Sheep
11 April 2021
What is a GPS Fertiliser Spreader?
With the grant on GPS fertiliser spreaders now available to all TAMS applicants there is a lot of interest from farmers in making an investment in the new equipment. Francis Quigley, Teagasc Farm Machinery Specialist explains that a GPS controlled spreader is more than just a guidance system
11 April 2021
Target to make 75% DMD Silage this summer
Shane Devaney, Beef Advisor, Teagasc Longford, sets a target for all farmers to make 75% DMD Silage this summer. He has advice for those farming on heavy soils and he lists the benefits of making good quality silage here.
11 April 2021
Extreme Weather Newsletter
Variation in grass growth and feed supply due to weather conditions is inevitable in our ruminant farming systems. It is important that farms plan ahead for the adverse weather events. Teagasc has identified steps to be taken at farm and industry level in this regard.
10 April 2021
Environment Newsletter - April 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Environment team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Dates for your diary; Mandatory derogation requirements from January 1, 2021; and Message from ASSAP: Is your silage storage fit for purpose?.
09 April 2021
The Signpost Series Webinar - Working with farmers to improve water quality
In this episode of The Signpost Series webinar, held as part of Water Quality Week, on Friday, 26 March, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd is joined by Noel Meehan, ASSAP Programme Manager and Edward Burgess, ACP Specialist Advisor, Teagasc to discuss working with farmers to improve water quality
08 April 2021
Let's Talk Sheep - Nematodirus / Coccidia in Lambs
Join us tonight at 8pm for an hour-long Let's Talk Sheep webinar to learn more about nematodirus and coccidiosis in lambs. This is very timely as the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have just issued their Nematodirus forecast indicating peak larval hatching this week. Register here
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
Grass10 Newsletter - 6th April 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: Weekly PastureBase data; Niall Callanan (dairy) & Aidan Maguire (beef) discuss grazing plans; Grazing tips to hold Average Farm Cover in this colder week; A video explaining “Band Method” grass measuring & more
06 April 2021
Grazing focus - early season management
With the grazing season well underway, on the latest OviCast episode Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr Philip Creighton who highlights the need to focus on grassland management for the coming weeks to maximise lamb performance.
06 April 2021
It’s getting hot in here
Keith Lambkin, senior climatologist with Met Eireann joins Cathal Somers and Deirdre Glynn on the latest episode of the Environment Edge podcast to discuss global warming.
06 April 2021
New Lime Factsheet - The Facts on Applying Lime
Lime is most definitely the forgotten fertiliser on Irish farms. We are currently only applying 50% of our national lime requirements. In addition 80 to 85% of our soils are testing sub-optimal for major nutrients such as soil pH, P & K. Mark Plunkett, Teagasc Johnstown Castle has more information.
06 April 2021
Sheep Newsletter - April 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; grass tetany; Silage 2021; Lambing review; BETTER Farm and Research Update; Parasites; and Early-lambing flocks.
06 April 2021
Have multi species swards a role on Irish farms?
Multi species swards have the ability to grow 11Ton of dry matter with no chemical nitrogen, but have they a role on Irish farms? Joe Kelleher, Teagasc Advisor, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick addresses this question here and discusses what is known so far about Multi species swards
04 April 2021
Quins and Quads at Teagasc farms
It won't be "Lonely round the Fields of Athenry" this Spring as Teagasc Athenry celebrates the arrival of five lambs to a pedigree Belclare ewe there. Meanwhile at Clonakilty College Farm, an UnBaa-lievable set of Quad lambs were born. Read about the two marvelous mothers and their progeny here
03 April 2021
TResearch Spring 2021
TResearch is an official science publication of Teagasc. It aims to disseminate the results of the organisation’s research to a broad audience. The Spring Edition of TResearch has a special feature on grass roots - 70 years of grassland research; milk fractions for pigs; kelp; BREXIT & farm income.
02 April 2021
Sheep Production - Farm Walk and Talk with AgriAware
A sustainable sheep enterprise requires planning, skill and hard work. Kildalton College lecturer Joe Day gives information on the college flock, detailing what is required to have a successful mid-season lambing flock
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
Grass10 Newsletter - 30 March 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter. It includes: Weekly PastureBase data; Michael Lally, Meath discusses his plan for grazing; Spring grazing update from Winter Milk herd at Johnstown Castle; Spring Grazing Update from GFOTY Sheep Winner Peter McGuinness.
30 March 2021
Lambing one year old ewes – the farmer experience
Tomás O’Leary who is farming outside Killarney in Co. Kerry joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Tomás who is a participant on the BETTER Farm Sheep Programme has always joined his ewe lambs and managed them alongside his mature ewes.
30 March 2021
Management of ewes and lambs post turnout – grouping up to kick-start rotational grazing
The lambing of mid-season flocks is well underway and near completion on many farms. The ultimate goal is turning out ewes and lambs to grass covers that will meet their feed requirements with little or no concentrate supplementation as Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist, Teagasc Athenry outlines
28 March 2021
Farmer Safety Health and Wellness Webinar Series: John McNamara
Carbery Group, Cork recently held a Webinar on Farm Safety, Health and Wellness for farmer suppliers in advance of a busy spring. The Event is shown as a series of Webinars for 3 Sundays in March. Last up is John McNamara, Teagasc Health & Safety Specialist on managing farm safety and health on farm
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
27 March 2021
ASSAP Factsheets on Farming for Water Quality
The Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) have produced a series of five factsheets to help farmers maintain and improve the quality of water bodies in Ireland. They provide practical tips for farmers to implement which will benefit watercourses on their farms.
26 March 2021
ASSAP As Gaeilge
Ar mhaithe le sláinte an phobail i gcoitinne, is den riachtanas é, go bhfuil ard-chaighdéan uisce againn. Chun é seo a chinntiú, tá feirmeoirí fud fad na tíre, i gcomhairle le ASSAP, ag comhoibriú chun an t-uisce agus an timpeallacht a chaomhnú.
26 March 2021
Silage Storage & Water Quality
Silage effluent is a highly polluting liquid and can cause fish kills in watercourses/rivers and contaminate wells if not collected, stored and land spread properly. It is important to examine and repair silage pits and collection channels when pits are empty to ensure safe storage.
26 March 2021
Farmer testimonial on the ASSAP service
John Landers has a dairy farm beside the Comeragh Mountains in County Waterford. The river Colligan runs through John's land, it is one of 190 priority areas for action (PAA’s) where water quality needs some improvement.
26 March 2021
Managing Farm Yards to Reduce Soiled Water Losses
Soiled water is defined in the Nitrates Directive as water from concentrated areas, hard standing areas, holding areas for livestock and other farmyard areas where the water is contaminated by livestock faeces/ urine, silage effluent, chemical fertilisers, dairy or vegetable washings. Read more here
26 March 2021
Housing of Livestock
Livestock housed over the winter period need facilities that are fit for purpose and have adequate storage capacity for the statutory number of weeks. Claire Mooney, Teagasc ASSAP Advisor, has some important guidelines here on the management of winter housing to prevent nutrient losses
26 March 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 23rd March 2021
Get the latest Grass10 update: PastureBase data & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model, cold weather forecast; Eddie ODonnell, Tipperary on his 2nd rotation grazing plan; Spring Grazing updates from Donal Patton & Barry Reilly, Ballyhaise Research Farm and John Galvin Sustainable GFOTY
25 March 2021
Wetlands and Water
A combination of geology and abundant rain has endowed Ireland with an extraordinary array of wetlands covering some 20% of the country. Functional wetlands are among our most productive environments providing a vast array of eco-system services. ASSAP advisor Mary Roache has more information
25 March 2021
Water Quality and the Freshwater Pearl Mussel
The freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is a large filter-feeding bivalve. European freshwater pearl mussel populations have declined by 90 % over the past century. Mary McAndrew, Catchment Officer Pearl Mussel Project gives information on this long lived creature.
25 March 2021
The importance of trees in Ireland
Ireland's waterways evolved in tandem with our native woodlands. Of the 16,000 townlands in Ireland 14,000 have names related to trees, forests and water. Farm forests are known to reduce the leaching of nutrients from agricultural soils
25 March 2021
Best practice on spent sheep dip and footbath solutions
The practice of sheep dipping in summer or winter or both, is an important annual practice on sheep farms. Sheep dips, such as Organophosphates and Pryrethroids, are extremely effective but must be safely disposed of afterwards to protect aquatic life, as Shaun Roarty, ASSAP Advisor, Donegal advises
25 March 2021
MCPA and rushes
In 2020 MCPA commonly used to control rushes was responsible for 46 out of 91 detected pesticide breeches. MCPA is water soluble, it does not bind to soil particles and therefore more prone to leaching and run-off to nearby waterbodies. Mary Roache, ASSAP Advisor Mayo, talks about Rush Spraying here
25 March 2021
Best Practice use of pesticides
Monitoring of drinking water in Ireland continues to detect exceedances above the standard for certain herbicides. The chemicals causing greatest problems are MCPA (Agritox, Mortone, etc) and 2,4-D (Bandock EW, Mortox 50 etc). They are highly soluble in water. Kieran Kenny ASSAP Advisor has more
25 March 2021
Pesticides and losses to water
What happens to pesticides after application? TEAGASC researchers have monitored the concentrations of commonly used herbicides in two agricultural river catchments as a part of the EU Horizon 2020-funded WaterProtect. Per-Erik Mellander, Catchment Scientist, has details of this on-going monitoring
24 March 2021
SMARTER_BufferZ
Riparian buffer zones are patches of land adjacent to rivers, streams and drains, removed from intensive production. When designed correctly, they play a significant role in the reduction of diffuse inputs from agriculture entering our waterbodies.
24 March 2021
The Caha Project
The Caha Project is a project where nine farmers have come together to protect a section of their local river. This length of river is particularity important as it has been identified as having a High Status Objective and is a Priority Area for Action under the Water Frameworks Directive
24 March 2021
Drainage Maintenance to protect Water Quality
Ireland lies in a temperate zone where the main role of drainage is the removal of excess water in the root zone of crops from surplus rainfall, improving land trafficability and increasing productivity. Meabh O'Hagan, ASSAP Advisor and Niall McLoughlin, Lakeland Dairies has some advice.
24 March 2021
Phosphorus Use on Peat Soils
A recent analysis conducted by the Teagasc Rural Economy and Development programme indicates that approximately 6% of the country (420,000 Ha) is made up of cultivated peats across a wide range of farming intensities. Fiona Doolan, ASSAP Advisor Kildare/Laois, discusses Phosphorus Use on Peat Soils
24 March 2021
Managing farm roads to protect water quality
Farm roadways are an essential piece of infrastructure on most livestock farms and in particular dairy farms. Under new Nitrates rules there shall be no direct runoff of soiled water from farm roadways to waters from 1st January 2021. Padraig Fitzgerald, Teagasc Advisor lists the key points involved
24 March 2021
What is a Riparian Margin & what can it do for Water Quality?
A Riparian Margin is the land that runs alongside our rivers and streams. Here, Fiona Doolan, Teagasc ASSAP Advisor, Co. Laois, talks about a variety of riparian margins. She explains the benefits of a riparian margin on water quality and the role it plays in protecting rivers and streams
24 March 2021
Managing Soil Phosphorous for Water Quality
Phosphorus is an essential nutrient particularly when it comes to crop establishment. Eddie Burgess, Catchment Specialist with the Teagasc Agricultural Catchments Programme speaks more about managing soil phosphorus for water quality.
24 March 2021
What impact can weed control & drainage work have on water quality?
Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advice Programme advisors Mary Roache & Meabh O’Hagan join Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast as part of Water Quality Week to highlight correct weed control management & tips on carrying out drainage work to reduce impact on water quality.
23 March 2021
ASSAP - Working with farmers to improve water quality
The Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme - ASSAP is in existence since 2018. Advisors are working with farmers in Priority areas for action (PAA) across the country to improve water quality. ASSAP advisors Deirdre Glynn and Cathal Somers give information about the programme
23 March 2021
Why LESS is more
Slurry application on Irish farms was often seen as a chore, done to relieve pressure on slurry storage systems in late winter / early spring, traditionally spread by splashplate. Today this is changing fast with the use of low emission slurry spreaders (LESS), as Eamonn Lynch Dairy Advisor,explains
23 March 2021
Clover - Why Now?
Ever thought of increasing the diversity in your swards? This can be simply and profitably done across the whole farm over 3 years adding to the health of the soil, animals and consumers as well as reducing losses to water and emissions to the atmosphere. Lane Giles, ASSAP Advisor tells us more.
23 March 2021
Why You Should Use Protected Urea
Protected urea allows farmers to spread urea based nitrogen during the growing season without the worry of nitrogen (N) being lost from the field through ammonia emissions. It also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and nitrate leaching when compared to CAN Cathal Somers gives more information
23 March 2021
Nitrogen Use Efficiency = Cleaner Water
Deirdre Glynn, Teagasc ASSAP Advisor and Dr. David Wall, Teagasc Researcher both define Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) here. They discuss losses of Nitrogen and how we can avoid this going forward through soil testing, nutrient planning, responsible fertiliser and slurry spreading and more
23 March 2021
Identifying the problem ewes during lambing
Dr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to talk about reducing the number of problem ewes.
23 March 2021
How Nitrate leaching occurs
Nitrate leaching can occur during times of heavy or prolonged rainfall. Free draining soils are particularly susceptible to nitrate loss as it's very mobile in soil and readily leaches groundwater. The highest risk is in winter and early spring, as Prof Owen Fenton, Teagasc Researcher explains
22 March 2021
ASSAP- Farming for Water Quality
ASSAP – Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advice Programme works with farmers in a free and confidential advisory service to help improve water quality. Priority areas for action (PAA) are being targeted across the country to improve water quality.
22 March 2021
Farming for Water Quality in a Priority Area for Action - Farmer Testimonial
The Glenaboy river in county Waterford is currently at Moderate ecological status. The river catchment is in a Priority Area for Action (PAA) for the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP). Find out how farmers and ASSAP advisors work together to improve water quality
22 March 2021
Water Quality in your area & accessing catchments.ie
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) operate a number of water quality monitoring programmes to assess the condition of waters in Ireland. The outcome these monitoring programmes is available to see on the EPA interactive map.The map can be accessed on the website catchments.ie
22 March 2021
Water Quality Indicators - Chemical Sampling
It is important to understand what causes damage to our waters and work together to protect them. As part of Water Quality Week and World Water Day today, LAWPRO Scientists demonstrate here what the chemical indicators of water quality are and how this sampling is carried out
22 March 2021
Using kick sampling to determine the quality of water in a river?
Macro-invertebrates are small aquatic animals such as insect larva, snails, worms, beetles etc and are excellent indicators of water quality. Where rivers are unpolluted these are in abundance. Scientists examine these macroinvertebrates by kick sampling, as LAWPRO catchment scientists demonstrate
22 March 2021
How to Maintain & Improve Water Quality
Eimear Connery and Noel Meehan join Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge with an insight into the role of the Teagasc ASSAP programme and the efforts to maintain and improve water quality in Ireland.
22 March 2021
Why is water quality important?
We need safe and secure waters to supply agriculture, industry and our drinking water needs. It is important that we understand what causes damage to our waters and work together to protect them. As part of Water Quality Week and World Water Day today, LAWPRO Scientist Ruth Hennessy has more here
22 March 2021
The past, present & future of water quality in Ireland
In this bonus episode of the Environment Edge podcast, Jenny Deakin EPA catchment unit manager joins Teagasc’s Cathal Somers and Deirdre Glynn to discuss the past, present & future of water quality in Ireland and how climate change will challenge us all.
21 March 2021
EU's green deal - Essential role of legumes
This webinar is a Legume innovation and networking workshop which is hosted by Mark Gibson and brought to you by Teagasc. The legumes innovation workshop aims to identify transition paths enabling home grown legumes in a more sustainable food and feed value chain.
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
20 March 2021
Teagasc forest establishment workshops very well received
During February and March, landowners were able to participate in three one-hour online workshops “Planting a new forest - Getting started”, organised by Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department. Close to 600 people registered for these workshops and each session had well over 300 participants
20 March 2021
Recording Fertiliser with PastureBase
Reducing chemical fertiliser usage on farms is a challenge we could face in the near future. Growing 14 T DM Grass per ha whilst reducing chemical fertiliser is possible. This will reduce farm costs and be better for the environment. PastureBase Ireland can facilitate fertiliser recording. See here.
19 March 2021
Water Quality Week
Teagasc Water Quality Week runs next week Monday, 22nd March to Friday, 26th March. Water quality week is organised in collaboration with the dairy processing co-ops and the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO). Noel Meehan, Programme Manager ASSAP has details of the plans for the week here
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.
18 March 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 16th March 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team: weekly PastureBase data & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; grass growth set to double this week; Tomas O Brien, Mitchelstown on his grazing plan; Teagasc Grange Dairy calf to beef trial update & Pat Collins, Cattle GFOTY update
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
16 March 2021
Grass Tetany in Ewes
Grass Tetany is a common disease of lactating ewes during the spring time. It is an acute and frequently fatal condition that primarily affects lactating sheep at grass. This condition is caused by a deficiency in blood magnesium levels. Michael Gottstein, Teagasc, Head of Sheep has more information
16 March 2021
Artificially rearing lambs – the key points
Having a system in place to deal with surplus or orphan lambs is a must on many farms at this time of the year. On this episode of OviCast, Ciarán Lynch discusses this in more detail with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc.
16 March 2021
Sheep Newsletter - March 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland; Hygiene; Getting off to the best start – colostrum; Research Update - Scanning and body condition; BETTER Farm Update - Getting ready for lambing; and more.
14 March 2021
Using LESS Gives More from Slurry
Cattle slurry is a valuable source of N, P & K produced on farm. Nitrogen (N) in cattle slurry is in a similar ammonia form to N in urea & is easily lost to the atmosphere. Teagasc Advisor Mark O'Sullivan has valuable information on the benefit of using trailing hose or trailing shoe to apply slurry
14 March 2021
GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme Farmer Focus - John & Margaret Murphy
John & Margaret Murphy, Co. Cork are GLAS participants who availed of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme for repairs to an old stone outbuilding on the farm. Eimear Connery, Teagasc Advisor has more details. For the past four days Teagasc Daily focused on Co Cork participants of this scheme
14 March 2021
Farmer Safety Health and Wellness Webinar Series: Steve Redmond
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 from today for 3 Sundays. The first is Steve Redmond, first person to complete the ‘Seven Ocean’s Challenge
13 March 2021
GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme Farmer Focus - Tom O'Neill
Tom O'Neill, Co. Cork is a GLAS participant who availed of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme for repairs to an old 1740s tower building. Eimear Connery, Teagasc Advisor has more details. For one more day, of a four day focus, Teagasc Daily will focus on Co Cork participants of this scheme
12 March 2021
GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme Farmer Focus - Kevin Wood
Kevin Wood, Co. Cork is a GLAS participant who availed of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme for repairs mainly to a lofted grain store dating back to 1888. Eimear Connery, Teagasc Advisor has more details. For two more days Teagasc Daily will focus on Co Cork participants of this scheme
12 March 2021
New farm forests are backing biodiversity
Ireland’s new forests are working to reverse the decline in our national biodiversity and strengthen environmental sustainability. Teagasc Forestry advisor, Noel Kennedy, explains how biodiversity protection and enhancement are at the heart of today’s young forests.
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
The Signpost Series - Impact of climate change on smallholder food production in the tropics
In this episode of The Signpost Series, Mark Gibson is joined by Paul Wagstaff, Senior Agricultural Advisor with Self Help Africa who speaks about the impact of climate change on smallholder food production in the tropics and the interventions that can be used to reduce the impacts of climate change
10 March 2021
Planning your Spring Grazing with PastureBase Ireland
Are you looking to graze more in March? On this webinar which took place on Wednesday, 3rd March, John Douglas & Joseph Dunphy, Teagasc Grass10 and Micheal O'Leary, PastureBase Ireland go through how you can use PastureBase Ireland to plan your spring grazing.
10 March 2021
Making Quality Silage Part 1: Graze, Fertilise & Close
On this week’s Beef Edge podcast Teagasc Drystock advisor Terry Carroll and Kilkenny beef farmer John Phelan join Catherine Egan in a two part series on making quality silage. On this first episode John and Terry highlight all the top tips relating to grazing, fertilising and closing silage ground
10 March 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 9 March 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team including: Weekly PastureBase data & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Grazing and Fertiliser tips from the Grass10 team; Brian McCarthy, Teagasc Clonakilty on Spring grazing on Grass/clover trials, & Sean Barry, GFOTY Heavy Soils
09 March 2021
Planning winter housing facilities for sheep
The provision of new sheep housing facilities is eligible for grant aid under TAMS II – 60% aid for the young trained farmer and 40% for all other applicants. Damian Costello, Teagasc Sheep Specialist and Michael Conroy, Teagasc Advisor outline the key considerations when designing new sheep housing
09 March 2021
Turnout Turmoil
Eamonn Patten, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Ballinrobe has guidelines for turning out ewes and lambs to grass. He includes a few pointers on managing indoors when weather conditions are not suitable for lambs going out, i.e. within a day or two of lambing.
09 March 2021
Farmer focus: Des Powell - Flock Expansion in Co. Tipperary
Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant Des Powell who runs a mixed sheep and beef system in Co. Tipperary features on this week’s episode of OviCast. Des is also joined by Teagasc’s Dr. Frank Campion as they discuss plans for increasing flock size and implementing a breeding policy on farm
09 March 2021
Let's Talk Sheep Webinar - Grazing Management from Turnout to Weaning
Host Ciaran Lynch, Teagasc Sheep Specialist was joined by Philip Creighton, Teagasc Sheep Researcher on this episode of Let's Talk Sheep which took place on Thursday, 4th March 2021 to discuss grazing management from turnout to weaning.
08 March 2021
Timoleague Agricultural Catchment Programme Update
Teagasc’s Agricultural Catchments Programme has been monitoring water quality in 6 locations across Ireland to investigate the impact of agriculture on water quality in these catchments. Oisín Coakley, ASSAP Advisor, provides an update on the 8km square Timoleague catchment here
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.
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
05 March 2021
Signpost Series Webinar - The Signpost Farm Programme: Teagasc campaign for climate action
On a recent episode of The Signpost Series webinars, which took place on Friday, 19 February, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd was joined by Dr Tom O’Dwyer, Head of the Teagasc Signpost Programme to discuss The Signpost Programme - Leading climate action by Irish farmers.
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
Grass10 Newsletter - 3rd March 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; A return to dry and settled conditions; Grazing and Fertiliser advice for March; William Burchill update; Grazing Management Tips on Irish Sheep farms
02 March 2021
Reducing labour at lambing: improving ewe mothering ability through breeding
Genetics, the study of genes and genetic variation, is a powerful tool at the disposal of farmers to identify the genetically elite animals to be the parents of the next generation. All improvements achieved through breeding are permanent and cumulative, Áine O'Brien, Researcher at Moorpark explains
02 March 2021
The causes, timing and on-farm practices associated with lamb mortality and the steps to reduce the incidence this spring
With lambing season well underway, the focus on this week’s OviCast episode turns to lamb mortality and reducing it. Joining Ciarán Lynch is Dwayne Shields from Teagasc Sligo-Leitrim-Donegal who discusses the timing and causes of perinatal lamb mortality and lamb survival
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
Soil sampling - Money well spent
Now is the ideal time of the year to take soil samples on your farm if you have not done so in the recent past as it will provide vital information on the soil fertility status of your farm. Ciaran Beatty, Teagasc Advisor, Castlerea, advises not to delay in having soil samples taken
01 March 2021
The Importance of Hedgerows
The Environment Edge is Teagasc’s environment podcast focusing on challenges and opportunities in agriculture. In this episode, Dr Catherine Kenna, Teagasc Countryside Management Specialist, joins presenters Cathal Somers and Deirdre Glynn to discuss the importance of hedgerows as wildlife corridors
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.
27 February 2021
February 2021 Teagasc BETTER Sheep Farm Focus
Michael Gottstein, Teagasc Head of Knowledge Transfer Sheep Programme, gives an update on the progress of the Fitzgerald Family farm since joining the Teagasc Better Sheep farm programme in the autumn of 2018. The Fitzgeralds operate a hill sheep farm in Baile an Lochaig West of Dingle in Kerry
26 February 2021
The Signpost Series Webinar - Protected Urea: A Research Update
On the latest episode of The Signpost Series webinars, which took place on Friday, 12 February, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd was joined by guest speaker Patrick Forrestal, Teagasc Johnstown Castle to discuss Protected Urea: A Research Update.
25 February 2021
How to deal with Toxoplasmosis abortion
Three mistakes are often made when ewes abort: Failure to quickly isolate aborted ewe(s) & potentially infectious material; Failure to clearly identify the cause of abortion; Failure to put in place prevention methods; Edward Egan, Teagasc Advisor, Co. Meath has advice on dealing with Toxoplasmosis
25 February 2021
CatchmentCare & Teagasc Sheep Dipping Demonstration
Teagasc Donegal is part of a very important educational tool for sheep farmers and Agricultural Advisers in every county in Ireland. It's the first video where a best practice approach to plunge sheep dipping, and the correct disposal for the spent dip afterwards, has been demonstrated and explained
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
Grass10 Newsletter - 23rd February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Continue to walk your farm & monitor ground conditions; Research project on ability of on-off grazing to extend grazing & more
24 February 2021
What do I need to know about my Basic Payment Application 2021?
In recent days farmers have been receiving a BPS information pack in the post containing maps and land details. On this week’s Beef Edge podcast, Teagasc Farm Management Specialist James McDonnell, joins Catherine Egan to discuss all you need to know about your basic payment application online form
23 February 2021
Brexit Trade Deal prevents Predicted Drop in Farm Income
A new report by economists at Teagasc published today, 23 February estimates that the average family farm income (FFI) in Ireland may increase by 3 per cent in 2021. Overall, some price inflation for farm inputs will be more than offset by higher prices for some farm outputs. Read more here
23 February 2021
Pregnancy scanning a key management tool for hill farmers at this time of year
Nearly all of the Teagasc BETTER Farm hill sheep flocks have finished pregnancy scanning in the past couple of weeks. Overall the scanning rates and litter sizes are quite good. Pregnancy scanning is a very important management tool for all sheep farmers, as Frank Campion, Teagasc Researcher details
23 February 2021
Spring fertiliser – the key considerations
Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the key factors to consider for fertiliser application this spring.
23 February 2021
Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference 2021
The Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference took place virtually, across two evenings at 8pm on Wednesday, 17th February and Thursday, 18th February. In this conference there were four papers, each of which had important take home messages.
22 February 2021
Nitrogen Use Efficiency
The Environment Edge is Teagasc’s environment podcast focusing on challenges and opportunities in agriculture. In the first episode of The EnvironmentEdge, presenters Cathal Somers and Deirdre Glynn speak to Dr. David Wall, Teagasc researcher in Johnstown Castle on improving nitrogen use efficiency
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.
17 February 2021
BETTER Farm Hill flock update
Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with an update on the hill sheep flocks in the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme.
16 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 16 February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Dairy On - Off grazing; 1,2,3 for Spring N; Protected Urea use at Johnstown Castle; Beef benefits of Spring grazing and webinar details
16 February 2021
Spring Fertiliser on sheep farms
All going to plan ewes can be turned out to grass as they lamb with minimal supplementary feeding, if any, required post turn-out. From a management, cost and labour point of view, this must be the aim. An early application of Nitrogen is important, as Philip Creighton Teagasc Researcher outlines
16 February 2021
Teagasc Mayo Webinar - Farming for a Sustainable Future
Teagasc Mayo is hosting a series of online events consisting of relevant and practical advice for farmers in the Region. This first webinar, on Wednesday 17 February at 8pm, moderated by Brendan Garry, Teagasc will focus on farming for a sustainable future. More details here on speakers and topics
16 February 2021
Let's Talk Sheep Webinar - Reducing Mortality at Lambing Time
Ciaran Lynch, Teagasc Sheep Specialist was joined by the team of Teagasc Sheep Specialists on this episode of Let's Talk Sheep which took place on Thursday, 4th February to discuss Reducing Mortality at Lambing Time.
16 February 2021
Lambing 2021
For the best results at lambing, the key point to remember is to be prepared. Have ewes in good condition, feed accordingly as per scan results and have all equipment and pens ready in advance to help with workload. Marion Fox, Teagasc Drystock Advisor, Galway has advice on preparing for lambing
15 February 2021
Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland - Webinar
Are you looking to begin your journey measuring grass with PastureBase Ireland? On this webinar which took place on Thursday, 4th February, John Douglas & Joseph Dunphy, Teagasc Grass10 and Micheal O'Leary, PastureBase Ireland go through a step-by-step process of using PastureBase Ireland
14 February 2021
Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference 2021
The Teagasc Virtual Hill Sheep Conference will take place across two evenings, Wednesday, 17th February and Thursday, 18th February, as a Zoom webinar between 8pm and 9pm. An exciting line up of speakers have been assembled for the two sessions.
13 February 2021
Environment Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Environment team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Dates for your diary; Think before you plant a new hedge; Message from ASSAP - Don’t lose any fertiliser you spread; & Message from Signpost Programme - Now is the time for climate action.
12 February 2021
Forestry Workshops: A new forest – getting started
Connect with your local Teagasc forestry advisor by registering for three informal online workshops to learn about starting a new forest. From Monday 15 February through March, landowners can join their local one-hour online workshops with Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department to find out more
12 February 2021
Farm Business Options Webinar - Value added food production in the Kerry/Limerick Region
On a recent Farm Business Options Webinar, which took place on Tuesday, 2 February, host, Padraig Fitzgerald, Teagasc Kerry/Limerick was joined by Nick Cotter, Cotter Organic Lamb; Kate Carmody, Beal Organic Cheese & John Hassett, Ballyhoura Development CLG to discuss value added food production
10 February 2021
Be Winter-Ready
Although Spring is here we are still experiencing wintry weather with snow and hazardous conditions forecast for the coming days. It is with this in mind that Teagasc advises farmers to be 'winter-ready' and provides some useful tips for farming during severe weather conditions and advance planning
10 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 9 February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Images from farmers beginning spring grazing, details of a new Clover Research Programme, sheep farm spring grazing tips & more
09 February 2021
The Signpost Series - Reduction of Methane gas emissions in agriculture
Recently on a Signpost Series webinar from 29 January, Mark Gibson, Teagasc ConnectEd and Pat Murphy, Head of Environment KT, Teagasc were joined by Sinéad Waters, Principal Research Officer, Animal & Bio-science Research Department Teagasc, to discuss reducing methane emissions from agriculture
09 February 2021
Sheep market focus and outlook for 2021
Seamus McMenamin, sheep meat sector manager with Bord Bia joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast with a focus on the sheep market and an outlook for 2021.
09 February 2021
Split system developed in the Wicklow hills
Farming in the picturesque setting of Glenmalure in the Wicklow hills BETTER farm participant Patrick Dunne is operating a sheep and suckler beef system. The sheep enterprise is split into 2 separate units, a hill sheep flock and lowland flock which Ciaran Lynch & Kevin Sheehan, Teagasc discuss here
09 February 2021
Check Your Ewe Ration For Energy
Edward Egan, Teagasc, Meath received ingredient labels from farmers for their late pregnancy ewe ration. He was surprised to see so many rations with average quality ingredients making up 40% plus of these rations. This results in rations that are low in energy. Edward advises to check ration energy
09 February 2021
Sheep Newsletter - February 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; Feeding management of ewes in late pregnancy; BETTER Farm Update- Pregnancy rates similar to last year; Research Update- Lambing season is fast approaching; Health & Safety.
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
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
Why not sign up to PastureBase Ireland?
PastureBase Ireland is the number one tool to help Irish dairy, beef, and sheep farmers manage their grass production and utilisation. Additional features are continuously being added to improve the user experience and quality of the information available to the farmer.
03 February 2021
The Importance of Knowing the Nutritional Value of Silage
Eamonn Dempsey, Teagasc Kerry, highlights the importance of knowing the nutritional value of silage and discusses analysis by visual & lab assessment, while Gerard Cregg, Teagasc Roscommon, focuses on the differences in silage quality from grass cut at different times and locations
03 February 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 2 February 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week & Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; Using “On - Off grazing” this February to maximise days at grass; Using a Grass Budget to map out grazing and more
02 February 2021
How to reduce lamb mortality
Every lamb that is lost represents a significant loss to the sheep farmer as the cost associated with keeping the ewe has already been incurred. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep KT Programme, looks at the key issues that sheep farmers should concentrate on as the main lambing season approaches
02 February 2021
Virtual Sheep Conference 2021
The Teagasc Sheep Conference 2021 took place virtually, across two evenings at 8pm on Tuesday, 26th January and Thursday 28th January. This is the 9th Annual Teagasc Sheep Conference which forms an integral part of Teagasc’s knowledge transfer programme to stakeholders involved in sheep production.
02 February 2021
Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland - Webinar
Are you looking to begin your journey measuring grass with PastureBase Ireland? This is the theme of this Grass10 and Pasturebase webinar on Thursday 4th February at 7pm. Join the Grass10 & PastureBase team on a step-by-step process of using PastureBase Ireland. Follow the link to register below.
02 February 2021
Let's Talk Sheep 2021
The Teagasc Drystock Specialists invite you to join them in a new series of Sheep and Cattle webinars for 2021. These are live monthly interactive webinars. The first Let's Talk Sheep is on Thursday 4th February at 8 pm focusing on Reducing Mortality at Lambing Time. Registration details below
02 February 2021
Farmer Focus: John O’Connell – Scanning, feeding and managing ewes in Co. Leitrim
Co. Leitrim native John O’Connell who runs a mixed sheep and dairy contract rearing system in Ballinamore joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast.
31 January 2021
2020 Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards Ceremony Webinar
On Tuesday, 19 January, the Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards Ceremony took place as a live webinar. During this live webinar, the 15 finalists were profiled and winners of each category along with the overall winner were announced.
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
28 January 2021
Lambing: Lights-Camera-Action
The lambing season is fast approaching for the midseason flock with most of the early lambing completed. Good preparation and planning will help in achieving a better outcome. Eamonn Patten, Drystock Advisor, Teagasc Ballinrobe has some advice on how to be prepared and what facilities are required.
27 January 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 26 January 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week; Elodie Ruelle’s MoSt Grass Growth Prediction Model; completing a Spring rotation planner; upcoming webinar “Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland" & Spring Nitrogen Action Plan
26 January 2021
Farming for Water Quality
The prohibited period when slurry, FYM and fertiliser spreading is not allowed to be spread will come to an end after the 31st January for all farms. Zone C: Donegal, Leitrim, Cavan & Monaghan, have the longest closed period. Ivan Kelly, ASSAP Advisor, Teagasc, Galway/Clare talks on water quality
26 January 2021
Teagasc Virtual Sheep Conference 2021
The annual national Teagasc Sheep Conference is going virtual this year and will take place across two evenings at 8pm this Tuesday, 26th January and Thursday 28th January. An exciting line up of Teagasc and international speakers have been assembled for the two sessions.
26 January 2021
Focus on Vaccination
Vet Charles Chavasse from Zoetis Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the various aspects of vaccination.
25 January 2021
Sheep Census 2020 deadline fast approaching
Friday 31st December is the 2020 sheep & goat census date. Keepers are required to record census data on their flock registers and return their census data, preferably online. Completed forms returned by post must arrive no later than 1st February 2021. Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist has details
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
20 January 2021
Grass10 Report 2017 - 2020 published
In 2017, Teagasc launched a multi-year Grass10 campaign (four years, 2017-2020) to promote sustainable grassland excellence on Irish livestock farms (dairy, beef and sheep). The Grass10 Report 2017 - 2020 now published sums up the objectives of Grass10 and the progress made in developments to date
20 January 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 19th January 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 Winner Caroline Walsh, and all the other category winners; details of upcoming webinar on "Getting Familiar with PastureBase Ireland" and catch up on January's "Win-win" webinar
19 January 2021
Caroline Walsh - Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020
Caroline Walsh is Overall Winner and Dairy Award Winner of the Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 competition. Caroline farms in Ballinascarthy, Co. Cork milking about 70 cows on a 20 ha milking platform. The awards reward the country's top grassland farmers by category, enterprise and merit awards
19 January 2021
Creating a Win-Win for Farmer and Environment using PastureBase - Webinar
On this webinar, which took place on Wednesday, 13th January, the PastureBase Ireland and Teagasc Grass10 team were joined by Teagasc Soil Researcher David Wall, to discuss increased nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and special guest dairy farmer Kevin Moran, on recording soil fertility on PastureBase
19 January 2021
Feeding for late pregnancy
Getting the feeding regime right in late pregnancy has a big impact on a successful lambing and flock performance and on this week’s OviCast episode, Ciarán Lynch discusses the various aspects of this with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc.
19 January 2021
Diet Formulation for Sheep
This time of year signals the start of one of the most important phases in the sheep production cycle. One of the biggest potential causes of poor flock performance at lambing and during early lactation is management of ewe nutrition during late pregnancy, as Frank Campion Teagasc Researcher advises
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.
15 January 2021
Achieving Maximum Utilisation of Forage Crops with Sheep
The key to improve utilisation of a forage crop is to choose the correct crop for your farm and farming system. Different crop species have different sowing times, utilisation periods and dry matter yield. Eamonn Dempsey, Teagasc Advisor has the details
15 January 2021
Pat Collins - Finalist Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020
Pat Collins is a finalist in the Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 Competition. Pat runs a dairy calf to beef enterprise as well as tillage on the farm. In 2020, Pat’s farm grew over 15 T DM/ha.Tune in to the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday next, January 19th at 2pm to find out who will be the winner!
15 January 2021
Shane Kinsella - Finalist Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020
Shane Kinsella is a finalist in the Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 Competition. Farming near Piltown, Co. Kilkenny, Shane milks 88 cows. Shane grew 16.9 T DM/ha in 2020.Tune in to the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday next, January 19th at 2pm to find out who will be the winner!
14 January 2021
Peter McGuinness - Finalist Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020
Finalist in the Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 Competition, Peter McGuinness is a tillage and sheep farmer from Trim, Co. Meath. Peter is a member of the Grass10 Meath Drystock Grass Course. In 2020 he grew 13.7 T DM/ha. Join the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, January 19th at 2pm to see the winner!
14 January 2021
JP Hammersley - Finalist Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020
JP Hammersley is a finalist in the Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 Competition. JP runs a dairy calf to beef farm near Lattin, Co. Tipperary. In 2020, JP’s farm grew 10 T DM/ha. Tune in to the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday next, January 19th at 2pm to find out who will be the winner!
14 January 2021
Thomas Hogan - Finalist Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020
Thomas Hogan is a finalist in the Grassland Farmer of the Year 2020 Competition. Thomas runs a 60-cow suckler-to-store operation outside Nenagh in Co. Tipperary. Thomas grew 12.5 T DM/ha in 2020. Tune in to the Awards Ceremony on Tuesday next, January 19th at 2pm to find out who will be the winner!
14 January 2021
The importance of taking a proper soil sample
The principle of soil analysis is to determine the average nutrient status of an area and to show the available nutrients in the soil. Once known you can then apply nutrients to bring your soils to optimum fertility. Martina Harrington, Teagasc Beef Specialist advises on proper soil sampling below
13 January 2021
Let's Talk Cattle 2021
The Teagasc Drystock Specialists invite you to join them in a new series of Cattle and Sheep webinars for 2021. These are live monthly interactive webinars. The first is Let's Talk Cattle on Thursday 14th January at 8 pm focusing on Care of the Purchased Dairy Beef Calf. Registration details below
13 January 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 12th January 2021
Get the latest news & updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: Aine Murray, Teagasc Moorepark details the results of her trial work comparing Protected UREA to CAN & UREA; Key factors to consider when aiming to get a high response to early Spring nitrogen; & upcoming events
12 January 2021
Fluke control at this stage of the season
Given the wet conditions this autumn and winter the level of fluke challenge on farms is high at the moment and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr. Orla Keane to discuss this in more detail.
12 January 2021
Sheep Newsletter - January 2021
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; Sheep census; Stomach worms; Liver fluke; Upcoming events; BETTER Farm Update & Research Update.
11 January 2021
Using PastureBase to Benefit the Farmer & the Environment
Creating a Win–Win Scenario for the Farmer & the Environment using PastureBase Ireland by reducing fertiliser costs and increasing nutrient use efficiency (NUE). This is the theme of this Grass10 and Pasturebase webinar on Wednesday 13th January at 7pm. Follow the link to register below.
11 January 2021
Preventing Deaths with Slurry
The Slurry Spreading season commences in many parts of the Country after the 12th January. With 10% of deaths being slurry-related in the 10 year period to 2020, John McNamara and Francis Bligh, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialists discuss the dangers and prevention of deaths with slurry
11 January 2021
Complete the Profit Monitor now
Early January is a great time to reflect on the year gone by and prepare a Profit Monitor. The Profit Monitor will look at the financial performance of your business in detail. Specialist George Ramsbottom outlines the benefits and process.
10 January 2021
Getting farm safety culture right
In 2020 19 farm workplace deaths took place on Irish farms.This compares with an annual average of about 20 per year over the last decade. Farm workplace injuries are particularly associated with tractors and machinery, livestock, falls from heights and objects falling as John McNamara points out.
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
09 January 2021
Sheep Housing - Space Requirements
As we approach the time for housing ewes, it is important that we access the number of ewes the appropriate stocking numbers for each pen. Damian Costello, Teagasc Sheep Specialist explains that the two main considerations are lying space and trough/feed space.
09 January 2021
TResearch Winter 2020
TResearch is an official science publication of Teagasc. It aims to disseminate the results of the organisation’s research to a broad audience. The Winter edition of TResearch has a special feature on Walsh Scholars 2020; Potato Blight; Acoustic sensors for monitoring dairy processes and more.
08 January 2021
5 Steps to taking a soil sample
Here in just five easy steps Edward Egan & Tara Heaney, Teagasc Meath Advisors, take us through the process of taking a soil sample correctly in order to get a reliable soil result.
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
Housing and feed management
The practical aspects of housing and feed management are discussed on the latest episode of Ovicast with sheep specialist Damian Costello joining Ciarán Lynch.
06 January 2021
Grass10 Newsletter - 5th January 2021
Get the latest news and updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: William Burchill from the Teagasc/Dairygold joint programme looks at the cost effectiveness of LESS; Typical nitrogen values for slurry; Information on upcoming virtual events taking place in January.
05 January 2021
Pregnancy Scanning - using the results
With the optimum time to scan ewes being 80 to 90 days post ram turnout, scanners are currently in the thick of scanning March lambing flocks. Damian Costello, Teagasc Sheep Specialist outlines how scanning information can be used as a valuable tool to increase flock productivity & profitability.
03 January 2021
Advice for the new entrant to sheep farming
The Teagasc outlook for the sheep sector is a positive one and forecasts a further 23% increase in net margin per Ha for 2021. The future profitability potential may encourage new entrants to sheep farming. Tom Coll Drystock Advisor discusses 10 vital areas to maximise profit and reduce labour
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
01 January 2021
Have you listened to the Beef Edge Podcast?
Podcasts are free audio shows that anyone with an iPhone, Android or computer can listen to. The Beef Edge podcast is celebrating its 1st Anniversary. Presented by Teagasc Beef Specialist Catherine Egan, the podcast covers the latest news, information and advice to improve your beef farm performance
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.
29 December 2020
Out wintering on forage crops
On the final OviCast of 2020, Ciarán Lynch covers out wintering on forage crops with Teagasc advisor James Doran and BETTER Farm participant John Doyle
29 December 2020
Throwback to Virtual Sheep Week 2020
In this special Christmas review of the Teagasc Virtual Sheep Week 2020, you can now catch up on all of the highlights of the 5 days in September. It covers the latest research and advice on grassland management, Genetics and breeding, Hill sheep & Store lambs, Flock health, Policy and Environment
29 December 2020
Preparation for Winter Housing of Sheep
The winter housing of ewes provides welcome shelter for man and beast and also allows pastures a well-earned rest. Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist, Teagasc Athenry discusses housing management, feed space, floor space and ventilation requirements of a good sheep shed on well-stocked sheep farms
28 December 2020
New Nitrogen report published at Teagasc Virtual Dairy Conference
A new report: ‘Review of the Influence of Nitrogen Application Rate, Soil Type and Agroclimate Location on Grass Production, Feed Budget, Nitrogen Use Efficiency and Farm Profitability’ was published by Teagasc at this year’s Teagasc Virtual Dairy Conference in November. See it here again below
26 December 2020
Achieving Grazing Excellence in 2021 Webinar
The PastureBase and Grass10 team hosted an online webinar on Wednesday, 9 December to discuss achieving grazing excellence in 2021. The panel were also joined by Tipperary dairy farmer and Grass10 Carrick-on-Suir course member Jim White who outlined his PastureBase data for this year.
25 December 2020
Gaining Wellness around Christmas Time
The year gone by has been like no other in terms of the challenge of keeping COVID-19 at bay. The holiday period at Christmas time presents a time to relax and gain ‘Wellness’ so ‘batteries can be recharged’ for the year ahead. John McNAmara Health & Safety Specialist has Wellness pointers for all
22 December 2020
Shearing ewes at housing increases flock profitability
Currently, the price for wool only covers about 20% of the cost of shearing. Consequently, to recoup the cost of shearing producers need to be prudent and shear at the most opportune time for their particular system of production. Dr. Tim Keady, Teagasc Researcher discusses shearing at housing
22 December 2020
Keep safe during the Christmas break
Francis Bligh Teagasc Health & Safety Specialist, has some important advice for farmers in keeping safe during the Christmas break. Read about farmyard safety, creating a safe place on the farm for children, dealing with the cold weather, frozen pipes, lighting, farm animals, machinery and more here
22 December 2020
Using scanning results
With many farmers pregnancy scanning their flocks during the coming weeks we discuss how to best make use of this information with sheep specialist Damian Costello.
19 December 2020
Environment Newsletter - December 2020
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Environment team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Hedges – rules and regulations; Know your derogation commitments & Message from ASSAP - How hedges protect water quality.
17 December 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 15 December 2020
Get the latest news and updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including:Time to assess your soil fertility over December/early January; Make Protected Urea your fertiliser of choice in 2021; “Achieving Grazing Excellence in 2021” webinar summary and Joining a Grass10 Grazing course
15 December 2020
2027 Sectoral Road Map: Sheep
A new Teagasc 2027 Sectoral Road Map for Sheep was published on Tuesday, 8 December 2020. It includes: Market and policy issues; Potential shape and size of sector in 2027; Environmental & land use implications; Technical performance indicators; Research & technology transfer actions and Comment.
15 December 2020
Silage sampling
A key step in late pregnancy nutrition for ewes is knowing the feed value of silage being used. In this episode of the OviCast podcast, sheep specialist Damian Costello joins Ciarán Lynch to explain the process of silage sampling in more detail.
15 December 2020
Sheep Newsletter - December 2020
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; Ram management; Scanning; Research update - Getting ready for housing; Checking ewe condition & BETTER Farm update - Mating analysis.
08 December 2020
Health and Safety focus
Health and Safety Specialist Francis Bligh joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with advice on safety around machinery and on farm.
08 December 2020
Achieving Grazing Excellence in 2021 Webinar
Do you understand and capitalise on your PastureBase farm reports? In this online webinar, the PastureBase and Grass10 team will be joined by dairy farmer & Grass10 course member Jim White to review and analyse Jim’s reports. Essential for any farmer wanting to achieve grazing excellence in 2021
07 December 2020
Hedges on sheep farms
Native Irish hedges or ditches are wonderful for biodiversity, farmers are encouraged to plant more. Where do hedges fit in on sheep farms? Especially on farms with lots of dry stone walls which themselves are fantastic for biodiversity. Find out more from Catherine Keena & Noel Claffey
05 December 2020
Soil Health Series: Soil Physical Quality Indicators
Soil health is described as the continued capacity of soil to function as a vital living ecosystem that sustains plants, animals & humans. Researchers investigated different types of soil physical indicators. Teagasc Researchers Owen Fenton, Dermot Forristal & Giulia Bondi give more information.
05 December 2020
World Soil Day
World Soil Day is marked on 5 December each year as a means to focus attention on the importance of healthy soil and to promote sustainable soil management. Find out more about World Soil Day and the work being carried out within the Soil Programme in Teagasc.
03 December 2020
New rules for farm roadways in 2021
New requirements on farmers to prevent direct runoff of soiled water from farm roadways from 1st January 2021 are published. Cathal Somers, Teagasc ASSAP Advisor has more information as part of the Teagasc Waterford/Kilkenny Sustainability Series.
03 December 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 1 December 2020
Get the latest news and updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week; walk your farm this week and establish closing Average Farm Cover; and an update on the current grass - clover trials taking place on the Clonakilty Research Farm.
01 December 2020
Feed the animal not the Parasites!
During Housing is an ideal time to free the animals from liver fluke, stomach & lung worms. Animals can only pick up infection from grazing pastures and the infective stage cannot survive on hay or silage. Michael Conroy Teagasc Advisor Roscommon gives insight into these internal parasites and lice
01 December 2020
Managing condition in ewes during mid-pregnancy
With mating finished up on the majority of lowland farms our attention turns to an often overlooked area of ewe management during mid pregnancy and to discuss its importance, Professor Tommy Boland from UCD joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast.
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
Visual assessment of silage quality
Pay Moylan, Teagasc Kilkenny outlines three simple ways in which farmers can analyse silage visually at the silage pit phase. These are looking at the colour & smell; how you assess dry matter and most importantly dry matter digestibility (DMD).
29 November 2020
Sheep Research Demonstration Farm, Athenry - November Update
Current grazing systems research in Athenry is focusing on the impact of incorporating white clover into sheep grazed swards at two stocking rate levels (11 or 13 ewes/ha) with three pasture treatments at each stocking rate. Philip Creighton Animal and Grassland Research Officer gives us an update
28 November 2020
Evaluating forages for finishing hill store lambs
Frank Campion gives an update on a Research Project in Teagasc Athenry which looks at finishing hill bred, store lambs on a selection of forages. Frank outlines five different treatments which are in place; two permanent pasture swards and three brassica - kale, forage rape & hybrid brassica.
25 November 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 24 November 2020
Get the latest news and updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week; Walk your farm & measure grass this week; interpreting your PastureBase reports for 2020 & a research update from Philip Creighton in the Sheep Demonstration Farm in Athenry.
24 November 2020
Care of the ram post mating
Rams costs represent a sizeable investment on sheep farms and most industry sources agree that the expected life span of rams is much shorter than the productive lifespan of ewes and represents a considerable cost on sheep farms. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep KT, Teagasc has more information.
24 November 2020
Sheep health- views from a Regional Vet Lab post-mortem room
As part of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Animal Health Awareness Week, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Maresa Sheehan, Senior Research Officer in DAFM Regional Veterinary Laboratories.
23 November 2020
Improving Performance on Beef & Sheep Farms this Winter
Teagasc Mayo Advisors invite you to join this Interactive Webinar series “Improving Performance on Beef & Sheep Farms this Winter.” The Beef webinar takes place tonight (Monday 23rd Nov) at 8pm and the Sheep webinar on Wednesday night at 8pm. Webinar details and how to join are outlined below
21 November 2020
Understanding and delaying the development of anthelmintic resistant parasites on sheep farms
Stomach worms are a significant cause of production loss in lambs. This animated video gives an overview of understanding and delaying the development of anthelmintic resistant parasites on sheep farms.
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
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
Grass10 Newsletter - 17 November 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week; Grazing coming to an end on most farms for 2020; Interpreting your PastureBase reports for 2020 and an update on the Winter milk trials in Johnstown Castle.
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.
17 November 2020
Post-Mating Ram Management
Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep Knowledge Transfer, Teagasc gives an overview of post mating management of your rams. The ram is the most expensive sheep on your flock so it it important to make sure that he is going to stay around for a good number of years and get a lot of service out of him.
17 November 2020
Ram management post-mating
With the mating season finishing up on many farms, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss ram management post-mating.
17 November 2020
Important to keep a close eye on ewe body condition from now until housing.
Tom Coll Drystock Advisor, reports from the farm of Sheep farmer, Sean Conway, near Ballymote, Co Sligo, as he reflects on the 2020 lamb performance and the experience gained from the previous year's mating. They discussed grassland management, silage results and ewe profitability in early November
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.
13 November 2020
External parasites control options
To discuss the whole area of external parasite control at this stage of the season, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Morgan Lane from Bimeda.
12 November 2020
Finishing Store Lambs – An Alternative Enterprise to Consider?
In recent weeks there has been renewed interest in the purchasing of store lambs. Demand had slowed in September but as suckler farmers house stock, the focus has turned to buying either short-keep lambs to graze off paddocks or a long-term system, Joanne Masterson, Teagasc Drystock Advisor outlines
11 November 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 10 November 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team in this week's newsletter including: PastureBase data for the week; Closing paddocks on time as we look forward to spring grazing; Grass quality results from the clover trial in Clonakilty; Teagasc Heavy Soils Programme update & more.
10 November 2020
Clean livestock - some tips for sheep producers
With winter onset and wet ground conditions, it is more challenging to prevent soiling of sheep fleeces and meet requirements of presenting clean dry sheep for slaughter. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep KT Teagasc, shares tips to help producers market sheep to comply with the clean livestock policy
10 November 2020
Sheep Newsletter - November 2020
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; Monitor breeding flock; Options for remaining lambs; BETTER Farm Update - Ewes in good condition; & Research Update - Kill out averaging 44%.
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
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.
06 November 2020
The Signpost Series - Animal breeding a cumulative & permanent strategy to environmental stewardship
In this episode of The Signpost Series of Sustainable Agricultural Webinars, Donagh Berry, Centre Director of VistaMilk, Teagasc speaks about using animal breeding as a cumulative and permanent strategy to environmental stewardship
04 November 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 3rd November 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including: PastureBase data for the week, advice on Average Farm Cover and managing grass availability now for Spring grazing, the benefits of liming now, details of Aidan Maguire's Autumn Rotation Planner and LESS application in Spring
03 November 2020
Webinars for Farmers Sligo Leitrim Donegal
Starting tonight and running over the following 6 Tuesdays, Teagasc Advisers in Sligo, Letrim and Donegal are hosting a series of one-hour zoom webinars for farmers on a range of relevant topics. Facilitated by Cian Condon, Advisor, the webinars and access details are outlined below
03 November 2020
Grazing management – graze outs in difficult conditions and staying on track for closing
With the wet weather in recent weeks, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr. Philip Creighton to discuss current grazing management on the latest episode of OviCast.
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.
02 November 2020
Reducing nutrient losses and fertiliser use
TEAGASC researchers have spent many years looking at alternative nutrient sources to reduce chemical fertiliser demand on farms. Researchers David Wall and Patrick Forrestal give information on this research and what it could mean for farmers.
01 November 2020
Kevin Carey Teagasc Sheep BETTER Farm programme
In recent months, Teagasc have selected Kevin Carey, Belmullet, Co Mayo to participate as a monitor farm on the Teagasc sheep BETTER farm programme. Kevin is farming 160 ewes both on lowland and commonage lands along the Wild Atlantic Way.
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
Sheepdog Series Part 4: Pick on Personality
In the final video in the series, Martin Feeney of Atlantic Sheepdogs talks about picking a dog that you like, a dog that suits you and suits your system.
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.
28 October 2020
Understanding the Silage Test Results
Silage will form the staple diet of cattle for up to 6 months. It is important to know its’ exact feed quality. Visual assessment is not adequate when it comes to determining the quality of your silage - get it analysed. Teagasc advisor Sinead Devaney has advice on understanding silage testing.
28 October 2020
Grass 10 Newsletter October 27th
The Grass10 team give a number of grass related updates including: PastureBase data for the week. There' sinformation on autumn closing targets, wet weather grazing tips and pottasium (K) offtakes. Researcher Nicky Byrne gives an uipdate on the dairy calf-to-beef trial in Teagasc Grange.
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
27 October 2020
Autumn closing on sheep farms
While we are still only in October grassland management at the moment and over the coming weeks on farms will have a major impact on the start of 2021 grazing season. Sheep specialist Ciaran Lynch and researcher Philip Creighton give some advice on grazing out paddocks and when to close.
27 October 2020
Store lamb finishing
This week’s OviCast focuses on a number of aspects of store lambs finishing with Prof. Michael Diskin sheep enterprise leader in Teagasc and Michael discusses the store lamb market this year and the renewed interest in this area.
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.
24 October 2020
Sheepdog Series Part 3: Maintaining Peak Performance
In this video, the third in the series, Martin Feeney, of Atlantic Sheepdogs, outlines what you can do to ensure that your dog works to their peak throughout their working life. Some dogs need to get out training or working every day. Martin's motto: "the more you put in - the more you get out"
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
Grass10 Newsletter - 20 October 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including: PastureBase data for the week; tips on grazing during wet weather; grazing when silage in the diet; monitoring autumn rotation plan; Autumn closing plan – Sean & Pat Barry, heavy soils update & Moorepark clover trial update.
20 October 2020
Farmer focus: Francis Gonely, breeding, grass and finishing lambs
Francis Gonely who is running a hill and lowland system in Co Sligo joins Ciarán Lynch for the latest Farmer Focus episode of OviCast.
19 October 2020
Making Life Easier on the Farm
Andy Ryder, drystock advisor, says handling facilities are often overlooked as farms are developed. Labour on most farms is limited to the farmer and help from family members. Therefore, handling of animals requires good facilities that enables one person to complete the necessary routine tasks
17 October 2020
Sheepdog Series Part 2: Communicating with your Dog
In the second video of this series, Martin Feeney of Atlantic Sheepdogs speaks about how the way you communicate with your dog can directly influence their performance.He also outlines the benefits of the dog being trained to the whistle
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.
15 October 2020
Watch out for Liver Fluke in sheep
Glen Corbett, Drystock Advisor, says Liver fluke is Farm, Year and even Field specific, meaning that there are numerous factors that can make the incidence of liver fluke in a flock more or less severe. He advises on dose rotation so that the same active ingredients are not always used
14 October 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 13 October 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week; tips on the paddocks to close throughout October; holding onto AFC; Autumn checklist for farmers; Autumn closing plan for John O’Connell, Sheep GFOY Winner and more.
13 October 2020
Flock Management at Mating
Breeding efficiency is a major component in the overall efficiency of sheep production. Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist, Teagasc takes a look at practical management tips for successful breeding, including body condition score, pre-mating tasks, raddle use, ram group mating and breeding ewe lambs
13 October 2020
Mating Management
With the breeding season underway for many flocks, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Damian Costello, Teagasc Sheep Specialist on this week's episode of OviCast to discuss mating management.
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.
11 October 2020
Sheepdog Series Part 1: The Importance of a good dog
In the first of a series of four videos, Martin Feeney of Atlantic Sheepdogs outlines the importance of a good dog on a sheep farm.
08 October 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 6th October 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week, Tips on the paddocks to close throughout October, Autumn checklist for farmers, closing plan for dairy calf to beef farmer Aidan Maguire, Co. Meath and Autumn grazing research study Teagasc Moorepark
06 October 2020
Sheep Newsletter - October 2020
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team in this month's newsletter. It includes: Grassland management; mating management; BETTER Farm Update - Examine the last 5% to lamb; Research Update - Planning mating for the INZAC flock and health & safety advice.
06 October 2020
Ovicast Episode 43
Quad bikes are an extremely useful machine on many farms and on this episode of OviCast, Ciaran Lynch is joined by Francis Quigley machinery specialist, who chats about basic maintenance and some general advice on safe use and how to keep quads in good working order.
01 October 2020
Reducing ewe wintering costs
Eamonn Patten, Teagasc Drystock Advisor looks at extended grazing as an alternative to housing ewes in winter and outlines some basic rules to make it work. Good fencing is a must and alternative forages may also be considered with good planning.
30 September 2020
Ovicast Episode 42
On this week's Ovicast Michael Gottstein, Teagasc’s Head of Sheep joins Ciarán Lynch to discuss fluke control this autumn.
30 September 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 29th September 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week, grazing tips for closing paddocks, applying remaining slurry using LESS methods, Kevin Moran's closing plan and grass budget as well as a clover update from Clonakilty research farm.
29 September 2020
Safe Sheep Handling
In the video, Edward Egan, Drystock Advisor, outlines the importance of having good safe handling facilities on the farm. Edward also demonstrates some very useful tips and safety practices to use when carrying out sheep handing work in a safe manner. These can be implemented on all sheep farms.
29 September 2020
Management of Grass Reseeds
Reseeding grassland is an expensive operation and ensuring that the new seedlings establish into a strong and vibrant sward is essential. Michael Gottstein and Philip Creighton, Teagasc Sheep outline some key steps that need to be taken in order to maximise the performance of the reseed.
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
Blackstairs Farming Futures (BFF)
The Blackstairs Farming Futures (BFF) is an upland European Innovation Partnership project. The Operational Group includes members from Teagasc, GMIT and NPWS. Catherine Keena, Teagasc Owen Carton, Tomas McCarthy, Thomas Gorman & Martin Shannon, BFF provide more information.
25 September 2020
MacGillycuddy Reeks European Innovation Partnership Project
The MacGillycuddy Reeks European Innovation Partnership Project is an upland European Innovation Partnership project funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Catherine Keena, Teagasc; Mary Toomey & Patricia Deane, Macgillycuddy Reeks EIP provide more information.
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
Inishowen Upland Farmers Project
The objective of the Inishowen Upland Farmers project is to have a whole farm approach to landscape management and develop innovative measures to increase farm profitability. Teagasc environment specilaist Catherine Keena and Henry O'Donnell of the Inishowen Upland Farmers Project give information.
25 September 2020
North Connemara Locally Led Agri-Environment Scheme (NCLLAES)
The North Connemara Locally Led Agri-Environment Scheme (NCLLAES) is an upland European Innovation Partnership project funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Catherine Keena, Teagasc; Joe Mannion & Cathy Connelly, NCLLAES, Forum Connemara have more information.
25 September 2020
SUAS (Sustainable Uplands Agri-Environment Scheme)
SUAS (Sustainable Uplands Agri-Environment Scheme) is an upland European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Catherine Keena, Teagasc; Declan Byrne, SUAS Project; Monica Gorman and Helen Sheridan, UCD provide more information.
25 September 2020
Sustainable upland management
Catherine Keena,Teagasc and Jim Kinsella, UCD discuss farming in upland areas, the challenges, the policies impacting on upland farming, and the sustainable management of uplands to achieve ‘Favourable Conservation Status’.
25 September 2020
Emissions on sheep farms – greenhouse gases and ammonia
Dominika Krol and Aude Mancia, Teagasc Research staff, look at the main emissions, including nitrous oxide, from sheep production. They discuss their promising initial results, as well as ways to further reduce these emissions.
24 September 2020
SheepNet and EuroSheep - EU thematic networks to improve sheep profitability
Sheep meat and sheep milk production are very important farm enterprises in Europe. Tim Keady, Teagasc Researcher provides some information on two networks, SheepNet and EuroSheep who use a multi-actor approach, bringing together all stakeholders involved in sheep production.
24 September 2020
Lamb mortality - when it occurs, causes and management practices
Lamb mortality impacts on ewe productivity (number of lambs reared per ewe joined), and farm profitability. It is estimated that each 1% change in lamb mortality nationally, is worth approximately €3 million annually. Teagasc Researchers Tim Keady and Dwayne Shiels provide more information.
24 September 2020
Lamb birth weight
Tim Keady, Teagasc Researcher defines optimum birth weight and lists the benefits in achieving this. He analyses the relationship between birth weight and lamb mortality and he stresses the importance of having a good nutrition plan in place to achieve optimum birth weight.
24 September 2020
Late pregnancy concentrate - be aware of ingredient composition
Most ewes are offered concentrate supplement during late pregnancy to provide additional nutrients to meet the demands of the growing foetuses and for colostrum production. Dr. Tim Keady summarises research results from Athenry on the effects of concentrate composition during late pregnancy.
24 September 2020
Nutrition during late pregnancy – the foundation to flock profitability
Late pregnancy and early lactation is the most traumatic time during the year for pregnant ewes. Inadequate nutritional management at this time increases labour requirement and lamb mortality. Researcher Tim Keady has information and advice on nutritional managment at this critical time.
24 September 2020
Ewe genotype – the key factor influencing ewe productivity
Tim Keady Teagasc Research Officer examines how ewe genotype affects ewe productivity and lamb performance.
24 September 2020
Cobalt Supplementation
Teagsac researchers, Tim Keady and Daniel Hession discuss cobalt supplementation to lambs post weaning and ewes pre joining.
24 September 2020
Slowing the development of anthelmintic resistance
The continuous use of wormers in sheep leads to drug resistant worms, known as anthelmintic resistance. Resistant worms are those that can survive a dose of the wormer that would normally kill them. Teagasc researcher Orla Keane Ciaran Lynch, Damian Costello and Michael Gottstein have advice
24 September 2020
Season of shearing impacts flock profitability
Ewes are normally shorn once annually in early summer. However many producers are now shearing either at housing in December or prior to joining in September. Sheep researcher Tim Keady presents results from studies at Athenry on how season of shearing affects subsequent animal performance.
23 September 2020
Guidelines for Finishing Store Lambs on All-Concentrate Diets
Ireland’s strength in sheep production is its ability to produce meat from an almost entirely grass-based diet. This gives a competitive advantage over many EU competitors. Maximizing production from grazed grass is important but at times store lambs are finished on concentrate and roughage diets.
23 September 2020
Investigating the potential for finishing of hill lambs to carcass weights of 12-16kg
Teagasc Researchers, Frank Campion & Michael Diskin, take a look at finishing hill-bred lambs at lighter carcass weights following short-term ad-lib concentrate feeding under good management.
23 September 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 22nd September 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week; tips for building or holding AFC if you are behind; Sean Barry, heavy soils farmer on his closing plan; clover update from Athenry research centre. Social media links to podcasts & webinars also
23 September 2020
Preparing Hill Ewes for the Breeding Season
To maximise the output & margins from a hill sheep enterprise the breeding season is most important. Research on the Teagasc BETTER farms hill sheep flocks has demonstrated that relatively high levels of production are achievable on hill sheep flocks. Researcher Frank Campion gives some information
23 September 2020
Finishing Store Lambs on All-Concentrate Diets
Frank Campion, Noel Claffey, & Michael Diskin, Teagasc, investigate the potential for finishing hill lambs on all concentrate diets. They advise careful management and performance monitoring to maximise the return from these lambs.
22 September 2020
Breeding from ewe lambs –an opportunity to increase flock profitability
The cost of a replacement ewe joining the flock at 18 months is equivalent to 25% of the value of lamb carcass output that she produces in her lifetime. One option to cut replacement cost is to join ewe lambs to lamb at one year, with the aim to increase lifetime productivity, Dr. Tim Keady outlines
22 September 2020
Measuring methane from sheep systems
To date methane emissions have never been measured from Irish sheep production systems. Teagasc and UCD researchers together aim to develop methods of measuring methane production from sheep and to investigate if sheep can be bred to produce lower methane emissions.
22 September 2020
Reducing the labour requirement at lambing through breeding
Both ewe mothering ability and lamb vigour can be improved through breeding. In fact all improvements made through breeding are permanent and cumulative being passed on from one generation to the next as Teagasc researchers Áine O’Brien and Donagh Berry and Alan Bohan, Sheep Ireland explain.
22 September 2020
Irish National Sheep Breeding Indexes
Teagasc & Sheep Ireland Researchers, Nóirín McHugh, Fiona McGovern, Eamon Wall, Kevin McDermott and Aine O’Brien, explain how to use genetic indexes when selecting rams while emphasising the importance of commercial data in strengthening the national breeding indexes
22 September 2020
The validation of the Sheep Ireland €uro-star Replacement index
Genetics are responsible for over 50% of production gains on farm. A four year study was carried out at Teagasc Athenry. The study aimed to investigate the effect of genetic merit on sheep performance traits to validate the Sheep Ireland €uro-star Replacement index and to compare Irish & NZ genetics
22 September 2020
Ovicast Episode 41
On this week's OviCast Ciarán Lynch finds out about joining ewe lambs and the key criteria that influence performance with Dr Tim Keady
21 September 2020
Teagasc Sheep Autumn Closing Planner
Philip Creighton, Grassland Science Research Officer, outlines why Autumn is the starting point of the grassland year. Management and decisions made in this period have a direct effect on the quality and availability of grass the following spring.
21 September 2020
Incorporating white clover and other companion forages into sheep grazed swards
The impact of incorporating white clover and other companion forages into sheep grazed swards on the productivity of pasture-based lamb production systems is being researched in Athenry. Researcher Philip Creighton is currently evaluating this imapct and here he gives an update and more information.
21 September 2020
Grassland management targets to improve sward quality and animal performance
Once the basic building blocks of soil fertility, infrastructure and grazing management are in place, the next step to getting more from grass is to develop grass measurement and budgeting skills. Philip Creighton, Grassland Science Research Officer explains that this needn't be complicated.
21 September 2020
High feed value grass silage
The foundation to ewe productivity and profitability is high feed value grass silage. The majority of ewes housed during mid and late pregnancy are offered grass silage. Thus grass silage feed value is the foundation of a nutrition plan. Sheep researcher Tim Keady gives information and advice.
18 September 2020
Virtual Sheep Week 2020 - Friday
The focus of Virtual Sheep Week on Friday, 25 September is Policy and Environment. Guest speaker, Senator Pippa Hackett, Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity will join us on this, the last day of Virtual Sheep Week
17 September 2020
Virtual Sheep Week 2020 - Thursday
The focus of Virtual Sheep Week on Thursday, 24 September is Flock Health. Having a high flock health status is a critical corner stone to improving flock productivity and profitability. This webinar will cover the key factors that impact on your flock health
16 September 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 15th September 2020
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week; clean graze outs and grazing some of the more challenging areas of the farm; tips for building grass covers if you are running behind the autumn grazing targets and information on upcoming events.
16 September 2020
Virtual Sheep Week 2020 - Wednesday
The focus of Virtual Sheep Week on Wednesday, 23 September is Hill Sheep & Store Lambs. The webinar will focus on up-to-date Teagasc research on developing systems for finishing hill-bred store lambs. BETTER Hill Sheep Farms will also be showcased.
15 September 2020
Timely hill lamb weaning vital for performance
The Teagasc BETTER Farm hill sheep flocks weaned their lambs in recent weeks Frank Campion, Teagasc Sheep Researcher outlines the importance of getting lambs weaned on time, to allow decision making on selling lambs and to allow the ewes sufficient time to recover condition before mating
15 September 2020
Virtual Sheep Week 2020 - Tuesday
The focus of Virtual Sheep Week on Tuesday, 22 September is Genetics and Breeding. The webinar will focus on increasing productivity and efficiency through breeding and genetics. Follow Tuesday's activities by staying tuned to our social media channels
15 September 2020
Farmer focus: Denis O’Riordan on hill farming, selling lambs and managing ewes in West Cork
On this week's OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Denis O’Riordan, one of the BETTER Farm Programme participants from West Cork, to give an insight into his farm and the system he is managing
14 September 2020
Virtual Sheep Week 2020 - Monday
The focus of Virtual Sheep Week on Monday, 21 September is Grassland Management. The webinar will focus on current grassland research for sheep and grazing management strategies that can be applied at farm level. Follow Monday's activities by staying tuned to our social media channels.
13 September 2020
The Ram Effect in Breeding Ewes
So how does the ram effect work? Brian Hughes, Drystock Advisor, outlines how this natural method of stimulating a ewe's reproductive system can benefit compact lambing and explains how to achieve this in practice.
12 September 2020
Nitrates Derogation 2020 - Commonage/ Rough Grazing
One of the new measures to be implemented this year as part of the Nitrates Action Plan 4 relates to commonage and rough grazing. This new measure will affect about 500+ farmers. Teagasc Advisor in the Galway/Clare region has some information.
10 September 2020
Teagasc Virtual Sheep Week
Teagasc is hosting a Virtual Sheep Week from 21 – 25 September. Get daily updates showcasing the on-going research and advisory work in grassland, genetic improvement, flock health, hill sheep, as well as information on environmental and policy issues will be provided on multiple online platforms
09 September 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 8th September
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week; Tips to reduce demand and build grass supply as farmers struggle to hit Autumn grazing targets; Flyer for John Trant social media takeover day on Wednesday 16th September.
08 September 2020
Sheep BETTER Farm Update - John Joe Fitzgerald
John Joe Fitzgerald is a hill sheep farmer based in Ballyferriter on the Dingle peninsula in Co. Kerry and is a participant in the Teagasc BETTER Farm sheep programme since 2018. John Joe gives an update on his flock and how he plans to sell his male lambs this year.
08 September 2020
Forage crops – carrying capacity & grazing setup
Drs Philip Creighton & Frank Campion join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast to discuss some key aspects of forage crop management.
08 September 2020
Sheep Newsletter September 2020
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team. In this month's newsletter: Grassland management; Drafting lambs; Getting ready for breeding; Better Farm Update - Strong grass growth brings its own challenges; Research Update - Ensuring good autumn grass growth; Virtual Sheep Week.
04 September 2020
Nitrates Derogation 2020 - Biodiversity
Biodiversity loss is an on-going concern and farmers are required to implement a biodiversity measure on derogation farms. This year 2020 has seen the implementation of new measures as part of the Nitrates Action Plan 4. One of these measures is to improve farm biodiversity.
02 September 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 1st September
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass10 team including PastureBase data for the week; switch focus back from wet weather management to the autumn grazing targets; sward quality at Clonakilty and the 2020 Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition.
01 September 2020
Shearing Store Lambs
As producers start to plan for the autumn and winter finishing of store lambs one of the things they will be giving consideration to will be whether to shear the lambs or not and also when should they shear them? Researchers Frank Campion and Michael Diskin have some advice.
01 September 2020
Managing autumn reseeds
Teagasc Researcher Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciarán Lynch on this week's episode of OviCast, Teagasc Sheep Podcast to discuss management of autumn reseeds.
31 August 2020
Closing date extended for Grassland Farmer of the Year
The closing date for applications for the 2020 Grassland Farmer of the Year has been extended. Applications will now close on Friday September 11th 2020.
30 August 2020
Reduction in the Crude Protein content of Concentrates fed to Grazing Dairy cows/Livestock
All Nitrate Derogation farmers should now be aware that there are reduced levels of crude protein permissible in concentrates fed to grazing livestock from 1st April to the 15th September, 2020. Teagasc advisors Mark Coyne and Jim Moyles have advice and information.
29 August 2020
Use of Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment
Agriculture is estimated to be responsible for 99% of ammonia losses in Ireland, while slurry and farmyard manure spreading is thought to be responsible for 30% of those losses. Teagasc advisors Mark Coyne and Jim Moyles have advice and 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
Farm Scale Liming Programme
All derogation farmers must now adopt a farm scale liming programme based on a current Nutrient Management Plan and associated soil analysis results. Teagasc advisors Mark Coyne and Jim Moyles have advice and information.
26 August 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 25th August
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass 10 team including PastureBase data for the week; tips during this sustained spell of wet weather for keeping grass in the diet and testimonials from the four category winners in the 2019 Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition.
25 August 2020
Autumn shearing - performance benefit?
Dr Tim Keady, Teagasc joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast to discuss the effects of autumn shearing on the performance of ewes, ewe lambs and store/finishing lambs.
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
20 August 2020
High rainfall making grazing conditions challenging
High rainfall across parts of the country has left grazing conditions extremely difficult. Paudie O'Brien, Heavy Soils Farmer in Kerry gives an update on how he is managing grazing during the wet weather. Joseph Dunphy, Teagasc Grass10 Advisor gives some advice on managing grazing.
20 August 2020
Autumn Grassland management for sheep
As we move into late August attention must now turn to managing grass to maintain finishing lamb performance, getting ewes into adequate condition prior to mating and planning for grass for next spring. Researcher Philip Creighton gives some advice and guidance.
19 August 2020
Grass10 Newsletter - 18th August
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass 10 team including PastureBase data for the week, Autumn Grazing targets and information on the Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition.
18 August 2020
Getting ewe condition right
Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the importance of getting ewes in the right condition at joining.
14 August 2020
Sheep Preparation for the Breeding Season
While mating season is mostly October and November, the time to be assessing your flock is now. Colm Murray, B&T Drystock Advisor, Teagasc, Galway/Clare has some information and advice on preparing your flock for the breeding season.
11 August 2020
Ram Management
The ram flock represents 50% of the genetics of every sheep farmers flock. The importance of managing these sheep for maximum performance and longevity plays a large role in the success and subsequent profitability of any sheep enterprise. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep gives some advice.
11 August 2020
August grassland management focus
Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast to discuss grassland management for the coming weeks.
09 August 2020
Maximising Days at Grass this Autumn Using the Pasturebase Grass Budget
As we enter August, our focus turns to autumn grass management on farms. Join Micheal O'Leary, Pasturebase Ireland and Donal Patton, Teagasc Specialist on Wednesday, 12 August at 8pm for a live interactive discussion on how to best use the Pasturebase Autumn Grazing Budget to maximise days at grass.
08 August 2020
Sheep Newsletter August 2020
Get the latest information & advice from the Teagasc Sheep team. In this month's edition: Grassland management; Ewe body condition; Lameness; Biosecurity for bought-in stock; Better Farm Update; Research Update and more.
08 August 2020
Teagasc National Farm Survey 2019 Mid Season Lowland Lamb Enterprise Factsheet
This factsheet summarises results for farms with a mid-season lamb enterprise and only sheep farms with more than 20 ewes are included in the analysis. The data relates to 91 farms and is nationally representative of 9,815 farms.
07 August 2020
Teagasc Fodder Survey July 2020 - National picture secure but 10% of farms have deficits
Over the last number of weeks, Teagasc advisors have completed almost 700 winter fodder budgets for drystock and dairy farmers nationwide. This was carried out as part of a new initiative to promote better feed security planning on livestock farms.
06 August 2020
Grassland Farmer of the Year competition for 2020 launched
The Grassland Farmer of the Year competition for 2020 was officially launched by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Dara Calleary, T.D at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in Dublin this week.
06 August 2020
Dosing gun calibration
Under dosing is one of the contributing factors to the development of anthelmintic resistance. It is important that we ensure the dosing equipment we are using is delivering the correct amount of dose that is required. Damian Costello, Teagasc Sheep Specialist has some advice.
05 August 2020
Grass 10 Newsletter 4th August
Get the latest grass news and updates from the Grass 10 team including information on current and predicted grass growth, targets and tips for managing grass as we move into August and white clover update from Teagasc Moorepark.
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
Farmer focus: John Bell – paddock system & finishing groups
On a blustery evening in the end of July, for this episode of Ovicast, Ciaran Lynch caught up with Co. Westmeath Farmer John Bell, a former winner of the Sheep Farmer of the Year Competition and a previous host of the Irish Grassland Association Sheep event.
31 July 2020
Sheep Handling – Make Life Easier
One of the biggest challenges on a sheep farm is the labour requirement. It is possible to improve the situation by having better handling facilities. Eamonn Patten, Drystock Advisor, Ballinrobe has some advice and information
28 July 2020
Stomach worm control - Anthelmintic groups
Parasite control is largely based on suppression of the parasitic burden using anthelmintic products. Sheep Specialist Damian Costello, outlines the five anthelmintic classes that we rely on for the control of stomach worms.
28 July 2020
Identifying worm burden - routine faecal sampling
Carrying out routine dung samples from a batch of lambs will help identify whether or not the lambs need a dose. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep, outlines what oulshd be done and also runs through the process of how you take a sample.
28 July 2020
Ram selection – making use of indices
With the ram sales underway, Ciaran Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Eamon Wall from Sheep Ireland who discusses ram selection.
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.
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.
22 July 2020
Grass 10 Newsletter July 21st
Grass growth exceeding demand. The focus this week is on: Grass quality during the last round of summer grazing, grazing management and applying K. Walk your farm every 5 days during the next few weeks so you can react to the high growth rates at present.
21 July 2020
Designing a Flock Breeding Programme
The number of lambs reared per ewe joined is a key determinant of the overall financial performance of a lowland sheep enterprise. Sheep Specialist Damian Costello outlines the factors to be considered in a flock breeding programme including: culling, ram selection and purchase of breeding stock.
21 July 2020
How to check the ram is fit for breeding
Rams should be checked 10 weeks before the breeding season to ensure they are fit to breed. This is to allow time to build body condition, sort out health problems, buy replacement rams, acclimatise replacements and quarantine replacements. Drystock advisor Edward Egan demonstrates what is needed.
21 July 2020
Early Lamb Systems?
With the breeding season kicking off, this week’s OviCast discusses the pros, cons and alternatives to early lambing systems. In this episode, Ciaran Lynch is joined by Shane Moore, who is farming just outside Athleague in Co. Roscommon and Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc.
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
19 July 2020
Drench Test - Checking Product Efficacy
The drench test is a very simple procedure to check and see if the drench is working and killing the worms in the lambs. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc runs through checking product efficacy of drench.
14 July 2020
Checking for resistance – the Drench test
Dealing with anthelminthic resistance is an issue on Irish sheep farms. Determining the efficacy of the products used is a necessary first step in adapting to this challenge and on this episode of OviCast, Ciaran Lynch is joined by Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist, to discuss it further.
14 July 2020
Cobalt Supplementation in Sheep
Cobalt is an important mineral that's required by sheep and is used by the bugs in the rumen to metabolize vitamin B12 which is important for lamb thrive. Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep with Teagasc runs through best practice for supplementing with cobalt
13 July 2020
The Hill Sheep Sector in Ireland
The Irish Hill Sheep sector plays an important role in the economic health of rural economies and the maintenance of the natural landscape in many of Ireland’s most scenic areas. Hill sheep are a very hardy and resilient breed. Michael G. Diskin and Frank Campion, Teagasc Athenry tell us more.
11 July 2020
Better Farm Sheep Update - Patrick Dunne, Co. Wicklow
Patrick Dunne is a participant in the Teagasc Sheep Better Farm Programme. The programme focuses on grassland management, breeding and production methods. Patrick gives an overview of this farm as well as an update on what's been happening on the farm.
07 July 2020
Mineral supplementation in sheep flocks
Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss mineral supplementation in sheep flocks.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.