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19 October 2020
Bioeconomy Ireland Week - Monday - The relevance of the bioeconomy
As part of Bioeconomy Week Ireland, in two maps we will show (a) the development of national bioeconomy strategies in Europe, & (b) employment in the bioeconomy in Ireland as a share of overall employment as one measure of its significance.
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.
18 October 2020
Gurteen College Virtual Open Day
Come and join us to have a virtual tour of the College campus and farm on Tuesday 20th October at 7pm
17 October 2020
How sustainable is the food we eat in Ireland?
Are you Culturally Sustainable, Nutritionally Sustainable or Unsustainable when it comes to your diet? Dr Sinéad McCarthy, Teagasc gives more information on how our food choices have the potential not only to substantially influence our health, but impact on the environment we live in.
17 October 2020
Bioeconomy Ireland Week
Bioeconomy Ireland Week takes place from Monday, 19 to Friday 23 October. Teagasc in collaboration with Agency partners will be presenting a series of maps each day on the bioeconomy to highlight its relevance for a wide range of stakeholders across many sectors.
16 October 2020
Teagasc Virtual Pig Week 2020
Teagasc Virtual Pig Week 2020 will run from Tuesday 20th to Friday 23rd of October. The Teagasc Pig Development Department will be bringing you the latest research and the best technical advice and information.
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.
16 October 2020
Virtual Pig Week 2020 - Friday
The focus of Virtual Pig Week on Friday, 23 October is the role of feed ingredients in disease transmission. It also includes a webinar with Dr Scott Dee, Director of Research for Pipestone Applied Research, Minnesota USA
15 October 2020
WEBINAR: The National Food Imaging Centre, Teagasc, Expertise & Tools for Studying Food Structure
Carol Griffin, Teagasc hosted the recent Food Industry Development webinar which focused on the “The National Food Imaging Centre, Teagasc, Expertise & Tools for Studying Food Structure”.The webinar featured presentations from Dr. Deirdre Kennedy and Dr. Laura Mascaraque, followed by a Q&A session.
15 October 2020
Virtual Pig Week 2020 - Thursday
The focus of Virtual Pig Week on Thursday, 22 October is Biosecurity & Energy use. It includes a virtual farm visit to Eugene & Ciarán Sheehan’s progressive pig farm in Co. Cork.
14 October 2020
WEBINAR: The Irish Coronavirus Sequencing Consortium: What We’re Doing and Why?
Teagasc hosted a webinar on Wednesday, 7th October to inform the public on the aims and activities of the Irish Coronavirus Sequencing Consortium, followed by a Q and A session with a panel of experts.
14 October 2020
Virtual Pig Week 2020 - Wednesday
The focus of Virtual Pig Week on Wednesday, 21 October is key husbandry practices in pig production. Teagasc Pig Development Department researchers and farm staff will share some of their key husbandry practices and tips.
13 October 2020
Virtual Pig Week 2020 - Tuesday
The focus of Virtual Pig Week on Tuesday, 20 October is a Virtual Tour of Teagasc Moorepark Pig Research Facility, led by Tomás Ryan, farm manager, where best practice and research and production can be seen from breeding to finishing.
12 October 2020
Teagasc announce details of ‘Virtual Pig Week’
The latest research and the best technical advice and information for pig producers will be broadcast live from Teagasc Moorepark at 1.30pm each day from Tuesday 20 until Friday, 23 October. The ‘Virtual Pig Week’ is being organised by the Teagasc Pig Development Department.
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
12 October 2020
New Ammonia MACC – outlook to 2030 - Webinar
The fourth webinar in the Teagasc Research Insights Series focused on the new Teagasc ammonia marginal abatement cost curve. Teagasc Director Professor Gerry Boyle and researchers on this webinar gave an insight into the analysis and cost effective pathways to meet future ammonia emission targets.
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.
10 October 2020
Let's Talk Equine Webinar - A veterinary perspective on breeding and reproductive management
On this episode of Let's Talk Equine which took place on Tuesday, 6 October, host Wendy Conlon, Teagasc Equine Specialist is joined by Dr. John Haughey M.R.C.V.S., Carrickview Stud, Co Armagh to discuss a veterinary perspective on breeding and reproductive management.
09 October 2020
Virtual Pig Week 2020
Starting on Tuesday 20th October and continuing until Friday 23rd October, the Teagasc Pig Development Department will be bringing you the latest research and the best technical advice and information, live at 1.30pm each day.
08 October 2020
Fitzgerald Family Farm Virtual Farm Walk - Work-life balance & Water quality
On Thursday October 1st the Fitzgerald family from Portlaw in County Waterford opened the gates of their farm for a virtual farm walk. The theme for the day was reducing the carbon footprint of milk production systems. Here we focus on work -life balance and water quality on the farm
07 October 2020
EU Pig Poster - Community Manager for Pig Farms
EU PiG Ambassador Shane McAuliffe has opened his pig farm to the public to help inform consumers about sustainable pig production. In order to maintain strict biosecurity measures, large groups can be taken to the viewing room.
06 October 2020
Fitzgerald Family Farm Virtual Farm Walk - Energy & Biodiversity
On Thursday October 1st the Fitzgerald family from Portlaw in County Waterford opened the gates of their farm for a virtual farm walk. The theme for the day was reducing the carbon footprint of milk production systems. Here we focus on the Energy Efficiency and Biodiversity themes from the day.
06 October 2020
How Soil Organic Carbon Cycling works in Irish Soils - Webinar
The third webinar in the Teagasc Research Insights Series focused on how soil organic carbon cycling works in Irish soils. Teagasc Researchers give an insight into their research and an overview of organic carbon cycling in Irish soils and its contribution to mitigating climate change.
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
Innovation in Agricultural Extension and Education – Looking forward
This year's conference will be online with advance registration required. It will appeal to anybody who is working in public and private agricultural advisory or education services and is an important event for those interested in improving the processes of knowledge transfer in the farming sector.
05 October 2020
Dairy Edge Episode 141
Francis Bligh, Health and Safety Specialist at Teagasc, joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to discuss health and safety on the farm workplace.
04 October 2020
Research Insights Webinar - Teagasc ammonia marginal abatement cost curve – outlook to 2030
Our Research Insights Webinars continue on Wednesday, October 7th. The fourth webinar in the Series will discuss the new Teagasc ammonia marginal abatement cost curve – outlook to 2030.
04 October 2020
Mushroom Production
There are many edible mushroom species that can be grown commercially, but in Ireland the white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) is almost exclusively grown. Production in Ireland is fairly steady at around 68,000 tonnes per year, 80% of which is exported to the UK.
03 October 2020
The Islands of Ireland
How well do you know your islands? The September map of the month is a map of the coastal and inland islands of the island of Ireland. We've chosen to show the islands without the "mainland",an imaginary Ireland Archipelago.
02 October 2020
National Potato Day 2020
Teagasc supports National Potato Day as the only potato breeder of new varieties in Ireland. Did you know the Potato is the world’s third most important food crop with global acreage rising faster than that of any other crop due to its high yield potential and excellent nutritional characteristics?
02 October 2020
Teagasc Pig Development Department Skills Series - Ear Tagging
This video and factsheet in the Teagasc Pig Development Department Skills Series focus on ear tagging in pigs, an important method of identification and tool which can be used to track individuals and to improve production on farm.
01 October 2020
The Irish Coronavirus Sequencing Consortium: What We’re Doing and Why? - Webinar
The Irish Coronavirus Sequencing Consortium is funded by Science Foundation Ireland. Teagasc are hosting a webinar on 7th October at 7PM to inform the public on the aims and activities of the consortium, including sample processing and data protection.
30 September 2020
EU Pig Poster - Adoption of a Biosecurity Tool
EU Pig aims to raise the competitiveness of the European pig industry by linking producers and sharing best practice and innovations. EUPig Ambassador Eugene Sheehan achieved great benefits in health management through the use of the Biocheck.UGent biosecurity scoring tool.
29 September 2020
Finding farming in our placenames
Mapping historic land use is challenging where spatially explicit data are limited. Here, Jesko Zimmermann of the Department of Agrifood Business and Spatial Analysis talks about a short project in which he and colleague Rob O’Hara use old Irish townland names to map historic agricultural practices
29 September 2020
SmartCow H2020 project
SmartCow is a Research Infrastructures (RIs) project which aims to integrate key European cattle research infrastructures to promote their coordinated use and development and thereby help the European cattle sector face the challenge of sustainable production.
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.
28 September 2020
Farmers are Highly Vulnerable to COVID-19
Preventing the horrific mortality and ill health consequences of COVID-19 infection poses a huge and on-going challenge in Ireland and among the farming community over the coming months. A study by a research and knowledge transfer team from Teagasc and the National Centre for Men’s Health, Institu
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
25 September 2020
The tillage sector and how it interacts with the pig sector
On the latest episode of the Pig Edge Podcast Michael Hennessy, Head of Crops Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc Oak Park, joins Ciarán Carroll to give an overview of the tillage sector and how it interacts with the pig sector.
23 September 2020
Pig Newsletter - September 2020
Get the latest information and advice from the Teagasc Pig Team. In this month's edition: Rye in growing-finishing pig diets, Interpig Figures - 2019 performance, Managing supplementary milk in the farrowing room and Choosing the best pig, an introduction to selective breeding.
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.
20 September 2020
How Soil Organic Carbon Cycling works in Irish Soils?
Our Research Insights Webinars continue on Wednesday September 23rd. The third in the series will focus on - How Soil Organic Carbon Cycling works in Irish Soils? Join our researchers to find out more and gain a better understanding of organic carbon cycling in Irish soils.
19 September 2020
A Better Whey of Life - International Whey Conference (IWC2020)
The International Whey Conference (IWC) is a unique forum bringing together the whey business and scientific community from around the world. The conference is an opportunity for interactive dialogue on the most relevant aspects of whey production, processing and applications.
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.
18 September 2020
Teagasc Pig Development Department Skills Series - Pig Inspection
The first in the Teagasc Pig Development Department’s Skills Series focuses on Pig Inspection, with a video providing practical advice and accompanying factsheet.
17 September 2020
Why we need healthy soils - webinar
Teagasc researchers on this webinar gave an insight into their research, the health of Irish soils and what we need to do to make them healthier.
16 September 2020
EU Pig Poster - Precision Production
EU Pig aims to raise the competitiveness of the European pig industry by linking producers and sharing best practice and innovations. This poster highlights the benefits achieved by EU Pig ambassador Patrick O’Keefe by implementing a lean programme to improve work efficiency on his farm.
15 September 2020
Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture - Update
The Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture in the National Botanic Gardens and Ashtownhas commenced the September 2020 programme in a blended format. College Principal John Mulhern gives an update
14 September 2020
Teagasc Education Update
All Teagasc colleges and our partner private colleges will have fully reopened by mid-September. Teagasc Head of Education gives an update.
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
An insight into The Pig Edge, Teagasc Pig Podcast
The Pig Edge, Teagasc's podcast covering the latest news, information and advice to improve your pig farm performance, has hosted some excellent guests to date covering a range of topics.
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.
09 September 2020
EU Pig Poster - Health Management
EU Pig aims to raise the competitiveness of the European pig industry by linking producers and sharing best practice and innovations. This poster outlines the improvements achieved by EU Pig ambassador Patrick Ryan under the theme of health management.
09 September 2020
Water Quality in Connemara - Farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht Series
The second video in the "Farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht" series features Ivan Kelly, Teagasc ASSAP Advisor who gives an overview of water quality in the Owenriff catchment area and a brief outline of the function of the ASSAP service to farmers.
08 September 2020
Research Insights Webinar - Why we need healthy soils?
Soils are essential for life on earth, providing food, clean water and habitats for biodiversity, contributing to climate resilience and supporting our cultural heritage and landscapes. Join us for Webinar 2 in the series
07 September 2020
Let's Talk Pigs - Supplementary milk in the farrowing room
On the final webinar in the series of fortnightly webinars aimed at Irish pig producers, host Ciaran Carroll, Head of Teagasc Pigs KT was joined by guest presenter Charlotte Lauridsen who discussed supplementary milk in the farrowing room.
06 September 2020
Steps to Organic Conversion
Organic farming is an overall system of farm management and food production that combines best environmental practices, a high level of biodiversity, the preservation of natural resources, and the application of high welfare standards.
05 September 2020
Chocolate Manufacturing
The worldwide demand for chocolate confectionery is continuing to increase, with the EU being the world’s largest producer and consumer.
05 September 2020
Let's Talk Equine Webinar - Developing a breeding programme and herd
Wendy Conlon, Teagasc Equine Specialist was joined by Tom March, March Stud UK on Tuesday 1 September, for the latest webinar in the Let's Talk Equine series. Wendy and Tom discussed establishing a breeding herd, the decisions involved, and the various ups and downs.
04 September 2020
Food Industry Development Webinar - Cleaning & Hygiene for Food SMEs
Webinar host Ciara McDonagh, Teagasc facilitated this webinar with a presentation from Eddie O’Neill, Teagasc who discussed the principles of cleaning and sanitation in the food production environment in order to comply with legal & technical standards and ensure food hazards are controlled.
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.
02 September 2020
Teagasc Pig Skills Series
The Teagasc Pig Development Department have been working on a series of informational videos and factsheets focusing on essential skills in pig production. This promotional video gives an insight as to what to expect throughout the series.
30 August 2020
Relative sectorial income from agriculture in Electoral Districts
The Agri-Food sector is an important sector in the Irish economy. The August Map of the Month shows ranking of the share of the income in each Electoral District (ED) attributed to Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing.
30 August 2020
A new mission to improve soil health - Webinar
Teagasc researchers Dr. Karl Richards and Dr. David Wall were joined by Minister of State Martin Heydon TD and Dr Jean-Francois Soussana, Vice-President International Research Policy, INRAE to discuss EU's new mission to improve soil health.
29 August 2020
Organic Horticulture
Organic fruit and vegetables are the main consumer entry point for purchasing organic produce, and they continue to be the area of shortest supply in the organic sector, with most produce imported. Dan Clavin, Teagasc Farm Management and Rural Development Department provides more information.
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.
28 August 2020
Key information about vaccine programmes on farm
Vaccines and vaccination programmes on farm is the topic for discussion on this week’s Pig Edge with Laura Boyd from MSD joining presenter Ciarán Carroll to discuss in detail when farms should consider vaccinating against a disease.
26 August 2020
Pig Research Update - ZINCO
Effects of therapeutic zinc oxide (ZnO) on the microbiome, resistome & immune system of pigs & strategies to face ZnO withdrawal. This project is a collaboration between Teagasc & the School of Veterinary Medicine of the Universidad de Córdoba, Spain.
25 August 2020
INFOGEST Webinar on Food Digestion
Teagasc researchers have been involved in a large-scale EU-funded network to improve and standardise the scientific protocol for simulating food digestion. Join them and their international counterparts on September 2nd for the 1st International INFOGEST Webinar.
25 August 2020
Let's Talk Pigs - Antibiotic use & reduction
In the latest Let's Talk Pigs Webinar, Jens Sørensen, Danvet joined the webinar to discuss the reduction in use of Antibiotics in pigs. The webinar was also joined by Teagasc Pig Development Officer, Michael McKeon for a question and answer session.
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
23 August 2020
Floristry
Floristry is the creation and design of floral arrangements such as bouquets, centrepieces, corsages, wreaths and other products.The floristry industry is diverse, challenging and subject to frequent changes in fashion.Andy Whelton, Vegetable and Cut Foliage Specialist Advisor gives more information
23 August 2020
Teagasc Research Insights Webinars
Beginning in August 2020 we will be running a series of webinars focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities in the agri-food sector and showcasing the latest thinking and Teagasc’s research in these areas.
22 August 2020
Alpacas
The alpaca is a domesticated camelid, with an average life expectancy of approximately 25 years. They are livestock, and should be treated as such, not pets. Fact sheet produced by the Rural Economy and Development Programme, with input from Joe Phelan, K2Alpacas.
21 August 2020
Production of Nursery Stock and Ornamental Plants
The Irish ornamental horticulture industry is professional and modern, with high-tech growing systems producing plants of the highest quality. The market is diversified into a range of specialised sub sectors. This factsheet gives information on production of nursery and ornamental plants.
21 August 2020
Connemara Pony Update - Farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht
The first video in the "Farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht" series features Connemara Pony Breeder Tomás Mac Lochlainn who discusses topics such as sales, classification and also highlights the importance of DNA testing.
21 August 2020
Pig Newsletter - August 2020
Get the latest information and advice from the Teagasc Pig team. In this month's edition: Increasing performance in the Teagasc Pig Research Facility; Maintenance on Farm; New Tools to Benchmark your Farm; Let's Talk Pigs Webinar Series and The Pig Edge Podcast.
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.
16 August 2020
Production of Yoghurt
The production of yoghurt is a relatively simple procedure. Milk, which can be fortified with milk powder to give a thicker product, is pasteurised, cooled and inoculated with starter bacteria, which ferment the milk, causing it to clot or gel. This factsheet gives advice on yoghurt production.
15 August 2020
Farm Fresh Turkey Production
Farm-fresh turkey production refers to the growing of turkeys in smaller units, when compared to the large-scale contract commercial year-round production.
15 August 2020
Let's Talk Equine Webinar- Identifying prospective performance and breeding stock as foals
In the fifth of the Let's Talk Equine webinar series, host Wendy Conlon, Teagasc Equine Specialist is joined by Andrea Etter, Belmont House Stud to discuss identifying prospective performance and breeding stock as foals. Andrea's presentation is followed by a Q&A session.
14 August 2020
How to cut energy costs on farm
On the latest episode of the Pig Edge podcast, Ciarán Carroll discusses energy use on pig farms.
13 August 2020
Farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht
Teagasc Galway/Clare are working with Teach na Gaeilge Moycullen to bring you the "Farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht" video series which focuses on farming in the Moycullen Gaeltacht.
12 August 2020
Pig Research Update - PigNoDock
Development & implementation of tail biting risk assessment tool on commercial pig farms. This project is a collaboration between Teagasc & University College of Dublin.
11 August 2020
Let's Talk Pigs- Rearing pigs with intact tails
In the latest Let's Talk Pigs webinar, Mirjam Lechner joined the webinar to discuss rearing pigs with intact tails. The webinar was also joined by Teagasc Pig Development Officer, Michael McKeon for a question and answer session.
10 August 2020
InstaLive with Teagasc Grass10 & PastureBase Ireland
John Douglas from Teagasc Grass10 and Micheal O'Leary from PastureBase Ireland joined us on an Instagram live on Wednesday, 5 August to answer your questions on Autumn Grazing Management.
09 August 2020
Teagasc Pig Research Facility Update - 6 August
Video in a series by the Teagasc Pig Development Department. Tomás Ryan farm manager in the Teagasc Pig Research Facility gives us an update on what's been happening in the unit.
09 August 2020
Free Range Egg Production
The egg production industry has increased substantially in recent years, due to our growing population and a demand for protein foods. The sector is divided into four varying intensities: enriched cages; barn; free range; and, organic.
08 August 2020
Dry Stone Wall Building
Dry stone walls are synonymous with the Irish rural and upland landscape features. It is estimated that the Irish countryside has over 400,000km of dry stone walls, and 210,000km of stone-earthen banks. Dr Alan M.Hurley gives information on dry stone wall building
07 August 2020
Free Range Goose Production
The rearing of geese can be a profitable enterprise on a farm. In many other areas of poultry, the use of artificial heating and lighting has led to year-round production. However, this is not the case for the production of geese. Geese are generally hatched from February to June.
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
Health Status on Irish Pig Farms
Health Status on Irish Pig Farms - an infographic showing the prevalence of disease on Irish pig farms, and their impacts on production
03 August 2020
Selling at a Farmers' Market
Farmers’ markets offer local growers and producers a direct route to sell their own produce to consumers. Farmers' Markets allow for direct selling, helping to forge links between local producers and consumers. Wendy Conlon, Teagasc gives advice on selling at farmers's markets and trading tips
02 August 2020
Dairy Goats
The image of the goat has undergone a transformation in recent years. Consumer knowledge of production values has increased exponentially and has fuelled a demand for healthy, quality products, such as goats’ milk and cheeses. Cian Condon, Teagasc Goats advisor has advice on farming dairy goats
01 August 2020
Fresh Strawberry Production
The main soft fruit crop grown in Ireland is the fresh strawberry. This is worth an estimated €47m per annum. In this factsheet, Eamonn Kehoe, Soft fruit Specialist Adviser gives advice on fresh strawberry production.
01 August 2020
Vegetation Cover since the 1980s
Knowing the history of a piece of land can help us understand issues around greenhouse gas accounting, bio-diversity, soil health and much more. The July map of the month looks at how often fields in Ireland have been bare of vegetation, due to harvesting or re-seeding since the 1980's.
31 July 2020
International Year of Plant Health 2020
The UN General Assembly has declared 2020 as the International Year of Plant Health in order to raise global awareness about how protecting plant health is vital to ending hunger, protecting the environment and boosts our economies.
31 July 2020
The Key Strategies Required to Optimise Lactation Feed Intakes
On the latest episode of the Pig Edge, Emer McCrum, Teagasc Pig Development Officer, discusses how farmers should go about optimising lactation feed intakes.
29 July 2020
Pig Research Update - PLFPigCarc
Precision Livestock Farming technologies & meat inspection findings to improve pig health & welfare. This project is a collaboration between Teagasc, University College Dublin & KU Leuven.
29 July 2020
Food Industry Training Webinar- What can Sensory Science do for you?
Webinar host, Ciara McDonagh, Teagasc facilitated this Food Industry Training Webinar, which took place 14th July 2020. Ciara was joined by Carol Griffin, Teagasc who gave an introduction to Sensory Science and how food businesses can benefit from its application.
27 July 2020
Irish Coronavirus Sequencing Consortium
The Irish Coronavirus Sequencing Consortium, led by Professor Paul Cotter at Teagasc Moorepark, aims to sequence and analyse the genetic information from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the cause of COVID-19. The consortium received funding of €378,716 from Science Foundation Ireland.
27 July 2020
Lets Talk Pigs - Latest advances in weaning pig nutrition
On the latest Let's Talk Pigs Webinar, host Ciaran Carroll, Head of Pigs was joined by Peadar Lawlor and Louise Clarke of Teagasc to discuss advances in weaning pig nutrition.
26 July 2020
Let's Talk Poultry Webinar - Irish poultry industry outlook
The final webinar in the "Let's Talk Poultry" series for Irish poultry producers in collaboration with Alltech which took place on Wednesday, 15 July.
25 July 2020
Organic Dairy Farming - The Little Milk Company
The Little Milk Company is made up of a group of 10 family run organic farms which was established in 2008. It started out as a plan to get a better return for their milk by producing a range of organic artisan products. Their story is profiled by member John Liston.
25 July 2020
Let's Talk Equine Webinar - Breeding and producing Connemara Ponies for today’s markets
In the fourth of the equine webinar series Equine Specialist Wendy Conlon facilitates a discussion on the Breeding and production of Connemara Ponies for today’s markets.
24 July 2020
Pig Newsletter - July 2020
Get the latest information and advice from the Teagasc Pig team. In this month's edition: Farm Safety – a constant threat; The importance of age of gilts at first service for improved sow lifetime productivity; Giltlife: A good start is half the battle!; Let’s Talk Pigs webinar series.
24 July 2020
Let's Talk Poultry Webinar - From chicks to eggs – improving the layer cycle
The third webinar in the "Let's Talk Poultry" series for Irish poultry producers in collaboration with Alltech which took place on Wednesday, 1 July.
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
19 July 2020
Organic Dairy Farming
Organic dairying is a small but growing sector within the dairy sector in Ireland. Latest figures from DAFM show that there are 62 organic dairy operators with an average herd size of 79 cows (2019). Dan Clavin, Teagasc Organic Specialist gives us an insight into the organic dairy sector in Ireland
17 July 2020
Mycotoxins and their impact on pig performance
Mycotoxins and their impact on pig performance is the topic for this episode of the Pig Edge and presenter Ciaran Carroll was joined by Louise Clarke, Teagasc’s Specialised Pig Development Officer at Ballyhaise to find out more.
16 July 2020
Teagasc Pig Research Facility Update - 16 July
Video in a series by the Teagasc Pig Development Department. Tomás Ryan farm manager in the Teagasc Pig Research Facility gives us an update on what's been happening in the unit.
16 July 2020
Revised Teagasc Green Book published
Major and Micro Nutrient Advice for Productive Agricultural Crops
15 July 2020
Pig Research Update - GILTLIFE (Part 2)
This project was a collaboration between Teagasc & University College Limerick. It investigated the effects of nutrition & management on gilt welfare & performance. Improving rearing conditions for replacement gilts should improve their welfare & increase their output.
11 July 2020
Processing Fresher, Healthier, Longer-Lasting Foods
Food processing is any method used to convert fresh foods into food products. In large-scale food manufacture. Dr Elena Inguglia describes how some of our foods are currently processed, and how these processes might be improved for food to be processed freshers, healthier and longer-lasting
10 July 2020
Nutrient Recovery Cycle - Infographic
This infographic outlines the nutrient recovery cycle which can improve the efficient use of resources in pig production. By using pig manure as a fertiliser to grow crops which will in turn be used in making pig feed, a circular economy is created.
10 July 2020
Processing Fresher, Healthier, Longer-Lasting Foods
Food processing is any method used to convert fresh foods into food products. In large-scale food manufacture. Dr Elena Inguglia describes how some of our foods are currently processed, and how these processes might be improved for food to be processed freshers, healthier and longer-lasting
08 July 2020
Conservation of Farmland Habitats
Conservation and protection of farmland wildlife and habitats is an important dimension of environmental sustainability. Aim to retain existing habitats, enhance degraded habitats then consider habitat creation.
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.
05 July 2020
Wildflower Meadow
Paul Fitters lecturer in the Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens takes us on a walk through his wildflower meadow at two different stages in May and June 2020.
05 July 2020
Let's Talk Equine Webinar- Breeding the next generation of broodmares
The third in the Let's Talk Equine series took place on Tuesday 30 June 2020
04 July 2020
Frost damage in older plantations
This year the mid May frosts in may have caused substantial damage to trees around the country. Both broadleaf and conifer trees have been affected. Forestry Development Officers Kevin O’Connell and John Casey have some advice on assessing the damage and options available.
03 July 2020
What you need to know about African Swine Fever
On this episode of the Pig Edge, Amy Quinn speaks to Eithne White, Veterinary Inspector from the National Disease Control Centre at the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine to get an overview, update and general advice on ASF.
03 July 2020
Virtual Beef Week - What's on - Thursday
Grass Management for Sustainable Beef Production
03 July 2020
Virtual Beef Week - What's on - Friday
Virtual Beef Week - Day 5 - Friday July 10th
01 July 2020
Pig Research Update - GILTLIFE (Part 1)
This project was a collaboration between Teagasc & University College Limerick. It investigated the effects of nutrition and management on gilt welfare and performance. Phoebe Hartnett, previous PhD student who worked on the GILTLIFE project tells us more.
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
30 June 2020
NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards - Hearne Family Dairy Farm
In 2019, the Hearne family was awarded the top prize in the NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards.
30 June 2020
Control of Stomach Worms – improving sustainability
Internal parasites, in particular gut worms, are a major challenge to sheep production systems. Parasite control is largely based on suppression of the parasitic burden using anthelmintic products.
30 June 2020
Good news for earthworm numbers in grazed pastures - the role of dung pats
Grazed grassland management regimes can have various positive and negative effects on soil fauna such as earthworms. Teagasc Johnstown Castle and UCD researchers Owen Fenton, Giulia Bondi and Olaf Schmidt tell us more.
30 June 2020
Virtual Beef Week - What's on Tuesday
Virtual Beef Week - Dairy Calf to Beef Production Day 2 - Tuesday July 7th
29 June 2020
Virtual Beef Week July 6th – 10th
Virtual Beef Week replaces the planned major Teagasc Beef 2020 Open Day, which was due to take place at the Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation centre, Grange, County Meath.
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.
27 June 2020
Gurteen College Beef Farm Update
Currently the suckler beef unit at Gurteen College has 79 sucker cows and split calving with 43 spring calving cows and 36 autumn calving cows. The unit aims to educate students on the running of a sustainable drystock business.
27 June 2020
Managing native woodland resources on our farms
To fully appreciate how valuable native woodlands are for our well-being and for biodiversity, take a slow walk through a mature oak and birch woodland during a full bloom of bluebells and just breathe in the fragrant air.
26 June 2020
Rain shines the light back on quality
Following recent rain grass has started to grow again in most areas. What is the best way to manage the grass growth? Grass 10 advisor John Douglas has advise on keeping the focus on quality.
26 June 2020
Drainage Ditch Connectivity to Surface Water
Do you have a Ditch, a Gripe, a Sheough or a Marein on your farm? You must avoid contaminants such as nutrients and pesticides from entering these ditches to protect water quality in the receiving streams. Read more from researchers Karen Daly and Owen Fenton.
26 June 2020
Slurry timing & application to protect the environment
Good management of Slurry is needed to maximise grass growth, while at the same time minimise losses to our atmosphere and water bodies. ASSAP Advisor Ivan Kelly has some useful advice.
25 June 2020
Tillage Update June 25th
Now is a good time to walk your crops, assess some of the management decisions made and review what worked well and what you might change for next year. Tillage specialist Ciaran Collins has some advice.
25 June 2020
Teagasc Pig Research Facility Update - 25 June
Video in a series by the Teagasc Pig Development Department. Tomas Ryan farm manager in the Teagasc Pig Research Facility gives us an update on what's been happening in the unit.
25 June 2020
John Ryan - Teagasc/ Glanbia Future Farm Participant Update
John Ryan, participant of the Teagasc/ Glanbia Future Farm Programme farms in Boulick, Gornathoe, Co. Tipperary.
24 June 2020
Questions and Answers with Organic Farmers Ross and Amy Jackson
Ross and Amy Jackson are farming organically in Lacka, Carrig, Co Tipperary. A farm walk was due to take place on their farm. Organic Specialist Elaine Leavy got an update from Ross and Amy.
24 June 2020
Hot Water Heating Options for the Milking Parlour
It is projected that during 2020 Ireland will produce up to 8.8 billion litres of milk; this will require approx. 370 GWh of electricity. On farm dairy electricity related CO2 emissions may be 162,000 tonnes by the end of 2020 unless mitigation strategies are implemented.
23 June 2020
Discover the diverse world of microbes…
Join us in celebrating World Microbiome Day 2020. The day will focus on communicating the diversity of microbes, microbiome habitats, diets to feed and fuel microbiomes and diversity among microbiome researchers.
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.
23 June 2020
Post sowing management and grazing of a grass/clover reseeds
John Paul Murphy Farm Manager in Moorepark gives and update on the sward sown on May 1st 2020. He gives details on the management of the sward to date.
23 June 2020
Safeguarding your soil biology
There is increasing awareness of the importance of soil biology in underpinning agriculture. The life beneath our feet is critical to the sustainability, resilience and functioning of our farming systems.
23 June 2020
Selecting Flock Replacements
Breeding ewe replacements from within your own flock has a number of advantages including allowing you to breed the best performing ewes in the flock with a high genetic merit maternal sire. Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist, has more information.
22 June 2020
Concentrate supplement options during a grass shortage
Many farms have been struggling with poor grass growth and quality in recent weeks. Weekend rainfall has been significant in most regions, this will help grass growth. If you are short of grass, Dairy Specialist Joe Patton has some advice.
21 June 2020
Liming reduces greenhouse gas emissions and increases grassland productivity
Research in Johnstown Castle has shown that increasing soil pH by liming resulted in significant reduction of N2O emissions and increased grassland productivity compared to the un-limed plots under the same management and fertiliser regime. Researchers Ognjen Zurovec and Karl Richards have more info
20 June 2020
Teagasc launches - ‘A Forest to Suit Every Farm’ booklet
Teagasc has launched a new booklet, ‘A Forest to Suit Every Farm’, which highlights innovative approaches and experiences of forest owners across Ireland.
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.
18 June 2020
‘Farmers Have Hearts’ Cardiovascular Health Programme - Major Study indicates Farmers at high risk of Cardiovascular Disease
A major study of farmer’s health is being published today, Thursday 18 June, as part of Men’s Health Week. The research found that 74% of male farmers have four, or more, risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
17 June 2020
Tillage Update - 18th June
This weeks update has information on the likely impact of the drought. There are also updates from specialist Mark Plunkett on winter crops, spring crops, spring beans, beet and maize.
17 June 2020
Finishing cattle at grass
During the next few months a considerable number of beef cattle will be slaughtered. If you are targeting to slaughter off grass Alan Dillon, Cattle Specialist has some useful advice.
17 June 2020
Questions and Answers with Organic Farmer Donal Keane
Donal and Frederique Keane, Camelton Stud, Summerhill, Co Meath are organic suckler to beef and cereal farmers. A farm walk was due to take place on their farm. Organic Specialist Elaine Leavy got an update from Donal.
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.
17 June 2020
Drought impact on Tillage farms
Teagasc estimate the output from the cereal sector in Ireland is expected to reduce by at least €100 million this year following the effects of the prolonged drought which has severely affected crops in the eastern half of the country.
16 June 2020
Poultry Advisor: Meet our People - Rebecca Tierney
The Teagasc Poultry Advisor, Rebecca Tierney is based in the advisory office in Ballyhaise County Cavan. Rebecca is making a name for herself with the pioneering ‘Let’s Talk Poultry webinars.
16 June 2020
Finishing lambs from grass only
One of the biggest challenges for sheep farmers is to finish lambs as quickly as possible from grass. Edward Egan, Teagasc Drystock Advisor in Meath gives some advice and information.
16 June 2020
Using a creep gate to creep graze lambs
Creep grazing is extremely useful when grass supplies are tight & during dry spells. Hugh Rooney, Teagasc Drystock Advisor highlights the advantages of creep grazing & explains how to set up creep grazing for lambs.
16 June 2020
Virtual Farm Walk on Award Winning Dairy Farm
The Hearne family, who farm at Ballinacurra, Rathgormack, Co. Waterford, were the 2019 National Winners of the NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards. A ‘Virtual Farm Walk’ webinar will take place on this award winning farm on Tuesday, 30 June this year.
15 June 2020
Diagnose before you Dose
Resistance to dosing products is of increasing concern. It is therefore incumbent on farmers to ensure that they are using the right product at the right rate at the right time. Dairy specialist Stuart Childs has some useful advice.
15 June 2020
Teagasc announce details of ‘Virtual Beef Week’
Teagasc are holding a ‘Virtual Beef Week’ from Monday 6th to Friday 10th July, to demonstrate best practice and communicate the latest research results relevant to beef farmers.‘
14 June 2020
Enhancing soil carbon sequestration to contribute to carbon neutrality on Irish farms
Carbon stored in soils is often called soil organic carbon and it is good for soils. Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and storing it in plant material or soil. Researchers Donal O’Brien and Gary Lanigan have more information.
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.
13 June 2020
Farm Forests – Delivering on Biodiversity and Water Quality
Farm forests are a multi-functional resource – delivering for timber production, as a land use resource and offering favourable financial returns. Forestry Specialist Tom Houlihan gives information on their contribution to biodiversity and water quality.
13 June 2020
Summer Season – Keeping up with the Grass Plant!
Maintaining adequate high quality grass mid-season is the most cost effective way of achieving good animal performance - Anne O’Malley, Drystock Advisor in Ballina has some advice.