OviCast

Teagasc Walsh Scholar, Michael Dever, and Teagasc researcher, Dr. Frank Campion, join us on this week's OviCast to discuss an exciting new project, recently launched in collaboration with SRUC. The project aims to use GPS technology to better understand hill sheep grazing patterns.Frank provides background on the project, while Michael outlines how they will assess animal performance across different groups of sheep that are released onto the hill at various stages. He also explains how the team will evaluate the botanical composition of the different grazing areas.Michael goes on to describe how GPS collars fitted to the ewes will allow the researchers to track their movements and identify specific grazing zones on the hill.We wrap up the episode with Frank sharing insights into the future direction of the project and the next steps in their research.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 Advisor, Joseph Dunphy, returns with the monthly update on grassland management.In this episode, Joseph covers:·       Current grass growth rates and average farm covers·       Key grazing targets and maintaining sward quality·       Fertiliser recommendations for second-cut silage and how to replenish offtakes·       Tips for managing newly reseeded paddocksWhether you're actively grass measuring or just looking to stay ahead this season, Joseph shares practical, timely advice to help optimise your grazing performance.You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Jake Delaney joins us on the latest OviCast to explore the issue of scald and other lameness problems on farm, and their wider impact on flock performance.Jake breaks down:- the causes and risk factors behind scald- why early intervention is essential- treatment optionsWe also take a look at other lameness conditions currently affecting farms, and the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

In a joint episode this week, we're joined by Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we catch up with Dr Mary McEvoy, Technical Development manager with Germinal, to discuss all things reseeding.  Mary discusses her top tips, from field preparation to seed mixes for grazing and silage as well as clover inclusion.  We also discuss post sowing management and the impact that can have on a successful reseed. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 Advisor, Joseph Dunphy, has the monthly update on grassland management. In this episode, Joseph discusses:·      Current grass growth rates and average farm covers·      Tips for managing grass supply through April into early May·      How to handle surpluses and maintain short residency periods·      Fertiliser options for silage ground·      Considerations for spring reseeding Whether you're actively grass measuring or just looking to stay ahead this season, Joseph offers practical, timely advice to help optimise grazing performance. You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

David Buckley from the Department of Agriculture joins us to discuss the 2025 National Sheep Welfare Scheme and the Sheep Improvement Scheme. David outlines key elements of the Welfare Scheme, including eligible tasks, increased payment rates, and compliance requirements. We also cover the application process, key dates, and record-keeping obligations. The conversation then shifts to the Sheep Improvement Scheme—now in its third year—as we explore some of the key tasks involved and the opportunities available for new entrants. We finish up with a look at the 2025 payment schedule.For more information:2025 National sheep welfare scheme: https://www.gov.ie/en/service/b253f-national-sheep-welfare-scheme/Sheep Improvement Scheme: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/services/sheep-improvement-scheme/For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Specialist, Mark Plunkett, joins us on this week's OviCast to explore the nutrient requirements for this year's silage crop.  Mark provides valuable insights into the nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) demands of a silage crop, detailing how slurry and farmyard manure contribute to nutrient supply and what additional inputs may be necessary to achieve optimal yields. We also discuss the essential role of sulphur and why it should be incorporated into fertiliser applications.  Additionally, Mark offers guidance on selecting appropriate fertilisers for grazing applications and strategies for replenishing nutrient offtakes throughout the summer. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss how to stay ahead of potential issues in the flock post-turnout.Michael provides insights into the current situation on farms and shares practical advice for maintaining performance, especially where grass supplies are tight. He explains why managing a separate group of problem ewes and lambs can be a beneficial strategy.We also cover key health concerns, including the treatment and prevention of grass tetany, as well as common challenges farmers may face - ranging from mastitis and lameness to coccidiosis in lambs.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.  Niamh discusses current growth grass rates, grazing management, setting up a rotation and targets for the month ahead as well as fertiliser advice.  You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Niall Conaty from Teagasc Agricultural College Ballyhaise joins us to discuss practical tips for the lambing shed. We cover setup, pen layout, group pens and dedicated areas for problem cases and Niall offers insights on streamlining tasks to reduce workload during this busy period.We also discuss how simple additions, such as whiteboards and labels on pens, can improve communication, along with best practices for recording replacements, identifying problem ewes, and maintaining hygiene and biosecurity throughout lambing.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Philip Creighton joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss key aspects of grazing management for the weeks ahead. We discuss opening covers on farms this spring, the factors influencing them, and their implications for management post-turnout. Philip also shares insights on fertiliser application response rates and the economics behind it. Additionally, we dive into grazing management strategies, target residuals, spring rotation budgeting and setting up the second rotation.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.  Niamh also highlights opening covers on farms and current growth rates, plus we discuss fertiliser prices and targeted application before finishing up with grazing management. You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Kieran O'Mahony, Area Veterinary Manager at Zoetis, joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss Clostridial vaccination in sheep.  Kieran outlines the challenges posed by Clostridial disease, followed by an in-depth discussion on vaccination strategies and optimal timing for both ewes and lambs.  We also cover key practical considerations, including proper vaccine storage and administration, and why these steps are crucial for effectiveness.  Additionally, we address the supply challenges encountered this year and their impact on vaccination programmes. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

As lambing season approaches, we're joined by Dr. Frank Campion to discuss key aspects of managing ewe condition at this critical stage of the production cycle. Frank begins by analysing the latest scan results from the BETTER farms and comparing them to previous seasons. We also examine the challenges posed by lower feed value silage this year and its implications for feeding plans.Frank highlights the significant impact of ewe body condition score (BCS) on lamb survival, growth rates, and flock culling decisions. We explore practical short-term strategies to mitigate these effects, with a particular focus on the heightened vulnerability of younger ewes.For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/events/2025/Are-we-paying-enough-attention-to-ewe-body-condition-score-and-how-important-is-it.pdfFor more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Jason Callaghan from the AIMS division in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine joins this week's OviCast to discuss various aspects of the Sheep Census.  Jason outlines the key dates and deadlines for submission and explains the three different methods available:-        Written form-        Agfood account-        Using the AIMS Services appHe also walks us through the different census categories and provides guidance on how to complete the submission process. For more information contact: sheepid@agriculture.gov.ieFor more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.  Niamh first discusses over-winter growth and the importance of assessing opening covers; she then explains the spreading dates for chemical and organic fertiliser and the need to ensure conditions are suitable before spreading.  Finally, Niamh encourages anyone who has soil samples to collect to do so in the coming weeks to address soil fertility this year. You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Environmental specialist, Tim Hyde, joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss calculating nitrate stocking rates on farms. Tim explains how this figure is calculated for different classes of livestock. We discuss how to find the figures for cattle and how to calculate the contribution of sheep on the farm. With new regulations in effect this year, Tim explains how this may impact producers for the coming season and the importance of knowing your own farm figures. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With the cold snap this week, there's a bonus OviCast episode with sheep specialists Damian Costello and Michael Gottstein sharing valuable insights on managing sheep farms during the present conditions.  Damian addresses challenges such as water supply and handling stock, emphasising the importance of safety during this difficult period and highlighting key considerations for farmers.  Michael discusses the impact on livestock, providing guidance on managing hypothermic lambs and the importance of supplementing feed.  He concludes by encouraging farmers to check in on their neighbours and reaching out for assistance when needed during this period. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Each year, the Teagasc Agricultural Economics and Farm Surveys Department reviews the current production year and examines the prospects for the upcoming agricultural season.  For this week's OviCast, recorded just before Christmas, I sit down with Teagasc researcher Anne Kinsella to discuss the performance of the sheep sector in 2024 and the outlook for 2025. Our conversation covers key topics, including price trends, changes in input costs, export markets, and profit margins. We also explore the outlook for the coming season, the influence of international markets on producers, and recent trends in global trade. For more detailed information:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2024/Outlook-Sheep_DEC2024_AKFinal.pdf  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Tim Keady is on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss feeding the ewe during mid-pregnancy and its impact on productivity.  Tim outlines the energy requirements of the ewe during this phase, we discuss the impact of grass supply and feed value in outdoor scenarios and the impact of different qualities of silages indoors.  Tim also talks about mobilising reserves, potential condition score loss and the impact that can have on next year's lamb performance.  We finish up discussing feed management introducing supplementation to thinner ewes and planning ahead for next year.   For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Kilkenny sheep farmer, Brian Nicholson, joins this week's OviCast to talk about the changes to his farm system in recent years.  Brian describes how he has converted part of his farm over to an organic system, we discuss the sheep, beef and tillage systems and their integration and how he has adapted his farm to suit.  We finish up discussing how he is incorporating agro-forestry into his farming system.   The Teagasc/FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards video of Brian Nicholson's farm:https://youtu.be/jXgk4ZnJxxo For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, has her monthly update on the OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.  Niamh discusses the closing plan on farms, grazing conditions and the impact of re-grazing paddocks on spring growth.  We discuss the variation in performance of individual fields on farms and some investments to improve productivity next year.   You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep specialist Damian Costello joins us on this week's OviCast as we discuss winter housing.  Damian talks to us about some of the key considerations at housing, penning and space allowances.  We discuss straw usage, alternative bedding and keeping slats clean during the winter before finishing up discussing housing for organic flocks. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Frank Campion joins us on this week's OviCast as we discuss grazing management on forage brassicas. Frank discusses yields and why you should do a feed budget for the crop. We then discuss intakes, utilisation and the factors that influence it. Frank also explains fencing, crop allocation and managing in wet conditions and he has advice for managing the crop in frosty conditions. We finish up discussing the transition of the crop with finishing lambs and pregnant ewes.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Frank Campion joins us on the latest OviCast as we discuss ewe condition and mating management in hill ewes.  Frank discusses the impact of ewe condition on performance in hill flocks, plus we discuss the targets and variation in ewe weight on the BETTER farms.  We move on to discuss single sire mating and crossbreeding, finishing up with Frank offering some tips on reducing the impact of ram infertility.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update on the latest OviCast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.  Niamh discusses the higher growth rates over the past few weeks and the impact this has had on grazing this back end.  We also discuss the closing plan and the importance of staying on target and we finish up with Niamh offering some tips on achieving good graze outs. You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Bord Bia sheep sector manager, Seamus McMenamin, joins us on this week's OviCast with an update on the market conditions. We discuss the current trade and what's driving prices, the trend in numbers this year and how this might impact the trade for the coming months. We also discuss the impact of bluetongue and southern hemisphere imports on trade on the European market.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc ruminant nutrition specialist, Aisling Claffey, joins us on this week's OviCast as we discuss lamb finishing rations.  Aisling explains ration spec and highlights some of the key areas to look out for when choosing a finishing ration, highlighting why it's important that it's correctly formulated.  We move on to discuss feed management with Aisling offering her tips on trouble shooting potential issues to avoid a dip in performance.   For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Fiona Lovatt from Flock Health joins us on this week's OviCast to talk about the bluetongue situation in the UK.  Fiona gives us a description of the condition and explains the impact it has on livestock. We discuss the spread of it in Europe and the UK and the control measures put in place to limit its impact and how they work.  We also discuss the role of vaccination and how this differs from previous serotypes encountered.  More information on bluetongue can be found on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's website at:https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/cd6c0-bluetongue-virus/   For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr Fiona McAuliffe from the SRUC joins us on this OviCast episode as we discuss the challenge of blackloss and photosensitisation in Scottish hill flocks.  We discuss the extent of blackloss or the unexplained loss of lambs on extensive hill grazings. Fiona describes the various causes and some of the follow up work where she examined the underlying factors responsible for lamb losses.  We move on to discuss photosensitisation in more detail, its causes, predisposing factors and management options.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers, and managing supply for the weeks ahead. We discuss the autumn closing plan, graze outs and managing clover swards at closing.Finally, Niamh discusses upcoming deadlines for FYM and lime and Potassium applications. Link to the autumn closing planner: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdfYou can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins us on this week's OviCast as we discuss a new survey just launched that is examining labour on sheep farms.  Labour is widely acknowledged as a big challenge in the running of a sheep enterprise, particularly in an era where part-time, sheep farming is now the norm. Damian talks about the key areas the survey is examining and how this information will help inform future discussions. We finish up with Damian explaining how to complete it online and in paper formant The link to the survey is:https://bit.ly/47yLo23For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Seamus Fagan from the Department of Agriculture's Regional Veterinary Lab in Athlone joins us for the latest OviCast episode as we discuss various health issues this autumn.  With many flocks completing the final check over ewes before going to the ram, Seamus highlights some of the teeth problems they have been seeing in the lab in recent years that are going under-diagnosed and how this is contributing to thinner ewes.  We focus in particular on molar teeth problems in ewes, how they present and the impact that it can have.  We also discuss other health issues seen this autumn - in particular clostridial challenges.  Finally Seamus emphasises the importance of monitoring ewe condition over the coming months and investigating causes of ill-thrift.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Bimeda Vet, Rachel Mallet, joins us on this week's OviCast as we discuss sheep scab and treatment options.  Rachel first explains how sheep scab occurs, how it is spread and correct diagnosis. We then discuss the various treatment options for both conventional and organic flocks.  We finish up discussing plunge dipping with Rachel highlighting best practice when completing this task. For more information on mobile sheep dip operators go to:https://www.bimeda.ie/mobile-sheep-dippers For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep specialists, Michael Gottstein and Damian Costello, are on this week's OviCast as they discuss the focus on lamb finishing at the sheep section of the Teagasc stand at this year's National Ploughing Championships.  Michael talks to us about some of the decisions that need to be made with regards to lamb finishing and purchasing stores this autumn.  Damian takes us through some of the technical areas they will focus on and they discuss the demo that will be there on the day.  We finish up with Michael encouraging those visiting to drop in and visit the team to discuss the options for finishing lambs and all other sheep related queries. Link to the store lamb calculator:https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Store-lamb-finishing-calculator_2024.xlsx  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update on the latest OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers and some of the variation across the country. We discuss building covers and planning ahead for closing up paddocks. Niamh also discusses the fertiliser register and upcoming deadlines for fertiliser slurry and FYM. We finish up with Niamh offering tips on grazing autumn reseeds.For more, you can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter at:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week's OviCast, we catch up with postgraduate student, Jake Delaney, to discuss some of the results of a survey he collected last year looking at ovine lameness in Ireland and assessment of farmer management.  Jakes gives us some background to the issues and his survey and we discuss the type and level of lameness reported and the increased levels of CODD.  Jake talks to us about correct identification and the impact that can have on control. We discuss management practices on farm to reduce lameness, prompt treatment, culling repeat offenders and quarantine.  We finish up with Jake summarising some of the key findings and other ongoing work in the area.   For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Frank Campion re-joins us as we discuss lamb performance post-weaning on the latest OviCast podcast. Frank talks about lamb performance on farms post-weaning and some of the factors that influence this.  We discuss lamb growth rates since weaning on the BETTER farms and how they have been managing lambs.  We move on to discuss lamb management, finish times, supplementation and where the priorities lie on farms for the coming weeks. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dr. Frank Campion joins us on this week's OviCast as we discuss getting the ewe flock in the right condition for mating.  Frank discusses some of the tasks that need to be completed at the moment. We discuss the ewe condition on the better farms post weaning and some of the causes of low body condition at present and the management of replacement hoggets.   We move on to discuss nutritional requirements, grazing management and keeping sufficient replacements.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.  Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers and some of the variation across the country.  We discuss building covers as we head into the autumn with Niamh offering advice on reducing demand and fertiliser application.  We finish up with Niamh offering tips on grazing management at present. For more, you can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

We're joined on this week's OviCast by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss autumn redesign.  We start by discussing the impact of timing on reseeds. We discuss field prep, different reseeding methods and their suitability and fertiliser and lime applications.  Philip also explains variety selection and the inclusion of clover, plus we discuss post-sowing management, the grazing of new reseeds this autumn and the impact that can have on production next spring.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

We're joined on this week's episode of OviCast by Jaynell Anderson, Programme Manager with Sheep Ireland, to discuss the SIS Genotype ram task.  With ram sales underway, Jaynell gives us a recap on what the requirements of the SIS ram task are for hill and lowland flocks and how to identify eligible SIS approved rams in sales catalogues and using the ram search tool.  We also discuss some of the frequently asked questions about the task and we finish up discussing ram supply and the upcoming multibreed sale in August and the new hill ram sale later this Autumn. For the ram search go to: https://appsh.sheep.ie/ram-search  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, joins us on this week's OviCast as we catch up with Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, to get an update on the current situation and discuss management tips in the coming weeks. Niamh first highlights the factors that have limited grass growth over the last number of months.  She also comments on 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 and at the same rate.  Niamh discusses ways to reduce demand by scanning early to remove empty cows and cull ewes and the introducing of creep to lambs and weanlings.   Coming into August, it is important to focus on building grass covers and Niamh explains the ways farmers can achieve this, as well as discussing fertiliser plans and the need to target slurry to replenish offtakes and completing fodder budget.  Niamh then finishes up discussing her key tips for management in the coming weeks. Further information is available at:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/ Subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here: https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

This week we talk to Dr Orla Keane about monitoring the parasite challenge in lambs.  We discuss the challenge stomach worms poses from this point of the season onward with Orla talking about using faecal sampling to monitor worm burden, explaining the process, what's being tested and what the results mean.  Orla also discusses the thresholds for dosing and the factors that influence the rise in worm counts.  We move on to discuss drench testing to determine dose efficacy and we finish up highlighting best practice around faecal sampling and why it should be used on farms.  For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/flock-health/anthelmintic-resistance/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

On this week's OviCast we're taking a grazing focus and are joined by Philip Creighton.  We discuss grass supply and sward quality and some of the factors that are influencing it at the moment.  We move on to  discuss management options for the coming weeks and finish up the episode discussing fertiliser applications.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep Specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss weaning options on farms.  We discuss the current situation on farms, challenges with grass quality and why weaning now is beneficial.  Michael explains the weaning process with some useful tips and management of the ewes and lambs post-weaning.  We finish up discussing some of the areas we need to address at the moment from parasite burden to mineral supplementation to tackling lameness.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Jayne Harkness-Bones, Depot Manager with Ulster Wool, joins us for this week's OviCast to discuss the factors that influence the quality of wool, the challenges in the marketplace in recent years and what happens to the wool from purchase until it reaches market.  We talk about shearing, wool handling and storage, with Jayne highlighting some simple practices to make the process easier and improve the quality of the wool harvested.  In the latter half of the podcast, Jayne who is also a council member of the Irish Grown Wool Council, discusses some of the work they have been involved in to realise the potential of wool, develop further opportunities and provide support to the industry.  For more information on some of the items discussed see the following links:https://irishgrownwoolcouncil.com/Preparing for Shearing: https://youtu.be/QiyvrF9g-dc Top tips on how to harvest wool at shearing time: https://youtu.be/qO8HJdMsmME  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Seamus McMenamin, sheep sector manager with Bord Bia, joins us on this week's OviCast as we look at the lamb trade.  Seamus discusses factory throughput this year to date; we discuss what's been happening with international trade; falling ewe numbers in the UK and Europe and the impact that this could have on lamb trade this summer.  We finish up discussing trends in demand and attracting younger consumers.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With blowfly strike a risk on farms, for this week's OviCast we're joined by sheep specialist Damian Costello to discuss the risk factors, how it occurs and treatment options available to farmers.   For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep/put-a-plan-in-place-to-deal-with-blowfly-strike.php For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week's OviCast, we're also joined by Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we catch up with Co. Roscommon beef and sheep farmer, Olivia Hynes.   Oliva starts by giving us an overview of her system, we discuss breeding and the use of AI in her suckler herd, lamb performance this spring and some of the challenges it has posed.  We discuss mixed grazing, grassland management and investing in grazing infrastructure, before finishing up with Olivia highlighting the three things she has focused on that have had an impact in her farming system.  For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week's OviCast, we're joined by Terry McElvaney, Veterinary Inspector with Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, to discuss some issues that have occurred with flukicide residues in lamb carcasses.  We discuss the problems encountered and the follow up investigations with Terry explaining some of the issues caused and issues they have encountered.  We also discuss the key areas to focus on when using anthelminthic and antibiotics to avoid these type of issues occurring.   Details of licensed veterinary products can be found on the HPRA veterinary medicines webpage: https://www.hpra.ie/homepage/veterinary/veterinary-medicines-information For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast