Today's Farm - May/June 2022

The May/June edition of our bi-monthly magazine is now available online. The main focus of this edition is on Teagasc Grange research and previews the BEEF2022 Open Day. It also has articles on the upcoming Sheep Open Day; heart health; butterflies and moths; fodder budgets; silage walls and more.
View it here: Today's Farm - May/June 2022 (PDF)
The main enterprises of dairy, beef, sheep and crops are covered. Also in this edition are interesting articles on:
- Beef 2022 – Supporting sustainable beef farming
The theme of BEEF2022 is ‘Supporting Sustainable Beef Farming’. Best practice and latest research findings in relation to grazing management, animal nutrition, beef genetics, reproductive management, animal health and farm planning are the main focus. Paul Crosson, Head of Beef Enterprise and Pearse Kelly, Head of Teagasc Drystock Knowledge Transfer provide information about what to expect on the day. - Teagasc Athenry sheep open day
The open day, which takes place in Athenry on June 18 at 10am, offers you an opportunity to review the latest research and technical advice from the Teagasc sheep programme and its practical application at farm level. Phil Creighton, Sheep Enterprise Leader, Teagasc Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Programme highlights some of the topics which will be discussed on the day. - Education powers careers in the dairy farming sector
Due to the growth in herd size, more dairy farms require non-family labour. The ability to attract and retain labour is fundamental to the success of many dairy farm businesses. Emma-Louise Coffey, Teagasc Education Coordinator, Moorepark and Martina Gormley, Teagasc Dairy Specialist, Athenry have more information. - Control what you can
International developments are beyond your control, but there is still a lot you can do to manage your farm and family finances. Kevin Connolly, Financial management specialist, Teagasc Rural Economy Development Programme discusses tracking your finances closely, possibly using banking apps or other cash flow recording tools. - Tillage farmers feeling the cost squeeze
Now that we are well into the season, farmers are thinking of fertiliser costs and whether savings can still be made. This is not straightforward. Where organic manures were used, these help reduce the requirement for chemical fertilisers, as they are a good source of N, P and K. Shay Phelan, Crops Specialist, Teagasc Crops, Environment and Land Use Programme outlines steps to control outlay can yield an environmental as well as cost benefit. - Butterflies and moths bring beauty to our world
No hedge cutting or scrub clearance from March to September allows birds to nest safely and is good for butterflies and moths too. Catherine Keena, Teagasc Countryside Management Specialist and Jesmond Harding, Butterfly Conservation Ireland provide more information.