting the importance of Cash Flow Planning as a vital business tool that all farmers should engage in.
14 June 2020
Farm Buildings – Busy six months ahead
The number of applications from farmers for the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) was the highest to date. The scheme is operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine closed for applications in early June. Teagasc Buildings Specialist Tom Fallon has more information.