Podcasts about Teagasc

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher explains that:All farms should complete a fodder available budget An action plan needs to be developed where fodder reserves are below targetFarms and paddocks need to be assessed individually for grass growthRead more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-18thAugust For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Oilseed rape has been a strong performer on Irish farms thanks to consistent yields, high prices and potential for lower production costs.  Eoin Lyons, Teagasc advisor, Laois, and Ciarán Collins, Teagasc tillage specialist, join the Tillage Edge podcast to discuss rotational slots, varieties, establishment and early management of oilseed rape.  Eoin stresses the importance of avoiding sowing into very dry soils, which can cause uneven emergence and lead to management problems later in the season.For more episodes and information from the Tillage Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/the-tillage-edge-podcast/Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com

Raymond Ryan, Milk Quality Advisor for the Limerick and Clare regions with Dairygold, joins Stuart Childs to discuss staying on top of milk quality.Raymond explains that milk quality in 2026 is generally holding up, with cell count and TBC broadly similar to previous years, but drought and difficult weather have created localised problems.Dirty conditions are the main risk, particularly for thermoduric bacteria and farmers should keep cows and parlours clean, manage sacrifice paddocks or cubicles carefully, ideally dry-wiping cows before milking. Making sure machine maintenance such as liners and rubberware has been done is also an important management step.Raymond says that, where problems arise, early action and implementation of consistent routines are critical: monitor cell counts/TBC and act quickly on rises, ensure adequate water and nutrition, remove persistent high-cell-count cows where appropriate, and maintain proper plant washing with sufficient hot water, chemicals, temperature and turbulence. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Future Beef farmer, James Skehan, from county Clare is on this week's Beef Edge to discuss his spring-calving suckler-to-beef enterprise while also working off-farm.Over the past number of years he has made significant changes to improve the profitability, efficiency and sustainability of his business, like many suckler farmers, James has adapted his system to make better use of the resources available on his farm. He has moved from selling weanlings to finishing cattle, invested in grazing infrastructure to maximise grass utilisation, focused on improving soil fertility, and placed a strong emphasis on breeding a compact, efficient spring-calving herd. These changes have helped him reduce labour demands while maintaining high levels of animal performance.As a participant in the Teagasc Future Beef Programme, James has been benchmarking his performance and implementing practical changes that are delivering real improvements on the ground. In this episode, he shares the lessons he's learned, discusses how he balances farming with an off-farm career, explains his approach to grassland management, breeding and herd health, and outlines how he prepares calves for weaning.James is also preparing to host the Teagasc National Future Beef Farm Walk on Friday, 4th September at 6 pm, where visitors will have the opportunity to see his farming system first-hand and hear about the management practices that are helping drive performance and profitability.Further details at:https://teagasc.ie/event/futurebeef-farm-walk-james-skehanFor 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 

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: Doing a fodder available budget for your farmAssessing weed burden in recent reseedsTemperatures increasing again - water supply priority for animals Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-11thAugust For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Drone technology is becoming more accessible and increasingly useful on tillage farms and on this episode of The Tillage Edge, Michael Hennessy speaks with Daniel O'Reilly of Aerial Ag Ireland about a large agricultural drone used to apply cover‑crop seed into a standing spring barley crop.Daniel explains how the system works, why it's well suited to in‑crop application, and how a machine that can carry up to 40 kg of seed can speed up application and reduce the need for ground machinery.For more episodes and information from the Tillage Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/the-tillage-edge-podcast/Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com

Eoghan Byrne, project manager in FRS farm services, and MTU Agriculture student, Cormac Harnett, who works as an operator with the FRS in Cork joins Stuart Childs to discuss how farmers can help themselves get a bit of a break from the work by making it easier to work on their farm.Both Eoghan and Cormac say that planning and communication are central by giving operators advance notice and clearly stating what needs to be done, how to do it on your farm and when it needs to be done. Farmers leaving checklists, notes on how to do different tasks where relevant and pre-visits from the operator can help avoid confusion or mistakes being made.Cormac points out that having the farm equipment and materials ready means operators can get straight to the job, making the arrangement more efficient for both farmer and operator, saving time and money and making life a little easier for everyone as stress can be avoided by being prepared.Eoghan finishes up the conversation by highlighting that many young operators want to progress in agriculture. Farm-relief work can provide experience and a potential pathway into farm management or collaborative farming, but both Eoghan and Cormac are clear that creating a positive, respectful workplace is important for attracting and retaining the next generation.  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Cork dairy-beef farmer, Philip O'Neill, who operates a calf-to-store beef enterprise alongside a tillage enterprise, while also working off-farm, and his Teagasc advisor, Alan Carey, join this week's Beef Edge podcast.Philip O'Neill farms in a Registered Farm Partnership with his mother Denise, and he manages multiple enterprises during the busy spring period which means labour efficiency is essential and in recent years Philip has transformed his calf-rearing system by investing in an automatic calf feeder.Philip explains what prompted the investment, the practical lessons he learned during the first season using the feeder, and how it has changed the day-to-day management of calves. He discusses the labour savings achieved, how technology helps identify health issues at an early stage, and the management practices that have maintained excellent calf health and performance. Philip also shares the importance of planning, from sourcing calves over a short period to ensuring they are weaned before peak tillage work begins.His Teagasc advisor Alan Carey, discusses the wider lessons for dairy-beef farmers. As many farmers begin reviewing this year's calf-rearing season, Alan outlines the key areas that should be assessed before next spring, including labour requirements, calf health protocols, housing, nutrition and overall system efficiency. He also discusses how farmers can control input costs and identify future investment opportunities, including supports available through TAMS, to improve labour efficiency and long-term profitability.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 

We catch up with sheep specialist, Damian Costello, to discuss some of the key management tasks for the coming weeks.We start by looking ahead to the breeding season, with Damian highlighting the importance of assessing ewe body condition score (BCS) and taking the necessary steps now to correct any issues ahead of mating. We also discuss ram management, including what to consider when purchasing new rams, and the importance of biosecurity when introducing new stock to the farm.Finally, we discuss why now is a good time to carry out a drench test and check the efficacy of the products being used on farm.For more:https://teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep-management-notes-august-2026/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 Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: Establishing recovery on paddocksCaution with fertiliser applicationAssessing fodder available on farm Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-4thAugust For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Neal Folliard, Walsh Scholar, Teagasc, joined Tom O'Dwyer on the latest podcast version of the Signpost Series to discuss the use of rapeseed cake to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in beef cattle.A questions and answers session took place at the end of the webinar which was facilitated by Méabh O'Hagan, Signpost Climate Advisor, Teagasc. You can watch the webinar at:https://youtu.be/SxGlbB-EyJc?si=AA51YZ7WEKSWaTZm  To register for future webinars go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/sustainable-agriculture-webinars/                       For more podcasts from the Signpost Series:https://www.teagasc.ie/signpostpodcast/ 

It's not only Malcolm's farm affected, it's playing out on other farms, mainly in the south and southeast. So what does this actually mean for farmers, and how do you make a farm more resilient to to extremes - droughts in summers, and deluges of rain in winter? Cathal Somers from Teagasc, and Conor Murphy of NUI Maynooth discuss further.

With ram sale season underway, we chat to Sean Godfrey from Sheep Ireland. Sean highlights the impact a ram can have on a flock for a number of seasons; we discuss locating your next ram and the tools on the Sheep Ireland website to make this process easier. Sean also explains some of the key information in the sales catalogues and how you can easily access more via the ram search tool. We finish up discussing this year's upcoming multibreed sale.  For more info visit: https://www.sheep.ieFor more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With more than half the harvest completed overall (and some areas more than 80% finished), Teagasc advisors, Michael McCarthy (Cork), Mark Trimble (Kilkenny) and John Brophy (Naas) join the podcast to discuss harvest results in their regions.Yields are mixed — most cereal grain has been disappointing, although oilseed rape performed well across the board. As Michael McCarthy noted, “Once again oilseed rape is the star of the show and I have had a number of enquiries about planting it again for next year.”For more episodes and information from the Tillage Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/the-tillage-edge-podcast/Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com

Cork beef farmer, Noel McSweeney, and his Teagasc advisor, David Hallissey, explain how they prepare for this year's Tullamore Show on this week's Beef Edge podcast.Noel runs a progressive beef enterprise where he combines commercial cattle production with an embryo transfer breeding programme to produce top-quality show and fatstock cattle. He discusses his journey as a young farmer, the evolution of the farm and how he has developed a successful breeding programme while balancing an off-farm career.With the Tullamore Show just days away, Noel takes us behind the scenes to explain the planning, preparation and attention to detail that goes into getting cattle ready for one of Ireland's premier agricultural events. He also shares the key lessons he has learned from showing cattle and offers practical advice for anyone thinking about getting involved.David Hallissey discusses the increasing interest in commercial show cattle, the importance of breeding for both performance and profitability, and the key areas Noel is focusing on to further develop the farm.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 

Emily Gowing, Teagasc Dairy Advisor based in Dungarvan, Co Waterford, joins James Dunne for an update on the current situation on farms in her catchment and she has some key pieces of advice for farmers over the coming weeks.For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

We catch up with organic sheep and tillage farmer, Joe Nolan, and Teagasc Organic Advisor, Marianne Mulhall.Joe, who farms near Fenagh, Co. Carlow, outlines his farming system, including the sheep enterprise, tillage rotation and the background to the farm. He discusses the changes made to the flock in recent years, the organic conversion process and how sheep and tillage are integrated on the holding.We also discuss lamb finishing, with Joe explaining the role of different grass and clover leys, forage crops and supplementation within the system.Marianne outlines the current opportunities and challenges facing the organic sheep sector, highlighting the importance of strengthening linkages between organic livestock and tillage farms to improve feed sourcing and the opportunities for lamb finishing. She also discusses the series of upcoming organic farm walks, including one taking place on Joe's farm on Wednesday 12th August. To register for one of the events please click here: https://teagasc.ie/rural-economy/organics/events/#lambfinishingFor more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: The need to walk the farm to assess grass growth and supply on farmReducing demand on farm Caution with fertiliserAnd the featured farm update comes from Sean Carpenter, Co. Kildare. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-28thJuly For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

On this week's Youngstock Podcast, Meath native Alan Crowe joins Sarah McIntosh to discuss his role as breed secretary for the Irish Hereford Breed Society. With a background steeped in showing and commercial sheep, Alan talks about his interest in agriculture and decision to study animal science in University College Dublin. Having completed a PhD on IVF and embryo transfer in UCD and Teagasc, Alan was appointed the breed secretary in 2024.Over the last two years he has driven on the Hereford society which now has over 900 members.It is a busy week for the society as not only are they preparing for the Tullamore show, but they will also host the 17th European Hereford Conference in Kilkenny. Running for five nights, the conference will encompass two days of herd tours of some of the top pedigree breeders in Ireland as well as attendance at the National Hereford Show in Tullamore Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Nikki Kennedy, and Future Beef Programme Manager, Martina Harrington, discuss management tips during current drought conditions and advise on key actions to be taken.With severe soil moisture deficits on farms at the moment, Nikki gives an overview of the current situation across the country, while Martina outlines how farmers are dealing with the issues on the ground. Martina also discusses management for first-calvers and thin cows as they all have different nutritional demands.With grass quality and quantity both falling, Nikki outlines the best supplementation strategies. Martina recommends protecting younger stock first. First-season dairy-beef calves are more vulnerable during drought and she discusses supplementing weanlings. Martina and Nikki also outline strategies for fertiliser and slurry if rain comes in the coming daysFor 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 

This week on the show, Stephen and Lorcan discuss Donald Trump's latest tariffs, the next round of supports for wind and solar farms, the Teagasc annual report, and a major development for the future of Irish butter sales in the US. They also sit down with Seán Farrell, Head of Business Banking at PTSB, who discusses the opportunities and challenges he sees for Irish businesses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Agriland team bring you the biggest stories of the week in Irish agriculture, which this week includes:Controversy over Tirlán's US butter deal;Fears over drought and shrinking milk cheques;Contractors under pressure from green diesel costs;Concerns over client accounts at some marts;Teagasc sees income boost for 2025.Don't forget to rate, review and follow The Farming Week, Agriland's weekly review of Irish agriculture, and visit Agriland.ie for more.

Reducing the seed burden in the soil is key to lowering weed pressure in subsequent growing crops and for this week's Tillage Edge, Dr Vijaya Bhaskar, a weed researcher at Teagasc Oak Park, joins the podcast to discuss what farmers can do in the coming weeks to tackle weeds. He also reviews new research on brome dormancy and the implications for this year's stubble cultivation.For more episodes and information from the Tillage Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/the-tillage-edge-podcast/Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com

Amanda McEvoy joins us to discuss the impact of recent weather conditions on worm burdens in sheep flocks. Amanda begins by explaining how lambs become infected and how weather influences the development and survival of parasites on pasture. We discuss how the recent dry spell has affected worm burdens and why changing weather conditions, particularly increased moisture, can quickly alter the risk on farms. Amanda also highlights the importance of monitoring worm burdens closely at this stage of the season, especially following this summer's weather patterns.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Joanne O'Connell, Project Manager and Aoife Forde, Project Agriculturalist, ACRES Burren-Aran, joined Mark Gibson on the latest podcast version of the Signpost Series to discuss ‘Landscape Actions in Action: Collars, cattle and conservation in the Burren and Aran Islands'. A questions and answers session took place at the end of the webinar which was facilitated by Mícheál Kelly, Schemes Support Advisor, Teagasc. You can watch the webinar at:https://youtu.be/Ohl6xULnm1Y?si=hKwjUIhb9txMOsaE  To register for future webinars go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/sustainable-agriculture-webinars/                       For more podcasts from the Signpost Series:https://www.teagasc.ie/signpostpodcast/ 

In advance of the Irish Grassland Association Open Day on the 30th July in Co. Cavan, Sebana Moynagh joins the Beef Edge to give an insight into her Breffni Pedigree Charolais Herd and to discuss practical beef production and grassland management strategies relevant to both pedigree and commercial suckler farmers.The Breffni Charolais herd runs approximately 90 pedigree Charolais cows in a performance-recorded, grass-based system, operating a 100% AI breeding programme with predominantly autumn-calving cows. The herd is focused on breeding functional, milky and fertile females, whilst also producing bulls with high carcass weight, fleshing ability and calving ease for suckler farmers. Topics on the evening will include breeding strategy and genetic selection, herd health planning, paddock design and grazing management, reseeding strategies and the development of labour-efficient systems to improve overall farm performance. Visitors will have the opportunity to view cows and calves, weanling bulls and heifers, along with cattle handling and housing facilities on the farm.Food will be served to all attendees who arrive at 6.00 pm sharp, with the farm walk beginning promptly at 6.30 pm.For more information:https://www.irishgrassland.ie/event-detail/beef-event-2026/ 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 

Colman Purcell, Nutritionist with Dairygold Agri Business, joins Stuart Childs to discuss managing stock in drought or near drought conditions.Colman praises the farmers in the Dairygold catchment who have been affected by the dry weather for how they have dealt with it up to now, maintaining milk and protein performance, a response that he credits to their knowledge of how to react in these situations due to their experience of them in the last decade. Colman says that it is important to maintain cow performance by avoiding feed shortages with the priority being to maintain dry matter intake and milk production by supplementing early. Monitor milk yield and milk proteins and react quickly if performance drops as these are good indicators of nutritional status.Filling the gap created by the lack of grass will depend on how severe the grass deficit is and what the help and facilities on the farm are like. In some cases, feeding will be pushed as high as 9kg in the parlour feed due to an inability to feed outside of the parlour. People will need to see what will work best for their farm. Concentrate protein should be ok at 16% but an 18% protein ration may be appropriate, particularly where cows are receiving significant forage. Again, monitoring the performance of the herd will help decisions here.Young stock while appearing content in the current conditions will still need to be fed in order to keep them growing, so supplementation will be necessary where there is grass shortage for these animals. Forward beef cattle that are based on weight are forward enough to start on finishing diet and should be started on this to reduce stocking rates and avoid these animals slipping back which would delay their finishing later in the year.Furthermore with demand increasing, delivery logistics may become more challenging. Farmers should calculate feed requirements and order well in advance to avoid running out.For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: Assessing grass supply on farmReducing demand on farmNutrient application during reduced growthWater supplyAnd the featured farm update comes from Cathal Nash, Co. Clare.Plus, Pat Tuohy of Teagasc joins John for a land drainage discussion and Q&A. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-21stJuly For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

In this episode of OviCast, Dr Frank Campion discusses the role of forage crops within an integrated livestock system and the value they can bring to sheep enterprises. Frank outlines the different forage crop options, their expected yields and the classes of stock they are best suited to.He also discusses the impact of sowing date, the importance of estimating crop yield and key grazing management considerations. Finally, Frank explains the levels of lamb performance that can be achieved and highlights how forage crops can improve flock profitability by generating additional income during the winter months.For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

With the harvest well underway and the continued good weather, farms are proceeding without a hitch. Shay Phelan and Ciaran Collins, Tillage Specialists with Teagasc, join this week's Tillage Edge podcast to discuss harvest yields so far and to consider possible reasons for the results.Both Ciaran and Shay agree winter barley yields are disappointing and pinpoint the factors behind higher yields — and they explain how the absence of those factors has led to lower returns.For more episodes and information from the Tillage Edge podcast go to:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/crops/the-tillage-edge-podcast/Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com

Pádraig French from Teagasc, who is closely involved in dairy-beef research, including the Ballyvadin Calf-to-Beef Demonstration Farm, joins James Dunne on this week's Dairy Edge. They discuss the key management practices that drive performance, the role of Commercial Beef Value (CBV), what makes these systems financially successful, and what the latest research is telling us about the future of dairy calf to beef production.For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: Managing reduced growthMaking a grazing plan for the coming 10 days (no rain forecast)How can farms reduce demand?Plus the featured farm update comes from Paul Bowden, Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-14thJuly For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

John O'Loughlin, Head of Sustainability at Grassland Agro, joins Stuart Childs to discuss the impact of CBAM, fertiliser advice in dry conditions and two upcoming farm walks that will be worth attending this July. John first explains the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) which is adding approximately €50/t to urea in 2026, with the potential to rise significantly in future years. While there has been discussion about suspending the charge during periods of high fertiliser prices, he believes this now looks unlikely, meaning farmers should expect CBAM to remain a factor in fertiliser costs. John recommends that farmers measure grass regularly and make decisions based on their own farm's situation, as drought conditions are varying widely across the country from his perspective and one size won't fit all in terms of advice.  Where soil moisture deficits become severe, nitrogen applications should be reduced or paused, but where growth remains good, protected urea is still a good choice as it will absorb water from the atmosphere. John stresses that potassium (K) and lime are essential for helping grass cope with drought and recover quickly afterwards. John describes K as the "engine oil" of the plant because of the role it plays in the movement of water and nutrients, and he says that correcting K and lime deficiencies are among the biggest, most cost-effective improvements farmers can make to maximise grass growth and resilience. Finally, John says listeners should consider attending two good days later this month in the Clonmel area with the Irish Grassland Dairy Summer Tour taking place on the farms of Michael and Ollie O'Gorman on the 21st and then the Tipperary Dairy Calf to Beef Open Day the following day at the Ballyvadin Farm near Fethard. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: -       Managing reduced growth-       Walk the farm-       2nd cut silage-       Infrastructure Month Plus the featured farm update comes from Tommie Devine, Co. Roscommon Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-7thJune  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Trevor Donnellan, Head of Economics and Farm Surveys at Teagasc, on the body's latest Farm Incomes Survey for 2025.

Longford dairy farmer, Cian Jobe's journey into dairy farming is one that's likely to resonate with many young people interested in the industry.  Growing up on a suckler farm, he developed a passion for dairying through relief milking before progressing through agricultural education, farm management and, more recently, farming in his own right.  Cian joins James Dunne to talk about the experiences that shaped his career, what he's learned along the way, and the advice he'd give to the next generation of dairy farmers. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

This week, Martin Merrick talks to Grass10 Advisor Nikkie kennedy on her moving to Ireland from New Zealand and her role as a Grass10 advisor, while the team also discuss BEEF 2026 and generational renewal.While we have featured plenty of young Irish people who have flown the nest to the southern hemisphere, this week we talk to someone who has done the opposite. A native of New Zealan, Nikki Kennedy first arrived in Ireland on Erasmus as part of her studies in third year and hasn't really looked back since.Five and a half years later, the Kiwi talks about her time in Ireland, the similarities and differences between the two countries as well as her current role as a Grass10 advisor, encouraging drystock farmers to better manage their grass.The team also relay their day spent at BEEF 2026, with their thoughts on generational renewal now becoming a focus for Teagasc for drystock farms also discussed. Sarah also tries to unsuccessfully discuss Mercury going in to retrograde, which goes as well as would be expected. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Dáil Committee heard this week that the things farmers whose land is free draining are being advised to do will catch phosphate but won't stop nitrate from polluting rivers. Pat Dillon from the agricultural research agency Teagasc is an expert in nitrate leaching spoke to Philip on this morning's show.

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: -          Mid-season management-          Managing 2nd cut-          Establish fertiliser spread year to date Plus the featured farm update comes from the Derrypatrick Herd, Dunsany, Co. Meath. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-30thJune  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Tom and Michael Ryan, winners of the NDC and Kerrygold Quality Milk Award for 2025, join Stuart Childs on the day of their farm walk following their win. Tom gives a bit of background to the their farm and how they have been farming there since the 1860s.  Michael then explains the decisions made to facilitate him returning home in 2018 and he outlines the current performance of the herd and how genotyping has been a real game changer for them in terms of selecting heifers to retain as replacements. Finally, Tom has some excellent advice in relation to generation renewal and why making a plan is the key. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses: -       mid-season management-       red clover silage and managing 2nd cut silage-       spraying and grazing reseeds-       establishing fertiliser spread year to date Plus the featured farmer is Liam Rochford from Croase, Co. Wexford. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-23June  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

With increasing pressure on dairy farms to reduce nitrogen inputs whilst maintaining profitability, technologies such as white clover are attracting renewed interest.  But how well does clover perform on heavier type soils that are common across the Border, Midlands and Western region, and how can farmers reduce fertiliser and feed nitrogen inputs without compromising grass growth or milk production? To help answer those questions, James Dunne is joined by Helena Walsh, PhD student with Teagasc, who has been leading a farm systems study at Ballyhaise Agricultural College examining the role of white clover in low nitrogen input grazing systems.  Helena discusses the establishment and performance of clover swards, the impact on pasture and animal production, nitrogen use efficiency, and the practical lessons farmers can take from this work. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher says concentrate input should be reduced on farms where grass supply is adequate (cover/LU >160 kg DM/LU).  A third of farms are over target and have a cover/LU >190 kg DM/ha. This will negatively impact:-       Grass quality - negative impact on animal performance-       Clean out of swards - feed wastage-       Grass recovery and subsequent quality June is challenging for grass quality as we are now in the main heading phase for perennial ryegrass.  Grass quality is critical for animal performance, particularly as young stock grass intake increases.  Walk the farm every 4-5 days to inform decision making. Plus the featured farmer is William Blackburn from Kilworth,Co. Cork. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-16thJune  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

Ricki Fitzgerald, Farm Manager of the Teagasc Moorepark Kilworth Farm, and Brian McCarthy, Researcher in Teagasc Moorepark, join Stuart Childs with a run down on how the year has gone so far on the Kilworth Farm and to talk a little about the Next Gen 2 trial that is in its first full year in 2026. Ricki says they had quite a good spring in 2026 despite the weather challenges with minimal health issues. Regular body condition scoring and managing cow condition was a significant part of this success.  Grazing, while challenging, happened almost every day during the spring but only because they had the cover to start with and excellent infrastructure on the farm. A batt latch bought a few years ago has been instrumental in facilitating grazing in the evening during the spring also.  The farm started breeding on April 27th and so far results have been exceptionally positive, with 96% of cows submitted in the first three weeks and early pregnancy scanning showing very high conception rates. Brian then spoke about the previous next generation trial and the outcomes of it and the the rationale for the current trial Next Gen 2 which is comparing National Average Holstein-Friesians with Elite Holstein-Friesians and Elite Jersey-cross cows.  The previous iteration of the trial  (2013–2016) showed that high-EBI cows were more fertile, survived longer in the herd, produced higher-value milk solids, and generated approximately €275 more profit per cow annually thus validating the EBI.  Early results from the set-up year of 2025 and the figures from 2026 so far indicate that elite genetics continue to deliver higher fat and protein percentages, increasing milk value compared with national-average cows.  However, this trial goes further than the effect of the genotypes as it is also looking at sustainability and beef performance through evaluating different stocking-rate systems, nitrogen-use efficiency, methane emissions, and overall environmental performance as well as examining how dairy cow genetics and beef sire selection affect dairy-beef calf value and lifetime beef performance. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher explains that June is a challenging month for grass quality as we are now in the main heading phase for perennial ryegrass. Pre grazing yield is too high on many farms:-       Watch rotation length (Target 18-21 days)-       Minimise stem content-       Grazing covers >1500 kg DM/ha will have a negative effect on animal performance, pasture cleanout, grass recovery and quality in the subsequent rotation Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-9thJune  For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

With breeding season reaching the midpoint on many spring-calving dairy farms, we're taking stock of how the season has progressed so far and discussing the key management decisions for the weeks ahead. Doreen Corridan, CEO of NCBC, joins James Dunne to discuss breeding performance to date, trends in dairy and beef semen usage, managing cows that have yet to be served, and the key actions farmers should focus on for the remainder of the breeding season. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher discusses tackling surplus grass and why flexibility is required to take out surplus bales. Plus he explains how grazed grass delivers the lowest feed cost, even with higher fertiliser prices. Meanwhile, the featured farmer is John Payne from Moydow, Co. Longford. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://bit.ly/Grass10-2ndJune For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

With the increased cost of fuel and fertiliser, Peter Doyle, Grassland Researcher in Teagasc, Grange, joins Stuart Childs to discuss the cost of growing grass, silage and other feeds. Peter outlines the costs that he uses in the Grange Feed Costing Model which are of course assumptions but are necessary for the model to function. He emphasises that grazed grass delivers the lowest feed cost, even with higher fertilser prices. The cost model estimates grazed grass at about 14c/kg dry matter (including land charge), compared with roughly 42c/kg dry matter for concentrates. Feed quality is important in the model as the energy of the feed influences the performance it delivers. Peter argues that delaying first-cut silage to chase higher yields given increased fuel costs to get better bang for the buck from contractor costs is a false economy.  Earlier cutting (around late May) produces higher-quality silage, improves the total energy yield of the overall two-cut system as well as supporting better animal performance, reducing the requirement for expensive concentrate supplementation. Big first cuts of low quality material don't deliver more silage and are ‘penny wise, pound poor' due to the cost they create subsequently. Peter also stresses that feed quality should be matched to the type of stock being fed. High-quality silage is needed for lactating cows and young stock, while lower-quality, higher-volume silage may suit dry cows.  He notes that alternatives such as maize and fodder beet can be useful but involve similar or higher costs, additional management requirements, and often require supplementary protein and minerals. Finally, Peter says that the cost of grazed grass doesn't increase as significantly as the other feeds and thus people need to focus on grazed grass as their primary feed source and maximise the amount of it that they produce and consume to minimise their overall feed costs. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

For this week's Grass10 grazing management update, John Maher explains that the challenge on farm now will be keeping the right grass in front of the animals. Swards of low or no stem will maximise animal performance Performance is maximised when the pre-grazing yield is between 1300-1400 kg DM/ha. Meanwhile, the featured farmer is Michael McGuigan, from Longwood, Co. Meath. Read more from this week's Grass10 newsletter and subscribe for weekly updates at:https://pasturebase.teagasc.ie/Grass10%20Weekly.pdf?=20260529    For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com

This week we're discussing generational renewal in Irish dairying and the challenges facing farmers young farmers trying to enter and progress within the sector while also discussing what options are available to farmers who may not have an identified successor. Joining James Dunne is Conor Hogan from the GROdairy Project — Generational Renewal Opportunities for Irish Dairy Farm Businesses — a new initiative focused on supporting farm succession, progression, and collaborative farming through demonstration farms, peer learning, and practical advisory supports. Conor discusses the barriers facing young farmers, the role collaborative farming can play in creating viable career pathways, and how the project hopes to support the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the Irish dairy industry. For more episodes from the Dairy Edge podcast go to the show page at:https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/ The Dairy Edge is a co-production with LastCastMedia.com