Explore every episode of the podcast The Beef Edge
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Teagasc Beef Budgets 2024/2025 with Aidan Murray | 25 Sep 2024 | 00:13:32 | |
Following the launch of the Beef Budgets for 2024 at the National Ploughing Championships, Teagasc Beef specialist, Aidan Murray, has an update with all the details.
Aidan compares the national kill figures to 2023 and discusses how have the prices changed in comparison to this time last year.
Aidan also highlights how the Irish supply of beef looks for the rest of the year.
Prices are good and there is demand around the ring at the moment for heavier type of stock with Aidan comparing changes in prices for different categories of stock.
Plus, for farmers buying cattle at the moment and planning to finish them, he advises that it is important to be aware of the expected costs and price needed to cover it.
The Teagasc Beef Budgets 2024/2025 are available at: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2024/teagasc-beef-budgets-20242025.php
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Scottish farmer Graham Lofthouse on his mixed farming system | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:18:03 | |
Scottish beef and sheep farmer, Graham Lofthouse of Bankhouse Farm, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss his mixed farming system.
The farm is located 30km south of Edinburgh and is 200-300m above sea level. The average rainfall is around 1,000mm. There are 470 ewes on the farm and 84 suckler cows.
Graham discusses how the sucker herd is managed from birth to weaning. Breeding and genetics is very important on the farm and Graham outlines the breeding policy.
Graham also discusses the cattle performance of the stock that were finished on the farm and compares them to the cattle that were sold as stores in 2023.
Maximising weight gain from grass is essential with Graham describing the paddock system and leader follower system that he operates.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Aidan Murray’s Beef Management Tips for August | 31 Jul 2024 | 00:21:41 | |
Teagasc Beef Specialist, Aidan Murray, discusses beef management tips for the month ahead on the latest Beef Edge podcast.
Aidan says that farmers with autumn calving herds should keep cows fit prior to calving, ensure minerals are supplemented pre-calving, particularly iodine and copper, and he explains ways to avoid mastitis and create awareness at this time of year.
Aidan recommends that cows should be scanned in the spring calving herd to help reduce farm demand and discuss options to sell live or to feed on and finish.
Aidan also highlights the implications of selling cows or calves prior to five months of age for the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme penalties.
He then outlines different options for bulls and heifers for finishing in the coming months. Calves on dairy beef farms are weaned and being rotated at grass, and Aidan says to use faecal sample results and treat calves accordingly. Plus Aidan discusses treatment options if calves are currently coughing.
Finally, Aidan goes through various options for farmers to consider if they are short on fodder. As sourcing straw is an area of concern for farmers, Aidan outlines the steps farmers can take now and other alternatives to consider.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| An Update on the Maternal Herd in Teagasc Grange | 16 Nov 2022 | 00:13:17 | |
Teagasc Researcher Colin Byrne joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an update on the Maternal Herd in Teagasc Grange Co. Meath.
Colin give a background to the herd and outlines the future research being carried out, plus he discusses this year’s weanling performance and the management over the coming winter.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| How to manage nutrition with high feed costs this winter | 09 Nov 2022 | 00:14:30 | |
Teagasc Beef Specialist Aidan Murray joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast with some top tips on managing nutrition with high feed costs this winter.
Aidan outlines the current position with feed availability this winter and discusses the various options.
This year, he explains, it’s very important for farmers to test silage in order to reduce costs as much as possible.
Aidan also describes how to take a silage a sample from a pit or bales and he discusses the target weight gains to be achieved this winter.
Taking a sample:
Understanding your sample results: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/understanding-the-silage-test-results.php
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Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| The parasites to watch out for this winter and how to treat them | 02 Nov 2022 | 00:11:39 | |
With heavy rainfall across the country, a lot of cattle were housed over the past fortnight.
Natascha Meunier from Animal Health Ireland, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the key parasites farmers should keep in mind this winter, what you should be treating for, when to dose and which product to use.
Natascha also discusses fluke, worm and lice treatments and she outlines the Beef Health Check report analysis findings and how farmers can access their report.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| Newford Demonstration Farm Update | 26 Oct 2022 | 00:15:01 | |
Teagasc’s Michael Fagan is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to give an update on the Newford Demonstration Farm in Athenry Co. Galway, with an insight also into the heifers that were finished.
To date, 83% or 33 out of the 40, 2021-born beef heifers have now been sold at an average age of 17 ½ months, or 527 days of age. Heifers were drafted off grass with no concentrate supplementation provided since turnout.
All 2022-born progeny have now been weaned. The male weanlings (60), which well outnumber the heifer weanlings (26) were weaned on the 12th of September while heifer weanlings were weaned on the 20th of September.
The male weanlings were weaned at 327 kg equating to an average daily gain (ADG) of 1.37 kg from birth to weaning. The heifer weanlings were weaned at 328 kg and recorded an ADG of 1.32 kg from birth to weaning.
Further details at:
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| How calving at 24 months helps to reduce emissions, with Kildalton suckler herd manager, John O’Connor | 19 Oct 2022 | 00:21:22 | |
As part of Sustainability Week, Teagasc Farm manager of the Kildalton suckler herd, John O’Connor, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with a focus on calving at 24 months which also helps to reduce emissions.
The stock on display at the Teagasc stand at the Ploughing this year were the beef herd in Kildalton college and John describes the cow, her bull calf and the heifers that will be calving next January.
https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/calving-heifers-at-24-months---workshops/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| Autumn calving suckling to weanling system thriving in Co. Meath | 12 Oct 2022 | 00:16:39 | |
Michael McGuigan from Longwood, Co. Meath is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an insight into his beef system and his targets in detail. He is a participant in the Future Beef programme and farms part-time, managing his own company off-farm.
Michael bought the farm in 2016 and set about developing it and improving the soil fertility and grassland. He farms 23.5 hectares and it is a mixture of sandy gravel and clay soil.
Michael runs a suckling to weanling system consisting of all Autumn calvers. The males are sold as weanlings while the heifers, if not retained for breeding, are sold for export or sold in show and sales in the local mart. He is using 100% A.I. to allow him to use the best genetics available.
Further updates on Michael’s farm are available here:
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Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| Agri Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES) – all you need to know | 05 Oct 2022 | 00:12:56 | |
Teagasc advisor, Austin Callaghan from county Mayo, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with some key advice to help apply for ACRES and to complete your plan.
The major difference in ACRES compared to previous agri-environment schemes will be the change from action-based payments to results-based payments.
When it comes to the plan, Austin outlines that many farmers will undertake grassland actions, such as the following: low-input grassland receiving up to €450/ha; extensive grassland: €200/ha; commonage: €220/ha; and low-input grassland on peat up to €450/ha.
Austin describes a number of actions farmers may select such as planting trees, hedges, archaeological monuments, traditional dry stone walls, low-emission slurry spreading and winter bird food plot.
For further details: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2022/Environment_August_2022_web.pdf
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Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| Top tips when it comes to transferring the family farm | 28 Sep 2022 | 00:14:07 | |
Teagasc Financial Management Specialist, James McDonnell, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with important tips and advice to help farm families with the process of transferring the family farm and all aspects that need to be considered when writing a succession plan.
Succession planning can seem to be a very complex task but it doesn’t have to be with early planning, says James. Every family has a different set of circumstances, but it is always better to have a plan in place.
The worst case scenario is where the farm transfer is unplanned as a result of illness or the death of the owner, leading to tax and legal complications.
Many farmers say they will never retire, however you do not have to be retired to have a succession plan in place and there are many decent tax reliefs and benefits to encourage you to prepare a plan in good time.
To help you prepare, Teagasc is hosting six clinics across the country. You can register for your closest event at the following: https://www.eventbrite.ie/o/teagasc-7739994337
These clinics are designed to help farm families through the process of and all aspects that need to be considered when transferring the family farm.
Find all our advice and guidance on Succession & Inheritance here: https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/succession--inheritance/
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Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| The Key Steps to Consider in Conversion to Organic | 21 Sep 2022 | 00:10:38 | |
Teagasc organic specialist, Elaine Leavy, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to give an insight into the new organic scheme opening in October, the key steps to consider in conversion as well as details on the upcoming National Organic Open Day.
Elaine outlines the changes to the new organic scheme opening in October for 8 weeks and she highlights the steps involved in conversion as well as the different payment rates.
The Teagasc organic team, in conjunction with DAFM and Bord Bia, have organised a national organic beef open day which will take place on Wednesday September 28th 2022 on the farm of John Purcell in Tipperary.
This open day offers our clients a unique opportunity to get answers to the many questions they may have about converting their farms to organic systems.
Full details of the walk and how to book can be found at; https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/organic-beef-open-day.php
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For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| Your Renewable Energy Options Explained | 14 Sep 2022 | 00:16:25 | |
Teagasc Energy & Rural Development Specialist, Barry Caslin, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss what renewable energy options are available for beef farmers.
Barry discusses the different renewable sources of interest, particularly the anaerobic digester, which may be an opportunity for farmers to supply grass and slurry.
Solar power has created increased focus in the past number of years with farmers approached to use their land for solar panels and Barry discusses what farmers should be considering before going down this route.
Solar panels for the farm house may also be a possibility and Barry explains the grants available.
Beef Edge listeners interested in the options outlined on this episode can get more information by visiting www.seai.ie.
Further details available are also available here: https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/rural-development/diversification/rural-development-factsheets/
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| Grass management for the coming weeks | 24 Jul 2024 | 00:09:55 | |
This week’s Beef Edge podcast is a joint episode with Ciaran Lynch from Ovicast and we are joined by Grass10 advisor Niamh Doyle to get an update on the current situation and discussing management tips for the coming weeks.
Niamh says there have been many factors that have limited grass growth over the last number of months such as lower temperatures, especially at night, harsh winds, high rainfall and high levels of poaching due to the wet spring with poor conditions for grazing.
Niamh explains the long term Nitrogen fertiliser type trial at Teagasc, Johnstown Castle which provides an insight as to how different fertiliser types/formulations have performed under the same conditions and with N applied at the same time at the same rate. Overall total grass dry matter yield to date was similar across fertiliser nitrogen products.
Niamh emphasises that reducing demand by scanning early to remove empty cows and cull ewes would help decrease the demand on the farm. Introducing creep to lambs and weanlings would also help lower demand.
Coming into August, it is important to focus on building grass covers. By having a plan and applying fertiliser in early August when response is good will help build autumn grass covers and may allow surplus grass to be removed if fodder is needed.
Second cut silage is also being cut at the moment. It is important to target slurry that has yet to be spread to be applied to these paddocks and as per the farm nutrient management plan, to ensure tanks are emptied and P and K is applied where needed.
Completing a fodder budget, walking the farm now and applying fertiliser are the key tips for the coming weeks for farmers to keep in mind
For further information: https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/
Subscribe to the Teagasc Grass10 newsletter here: https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| What does the new Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme mean for your farm? | 07 Sep 2022 | 00:12:28 | |
Teagasc Environment specialist Catherine Keena is on the latest Beef Edge podcast to discuss the new proposed Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme also known as ‘ACRES’.
While listeners would have participated in previous environmental schemes such as Reps and most recently GLAS, the new Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme has similarities and differences.
ACRES is the new Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) agri-environment scheme and is part of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan that has recently been approved by the European Commission.
The following proposed actions will help farmers to prepare for it and while many farmers will undertake grassland actions, all should consider the full suite of actions available.
Please see all actions outlined in the following: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2022/Environment_August_2022_web.pdf
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| How DairyBeef 500 farmer, Richard Long, is reducing age at slaughter on his farm | 31 Aug 2022 | 00:17:42 | |
Dairy Beef 500 farmer, Richard Long, from Co. Waterford and his advisor, Sean Cummins, join Catherin Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast.
Richard and Sean describe how they developed a plan to reduce age at slaughter on the farm and its impact on profitability, plus they detail the upcoming open day being held on the farm on September 8th.
The level of integration between dairy and beef farmers is something key for this system to be profitable particularly for Richard when it comes to improvement in genetic gain on calves coming from his brother’s farm.
This use of higher quality beef sires, identified from the Dairy Beef Index (DBI), along with the recently launched Commercial Beef Value (CBV), are of superior genetic merit in terms of carcass weight and conformation than the average dairy beef calf.
Join the Teagasc DairyBeef500 team on Thursday, 8th September at 3pm on the farm of Richard Long, Ballymacarbry, Co. Waterford. Eircode: E91 VH67.
Further details can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/dairybeef500-richardlong.php
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| Grass Tips in Advance of the Last Rotation | 24 Aug 2022 | 00:18:43 | |
With parts of the country in drought and some rain arriving, Joseph Dunphy, Grass10 advisor, and Fergal Maguire, Dairy Beef 500 advisor, are on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with advice and tips in advance of the last rotation.
Building covers, reducing farm demand and extending the rotation are key now in advance of starting the last rotation closing up in October.
For farmers with a high stocking rate, Fergal advises to house cattle that are intended to be finished before Christmas to help reduce farm demand where necessary. Apply a compound fertiliser as per nutrient management plan.
Farm Walk Aidan Maguire from Navan, county Meath was the 2021 Grassland Farmer of the Year in the Drystock Enterprise Category and he will host a walk on his farm on the evening of 31st August at 6.30pm. F
Further details are here: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/gfoty-aidanmaguire.php
The 2022 Grassland Farmer of the Year competition, to promote grassland excellence among all Irish livestock farmers, has also been launched. There will be an overall award and a number of categories with an overall prize fund of €25,000 and further details can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2022/grassland-farmer-of-the-year---entry-form-2022.php
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| How to manage soil fertility for the rest of the year | 17 Aug 2022 | 00:14:32 | |
Teagasc Researcher Dr. David Wall is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with top tips to manage soil fertility for the rest of the year plus details on the upcoming Johnstown Castle Open Day.
David highlights that putting a plan in place now is important as high prices are forecast for next year. There is an increase in lime being applied on farms to correct pH and there has also been a focus on many farms to incorporate clover. Improving soil fertility in advance is important.
It’s a month out for the chemical N deadline on 15th September and final applications should be applied now where needed to build covers.
Overall grass growth has been very good this year and surpluses have been taken off as bales on many farms and David says that it is important to ensure slurry is applied to compensate for P and K off-takes.
The Johnstown Castle Open Day takes place on 30th August with the focus on ‘Technologies for farms of the future’. This open day will demonstrate technologies and practices that can be adopted on farms to help to maintain farm productivity and profitability, whilst increasing overall environmental sustainability.
The latest information for successful management of grass-clover and multi-species swards under winter and spring calving dairy and dairy calf-to-beef systems will be available.
Practices to enhance on-farm biodiversity and to reduce losses of valuable nutrients from the soil will be demonstrated and you will also learn about the latest fertiliser and slurry technologies and methods for enhancing carbon sequestration and soil health.
For further details: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/farmsofthefuture.php
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| Future Beef: Autumn Calving update with Cork farmer, Ed Curtin | 10 Aug 2022 | 00:14:05 | |
Future Beef farmer, Ed Curtin from Co. Cork, discusses how he manages his autumn calving herd pre and post-calving.
Ed outlines how he manages the cow’s body condition score to ensure she is fit and not fat for calving.
Ed calves his heifers at 24 months. He describes her management from once she is born up to calving.
Heifers are penned separate to the cows to give them every opportunity to go back in calf.
100% AI is operated on the farm and Ed describes the various sires selected such as easy calving angus sires for replacement heifers and Belgian blue sires used on cows.
High quality silage over 70 DMD is fed over the winter ad lib. Ed describes the management in advance of breeding and the use of heat detection aids to identify cows such as scratch cards.
Further details on Ed’s farm can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/ed-curtin-future-beef-farmer-in-cork.php
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| The Key Messages for Suckler Farmers from Beef2022 | 03 Aug 2022 | 00:17:06 | |
Teagasc Advisor, Alan Nolan, based in Ballinrobe Co. Mayo, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to review key messages for suckler farmers from Beef2022.
Alan highlights the big focus of the day on was on improving reproductive performance, through genetics, AI, heat synchronisation and calving at 24 months.
There was a big discussion in the suckler village on the day in relation to how a farmer narrows the selection of replacement females. Alan also describes the main actions needed and the most important traits for a replacement female in your herd.
For further details: https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/beef-open-day/beef-2022-main-stands/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| The Best Kept Secret of the Beef2022 Open Day | 27 Jul 2022 | 00:15:22 | |
Dr Eddie O’Riordan, Teagasc Researcher, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the key points from Beef2022 for growing and finishing cattle farmers.
Silage Quality will have high influence on performance and costs and Eddie explains there is a difference of €100 in costs moving from 60 – 75 DMD silage for a weanling to gain 0.5kg over the winter period.
With the rise in concentrate prices, the key point for farmers to keep in mind is to test silage and then balance with concentrates as required.
Reducing age of slaughter was also discussed and Eddie highlights how the national figures have changed over the past eleven years and says that, while it is a challenge, there are more reductions that can be made in the future. Eddie describes the key aspects of drafting cattle for finish to avoid the costs of putting on fat.
Herd health is a critical area to maximise the lifetime performance of the animal, particularly purchasing stock, and Eddie discusses the topics outlined by AHI based on the beef health check analysis, parasite control by Orla Keane and the health plan by the vet on the day.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| DairyBeef 500 and what it hopes to achieve in the next five years | 20 Jul 2022 | 00:18:49 | |
DairyBeef 500 campaign manager, Alan Dillon, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to review the key messages from Beef2022 for dairy beef farmers; plus he discusses the lessons learned from the Green Acres Programme and outlines the new five year DairyBeef 500 campaign that was launched recently.
Alan first explained how building a sustainable dairy-beef system was highlighted at Beef2022 by incorporating grass, genetics and herd health to support an economic and environmentally sustainable system.
The Green Acres programme has now drawn to a close and analysis of the past three years’ data showed a net margin increase from €100/ha to €650/ha (excluding subsidies). Live weight output increased from 994 kg/ha in 2019 to 1,427 kg/ha in 2021.
Over the course of the programme, grass production increased by 19%, while there was a huge focus on silage and DMD increased by 4% units, helping achieve an ADG of 0.6 kg over first winter. The indoor winter periods were identified as being the main area for improvement on farms.
The average number of source herds reduced from 10 farms to 6, resulting in improved calf health, while the genetic merit improved slightly across calves purchased, it is the most difficult area to improve.
The DairyBeef 500 campaign was launched recently with a target of €500/ha net profit and Alan outlines all that is to be achieved over the next five years.
The Ballyvadin demonstration farm will be a key component of the campaign located in Fethard Co. Tipperary. 300 calves will be purchased and a heifer and steer finishing system will be operated comprising of a number of breeds.
Farmers will get an opportunity to visit the farm and see the progress being made. The DairyBeef 500 farmers are located across the country and there will be four new farms added in addition to the rollover of farmers from the Green acres programme.
There will be a number of courses arranged over the campaign for farmers to attend along with regional discussion groups and further details will be available on the Teagasc website and social media channels.
For more information, go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/dairy-calf-to-beef/dairybeef-500/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
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| The Beef2022 Forum on Supporting Sustainable Beef Farming | 13 Jul 2022 | 00:54:32 | |
At the Beef2022 National Beef Open Day last week a forum took place moderated by Ivan Yates with the theme, ‘Supporting Sustainable Beef Farming’.
It was an open discussion with Professor Alice Stanton, RCSI, Michael Biggins, Future Beef Farmer from Co. Mayo, Professor Frank O'Mara, Teagasc Director and Phelim O'Neill, Irish Farmers Journal.
This week’s Beef Edge episode is a recording of the Beef Forum that concluded the open day in Teagasc Grange on the 5th July.
The forum can also be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjp-03M_oag
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Bonus Ep: Q&A with Min. McConalogue at the Beef2022 Open Day | 09 Jul 2022 | 00:27:29 | |
At the Beef2022 National Beef Open Day on the 5th July, a forum took place moderated by Ivan Yates.
Attendees heard from and had the opportunity to ask questions of Charlie McConalogue, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
This Beef Edge bonus episode is a recording of that question and answer session.
The complete forum can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjp-03M_oag
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Reducing the finishing age nationally | 17 Jul 2024 | 00:12:23 | |
Reducing the mean finishing age of prime beef cattle from 26 to 22-23 months by 2030 is fundamental to achieving Ireland’s 25% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture and on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Teagasc researcher Paul Smith discusses this topic.
Paul explains the main messages relating to reducing age at slaughter from the BEEF2024 Open Day and future research surrounding the grass-based beef research in comparison to commercial high performing beef farms.
He outlines the important talking points from the greenhouse gas village at BEEF2024 and he also discusses the finishing village which aimed to highlight carcass specifications, in particular the correct fat score.
Nationally, mean age at finishing is six to nine months later than on grass-based research and high-performing commercial farms. There is an urgent need to identify and quantify factors impeding Irish beef farms from achieving potential liveweight targets throughout the animal’s lifetime.
Collaborative research from the Teagasc-led Beef-Quest project aims to investigate the effect of nutrition, health and on-farm environment factors constraining animal growth performance and finishing age of beef cattle, and assess their impacts on GHG emissions.
In collaboration with the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) and UCD, this project will use data available within the industry. A new large-scale on-farm study is planned to generate new data and expressions of interest for participant farms will be sought in the coming months.
Beef-Quest will identify, quantify and rank the primary on-farm technical and behavioural-related issues negatively impacting finishing age. Using this new information, more targeted, high-impact and deliverable solutions can be proposed and disseminated to reduce finishing age, thus improving the Irish beef’s sustainability.
If you are interested in participating please contact paul.smith@teagasc.ie
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Beef2022 Sustainable Grassland Village Update | 05 Jul 2022 | 00:12:05 | |
Beef 2022 has finally arrived.
Teagasc Grange researcher Peter Doyle joins Catherine Egan on the Beef Edge podcast with an insight into what you can expect at the Sustainable Grassland Village at the #Beef2022 Open Day on 5th July 2022.
Peter outlines the various heights of grass on display and the impact this has and he also discusses the establishment and management of red and white clover on the day.
A grazing infrastructure booklet was also launched today and for further details on the #Beef2022 Open Day, visit the Teagasc social media channels and www.teagasc.ie/beef2022 | |||
| Making your farming system more sustainable plus a preview of the Beef2022 Open Day | 29 Jun 2022 | 00:15:37 | |
Pearse Kelly, Teagasc’s Head of Drystock is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss technologies to make your farming system sustainable, the challenges in relation to overall profitability on farms as well as a preview of the Beef2022 Open Day on July 5th in Teagasc Grange.
Despite market disturbances, CAP reform, climate change policy and input price rises, the market for grass-fed beef as a high quality, sustainable human food protein source is strong.
Suckler farmers have made big changes and participated in schemes like the Beef Data Genomics Programme for many years and Beef Environmental Efficiency programme, which is having an influence on the sustainability of the system as well as genetics. The commercial beef value launched last year at the beef conference is also having an impact.
Earlier age at slaughter has many influences but there are improvements being made which will be discussed in detail in the Growing & Finishing Village at Beef2022.
What’s happening at Beef2022? There will be four main stands highlighting beef systems for your farm, performance targets and achieving the targets whilst optimising beef profitability.
Producing quality beef is key to the success of the industry and factors affecting meat quality, grass-fed beef and PGI and quality-assured beef will be the topics of the day in the meat quality village.
In the afternoon there will be a forum with a panel of experts who will address supporting the sustainability of Irish beef farming.
If you are a beef farmer, Beef2022 is your opportunity to see first-hand the results of Teagasc’s comprehensive research and innovation programme and to meet Teagasc research, advisory and education staff.
The event is on Tuesday 5th July in Teagasc Grange and it is a free event and a day not to be missed.
For further information go to:
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge | |||
| Applying for the Fodder Support Scheme & Top Tips for Managing Grass | 22 Jun 2022 | 00:15:32 | |
Teagasc Beef specialist Aidan Murray and Grass10 Manager John Maher are on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with details on the Fodder Support Scheme as well as top tips to deal with the current grass situation on farms.
Aidan explains that the purpose of the Fodder Support Scheme (FSS) is to incentivise and support farmers to grow sufficient grass and conserve sufficient fodder (silage and/or hay) for the 2022 winter.
This is to reduce the risk of animal welfare issues in the coming winter as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the impact this has had on agricultural input costs. Payment rates will be up to €100 per eligible hectare, up to a maximum of 10 hectares of €1,000.
Apply for the Fodder Support Scheme online at agfood.ie on or before 2 August 2022. There will be advisors on hand to answer queries at the Growing & Finishing Village at Beef 2022. Further details at: https://www.gov.ie/en/service/448e0-fodder-support-scheme/
Also on the show, Grass10’s John Maher outlines the huge variation in grass across the country and offers advice for farmers in different parts of the country. It is important to maintain quality to avoid issues in the autumn he says. If there are surpluses, bales can be removed.
June is a key month to try avoid stem build up in the sward. Remedial action may ned to be taken now rather than later.
John invites listeners to visit the Sustainable grassland village at Beef 2022 on 5th July in Teagasc Grange which will help farmers deal with current issues on farms.
Further details at: http://www.teagasc.ie/beef2022
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Kildalton at 50 and Teagasc’s Ag Education Options | 15 Jun 2022 | 00:14:04 | |
Anne-Marie Butler Head of Education at Teagasc joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the wide variety of courses Teagasc has to offer, Kildalton Agricultural College celebrating 50 years in education and the upcoming Beef2022 Open Day.
Having been appointed as Head of Education as at the end of last year, Anne-Marie discusses how is it going so far. She gives an overview of the Education programme in Teagasc across the agricultural colleges and advisory centres.
The practical learning period with a host farmer is a real highlight for students she says, describing the students’ experiences.
There are great options to progress through the different levels with a number of educational institutions and Anne-Marie discusses the part time and the distance education green cert.
Many listeners would have a strong connection and memories of their time in Kildalton Agricultural College which is celebrating 50 years of education on June 25th from 11am-4pm.
For further details: https://www.teagasc.ie/education/teagasc-colleges/kildalton/kildalton50/
There will also be an Education & Advisory village at Beef2022 on the 5th July where teaching staff from the colleges and advisory offices will be available on the day to discuss course options.
For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/beef-open-day/
And for further details on education courses: https://www.teagasc.ie/education/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Kilkenny farmer James Madigan explains his grassland management | 08 Jun 2022 | 00:12:10 | |
Suckler farmer James Madigan from Co Kilkenny and Niall Claffey IGA Beef chairperson are on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with James discussing how he is managing grass on his farm and he is also hosting this year’s Irish Grassland Association beef walk on the 14th June.
James harvested his first crop of silage on 12th May with the remaining bales harvested on 26th May. With over 400 bales made to date and 300 left over from last year, James intends to close 37 acres for second cut to meeting his fodder requirement.
While grazed grass is his number one priority during the growing season, excellent quality silage is harvested to ensure high growth rates during the winter and finishing period. Last year’s silage crop came back at 76% DMD when tested.
Regular weighing complements the beef system and once bulls hit the target weight of 480kg, they are then moved into the finishing regime.
James outlines how both the spring and autumn calving herd is being managed at the moment. Some reseeding took place on the farm this spring and he described the method and how red clover and white clover are being managed on the farm.
The Irish Grassland Association beef walk next week on the 14th June is being hosted by James and on the day he will discuss his system in detail and how he manages grass.
The IGA’s Niall Claffey outlined how Phelim O’Neill from the Irish Farmers Journal will be discussing the market outlook and James Humphreys from Teagasc will be discussing clover management on the day.
The event is free and all are welcome to attend on Tuesday 14th June from 6:30pm-8:30pm
More details are here: https://www.irishgrassland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/IGA-Beef-2022-DL.pdf
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| ICBF Tully Bull Performance Centre Update | 01 Jun 2022 | 00:18:55 | |
Stephen Conroy, Manager of the ICBF, Tully Bull Performance Centre, and Paul Smith, Teagasc Researcher, join Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an insight into the centre, current research findings and its future direction. Stephen explains how the research is carried out on progeny selected from Gene Ireland sires. Every year over 700 animals are put through the testing facilities in Co.Kildare over a 90 day period. He outlines the variety of measurements that are taken such as feed intake and meat quality such as tenderness, flavour and juiciness. Interestingly, based on the terminal index cattle, 5 stars had a feed intake of 2.5kg lower than 1 star animals and 5 star cattle had a 28kg heavier carcass compared to 1 star €5/kg at a price of this is an increase of €140 /head. Stephen also discussed the future studies taking place such as the water intake of cattle. For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| Organic Farming: the biggest changes and lessons learned | 25 May 2022 | 00:11:52 | |
Teagasc Organic Specialist Elaine Leavy joins Catherine Egan with an update on the recent organic scheme, how red clover and multispecies is managed on organic farms and the upcoming organic walks.
Given the rise in fertiliser prices, there is an increased interest in organic farming. Over 300 farmers applied for the organic scheme and it expected to re-open again in October. Elaine outlines the biggest changes that farmers have made and lessons they have learned.
Obviously organic concentrates feed are expensive above conventional and Elaine describes the importance of red clover silage on organic farms to help manage this over the winter.
Multispecies and red clover have many benefits and Elaine explains how they are managed as they have been common practice on organic farms.
There are also a number of events taking place around the country in June and these events are a great opportunity for farmers with an interest in organic farming to visit and see the farm in practice and meet and speak with producers and organic sectors experts.
Teagasc, Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine and organic organisations invite all farmers to attend.
Further details can be found here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/organics/events/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Managing costs with Kilkenny farmer, Peter O’Hanrahan | 18 May 2022 | 00:07:25 | |
Green Acres calf-to-beef programme participant, Peter O’Hanrahan, from Co.Kilkenny discusses how he is managing costs on his farm this year on the latest Beef Edge podcast.
Peter farms with his father Thomas outside Thomastown and he explains how the 220 purchased calves at 2-3 weeks of age have received good colostrum and a vaccination programme that is so important to weaning calves at 90kg.
The 220 calves comprise of Aberdeen angus X, Friesian X and Hereford X and are finished as steers at 24 months of age with a carcass of 320kg.
They have carried out reseeding in recent years and Peter outlines how he incorporated clover into non reseeded swards. He targets grazing these covers at less than 1,000kg DM/ha.
This year’s first-cut crop of silage was fertilised with 3,000 gallons/ac of slurry and 80units/ac of artificial nitrogen. Last year silage tested 74DMD on the farm which resulted in finishing stock only receiving 5kg of concentrates per head to day.
This year Peter will weigh the steers and draft the heaviest 70 and supplement them at grass to finish before housing to reduce costs.
For further information go to:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2022/Todays-Farm---May-June-2022.pdf
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Farm Contractors Ireland – the top tips for Silage 2022 | 11 May 2022 | 00:15:15 | |
With silage harvesting taking place over the coming weeks, Michael Moroney, the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Farm Contractors in Ireland (FCI), joins Catherine Egan on the latest Beef Edge podcast to discuss how to best to prepare for silage 2022 when it comes covering the pit, handling of bales and the cost of making silage.
Michael first outlines that good communication between the farmer and contractors is very important. The farmer needs to plan in advance with the contractors as to what is expected and when and likewise the contractor will need the lead person have the farmer’s contact details to make sure the farmer knows when they are coming and where on the farm they will be starting.
Michael also highlights the importance of safety at this time, in particular that no children be carried on tractors and to be safe when tractors and machines are being operated.
Furthermore, farmers and contractors need to be aware of the height of the pit and cover the pit safely.
Michael highlights that checking the silage ground to avoid objects causing issues is important along with ensuring gateways are suitably visible to make the public aware of machinery and when the gates are open.
Costs have increased dramatically as well and Michael describes how it cost €225 to fill a tractor (300L tank) last October when diesel costs €0.75c/l, while now at €1.30/l, it costs almost €400. The price of tyres have increased by 50% and machinery parts have also increased while there are issues in getting parts and also delays in having them delivered.
With a busy few weeks ahead Michael advises farmers and contractors that while there is a lot of work to be done when the weather is fine, it is important to take breaks and stop for meals.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Beef Summer Budgets with Teagasc’s Aidan Murray | 04 May 2022 | 00:14:55 | |
Aidan Murray, Teagasc Beef Specialist, joins Catherine Egan on the latest Beef Edge podcast to discuss what beef price you can afford to pay for stock, what impact costs will have on the bottom line and what price will be needed to cover these costs.
Aidan explains that the national kill has increased by 58,000 cattle so far this year and while obviously costs have risen, he compares how prices have increased in comparison to this time last year with an increase of €200/head paid at purchase.
Farmers that are doing up budgets at the moment are buying a continental steer 550kgs and paying €1,573 or €2.86kg needing €5.02 for a breakeven price. A similar price would be needed for heifers.
Aidan outlined that farmers only buying these type of steers next October and finishing them over the winter would need a breakeven price of €5.43 in spring 2023.
He also advised farmers that they need to maximise weight gain from grass steers over the summer and make high quality silage to feed to cattle intended to finish next winter.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Energy and farm diversification options for farmers | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:26:23 | |
Barry Caslin, Teagasc Energy & Rural Development Specialist, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss energy and farm diversification options and the areas for farmers to consider.
It is a very big area including: Anaerobic Digestion, Energy, Solar, Electricity, Biomass, Community Energy, Business Diversification, Food Business Start Ups, Agri Tourism, Organics, Forestry, Bio-economy and Agri-Tech.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine recently launched Ireland’s National Biomethane Strategy and Barry outlines the potential in this area.
There are grants available for solar panels under TAMS , which has created huge interest and Barry discusses key areas that farmers should be considering.
Many farmers are interested in enterprise diversification. There are countless possibilities when trying to identify a realistic option for generating additional household income. Barry highlights possible diversification options.
With the BIA Innovator hub set up in Athenry Co Galway, Barry discusses the opportunities in relation to food business with agri-tourism also expanding in recent years.
The Energy and Farm Business Show is taking place on 18th July in Gurteen Agricultural College and you can find out more at: https://energyandfarmdiversificationshow.com/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
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| An Update on the Derrypatrick Herd | 26 Apr 2022 | 00:12:27 | |
With breeding season around the corner Derrypatrick farm manager Michael McManus gives an insight on this week’s Beef Edge podcast into how calving went, the breeding season ahead and what sires are being selected.
Michael describes how calving took place from 2nd February- 22nd April. There were 102 cows calved, 100 live calves, 1 set of twins and 3 moralities. The average birthweight was 45.5 kg and the average birth date was 2nd March.
89 cows and heifers calved in 6 weeks. The first 30 cows and calves went to grass on the 2nd March similar to last year. They were turned out in small groups of 7-8 cows as they were easily managed and avoided damaging ground They were mostly first time calves and it reduced the risk of scour outbreaks in the sheds.
By mid- March the rest of the cows and calves turned out after being vaccinated and dehorned.
Breeding season will start on the 3rd May. Cows will be body condition scored, weighed, scanned and tail painted this week. A new trial is starting with five Aberdeen angus sires and five Charolais sires being selected, 4 and 5 stars on the terminal index, easy calving with good reliability. The sires have also good fleshing ability to see if it determines which animals will be slaughtered at an earlier age.
Michael also highlights the grassland plan for the farm in the coming weeks and he outlines the plan to over-sow white clover and to reseed red clover silage.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Grass10 Drystock Grassland Farmer of the Year, Aidan Maguire | 20 Apr 2022 | 00:11:46 | |
Aidan Maguire from Co.Meath, is this year’s Grass10 Drystock Grassland Farmer of the Year winner and he joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an update on his grassland management over the coming weeks and his plan for silage 2022.
Aidan outlines how he started measuring grass when he joined the Grass10 group and the Green acres programme and describes the changes he made on the farm, increasing the number of paddocks and reducing their sizes.
Through soil sampling, applying lime and slurry, he has increased the pH and P & K on the farm to index 3 and 4 which has enabled him to increase his stocking rate.
He had started using red clover for feeding weanlings over the winter and the weanlings gained over 0.7 kg/head/day on silage and 1kg of concentrates which was a huge saving for him.
This year he intends to reseed 5 acres more in red clover for silage with Aidan outlining his plan for which he applied slurry and protected Urea and aims to cut mid-May.
For further details:
https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grassland-farmer-of-the-year-2021/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Farmer focus: Aonghusa Fahy on preparing for the breeding season ahead | 13 Apr 2022 | 00:13:51 | |
Future Beef programme participant Aonghusa Fahy from Co. Galway joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast with an insight into his plan for the breeding season ahead.
Aonghusa describes the sires he selected for using on heifers and cows. He plans to synchronise the heifers and goes through the protocol. Aonghusa calves his heifers at 24 months and describes how he achieves this.
When working off farm, Aonghusa highlights the benefits of a compact calving pattern and using AI. For heat detection he uses tail paint, Heat Sensor and a vasectomised bull.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com.
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| Making good quality silage | 06 Apr 2022 | 00:15:03 | |
With silage ground being closed on many farms across the country at the moment, Teagasc advisor Peter Lawrence from Tinahely, Co. Wicklow is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an insight into reducing costs whilst balancing silage quantity and quality.
Peter outlines the importance of completing a fodder budget to determine the amount of silage needed next winter and hence the area of ground to be closed.
Farmers also need to determine the quality of silage needed - be it for spring or autumn calving cows, weanlings or finishing stock. Now is the time to ensure enough fodder is made with 70-75% of the requirement made in the first cut.
Apply slurry at 2,500-3000 gallons per acre using LESS. For first cut silage the aim is to have at least 25 kg N/ha supplied from organic sources (slurry) and the remainder 60-75 kg N/ha (48 – 60 units/ac) supplied from chemical N, a total N application of no more than 100 kg N/ha (including 12-15 units of sulphur) for a crop growing from early April to late May (60 days).
Peter highlights that the cutting date is important when it comes to making quality silage. Farmers should talk to their advisor about a weed control programme especially docks
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com.
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| What you need to know about the Tillage Incentive, BEEP-S and Dairy Beef Calf schemes | 30 Mar 2022 | 00:17:20 | |
With the recent launch of a number of schemes by the Department of Agriculture, including the Tillage Incentive Scheme, Beef Environment Efficiency Programme Suckler scheme also known as the BEEP-S Scheme and the Dairy Beef Calf Programme, Aidan Murray, Teagasc Beef Specialist and Michael Hennessy, Teagasc Head of Tillage, discuss the main points and information on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
Michael advises when converting grassland to tillage, the first place to start is to see if seed, fertiliser and other inputs will be available and for farms in an area with little tillage, is there a combine available to harvest the crop?
A careful budget also needs to be completed to ensure profitability can be achieved on the land. Due to the costs of growing any tillage crop, unfortunately there are no shortcuts. The only way to make any money is to strive for high yields of both grain and straw. This is true whether the crop is grown for whole cropping or going all the way to harvest.
Farmers don’t have to complete an application form. The change on the Basic Payment Scheme application from grassland to tillage from 2021 to 2022 will trigger the payment of €400/Ha.
For further details:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/crops/tillage-update-24th-march-2022.php
Also on the show, Aidan highlights the criteria for farmers to apply for the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme - Sucklers (Beep-S).
If you:
- Are the owner of an active herd number with Herd Owner status
- Submit a Basic Payment Scheme application in 2022
- Had suckler calves born in your herd between 1 July 2021 and 30 June 2022
- Agree to complete what is known as the ‘mandatory action’ weighing action of the suckler cow and her calf
- If you were in BEEP-S in 2020 and or 2021, you must apply again this year to be in the scheme for 2022.
The application period is open to midnight on 25th April. Late applications that are submitted after this date will be subjected to a reduced payment and the late application facility will finally close on May 20th,2022.
Online application method using Agfood.ie.
For further details:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/beep-s----time-to-apply.php
In addition, Aidan discusses that the Dairy Beef Calf scheme which is a support for farmers who are rearing calves from the dairy herd either a male calf of a dairy breed or a male or female calf of a beef breed sire born to a dairy breed dam in your herd.
These eligible calves must have been in your herd for at least ten days before weighing and born on or after 1 July 2021.
You must weigh a minimum of five eligible calves and submit the weights to the ICBF. All weights should be submitted within seven days of weighing and before 1st November 2022. Calves must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of weighing.
Applications will close at midnight on April 25th 2022.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com.
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| Is clover an option for your farm? | 23 Mar 2022 | 00:19:00 | |
Teagasc researcher, Deirdre Hennessy, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast to discuss what you need to know about clover swards.
With the price of chemical fertiliser this spring Deirdre highlights that clover most definitely has a role on all grass based systems.
Before establishing white clover, Deirdre advises on the importance of good soil fertility (soil pH 6.2-6.5, soil P index 3 or 4, soil K index 3) and good infrastructure where each paddock is grazed within 3 days on an 18-21 day rotation.
She also discusses weeds – whether over-sowing or reseeding – and clover varieties, advising which clover varieties will best suit your needs.
In order to reduce bloat risk, Deirdre says that, for animals accustomed to clover swards, bloat is not usually an issue. But for high risk animals, introduce them gradually to clover swards, don’t let them in hungry to clover swards and don’t move them from poor quality swards to clover ones. Alternatively feed roughage before grazing and graze when the clover sward is dry, or use bloat oil in the water (25ml/LU/Day).
Grass 10 are organising a number of clover farm walks around the country for the month of April - dates and times are on the Teagasc website. Check out Teagasc.ie for further information and talk to your advisor.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com.
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| Feed, Fertiliser, Fodder & Fuel: the Steps Farmers Can Take in the Weeks Ahead | 16 Mar 2022 | 00:15:00 | |
Following the National Fodder and Food Security Committee meeting last week, Teagasc Head of Drystock, Pearse Kelly, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an insight into the steps farmers can take in the coming weeks.
With the current cost of fertiliser, farmers are questioning what to do and Pearse advises to apply fertiliser requirements to grow the silage crops for first cut silage.
When farmers are applying fertiliser to grazing ground they should consider the impact that lower fertiliser rates will have such as less surplus bales.
Increasing utilisation of grass is key to maximising weight gain and reduce concentrates. Increasing the number of paddocks to ensure stock move every 3-4 days while reducing the number of grazing groups to allow this is essential.
With the current beef market, Pearse suggests that it is an ideal time to sell late calling cows and poorer performing cows and keep replacement heifers in their place.
With increased number of cattle coming on sale in the second half of the year, prices are currently strong.
He also says now is the time to plan ahead and to take action to reduce stress and concerns. There is help available. Talk to your Teagasc advisor, merchant and financial institution as they are available to help you ease concerns and make a plan.
Further information
Starting grazing – walk your farm:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/walk-your-farm--it-will-make-decision-making-easier.php
The 5 minute cash flow:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/reviewing-finances-with-a-5-minute-cashflow-.php
Find a Teagasc advisor:
https://www.teagasc.ie/about/farm-advisory/advisory-regions/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| ‘Tommy the Vet’ on the impact the current changes in the antibiotic regulations are having on farms | 09 Mar 2022 | 00:11:03 | |
With changes in the regulations surrounding antibiotics introduced since 28th January, Tommy Heffernan aka ‘Tommy the Vet’ is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with tips and advice.
Firstly, Tommy outlines some key tips to ensure the health of calves from birth onwards. He highlights the impact the current changes in the antibiotic regulations are having at farm level and says that calf scours are an issue on most farms. Tommy discusses what farmers do to treat calves and prevent it becoming a problem.
Coccidiosis & Crypto are unfortunately issues on some farms also and Tommy outlines ways to prevent it and the best treatment.
Finally, Tommy outlines some tips for farmers considering implementing a vaccination programme this spring.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Farmer Focus: Cathal Irwin’s suckler to store system in Castlebar, Co. Mayo | 02 Mar 2022 | 00:11:08 | |
Future Beef programme participant Cathal Irwin from Co. Mayo is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to give an insight into grassland management on his farm this spring and planning ahead for silage 2022.
Cathal operates a suckler to store system in Castlebar and farms just over 18 ha of predominantly heavy land.
Cows calve in December and January so that the calves can thrive at grass when they hit the grass in April. Weanlings currently average 450/kg and have achieved 0.98kg per day since birth.
Depending on the weather this week, Cathal plans on letting store cattle to grass this weekend or next depending on ground conditions.
He plans to graze driest most recently reseeded paddocks then go with 30 units of urea or 2000 gallons of slurry to the acre (LESS) depending on ground conditions.
Soil samples indicated lime is not too bad with most of the clay soils around 6.3 and peat soils 5.3. Phosphorus is index 3 or 4 and Potassium is index 1 or 2.
Cathal plans to close up 16 acres for two cut silage system. In 2015 he put in a paddock system and has never looked back. Every paddock has access to a water trough with current paddock size around 1.6 to 2 acres and he would typically graze all store bullocks and cows and calves in one bunch.
Teagasc is hosting a series of spring walks this spring and you can find your local walk here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/spring-beef-grass-walks-2022.php
You can complete a fodder budget for your farm for winter 2022 here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Fodder-Plan-18.pdf
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| What can I do to manage costs this year? | 23 Feb 2022 | 00:19:49 | |
Philip O’Connor, Head of Farm Support, and Trevor Boland, accountant with Irish Farm Accounts Co-operative Society (IFAC), join Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss what can be done to help manage costs this year on farm and how to plan and budget for the year ahead.
Trevor advises to get your books and records in to the accountant early which means you will know if you have a tax bill early in the year and budget to pay it later, while if a refund is owed you get it back into your pocket straight away. It also allows for better planning on how to reduce any tax bill and allows you to make changes that allow the farm become more profitable in current year.
Trevor highlights the importance of increasing grass growth and utilisation is the main thing beef farmers can do to reduce costs and increase profitability.
By setting up a simple paddock system with a few pigtail posts you will get far more benefit from the grass grown and from there look to increase the amount of grass grown on the farm. Target quality grass at young stock who will gain most and most importantly ensure you have enough quality silage in the yard next winter.
Regular weighing and monitoring of performance is also important to both reduce costs and increasing profitability.
Philip describes the key steps when applying for a loan and dealing with the bank. Taking action early to deal with problems reduces stress and concerns. Philip advises farmers to get projections and cashflows done.
Beef farmers, in particular, receive the majority of their income in the back end of the year, such as selling weanlings or BPS, BEEP, payments.
Trevor highlights that there is a possibility of getting a cheaper overdraft or perhaps restructuring to a loan or rescheduling payments so as not to be using the higher overdraft rates during the year.
For further details:
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/financial-analysis/monitor--budget-cashflow/
Drystock cashflow planner:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2016/Cash-Flow_Dry-Stock_A4.pdf
IFAC:
www.ifac.ie
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| The key messages from the BEEF2024 Dairy Calf-to-Beef Village | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:17:53 | |
Alan Dillon, Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Manager, is on this week’s Beef Edge Podcast to explain the key messages discussed with farmers who visited the Dairy Calf-to-Beef Village as part of BEEF2024, Teagasc’s National Beef Open Day.
Alan outlines the benefits of the Commercial Beef Value (CBV) and how its use at purchase time can result in more profitable and efficient dairy-beef systems.
The importance of meeting weight gain targets was also highlighted, with Alan explaining that animals must perform on farm from arrival to the point of sale and this can only be achieved through adequate nutrition and health programmes, and having appropriate housing facilities available.
Alan also discusses the next Dairy Beef open day on the Tipperary Dairy Beef Demonstration Farm which takes place on the 10 July 2024 at 11am in Ballyvadin, Fethard, Co. Tipperary. Eircode: E91 E0X3. Further details are here:
The Tipperary Dairy Calf to Beef Demonstration Farm, a joint initiative between Dawn Meats, Shinagh Estates and Teagasc, was established to demonstrate best practice in breeding, rearing and finishing dairy-beef animals.
Twelve DairyBeef factsheets were launched at the BEEF2024 Open Day in Grange last week. This is one of the commitments from the 10 Point Action Plan to Support Dairy Calf to Beef Systems in Ireland, launched by the Department of Agriculture earlier this year. The full set of factsheets are available here: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/dairy-calf-to-beef/dairybeef-500/dairybeef-500-factsheets/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| Top tips for calf rearing | 16 Feb 2022 | 00:15:31 | |
As dairy calves start to arrive on farms, Green Acres Dairy Calf to Beef participant, Shane Cranny from Co. Carlow, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to share some of his top tips when it comes to rearing calves and an update on his farm.
Shane purchases calves in the autumn and has grown the number of calves to 110, purchased in 2021.
Shane targets to slaughter off grass as steers at 22-24 months of age and says that buying the right calf from reliable sources, optimising the calf’s nutrition and health, along with limiting disease pressure, are absolutely critical.
He also seeks information on the dairy herd’s health and feeding protocol, vaccination programme and any current or previous disease issues.
Shane describes the protocol from once calves arrive on the farm with attention to detail important to minimise mortality and he highlights the importance of good housing through minimising draughts and good ventilation.
For further information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/green-acres-calf-to-beef/farmers/shane-cranny/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Is an organic beef production system an option for my farm? | 09 Feb 2022 | 00:13:45 | |
As the new Organic Farming Scheme opens today on the 9th February, organic specialist Joe Kelleher gives tips and considerations for conversion to organic farming on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
The government is targeting a conversion of 350,000 Ha of agricultural land to organics over the next 5 years and Joes outlines the opportunities and steps to conversion.
Given the rising input costs, he also has organic farming tips that beef farmers consider even if they didn’t want to take the full leap to converting.
For more information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/organics/events/
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/organics/training/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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| Using pig manure as a cheaper fertiliser alternative | 02 Feb 2022 | 00:14:48 | |
With the high price of fertiliser this spring, Teagasc pig development officer, Gerard McCutcheon, and Teagasc specialist, Mark Plunkett, are on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an insight into using pig manure as a cheap alternative and the dos and don’ts around importing slurry.
Gerard highlights that each 1000 gallons is currently worth €48 (double what it is usually worth!) which is a total fertiliser value of over €23 million. 1000 gallons of pig slurry is equivalent to a bag of 19-7-20 so there is great scope when we look at the fertiliser costs and inputs on beef farms.
At this stage there are around 280 to 300 farms keeping pigs commercially around the country with the majority in counties Cavan and Cork, so there are opportunities for farmers to make contact with neighbouring pig farms.
Before this happens Gerard advises that the beef farmer needs to do the calculation of how much slurry they would be able to take in. This is based on the organic Nitrogen from the previous year but some is based on the chemical fertiliser to be used in the current year. Gerard highlights the importance of doing the calculation now at the start of the year and speaking to your advisor.
Mark highlights how LESS (Low Emission Slurry Spreading) technology delivers the slurry in narrow bands, thus reducing its surface area and reducing Nitrogen (N) loss and improving the recovery of N from slurry. It also allows a very even distribution of nutrients across the spread width, which ensures the targeted delivery of nutrients to where they will be maximised especially the N.
It also reduces odours and smells at time of application and it allows application into higher grass covers and faster return of grazing animals to grazing fields. Plus, it allows the application of slurry at times when soil conditions are better thus reducing the risk of soil compaction.
Switching from splashplate to LESS and timing from summer to spring application can increase N recovery by 6 units/ 1,000gals. Mark describes how pig slurry has a very well balanced nutrient profile with 19-7-20 in terms of available N P & K.
Pig slurry is a very good fertiliser for grazing fields at ~ 1,500 gals/ac or on silage fields apply 3,000 gal/ac which will supply 70% of the crops’ N requirements, all the crops P requirements and ~ 80% of the crops’ K requirements.
Mark advises to leave 3 months between lime and slurry application or alternatively apply the slurry first and then apply the lime in 10 days’ time to reduce the risk of N losses.
For more information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/pigs--poultry/using-pig-slurry-to-save-money-makes-more-sense-than-ever.php
For more episodes from the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
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