Top five tips for dairy farmers this October
From preparations for next spring to storage slurry requirements, Head of Dairy Knowledge Transfer, Dr. Joe Patton shares his top five tips for October.
1). Preparations
As we move into the quieter part of the year, it is important to take stock and see how well-prepared you are for the upcoming calving season. Complete an audit of the previous calving and calf-rearing season and see what worked well, what didn’t, and if there are options to improve the things that didn’t go well. Having sheds cleaned and pens set up can make for a far easier spring when the workload increases. Each calf requires about 2m2 in a shed. If you are planning on keeping more calves, make sure you have the space for them.
2). Slurry requirements
Slurry requirements for slurry storage are likely to increase under the new Nitrates Action Programme (NAP). Presently, there is a 60% grant with a ceiling of €90,000 that farmers should look to avail of. If you are planning on adding extra capacity next year, the process needs to start now, including design, applying for planning, and applying under Targeted Agriculture Modernisation Schemes (TAMS).
3). Milk recording
Arrange a final milk recording and start to look back over your records to identify which cows are suitable for selective dry cow treatment and which cows will require antibiotics.
4). Cashflow planning
Unfortunately, the world milk markets have declined recently and our cost base remains stubbornly high. As we move into the new year, a refocus on maintaining and reducing our cost base will be essential. While most farmers have had a good 2025 and may have surplus cash in the system, it is important to retain a good level of working capital to keep the farm in a positive cashflow position into the spring.
5). Grass budgeting
Complete an autumn grass budget for your farm. Closing your farm properly to allow for enough grass next spring will be an essential part of controlling your costs, as grass in the spring is more valuable than grass in the autumn. Target 60% closed by November 1 (70% on heavier ground).
For further insights, read the latest Teagasc Dairy Newsletter here