Articles
The future is kelp!
The future is kelp! Did you know the word ‘kelp’ originally described the burnt ash of brown seaweed? Maria Hayes Research Officer, Teagasc Food Research Centre, together with Cawthron Institute Researchers, New Zealand, are looking at bio-product isolation from native Irish and New Zealand macro-algal species here. One of the last remaining […]
18 April 2021
70 years of grassland research in Ireland
70 years of grassland research in Ireland TEAGASC grassland research has enabled the transformation of Irish agriculture since the 1950s. The importance of grassland to Irish Agriculture is indicated by over 70% of agricultural output (monetary terms) coming from grassland as cattle, milk, & sheep products, Teagasc researchers reminisce Pat Dillon Teagasc, […]
17 April 2021
Bull Safety
Bull Safety The breeding season has started on many farms and that brings increased risks associated with close contact with animals. HSA figures show bulls were involved in over 18% of livestock related deaths on Irish farms in 2011-2020. John McNamara & Francis Bligh, Health & Safety Specialists report here Many farm […]
16 April 2021
How Does Grass Grow?
How Does Grass Grow? Perennial ryegrass (PRG) is the most commonly sown grass species in Ireland. As a perennial plant it’s characterised by having the growing point close to the ground and it regrows after each grazing & cutting, without the need for frequent reseeding. Patricia Lynch, Teagasc Advisor Westport has more […]
15 April 2021
Heat activity in pasture based dairy cows
Heat activity in pasture based dairy cows During the recent Teagasc/ICBF breeding week three key reproductive targets were identified as being critically important in seasonal calving dairy herds. George Ramsbottom, Dairy Specialist has details, plus breeding guidelines for spring 2021 and advice on managing late calving dairy cows here Key reproductive targets […]
15 April 2021
Preparing for Breeding
Preparing for Breeding As the calving season is coming to an end and the breeding season is about to start, it is timely that we should be looking at ways to maximise fertility on farms. Teagasc Beef Specialists outline the four key areas for most suckler farmers to consider here, and finish […]
14 April 2021
How to avoid meal feeding ewes after lambing
How to avoid meal feeding ewes after lambing Edward Egan, Meath Teagasc advisor, sums up the points made by 2020 Sheep Grassland Farmer of the Year Peter McGuinness, as he outlines some of the key steps he takes during the course of the year to ensure he has enough grass in March […]
13 April 2021
Coccidiosis and nematodirosis in young lambs
Coccidiosis and nematodirosis in young lambs At this time of year, the major parasites of concern for young lambs are Nematodirus and Coccidia. Coccidiosis is a disease of young lambs, usually from 3-8 weeks of age.The signs of nematodirosis are similar to coccidiosis. Orla Keane, Teagasc Researcher explains both parasites & their […]
13 April 2021
Protecting the Connemara/Mayo Blackface Breed for Future generations
Protecting the Connemara/Mayo Blackface Breed for Future generations Father & son partnership MartinJoe & Martin Kerrigan are hill farmers in Glentrague, Clonbur Co. Galway – a valley situated in ‘Joyce Country’ overlooking the scenic Lough Mask. Martin is involved in developing the Connemara/Mayo Blackface sheep, as Joanne Masterson, Teagasc Advisor, outlines here […]
13 April 2021
Upgrading an Old Milking Parlour
Upgrading an Old Milking Parlour Francis Quigley, Teagasc milking machine specialist, outlines what farmers should consider when upgrading a milking parlour in respect of location, collecting yard design, handling facilities, good cow flow & water systems. Advice for a 30-cow farmer with a 4-unit parlour considering upgrading a milking parlour to accommodate 100 […]
12 April 2021