The Dairy Edge

On this week’s episode of The Dairy Edge, James Humphreys and Brian Garry join Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the different aspects of dairy management – from soil saturation to supplement requirements - following the heavy rainfall. James explains what soil saturation readings mean. 60% of soils are made up of sand, silt and clay. The remaining 40% is made up of air pockets. Saturation occurs when the air pockets fill with water in the event of rainfall and flooding. James explains that where grazing conditions are difficult and damage occurs in paddocks in the first rotation, it is important that this is not repeated in the subsequent round. Brian reviews the supplement requirements for dairy cows depending on the level of grazed grass in the diet, explaining the limiting nutrients and also the crude protein requirements. He explains that where cows are out for 3 hours after each milking, whether they require feeding indoors once they are removed from paddocks is highly dependent on whether they have achieved sufficient intake at grass. Brian also recommends that farmers increase the allocation of grass and monitor post grazing residuals to assess whether the cows have a greater appetite to eat more than expected based on stage of lactation. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy farmer John McNamara joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the challenges of the recent heavy rainfall on his farm. John explains that there has been almost 200mm of rain on his farm during the month of February which has made it near impossible to graze. While John generally hits 30-40% grazed during the month of February, he has grazed less than 10% this year. John targets to get cows out twice daily after each milking with evening grazing from 4-7 pm and removing cows once they have finished grazing to reduce poaching damage. The advice from the Grass 10 team is to readjust your spring rotation planner; graze 1/3 by St Patricks Day, 1/3 by the 1st of April and the remaining 1/3 by mid-April. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2020/Dairy-February-2020-web.pdf For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy Specialist Stuart Childs joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the benefits to dairy cow health and overall farm profits through milk recording. Stuart explains that the level of milk recording remains low, with 35% of herds representing 50% of dairy cows nationally. Teagasc recommends milk recording within 60 days of calving in order to detect early infection as well as calculate cure rate and new infection rate following the dry period. Stuart recommends that farmers complete 6 milk recordings per year at a cost of approximately €12 per cow. He also describes the financial benefits to milk recording, explaining that research has shown that milk recorded cows produce 400 litres more milk given additional profit of €120 per cow. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2020/Dairy-February-2020-web.pdf For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Micheál O’Leary and Fergus Bogue join Emma-Louise Coffey to advise on managing grazing during challenging weather conditions. Firstly, Micheál quantifies the over-winter growth and the opening farm cover from PastureBase Ireland records. Micheál explains that over-winter growth was approximately 4-5 kg DM/day but varied widely; where farms were closed high in the autumn, higher growth rates were achieved at up to 7-8 kg DM/day. Micheál recommends that farmers must target an opening farm cover of 900 kg DM/ha to support a milking platform stocking rate of 3 cows/ha and a tight calving pattern. Importantly, many farmers are not at the target farm cover so Micheál asks the question, have you gotten the fertiliser out? If not, it is important to do so to kick-start grass production. Fergus describes the grazing season to date, explaining that the spring rotation got off to a good start with many farmers out grazing from early February until the storm and snow hit farms in the last week. He encourages farmers to use all of the tools and technologies available to get cows out, even if only for 2-3 hours after milking. Fergus also recommends that farmers should target dry paddocks with a cover of 700-1,000 kg DM/ha and use the strip wire to back fence ground that has already been grazed. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Stephen Butler joins Emma-Louise Coffey to advise on how to manage energy balance and metabolic disorders in early lactation. Firstly, Stephen emphasises the importance of dry cow management to ensure cows are in the correct BCS and received adequate minerals. Stephen explains that cows undergo significant change post-calving, moving from dry cow status with low intake and low energy demand to lactating status with low intake and high energy demand. He also reminds us that in addition to lactation cow require energy to resume cyclicity. Cows are susceptible to metabolic diseases in early lactation and Stephen encourages farmers to be vigilant and act promptly to treat symptoms. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Emer Kennedy joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the Once-A-Day milking experiment at Teagasc Moorepark. Emer explains the different variations of OAD milking, including OAD milking short term in early lactation (from 2-8 weeks) and long term for the full lactation. She documents the various measurements that were carried out including milk production, mastitis, SCC, udder firmness, udder leakage, body weight, BCS and locomotion. Emer acknowledges individual farmers concerns in relation to reduced milk yield. Short term OAD will reduce daily milk yield by 22-24% but is shown to recover immediately once returned to twice-a-day milking, with a small impact on annual milk yield. Emer also emphasised the merit of short term OAD milking in early lactation when the labour demand on dairy farms is at peak. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2020/Emer-Kennedy---Once-a-Day-Milking-Conference-2020.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy specialist, George Ramsbottom, joins Emma-Louise Coffey to give an early indication of profitability on dairy farms in 2019. George explains that his analysis contains 400 dairy farms to date - 20% of the 2,000 farmers that complete the profit monitor annually. Overall profitability on farms has improved, resulting from increasing milk yield and milk solids, despite a reduction in milk price and concentrate fed. George speculates that 2019 as being a good grass growing year with farmers employing good grassland management skills, including high grass utilisation. George acknowledges that top farmers are achieving high profits, achieving greater milk quality and milk price as well as higher stocking rate and lower meal feeding. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Keith Davis joined Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the role of once-a-day milking in his large scale herd in Gloucestershire. Keith was speaking at Teagasc’s recent Once a Day Milking conference and he gave an insight into the evolution of the farm from a mixed farm with 350-cow dairy operating an indoor system and tillage to a solely grass-based dairy system. When dairy cow numbers began to climb, both facility and labour began to come under pressure. The estate was unwilling to invest in upgrading the milk facilities (i.e. 32 point rotary) and therefore, the decision was taken milk once-a-day. Keith also explains his approach to overcoming the challenge of the national labour shortage by being flexible with rosters and recruitment. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2020/Keith-Davis---Once-a-Day-Milking-Conference-2020.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

On this week’s episode of The Dairy Edge, dairy farmer, Karol Kissane, joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss his Nuffield studies about school students perceptions of agriculture. Karol discusses the growing disconnect in the understanding of agriculture and the basics of where food comes from with kids in urban environments. He explains some of the ways this can be overcome using modern technology and social media. Karol also has advice for all farmers on how we can promote our farming life, careers and the agriculture industry in Ireland in general. You can read Karol’s Nuffield research report here:https://nuffield.ie/karol-kissane-review-of-perceptions-of-agriculture-in-primary-school-students-and-opportunities-for-developments/ For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Farm Structure specialist Gordon Peppard joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss opportunities in dairy farming for family farms. Gordon identified the key players that are important for any partnership, including an agricultural consultant, accountant and solicitor. Importantly, Gordon explains that it is vital that farm families start the conversation on the succession plan with all family members so there is clear understanding on the transfer of the farm to the next generation. Gordon acknowledges that this conversation might not be easy to initiate but adequate discussion and planning will alleviate stress and conflict in the long-term. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Continuing the Dairy Edge Review of the Year, Emma-Louise Coffey was joined by Teagasc Director Gerry Boyle, Teagasc specialist Abigail Ryan, and Head of Animal & Grassland Research Pat Dillon. Gerry, Abigail and Pat took the opportunity to review the Greenfield Project following its conclusion this year with Abigail reviewing the lessons learned from the project, acknowledging its strengths and weaknesses. The Greenfield Project has proven valuable to dairy farmers across the country who have entered dairy farming in the last six years. As we take stock of the farming year of 2019 and look forward to 2020, the panel consider areas farmers must focus on including maintaining our high calf-care standards and the importance of looking after yourself throughout the year. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our listeners for a special 100th episode of the Dairy Edge this week when we review the dairy farming year with Teagasc Director Gerry Boyle, Teagasc specialist Abigail Ryan, and Head of Animal & Grassland Research Pat Dillon, join Emma-Louise Coffey to review the dairy farming year. Firstly, Pat and Abigail reflect on the indications of recovery on dairy farms in 2019 following the challenging weather conditions in 2018. Pat explains that dairy farmers are improving key performance indicators including achieving record high fat and protein % in 2019. Gerry reviewed the Climate Action Plan and key practices such as Low Emission Slurry Spreading, clover inclusion in grazing swards and protected Urea fertiliser products that farmers can adopt to reduce emissions from their farms. The panel also reviewed 20 years of the Economic Breeding Index and measured the many improvements in the performance of the dairy cow of today compared with the dairy cows in Ireland 20 years ago including fertility, milk and profitability. Furthermore, more genetic gains are attainable to benefit dairy herds to benefit dairy farmers. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Karol Kissane joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss his farming business and how he was drawn back to agriculture after a successful career in finance. Karol left school at a young age to pursue a career in farming but after a short time farming at home with his father, he acknowledged that the farm was not sufficient to support two incomes so Karol returned to education, completing the Leaving Certificate and a business degree at UCC. After working for several years in the financial sector, Karol felt drawn back to farming as a career and a way of life for him and his wife and he explains the process of converting the farm to a dairy farm and the high performance he is achieving annually. Karol also gives tips on returning home and dealing with the dynamics of a family farm. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Padraig French joins Emma-Louise Coffey to measure the welfare of calves on Irish Dairy Farms. Padraig explains that calf mortality at birth and at one month old is a key metric to measure calf welfare. Comparing the performance in Ireland over the last 10 years, calf mortality has fallen on farms, despite an additional 300,000 calves being born annually. Mortality at birth declined from 1.95% to 1.30% and mortality at 28 days declined from 3.71% to 3.20% comparing 2011 with 2019 figures. Additionally, Padraig explained that the births were equal across males and female calves. Total calf in the 1st month of life at 4.5% in Ireland is half that of our international counterparts. Furthermore, he briefly reviews a trial carried out by researchers John Barry and Emer Kennedy. They measured the level of Immunoglobulin levels in the blood of calves which indicates whether a calf received adequate colostrum. Padraig explains that both male and female calves received adequate colostrum. Padraig also encourages farmers to take a look at their facilities and available labour to ensure dairy farmers continue to maintain a high calf welfare status within their own herd. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy expansion specialist Patrick Gowing joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss his top tips for successful planning for expansion and new entrants to dairy. Patrick emphasises the importance of purchasing the best stock possible in new entrant or expanding herds, explaining that €100 extra for high genetic merit in-calf heifers will pay for itself in the long term in terms of superior performance. When deciding between heifers and cows, Patrick explained that heifers have the potential to survive in the herd longer than cows. Additionally, where a farm is existing dairy production, Patrick would consider the potential of high quality stock in such a herd. Patrick also estimates the cost of milking facilities, buildings and grazing infrastructure as well as a contingency budget to ensure all aspects of the farm plan can be achieved. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy advisor, Trevor Dunwoody, joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss alternative calf rearing facilities. Trevor explains examples of use of calf hutches on silage slabs, rearing calves outdoors from 3-4 weeks of age, contract rearing, sale of non-replacement stock from 2 weeks of age and construction of a new calf shed or modifying existing sheds. With calf hutches, calves are typically housed in groups of 3 to 8 and Trevor explains it is important that run off can be collected. When rearing calves outdoor, it is important to identify a sheltered paddock or provide an artificial shelter. Calves are generally fed with a mobile feeder and therefore, can be managed in larger groups. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy specialist Martina Gormley joins Emma-Louise Coffey to help identify the proper requirements for calf housing facilities on dairy farms in Ireland. She explains that 1.5 million dairy cows will calve down in Ireland in 2020, with almost 1 million of those calving in the first 3 months of the year. Martina guides farmers on how they can calculate their calf rearing requirements based on their calving pattern. Where a dairy farmer has an 80% 6 week calving rate will have a peak of 70 calves on farm in early March. Each calf requires a space allowance of 1.7㎡. She also emphasises the importance of calculating requirements compared with current facilities and ensures that where there is a shortfall in current facilities, it is not too late to make a plan to create alternative options. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

John Maher, Grass 10 Campaign Manager, joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the current grassland situation on farms across the country.Firstly, John reflects on the 2019 grazing season and he advises farmers to look at some key figures such as total grass production, number of grazings achieved and pre-grazing herbage cover.John looks to the current situation on farms and explains that while overall annual rainfall is normal, above average rainfall has been observed in late August, September and October.He urges farmers to be flexible with grazing using on/off grazing, multiple access points to enter and exit the paddock and ensure cows are keen to graze for a grazing bout.John refers to the current average farm cover of over 700 Kg DM/ha recorded on PastureBase Ireland but warns that individual farmers must ensure their farm does not fall below a cover of 500 kg DM/ha. A low average farm cover will limit the ability of farm to grow grass across the winter and compromise grass supply in spring. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2019/73rd-Edition-Grass10-Newsletter-05-11-19.pdfFor more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Milk quality specialist Don Crowley joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the role of selective dry cow therapy in Irish Dairy herds. Don explains the essential criteria farmers must review to identify suitable cows for selective DCT including milk recording results for the full lactation and 30 days in advance of dry-off, evidence of cows mastitis cases and treatment, culture and sensitivity analysis for the herd. Importantly, Don emphasises the importance of selective DCT explaining that regulation will enforce this practice from January 2022. He guides farmers through the dry cow procedure, giving simple tips and reminding us of the importance of hygiene. Where operators clothing, the parlour and the cow herself are dirty, there is a risk of introducing mastitis infection to the cow’s udder. For more information:http://animalhealthireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/CellCheck-On-Farm-Events-2019-Booklet-Web-Version.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Researchers Emer Kennedy and Hazel Costigan join Emma-Louise Coffey on this week's Dairy Edge to discuss the importance of getting the heifer rearing process right.Emer explains that there are target growth rates throughout the heifer rearing period: 30% of mature BW at 6 months, 60% of mature BW at 15 months and 90% of mature BW at 24 months. Regular weighing will ensure that heifers are on target.Hazel adds that the target will vary across herds depending on the cow type and to identify the exact target for your herd, you should weigh lactation 3 cows or older in month of May or June. Emer explains that for heifers that fail to reach target weight or are too heavy, evident negative effects include delayed cyclicity, extended calving interval, lower milk solids production and reduced longevity.For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/dairy/ReplacmentHeiferManagement.pdfFor more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Environmental specialist Tim Hyde joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the future of Nitrates Derogation for Irish farmers. Tim explains that 7,000 farmers (5%) are currently in derogation, accounting for 10% of farm land and 20% of livestock. Dairy farms account for 90% of farms in derogation, making up the majority of farmers engaging derogation. The most recent Nitrates review, Nitrates Action Programme 2018-2021, has issued many recommendations to improve farm sustainability. Tim takes us through the recommendations including low emission slurry spreading, liming programme, improved grassland management, protected urea, white clover, ration type, biodiversity and farm infrastructure such as layout of roadways and access to watercourses. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Financial Specialist Kevin Connolly joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss Budget 2020. Kevin explains the key budget measures that effect farmers including income tax, stock relief for young trained farmers, Capital Gains Tax and Capital Acquisitions Tax. He explains that the budget has established provisions of €110m for Agriculture in the event of a no deal Brexit. Although there is little detail on specific allocation of funds, €85m has been allocated for beef farmers accounting for the greatest proportion of the fund. Carbon related measures have seen an immediate increase in the cost of petrol and car diesel with tractor diesel and home heating oil increasing from May 2020. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy adviser Ger Courtney joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss liming protocol to optimise lime pH on farm. Ger explains that there is a positive trend from 2014 when 36% of soils were at optimum pH compared with 60% in 2017. Target soil pH is 6.3 and 5.5-5.8 in peaty soils. Optimum pH leads to greater biological activity, microorganism activity, nitrogen fixation and root structure. Research has shown an increase in grass growth in the region of 1.5-2 tonnes while palatability and utilisation also increases. Return on investment is considerable and increases over time. In the initial years, a return on investment of €3 for every €1 invested in a liming protocol. Once soils reach optimum pH, a consistent return of €6 for a €1 invested in maintenance liming. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2016/Advice-on-Liming-Leaflet.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Vet Niamh Field joins Emma-Louise Coffey to take a look at the health status of the national dairy herd and gives key tips to maximise the health of your herd. Niamh looks to the metabolic diseases that occur on dairy farms, commonly occurring during the spring and she emphasises the importance of dry cow management to prevent incidence of disease. Management steps include optimum BCS at dry off (2.75 to 3.25) and BCS at calving (3.00 to 3.50) and good dry cow minerals with Magnesium inclusion of 20g per day. Niamh explains there is a multidimensional approach to herds protecting themselves against infectious diseases. These include immunity, the cows environment and exposure to disease.One of the most important steps to maintaining a health, disease-free herd is biosecurity. Beyond this, disease screening such as bulk milk sampling and blood sampling will identify the prevalence of individual diseases. Vaccinations can be affective to control or eliminate disease. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2019/19.-Vaccination-Calendar.pdfhttps://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/staff-directory/animals/dairy/HerdHealth.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Trevor Donnellan joins Emma-Louise Coffey to review the comprehensive climate action plan (Teagasc Greenhouse Gas Marginal Abatement Cost Curve) compiled by Teagasc to reduce the emissions from Agriculture. Trevor speculates that the dairy herd will continue to grow, albeit at a lesser rate to that in the last 5 years. Conversely, it is suspected that suckler numbers will remain at similar numbers or contract. The action plan also discusses 25 mitigating strategies including change of fertiliser product type, change of slurry spreading methods, improved fertility, healthier animals and planting of forestry. Trevor explains that emissions from the agricultural sector is to the fore in Ireland as they create 33% of total greenhouse emissions compared with 10% in other EU countries. To read the plan in full: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/An-Analysis-of-Abatement-Potential-of-Greenhouse-Gas-Emissions-in-Irish-Agriculture-2021-2030.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

In the second part of a two-part interview with dairy specialist Padraig O’Connor on the importance of a good milking routine, Padraig takes us through teat preparation and cluster attachment ahead of milking. Best practice includes each quarter prior to cluster attachment. This helps with early detection of mastitis. Padraig recommends that mastitis or high SCC cows should be treated at the end of milking when the operator has sufficient time to treat them and eliminate the chance of cross contamination. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Improve-your-Milking-Skills-19.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy specialist Padraig O’Connor joins Emma-Louise Coffey for the first of a two-part interview to discuss the importance of a good milking routine. Padraig explains that a good milking routine ensurse quality produce, safety for the operator and time efficiency in completing the task. He advises all farmers to make sure their milking machine is in working order, getting at least one major service annually. Additionally, Padraig emphasises the importance of a clean environment for cows, placing particular emphasis on entry/exit points to the yard and paddocks, roadways and water troughs. Another effective way to keeps cows clean is clipping tails 3-4 times per year. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Improve-your-Milking-Skills-19.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy specialist Joe Patton joins Emma-Louise Coffey to identify the key traits that drive profitable winter milk systems. Joe compares top winter milk herds with average. Top herds have higher output from the same concentrate input as average. The difference is top farmers are achieving greater grass utilisation and feeding higher quality grass silage during the housed period. The second driver is fertile cows. Joe targets 375 day calving interval, meaning there are greater days at peak milk production, lower number of days dry and reduced number of cows recycled. Here more from Joe at the Winter Milk event at Teagasc Johnstown Castle on September 4th:https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/winter-milk-event.php For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Johnstown Castle farm manager Aidan Lawless joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss full lactation performance for the winter milk herd and current milk and grass production. The winter milk herd have produced 620 kg MS approximately 20 kg ahead of 2017 and 2018 lactations. Aidan credits increased milk yield, rising milk solids and getting out to grass in early January as factors that have driven high milk output. 40% of the winter herd are still milking and will be dried off this week, currently on a restricted diet with the view to depress milk yield. Aidan is extremely happy with fertility performance recording just 8% empty this year. The spring herd are currently milking 23 litres or 1.8 kg MS, declining from peak of 32 litres. Grass production was a challenge in July with a substantial soil moisture deficit and growth rates half of projected growth based on the Johnstown Castle average. Heavy rainfall in late July/early August has helped recovery to normal growth. Finally, Aidan highlights the upcoming Winter Milk event at Johnstown Castle on the 4th September, covering a range of topics from feed management, genetics, fertility to soil fertility. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/winter-milk-event.php For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Grassland researcher, Mike Egan, summarises the autumn grazing management guidelines to maximise the amount of grazed grass in the diet of dairy cows in the autumn period. Right now, farmers should be extending rotation length by 2 days per week and building cover. Mike gives an insight into a grazing experiment looking at altering grazing management practices in autumn and examining the effects on animal performance and grassland in both the autumn and spring. Mike explains that where herds are carrying high stocking rates on the milking platform and calving more compactly (reflected in higher 6 week calving rates), they need to consider closing the farm earlier and at a higher cover. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grazing-management/autumn-grazing-management/ https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2019/Strategies-to-increase-spring-grass-availability.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Dairy specialist Joe Patton has advice on creating a fodder reserve to reduce the risk to farm businesses in the event of future adverse weather events. Firstly, farmers need to quantify the total grass production on their farm. Following this, stocking rate should be calculated allowing 5.5 tonnes of grass should be allowed per cow. Optimal stocking rate does not account for ay surplus or reserve within systems and therefore, a reserve must be purchased. An average reserve of 400 kg DM/cow (2 bales) in areas of low grass growth variability and 600 kg DM/cow (3 bales) in areas of high grass growth. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2019/Securing-a-fodder-reserve.pdf For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Kevin McDonald is a retired scientist from Dairy NZ with over 50 years’ experience in systems research and he joins Emma-Louise Coffey on this week’s Dairy Edge podcast to give his insights and analysis of the New Zealand dairy sector along with key learnings for Irish farmers. Kevin traces the evolution of the New Zealand dairy sector back to the 1930s and 1940s but says the big change came in the mid 1990s when big dairy farms expanded into the South Island. Smaller farms were traditionally in the North Island while the South Island farms that have come into dairying in the last 20 years were traditionally from much bigger sheep farms. Cow numbers increased from 3 million to 5 million cows, though irrigation has been the main challenge, for farmers in the South Island especially. Kevin also discusses other issues and challenges for farmers in New Zealand from labour to farm size and points out that, in contrast to Ireland’s more traditional farmers, they are more willing to change, buy new farms and move on. For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Grassland researcher Brian McCarthy and PhD researcher Brid McClearn join Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the benefits of white clover inclusion at Clonakilty Agricultural College.The grass plus white clover treatment grew 1.2 tonnes more grass compared with the grass only sward. Clover content varied from 36% in year 1 to 14% in year 4, which is a driver of grass production and fed quality. Cows in the grass plus white clover treatment produced 50 kg milk solids compared with grass only treatment. Brid explains this occurs due to increased intake and greater forage quality. Brian gives his management tips for managing clover in swards emphasising the importance of prevention rather than treatment. Furthermore, bloat oil during dry weather and small allocations at the start of grazing cycle to avoid gorging in wet weather. Notwithstanding increasing costs of the grass plus clover swards including feed in spring, labour associated with supplementary feeding and fencing, machinery expenses and treatment with bloat oil, there was an additional €305 with the inclusion of white clover For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2019/Clonakilty-Update-The-effect-of-perennial-ryegrass-ploidy-and-white-clover-inclusion-on-animal,-sward-and-farm.pdfAnd for more from the Dairy Edge podcast go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Milk quality expert, David Gleeson, joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the move to chlorine-free cleaning products on Irish dairy farms. David explains that while chlorine levels measured in the form of TCM and chlorides are low currently in Irish dairy products, the use of chlorine will be eliminated for cleaning on farm and in processing plants. Teagasc have developed alternative cleaning protocols to chlorine-based products and encourages farmers to consult with their milk quality advisor and Teagasc advisor to select the most suitable protocol for their farm. David acknowledges that alternative protocols will require more hot water and acid leading to higher costs cleaning routines. For more information on milking routines:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/dairy/research-farms/Non-chlorine-cleaning-protocol-april-18.pdf

Fergus Bogue of the Grass10 Team spoke to Emma-Louise Coffey from the Grass Demo at Teagasc's recent Open Day at Moorepark to discuss grass quality and stem levels on Irish farms.Fergus also explained what the Grass Demo was about and how farmers would get to see what kind of covers their cows should be grazing and what they graze down to. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/

Management Consultant Nollaig Heffernan joins Emma-Louise Coffey to emphasise the importance of planning around decision making for your farm.Nollaig explains that good planning and decision making will help achieve your personal goals, leads to more profitability on farm investment and makes your farm a more attractive place to work for family and employees. Nollaig introduces a LEAN tool, the PICK Model, to help with decision making. The PICK Model considers the Return on Investment and the Level of Difficulty for any task or project you are considering for your farm. Are you willing to invest your time and your money in these tasks/projects? Ideally all decisions will lead to high return and require low difficulty. Often there are projects that are either low return or high difficulty. Nollaig explains that we must look at these situations and identify how we can improve the circumstances.For more from the Dairy Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/

Economist Ciaran Fitzgerald joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss how dairy expansion has impacted the Irish economy.Ciaran recounts commonly reported expansion figures such as milk output and value of exports but takes a more in depth look at the economic impact on the Irish economy and in particular on rural Ireland. Over 60,000 people are employed in dairy industry, including 19,000 employed directly on dairy farms. Interestingly, Ciaran looked at the money spent in the Irish Economy relative to the value of exports for specific industries. For each €1 in exports of Irish dairy products, a huge €0.91 is spent in the Irish economy. This compared with just €0.10 for multinational exports and €0.60 for Irish indigenous companies. Ciaran acknowledges the increasing value of Irish milk due to high value product profile including infant formula and sports nutrition changing from traditional focus such as cheddar cheese. He also maintains that the Irish dairy industry will continue to target such value added markets which will somewhat mitigate the effects of BREXIT on the Irish dairy industry.

William Burchill joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss new cost-effective methods of slurry spreading. William reminds us of the value of slurry, which is the equivalent to 6 units of Nitrogen, 5 units of Phosphorus and 30 units of Potassium. Interestingly, slurry from dairy cows, that is often mixed with dairy washings from collecting yards are diluted and offer the half rate of Phosphorus and Potassium. Explaining the reasons behind new slurry spreading methods, the context is in our aims to reduce both Greenhouse Gas and Ammonia emissions. Benefits to the farmer includes reducing environmental footprint, reduced contamination of grass, greater nutrient availability and flexibility in what paddocks where slurry can be spread. Use of contractors with low emission slurry tanks is more expensive in the region of €10-25/hr while the purchase of a low emission slurry tank can be €13,000-15,000 more expensive compared with conventional slurry tanks. William is confident however, that effective use of low emission methods will compensate for additional costs.

Moorepark researchers Brendan Horan and Laurence Shalloo join Emma-Louise Coffey to critically review the growth and expansion of the national dairy herd.Brendan addressed the environmental impact of expansion highlighting the benefit of grass-based systems and explains the low environment footprint relative to both European and international milk producing competitors. The net environmental footprint of the dairy industry has increased while the output per unit milk has reduced. Looking at the target net profit of €2,500 per ha, Laurence explains there is a roadmap set out with targets in all aspects of the dairy business to achieve this; farmers must get the basics right, grass utilisation and 6 week calving rate are key drivers of profitability in a simple grass-based system. The top 10% of dairy farmers in the country are averaging €2,200 per ha while the average farmer is averaging €1,200 per ha over a number of years. He also reviews the debt levels on Irish dairy farms, explaining that at €900 per cow, we are very lowly borrowed in comparison with other countries, despite €1.5 billion euro of investment in recent years. Both Brendan and Laurence acknowledge the remarkable achievements of dairy farmers, creating a prosperous €4 billion industry.

Deirdre gives an overview of the benefits and challenges of white clover in intensive grass-based systems of milk production.She explains the ability of white clover to fix Nitrogen - in a systems study, Nitrogen was reduced by 100 kg Nitrogen/ha with no reduction in grass production in grass + white clover swards compared with grass only swards.Furthermore, improved animal performance is evident with an increase of 33 kg MS per cow observed in grass + white clover swards compared with grass only swards. This is driven by clover being a higher quality feed and cows achieving higher intake.When considering the challenges of white clover inclusion, Deirdre explains the primary concerns for dairy farms include bloat and low spring growth. Deirdre lists strategies to reduce the risk of bloat including vigilant grassland management and use of bloat oil.Spring growth is a greater challenge with white clover growing from 8®C compared with grass growing from 5 ®C. To overcome this, a budget of 1 high quality bale per cow for the 1st grazing rotation. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Managing-grass-clover-swards-in-an-intensive-grass-based-system.pdf

Agricultural Economist Emma Dillon joins Emma-Louise Coffey with the results of the Teagasc National Farm Survey highlighting that although incomes declines by 30% in 2018 compared with 2017, incomes remained substantial at €61,000. Emma explains there were many factors at play, namely 2017 dairy income being at a record high, high production costs in 2018 including additional feed and workload. She compared the dairy sector with other farming enterprises and explains that the dairy sector remains dominant. Dairy farmers continue to make the most profit, accounting for 17% of farms included in the national farm survey but 50% of the total income. Furthermore, dairy farmers have a low reliance on direct payments, accounting for 34% of total income in 2018.For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2019/National-Farm-Survey-Preliminary-Results-2018.pdf

Micheal O’Leary from PastureBase Ireland and Grassland Researcher Elodie Ruelle join Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss the current grassland situation on farm and look at future growth rate predictions.Micheal starts by explaining the current grassland situation, including high growth rates of on average 77 kg DM/ha exceeding farm demand of 60 kg DM/ha. The additional feed is driving farm cover/cow to over 200 kg DM/ha, compared with target of 160-180 kg DM/ha. The considerable amount of rain that has fallen in recent days combined with predictions of continued high growth re-assures Micheal that farmers can be proactive in removing heavy covers to prevent a reduction in milk production.Micheal's tips are:1. Graze maximum cover of 1,500 kg DM/ha2. Measure twice weekly during peak grass growth and remove heavy paddocks (Spread soiled water or compound fertiliser after spreading)3. Target farm cover of 160-180 kg DM/ha and an 18-21 day rotation Elodie Ruelle explains the model that she has created for grass growth which accounts for weather conditions (past and predicted), soil type, Nitrogen levels and Biomass. The grass growth predictions are made across 40 farms in Ireland. Accuracy is high as the farms are measuring at least weekly and recording Nitrogen usage on a weekly basis. Elodie's predications appear in the weekly Grass 10 bulletin. Finally, Micheal reflects on Grassland for 2019 reporting the excellent year to date including at least 1 additional grazing across farms on PastureBase Ireland this year compared with 2018 with production up 1 tonne/ha. For more information:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-newsletter/

Pat Dillon, Teagasc's Head of Animal and Grassland Programme, joins Emma-Louise Coffey to preview the topics and speakers at this year's Moorepark ’19, the Teagasc National Dairy Event for 2019, on Wednesday 3rd July at the Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork from 0830-1700. The theme of this year’s event is ‘Growing Sustainably’. The continuing expansion of the Irish dairy industry provides opportunities to increase the profitability of family farms, while also further developing climate smart dairy farming systems. Future expansion will require close alignment of national agricultural and environmental targets, with a particular focus on carbon emissions, water and air quality, and biodiversity.For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/moorepark-2019---teagasc-.php

Animal Health expert Muireann Conneely joins Emma-Louise Coffey to discuss hoof health and the mobility of the national dairy herd. Muireann makes reference to an ongoing trial where an average of 14% of the dairy herds examined have sub optimal hoof health. Poor mobility and lameness causes stress and pain to cows as well as reduced milk production and overall farm profit. Milk yield is affected for up to 8 weeks prior to a dairy cow showing clinical signs of lameness. In order to prevent poor mobility and clinical lameness farmers should score cow mobility regularly, ensure roadways are in good condition and treat for lameness early. For more information: http://www.ultimatehoofcaresolutions.com/index_files/Process.htm

For part two of our conversation with Micheal O’Donovan and Tomas Tubritt, they talk us through the reseeding process step by step. Micheal explains the starting point is to identify the paddock or farm area that you intend on reseeding. When considering the methods of reseeding, Tomas explains there is no difference between individual methods, but the common methods in Ireland include ploughing, minimum cultivation, discing and stitching in. In terms of fertiliser strategy, Michael advises anyone who is ploughing to complete a soil test once the soil is inverted. Standard fertiliser is 3/4 bags of 10-10-20 and 2 tonne lime per acre. When selecting seed, Tomas explains farmers need to select on quality, seasonal growth (spring and autumn) and heading date within 3-5 days of each other. Tomas also mentioned a new trait that is being investigated as part of his PhD research is grazing efficiency. This trait tends to favour tetraploid varieties due to their nature of higher leaf area and digestibility. Micheal recommends spraying with post emergent spray when the paddock is at a cover of 200-300 kg DM/ha and grazing at s cover of 700-1000 kg DM/ha. He explains that getting in at this light cover might mean that stock will only get 2/3 hours grazing in the paddock. He advises that the paddock is hit again in 14-15 days time. This management will lead to a successful reseed encouraging active growth and tillering. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2017/Reseeding-booklet.pdf

Head of Grassland Science Michael O’Donovan and Grassland PhD researcher Tomas Tubritt are this week's guests on the Dairy Edge podcast to discuss the topic of reseeding. Firstly, Michael talks through the benefits of reseeding, primarily transforming swards from partial perennial ryegrass swards to 100% perennial ryegrass swards leading to higher levels of grass production, improved quality and graze outs while renewed swards will also respond greater to fertiliser. Michael explains that reseeding costs €750/ha which is a significant investment but also the return on investment is recouped in 18th months. Furthermore, he explains the first 11 months are crucial to the success of reseeded swards. Tomas sets a target of 8% of the farm annually which means each paddock should be grazed every 14/15 years. Tomas explains that the new varieties being introduced to the Pasture Profit Index will out-compete older varieties. In order to identify paddocks for reseeding, Michael explains that ideally farmers will make an informed decision based on grass measurement and knowledge of poorest performing paddocks but where these records are unavailable farmers should be filling in the Teagasc Grass 10 Grazing Charts which identifies the number of grazings, the paddock that achieves the least grazings need to be reseeded. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2017/Reseeding-booklet.pdf

Dairy farmer Mike Bermingham joins Emma-Louise Coffey to take us on his journey of career change from construction and part-time beef farming to becoming a new entrant dairy farmer in 2013. Mike returned home to farm full-time in 2009 and acknowledged he had a big asset in his farm of land, yet it was providing no income. In 2010 he began grass measuring in order to quantify the amount of grass grown on the farm. This has allowed Mike to get a good handle on the level of grass grown on the farm and identify underperforming paddocks. Mike is consistently growing 14 tonnes DM with the exception of 2018 which was 11.5 tonnes DM. Soil fertility is optimum for pH, P and K. When considering what else he did prior to milking to put him in the best position for success, Mike said he joined a really good discussion group and also credits the Greenfield farm in Kilkenny and the Shinagh farm for demonstrating start ups, what works and what doesn't work. Looking back at the progress over the last 10 years, Mike is hitting all of the dairy KPIs; fat and protein %, 6 week calving rate, grass utilised. Passing on his wisdom to others considering dairy, Mike explains that farmers must start with the basics, the parlour, cubicles, roads and water. Additionally, surround yourself with good people, get help making a 5-year plan, identify a mentor and make sure you are in a good discussion group.

The ICBF's Andrew Cromie and Siobhan Ring join the Dairy Edge podcast this week to discuss the new Dairy Beef Index (DBI). Firstly Andrew explains the DBI is a breeding index that will promote high quality beef cattle from the dairy herd with minimal consequences to calving difficulty and gestation length in dairy cows. Siobhan explains that the DBI has a role in dairy herds after breeding for replacements using the EBI. She also explains the ranking of bulls within the DBI as it ranks beef bulls for use in the dairy herd for calving and carcass traits. Finally, Andrew explains the DBI has an important role to play in the Irish agricultural industry, creating a calf that is saleable for dairy farmers and of value to beef farmers in terms of carcass quality. Furthermore, Andrew explains we must protect our dairy industry and avoid bobby calf industries that are in operation in other countries For more information: https://www.icbf.com/wp/?page_id=12504

Dairy specialist Stuart Childs joins Emma-Louise Coffey to explain the various steps to optimise breeding performance for your farm. Stuart identifies 3-week submission rate as the most important KPI for farmers to target. He considers the length of time to mating start date which is anywhere between 10 and 20 days away. Stuart recommends tail painting the whole herd and addressing cows who fail to cycle. Many farmers have changed the calving date on their farms following the difficult spring in 2018. While 2018 presented a particularly difficult spring, Stuart recommends farmers don't make a dramatic change to their normal calving start date based on one year! Stuart also discussed all the heat detection aids available from visual observation to tail paint, scratch cards, teaser bulls to the more recent technology aids, explaining that all heat detection aids work but if they aren't hitting targets, he recommends you look to the cow and also the detection method to see how you can improve. Finally, Stuart reminds us of synchronisation protocols that can be used routinely for heifers and anoestrus cows and he reminds us to be very clear on the protocol to ensure each step is taken at the correct time. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/breeding--genetics/breeding-management/

In part 2 of our interview with John McNamara, we find out about the grassland management on John's dairy farm. John explains that the grazing season starts in August of the previous year. He starts extending his grazing rotation and building farm cover in August, hitting peak farm cover in later September and closing the farm from at an appropriate cover to carry grass into the spring. He explains that the farm is heavy meaning the shoulder periods of the grazing season can be a challenge. John accepts this challenge each year by employing all the grazing technologies such as on/off grazing and back fencing. When considering KPIs for grazing, John thinks figures like 10 grazings per paddock are really important for him and believes if you can get off to a good start during the spring rotation, you are on the right track. Turning our attention to the Grass 10 open day on his farm in Knockainey on April 24th, John welcomes all farmers and their families to the event. On the day, we can expect to get an insight to excellence in grassland on the McNamara family farm. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/open-day---john-mcnamara-.php