OviCast

Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant Des Powell who is running 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 the farm. With lambing already underway, Des discusses how he is selecting and identifying his replacements, while Frank highlights the challenge of expanding from within the flock and how it limits the selection process initially. They also highlight some of the infrastructure changes on the farm finishing up with a discussion on the current grass situation this spring and what changes Des has implemented to bring this about. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With lambing season well underway, the focus on this week’s OviCast episode turns to the subject of lamb mortality and ways to reduce it. Joining Ciarán Lynch is Dwayne Shields from Teagasc Sligo-Leitrim-Donegal who, during the course of his PhD studies, has examined the timing and causes of perinatal lamb mortality as well as farm surveys on common practices that can improve lamb survival. Dwayne begins by discussing the timing and main causes of lamb mortality. He delves into how some of these are preventable and which ones aren’t, highlighting the importance of correct diagnosis where problems occur. He moves on to discuss the importance of good hygiene in the lambing shed as well as treating lambs’ navels soon after birth, with Dwayne outlining the on-farm practices highlighted in his study and how they could be improved. Clostrum management and the use of alternatives and the role of nutrition has on lamb mortality is also highlighted. Finally, Dwayne encourages farmers to take an accurate assessment of lamb mortality on their own farms and use the information as an opportunity to address some potential causes. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Philip discusses some of the challenges this spring and the delay in fertiliser application. With both environmental and economic considerations, he outlines the importance of waiting until soil temperatures and ground conditions are suitable before applying fertiliser at the moment. He then discusses the options for farmers looking at split applications, how much to spread, where to target and why lower covers may be better suited to FYM or slurry applications. He also highlights the importance of soil fertility in terms of responsiveness of swards to spring nitrogen. Finally, Philip talks about fertiliser choice for the first round and subsequent applications and the need to match grass demand. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Frank discusses the farms involved and those that have recently finished up in the programme and with many of the flocks just finished pregnancy scanning, he discusses the results they achieved this year including fertility issues encountered in one of the flock along with the possible causes and follow up actions. He moves on to litter size, management of twins and the possibility that some flocks may be pushing litter size too high to suit the system. They also discuss the need to look at the overall system and targeting the levels of output to best suit the farm. Finally, Frank highlights how the farmers are managing ewe body condition at this point of the year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Seamus reviews some of the key highlights from the sheep meat trade during 2020 as well as overall throughput and imports from Northern Ireland. He discusses the growth seen in key markets and moves on to discuss the impact of global trade patterns on the competitiveness of Irish lamb. Seamus then outlines the influence of China on the world stage particularly in relation to New Zealand lamb exports before discussing the effects of Brexit on UK supply into the EU market and their production levels as well as the impact it has on trade and transport and their outlook for the UK production. Seamus also highlights the potential for growth in the Middle East, Asian and US markets as well as the welcome increase in domestic retail and he outlines the importance customers place on Quality Assurance certification delivering to market specification before finishing up discussing the outlook for the sheep meat trade in 2021. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. John who is also a participant in the BETTER farm Sheep Programme starts by discussing the importance of having ewes in the right body condition and maintaining this during mid-pregnancy. John discusses his scanning results and subsequent management. He also explains the role of high-quality silage in his system and the ration specification he is using this year. John puts great emphasis on ensuring ewes have sufficient quantities of high-quality colostrum and takes us through his feeding regime, in particular how he manages singles to facilitate cross fostering. He moves on to discuss managing pregnant ewe lambs in his flock before finishing up explaining how these and triplet rearing ewes are managed post-lambing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Vet Charles Chavasse from Zoetis Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the various aspects of vaccination. Charles starts by explaining how the vaccination process works and some of the differences between those commonly used vaccines at farm level. He highlights the role of safe handling and administration of vaccines and how that impacts their efficacy. Charles then discusses the process of passive immunity from the ewe to their progeny and the duration of cover of clostridial vaccines before finishing up on how to identify issues on farm this spring and how a vaccination programme may reduce some of these issues. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. They discuss using forage analyses, scan results and expected lambing date to determine the amount of supplementation required as well as how to manage thin ewes in late pregnancy. Michael offers advice for farms with low feed value silages. He discusses the pros and cons of pelleted versus coarse rations, how to introduce supplementation and minimise the risks of acidosis. He also explains the type of ingredients he would like to see in a ration for late pregnancy feeding. Delving into this a bit more he outlines the key energy requirements, protein source and mineral requirements. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Orla explains the best means of diagnosis and highlights the importance of previous farm history when considering treatment. She also discusses treatment of replacement and remaining lambs on the farm. Orla then examines the treatment options and their suitability for a number of different circumstances highlighting the risk of continual use of products from an individual active ingredient from a resistance perspective and goes on to highlight best practice when dosing. A guide to the various products licenced for internal and external parasites is here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Products-licensed-for-control-of-parasites-in-sheep.pdf For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

The practical aspects of housing and feed management are discussed on the latest episode of Ovicast with sheep specialist Damian Costello joining Ciarán Lynch. Damian begins by explaining why its important to match the number of ewes to pen capacity and he outlines the recommended feed and lying space guidelines. He then discusses feed management, access to roughage and introducing concentrates to the diet. With the cold snap in weather Damian highlights the importance of checking drinkers and ensuring there is a constant fresh water supply. He also talks about management of shy feeders and the need to manage these separately. Finally, Damian discusses tips for flocks housing close to lambing to facilitate the smooth transition of ewes on to late pregnancy diets. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. James begins by explaining the potential yield of the different crops and how they fit into the system. He outlines key management tips when grazing these crops to avoid digestive upsets and other health concerns. He also highlights potential issues around clean livestock policy and what actions can be taken. In the second half of the podcast, presenter Ciarán catches up with John Doyle who is farming in Ballindaggan in Co. Wexford. John has been out wintering on forage crops on an annual basis for a long number of years and he outlines the changes that have occurred in the type of crops he has sown during that period. He discusses the crops he has in this year, how he manages ewes and lambs on them, in particular the transition of ewes indoors before lambing. He also discusses the impact of sowing date and prevailing weather on the potential crop yield. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Damian starts by discussing the flock performance at scanning, some factors that influence it and benchmarking against targets. He then discusses the options for empty eyes and follow-up actions where issues occur before moving on to talk in more detail about using the results as part of a feeding plan for late pregnancy and how to put a practical plan in place for a flock. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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 Carroll to explain the process of silage sampling in more detail, from the equipment needed to the process of taking the sample itself. Damian then highlights the importance of getting a representative sample and why it’s necessary to take a number of samples where silages from different harvest dates are being used. He moves on to discuss the preparation of that sample for sending and how to make use the results once you receive them. Finally, Damian encourages anyone who hasn’t taken a sample to do so to know the feed value of the silage their using. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Health and Safety Specialist Francis Bligh joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with advice on safety around machinery and on farm. Firstly, Francis discusses the HSA figures for accidents that have occurred in agriculture and the particular trends in the sheep sector during the previous 12 months - a stark reminder of the dangers encountered in the industry. Francis highlights some of the steps that can be taken to improve personal safety and how to reduce the risk of zoonotic infection from livestock. He then discusses safety around machinery and safe transport on roads, with Francis highlighting some of the risks associated with ATVs in particular. Francis then moves on to farmyard safety offering his advice on some areas to focus on during the winter months and he also outlines the TAMS grants and capital allowances available for investments in farm safety equipment. Finally, he finishes up by discussing farmers’ own health and mental wellbeing with Francis offering some sound advice in this area. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Tommy starts by discussing the importance of assessing ewe condition and why assessing ewe condition is a key management tool but one that’s not used frequently enough at farm level. He discusses the variation in ewe condition that we see within flocks and the importance of monitoring and managing the ewe’s body reserves during their period. He also discusses the effects of ewe condition on performance particularly during early lactation and the carryover effects for the rest of the season. He then finishes up discussing flock management during the coming weeks with Tommy offerings his views on the need to address any deficit in ewe condition before ewes enter late pregnancy. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Maresa starts by explaining what animal health awareness week is and why it’s important. She discusses some of the current health issues that they are finding in the lab as well as some of the more seasonal conditions and they discuss how they might be prevented. Maresa explains how the post-mortem process works and the timelines involved in the various aspects of testing as well as their limitations. She also discusses the importance of early intervention when the first signs of sudden death or abortions occur and what steps can be taken. Many of the conditions affecting livestock are zoonotic and the impact on human health cannot be underestimated, Maresa puts this in context in a farming situation highlighting the importance of good hygienic practice. High burdens of stomach worms and the health concerns that occur as a result are an issue. She highlights the increasing issue with anthelminthic resistance and the need to identify what products are working effectively on individual farms. Finally, Maresa highlights the benefits of a high health status in our flocks and its role in safeguarding our industry. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Rams are a significant investment for any flock and Michael puts this into perspective on a cost per lamb basis. He goes on to outline the issues with ram longevity and the high turnover rate seen in flocks. He discusses how management practices during the post-mating period can influence this. Michael outlines the problems encountered with rams fighting and offers his tips on how to reduce this risk; he then talks about the importance of addressing ram health issues and culling at this stage of the season. Finally, he discusses the importance of putting condition back on rams post-mating, particularly ram lambs, and what supplementation may be required to achieve this. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Morgan describes the main external parasites that can be an issue in flocks at this stage of the season such as lice and sheep scab. He explains the various control measures that are available from topical applications, injectable treatments and plunge dipping. Morgan explains what each of these treatment options are suitable for, their correct use and their limitations. As plunge dipping provides the most comprehensive treatment option, he discusses best practice when it comes to dipping, safe use of the chosen product and disposal afterwards. Morgan finishes up by discussing the availability of mobile plunge dip operators who are currently providing a service nationally. List of Mobile plunge dip operators: http://www.sheepdippers.ie/ For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Philip discusses how to make the most of the remaining grass on the farm given the poor utilisation at present. He also discusses grouping up ewes to reduce residency period and managing graze outs. Philip explains the importance of closing out paddocks, in particular the first 40% to ensure grass supply next spring and what impact it has on management. He highlights the need to reassess current supply and take steps where necessary to reduce demand with Philip discussing the current options being implemented in Athenry. Finally, he details the pitfalls of letting ewes lose condition by delaying housing or supplementation this winter. Details of the autumn closing planner can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdf For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. With the change in weather in recent weeks we discuss some of the key considerations for housing, ration composition and building up of feeding levels and general advice for housed lambs. There have been a number of large-scale finishing studies and Michael outlines the level of feed intake and performance to expect from various types of lambs on an intensive feeding system as well as target carcass ranges and expected kill-outs. He then discusses the management of long keep lambs on farms and the level of supplement needed to maintain performance. Michael also discusses the impact of shearing on performance and importance of CLP and highlights some of the work conducted on the light lamb carcass and how that market has developed during the past few years. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Francis Gonely who is running a hill and lowland system in Co Sligo joins Ciarán Lynch for the latest Farmer Focus episode of OviCast. Francis is a participant in the BETTER Farm Sheep Programme and talks through the system he is running and the changes he has made over the past number of years. The hill flocks have seen numbers increase and a change in breeding policy that saw replacement blackface ewe lambs purchased. Francis discusses the changes, settling in the new stock and the plans for the flock going forward. During the same period he has increased his lowland flock and implemented a paddock grazing system and he discusses the initial challenges faced in managing grass supplies whilst still lowly stocked and how he has improved management and output with increased ewe numbers. Finally, there’s a discussion on lambs’ finishing, the store lamb trade this autumn and the option of carrying over lambs to finish in the New Year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

With the breeding season underway for many flocks, on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch catches up with sheep specialist Damian Costello to discuss mating management. Damian starts by outlining the final checks that should be conducted on the breeding flock of ewes and rams. He then delves into ram management in a bit more detail emphasising the importance of addressing any issues that may cause infertility. Following on from that, Damian explains the benefits of raddling, the options available and correct application procedure before discussing single sire mating vs. group mating, rotating rams between groups, ewe:ram ratio and a number of practical steps to guard against the risk of using an infertile ram. Damian also offers his tips on joining ewe lambs and ram choice for the task before he finished with a summary of his key tips for management during the mating period. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Francis starts by discussing the importance of correct tyre pressure and why it should be monitored and adjusted to suit the needs of the specific task the quad is being used for, he also highlights the need to periodically assess tyre wear. Francis then discusses oil and filter servicing, checking brakes and general mechanical maintenance as well as matching up quad bikes to suitable towing equipment and highlights some important considerations in this regard. Finally, he explains the importance of checking the controls regularly and addressing any issues. To add some context to the messages Francis highlighted, particularly around safety, have a look at the following recently produced clip: http://bit.ly/QuadSafetyVid For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Michael Gottstein, Teagasc’s Head of Sheep joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss fluke control this autumn. Michael begins by describing how liver fluke affects the sheep and what the high-risk periods for fluke infection are. He then moves on to discuss control options with Michael explaining the difference between the various categories of flukicide that are available and why not all are suitable at particular stages of the year. As with other anthelmintics, resistance is an issue, which is discussed in a bit more detail with Michael offering his views on how this could be delayed on farms. There is a discussion then on rumen fluke and what risk it poses on sheep farms before finishing up with Michael summarising the key points to consider in relation to fluke on farms for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss in detail the subject of joining ewe lambs - a topic of relevance to many sheep producers this year. Tim starts by discussing the increased interest in joining ewe lambs this season as well as some of the common practices observed on farms. Tim presents results from his studies at Athenry on joining ewe lambs. We discuss the influence of ewe genotype and the effect of weight at joining on productivity. Tim outlines key aspects of mating management including, time of joining, duration of the joining period and use of the ram effect. He then discusses the impact of lambing ewe lambs at 1 year old on their performance when lambing at 2 years of age. Finishing up Tim highlights the need to managed ewe lambs correctly to maintain performance. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Denis O’Riordan, one of the BETTER farm programme participants in Co. Cork, joins Ciaran Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast giving an insight into his farm and the system he is managing. Running a 350 Blackface ewe hill flock, we discuss current management on the farm, his plans for selling lambs, selecting and managing replacements as well as breeding decisions for the flock. Finally, he also discusses some of the changes he has made since joining the programme. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Drs Philip Creighton & Frank Campion join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some key aspects of forage crop management. Philip begins by discussing the importance of assessing the yield of the crop and he also outlines how to work out the expected carrying capacity. As good utilisation is vital, Philip outlines how to approach setting up grazing divisions and manage these in difficult conditions. On the subject of divisions Frank highlights the importance of fencer setup and takes us through how they are transitioning lambs on to the various crops in Athenry. He also highlights the importance of shearing lambs prior to grazing forage crops. Finally, Frank outlines the on-going trial assessing the performance of hill bred store lambs when grazed on forage crops. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast to discuss management of autumn reseeds. Philip starts by discussing current conditions and the limitations of late reseed being established in September. He then moves on to discuss grazing management, opening covers and residuals as well as management during the current difficult grazing conditions. Philip emphasises the importance of having a clean reseed and shares his insights on post emergence spray as well as fertiliser application. Finally, Philip explains when a reseed should receive its final grazing and why it’s important to consider how it fits into the closing plan for the farm. For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2017/Reseeding-booklet.pdf For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Dr Tim Keady 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. With the cost of shearing versus return from wool at a low point, Tim starts off by emphasising why it’s important for producers to get a performance benefit from it where possible. Tim takes us through the results of many studies conducted in the area, examining fertility traits, subsequent progeny performance, growth rate and carcass gain. He then outlines where the measurable gains are and dispels some of the perceived performance benefits. Aside from the performance differences they also discuss management benefits to shearing at this stage of the season finishing up with Tim’s views on how late in the season he would consider shearing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the importance of getting ewes in the right condition at joining. Frank outlines how to assess condition, what it equates to in terms of live weight and the time needed to increase ewe condition. There is also a discussion on the factors influencing condition managing thin ewes separately and culling ewes that fail to improve in ewe condition. Finally, Dr. Campion explains the carryover effects of condition at joining on the productivity of the ewe the following year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast to discuss grassland management for the coming weeks. Philip discusses the current situation around the country, growth rates, grass dry matter and grazing management. He offers his tips on dealing with heavy covers and discusses why it’s important not to delay removing surplus from the rotation and taking stock of grass demand on the farm for the coming weeks. Finally, there’s a discussion on the importance of building autumn covers, planning the final round of fertilizer and setting up the rotation for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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 completion and a previous host of the Irish Grassland Association Sheep event. John runs a high output sheep system from a 46 ha grass based farm he manages a 500 ewe flock with an additional 130+ ewe lambs rearing lambs each year. John started by giving a background to the flock, the system and the farm, he discusses some of the changes in the system over the past number of years and how he implemented a paddock grazing system on the farm including his use of temporary fencing. Finally, he discusses lamb finishing on the farm and how he targets supplementation at finishing groups opposed to blanket feeding. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

With the ram sales underway, Ciaran Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Eamon Wall from Sheep Ireland who discusses ram selection. Eamon begins by emphasising the importance of paying attention to ram functionality at the time of purchase. He then takes us through the basic of the Sheep Ireland genetic index explaining the Terminal and Maternal traits and the various individual sub-indexes. Ciaran and Eamon then discuss the across breed evaluation as well as the overall Euro value. Eamon highlights the importance of the DQI and accuracy figures. There is also a discussion on the move to genotyping and parentage verification and how this improves the accuracy of the evaluations. With the majority of the information included in the index coming from commercial flocks, Eamon emphasises the relevance of this in the evaluations for commercial producers. Finally, Eamon discusses this year’s multi-breed ram sale. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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. Michael starts by outlining the key dates and requirements for early lambing systems for 2021 while Shane explains he has run an early lamb system for many years. He discusses why it initially suited his system and why he has moved away from it in recent years as sheep numbers increased on his farm. One of the challenges that Shane’s early lamb system presented was the increasing cost and conversely the declining returns. Early lamb is characterised by a high sale price but Michael takes us through the economics of this system and some of the hidden costs involved. As early sales provide a valuable source of cash flow on many dry stock farms, Shane discusses how he will offset this with a switch to carrying over light lambs for the hogget trade next spring. Meeting a continual supply is an important issue for the industry and Michael discusses the role of store lambs carried over as a way to meet this demand and how this practice is gaining popularity on many farms. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

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 why it’s so important to check products on farm. The use of a drench test is one means to check how an anthelminthic product is working on a farm and Damian takes us through the various steps involved in conducting a drench test. Finally, Damian explains how to interpret the result and determine the level of resistance to the chosen product. For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/control-of-stomach-worms--improving-sustainability.php For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss mineral supplementation in sheep flocks. A common practice on many farms during the season, Michael starts by discussing some of the findings of a recent study that has looked at this in more detail. He discusses the extent of mineral usage in Irish flocks and some of the drivers behind the decision process of why farmers are using mineral supplementation. He also discusses some of the key minerals that influence production and clinical signs of mineral deficiencies. Focusing in particular on cobalt, Michael describes how it influences lamb performance. Finally, he explains why it is important to see a performance benefit from the investment in supplementation to offset the cost and effort involved and how you might go about doing this. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Sheep BETTER farm participant Patrick Dunne who farms in the Wicklow Mountains joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Patrick describes his farming system and how it has changed over the past number of years from the original 300 ewe Cheviot hill flock that were run essentially as a lowland system to his current 500 ewe flock split between a lowland and hill system. One of the drivers behind this change was to reduce costs in hill system by increasing the time these ewes spend on the hill. Patrick discusses a strict culling and selection procedure to select a more suitable ewe for the flock. The change in system has also allowed him to increase overall numbers and operate a higher output lowland flock which he discusses in more detail. Patrick talks us through how he managed the flock during the prolonged dry spell which caused grass growth rates to drop significantly on the farm and the planned management strategy for the coming weeks for both systems. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Anthelminthic resistance is one of the key challenges for the sheep industry and will require a change in some of the routine control practices for the coming seasons. To expand further on this subject, Ciaran was joined by Teagasc Researcher Dr Orla Keane who discusses four key areas that will help to maintain a susceptible worm population and prolong the efficacy of commonly used anthelminthic products. These are: 1. Don’t dose adult ewes unless there is a demonstrated need 2. Use only products from group 1-BZ (white drenches) to treat Nematodirus in lambs 3. Quarantine drench - prevent ‘buying in’ resistance on arrival to the farm 4. Drench test/Faecal egg count Orla shares her insights on why each of these steps will have a beneficial impact on the rate of development of anthelminthic resistance. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

A lot of flocks have started the process of selecting their replacement ewe lambs for this season and with this in mind we’re joined by Dr Fiona McGovern who shares some of her insights in the area. We start off by discussing some recent findings on the factors influencing ewe longevity and then move on to discuss the genetic component of a number of the key traits that influence production such as: lambing and mothering ability, lameness, mastitis and others. Fiona discusses why a replacement policy should have scope for continual selection and culling during the year and how to use records and simple identifiers to target underperformer or problem sheep in the flock. Fiona also describes the variations she has seen from the detailed recording on maternal traits in the INZAC flock over the past number of years. Finally, Fiona highlights the need to make use of genetic indices when selecting sires for future replacements, particularly when trying to improve flock performance for those hard-to-see traits. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Alan explains what the DQI is and why it is an important measure for pedigree breeders and potential customers alike. He also discusses what steps pedigree breeders can take to improve their DQI score and some of the key changes to the system this season. Ciaran then moves on to the topic of performance recording in commercial flocks which is an important element of the Sheep Ireland evaluation. Alan shares some of his findings on the cost/benefit performance recoding has on commercial sheep farms. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Michael discusses the weaning process and what he considers best practice in terms of ewe and lamb management at weaning time. We finish up discussing the impact weaning ewes can have on reducing grass demand and how it allow prioritisation of grazing for lambs. Michael emphasises why this is a key action to take at the moment on farms experiencing grass shortage. Here is a short video clip discussing the effect of weaning has on reducing grass demand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-Ym_gkAtNk&t=1s

Damian describes how to work out the appropriate size required for a flock and highlights key features of its design. He also offers his views on where it should be located in relation to the handling race and the importance of having a standoff area. We finish up with Damian summing up why it’s a worthwhile investment on sheep farms.Here’s a short clip on how to correctly make up a footbath solution: https://youtu.be/VklHIlJ81-A

George starts by outlining how the current restrictions are changing the way shearers are operating this season. We discuss the importance of preparation prior to shearing to leave the process easier for both the shearer and farmer alike. George highlights the importance of safety at shearing time and the need to keep shearing equipment well maintained. We finish up the podcast with George outlining the opportunities for young shearers to get into the industry and why it’s an important skill that farmers should consider learning.

We start by discussing some of the pre-disposing factors and ways to reduce the risk of strike. Tom outlines the various control measures that are available, how they vary in the mode of action and the period of cover they provide. We finish up with Tom discussing how ensure product efficacy thorough correct application methods.

e also describes ways to reduce the risk of soil contamination, improve preservation and the importance of correct storage. The overall silage requirement for use in late pregnancy is relatively low Damian discusses how removing surpluses from the grazing rotation could help meet his demand. Here is a link to a short technical article discussing this in more detail: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/importance-of-quality-silage-for-sheep.phpAnd heres a short video clip on removing surplus grass as baled silage: https://youtu.be/RW8D4bk4RwsFor more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/importance-of-quality-silage-for-sheep.php

With additional pressure on family farm incomes this year Kevin urges a cautious approach, paying particular attention to expenditure in the farm business for the coming year. Keeping with that theme in the latter half of the podcast we are joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc who highlights key areas where costs can be reduced and where the easy gains can be made. With uncertainty in the economy Michael also discusses on farm investment for the coming season.

Nematodirus is one of the first parasite challenges young lambs will face during the grazing season. In this episode of OviCast we are joined by Dr. Orla Keane who explains the life cycle of Nematodirus and how it differs from other stomach worms. We also discuss how the parasite affects young lambs. Orla describes how to recognise the condition and the role the DAFM Nematodirus forecast plays in determining when to treat lambs in different regions throughout the country. In the final section we discuss timing of treatment and choice of anthelminthic product for this particular condition. DAFM 2020 Nematodirus forecast: https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/press/pressreleases/2020/april/title,141793,en.html

For this episode we are Joined by Declan Fennell, sheep Sector Manager with Bord Bia. Declan starts by discussing what has been happening in the market in the past 12 months , some of the challenges faced and the new opportunities that have arisen. With the current Covid-19 crisis Declan describes is happening on the markets over the last month or so , how its influencing demand for lamb domestically and in other countries and how restrictions in other countries affecting the movement of meat. We also discuss what the potential outlook is shaping up like for the rest of the year when markets reset and how global trade of sheep meat has changed. Declan finished up by highlighting on going promotional activity from Bord Bia at present. For more information check out their website www.bordbia.ie or follow them @Bordbia

Dr Philip Creighton re-joins us in this episode to discuss grazing management and key targets during April. He starts by giving us a quick update on progress on the farm in Athenry. With grass growth rates increasing in favour of supply over demand Philip outline’s the key targets for the coming month – opening covers, residuals and farm covers/days grazing ahead. Philip emphasises the importance of assessing farm covers and the percentage of the farm grazed at this stage of the year and what the short and long term actions farmers need to stay on track for the coming weeks. Further updates available on grass growth and advice available from @PastureBase and @TeagascSheep over the coming weeks

In this episode we are joined by Tomas O'Leary who is farming outside Killarney Co. Kerry. Tomas runs a 300 ewe sheep flock along side a contract heifer rearing system. Running a prolific flock of ewes with an annual scanned litter size of 2.2 Tomas has a lot of multipiles on the farm. In order to effectively manage the additional lambs, he choses to artifically rear the third lamb along with any other orphan lambs that arise. We catch up with Tomas towards the end of lambing to discuss how he manages his artifically rearing system. He also shares some of his top tips on how to make it more efficent. Heres a link to a short video clip of his setup: https://youtu.be/AJ91aIXJRwo