The Beef Edge (Teagasc)
Explore every episode of The Beef Edge
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Jan 2021 | What milk and concentrates should be in the diet of the calf? | 00:16:47 | |
As part of the Animal Health Ireland & Teagasc Calf Care Virtual Week, Teagasc researcher Emer Kennedy & Joe Patton, Teagasc nutritionist, join Catherine Egan on the latest Beef Edge podcast to discuss the guidelines for feeding milk and concentrates in the diet of the calf.
Emer outlines the importance of feeding six litres of milk to the calf. She highlights the importance of following the correct guideline for making up the milk replacer by following the guideline of the product being used.
Purchasing in dairy calves Emer advises on feeding electrolytes after transport for the first feed and depending on distance a second feed of electrolytes may be required.
Once per day feeding can be introduced from one month of age but Emer warns of the need to check calves twice per day.
Joe highlights that although consumption of concentrates is low it is important to introduce calves to it in the first week. Feeding good quality concentrates makes management post weaning easier.
He also advises on the importance of measuring and monitoring the concentrate intake of the calves to ensure they are meeting their requirements. Introducing fibre is necessary to allow this to happen also. Clean good quality straw is preferred to hay.
For further information of feeding milk click here:
https://youtu.be/lyhwegNyjls
And for further information on feeding concentrates click here:
https://youtu.be/EJ9Sa7CCg3w
You can tune into the Dairy edge podcast this week to hear about the 1,2,3 of colostrum management, colostrum quality & managing Johnes disease at calving here:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/d073ad20
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 29 Sep 2021 | Newford farm update | 00:19:14 | |
On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Newford farm technician Michael Fagan joins Catherine Egan with an update on the farm and performance review of the herd in Athenry.
Breeding season started on the 21st April and finished 30th June lasting 10 weeks. With 100% AI used, tail painting and two teasers bulls with chin balls alongside two Moo Heats were used for heat detection.
A.I. was carried out each day at 12pm. Only 19 cows were AI’d twice out of 81 cows . Cows were checked 4/5 times daily. In total there were 107 animals for breeding, 81 mature cows and 26 maiden heifers.
Cows and calves were weighed on the 28th July as part of BEEP-S. The cows average weight was 618 kg while the bull calves were on average 261kgs (ADG 1.44kg/day) and heifers were 248kgs (ADG 1.34kg/day).
Michael also discussed the weaning process and the performance of the 2020-born bullock and heifers and how they will be managed from now until finish.
Watch weaning in Newford in 2020 video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFgOD02kVAA
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 27 Oct 2021 | Managing nutrition over the winter to maximise performance | 00:17:42 | |
‘Getting Winter Ready’ is a three-part series on the Beef Edge podcast focusing on nutrition, health and housing.
For this first part, on this week’s episode Teagasc Advisor John Kelly from county Offaly discusses managing nutrition over the winter to maximise performance.
John highlights that there are a combination of factors such as management, diet and housing that impact on performance over the winter. These are overcome by trying to maximise the animals’ intake and performance whilst reducing stress and minimising any dietary upsets.
When it comes to beef cattle rations, John advises farmers to look for the energy content as it is the most important nutrient, followed by protein which is needed for growth. Reading the feed label and analysing what is value for money rather than sounding good value is important he says.
The first ingredient, he explains, has the highest content and work back from there. Be cautious of any fillers as their feed value versus barley are much lower.
To arrange getting a silage sample tested, you can contact your local Teagasc advisor.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 21 Feb 2024 | Newford farm update – the move to Roscommon, calving preparation and performance review | 00:13:41 | |
With calving season underway in the Newford herd, Teagasc Newford farm technician Michael Fagan is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to give an insight into changes on the farm, preparation in advance of calving and a review performance of the herd.
Michael discusses the big changes on Newford farm since we spoke last with the cows being moved from Athenry to Roscommon. As the farm operated a tillage and beef enterprise, Michael discusses the work involved in making paddocks, reseeding and making pens before calving. So far just over 40 of the cows have calved and Michael discusses their performance.
Michael also discusses how the yearlings on the farm are performing and the performance of the cattle finished before Christmas.
Obviously heavy rainfall the past few weeks has hampered any chances so far of starting the grazing plan this spring. Soil samples have been taken and analysed and slurry and fertiliser is being applied accordingly.
Further details are at: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/newford-herd-settled-into-new-home-in-roscommon.php
Farm Walks Coming up……DairyBeef 500 farmer, James O’Sullivan, Union Hall, Co. Cork will host a farm walk on Tuesday, 27th February @12pm, while Gareth Peoples, Co. Donegal will host a walk on Tuesday, 5th March @2pm.
Topics covered will be focusing on grassland management, silage preparation, fertiliser spreader calibration and calf management at purchase. For further details go to:
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 23 Dec 2020 | What does the extension of GLAS 1, GLAS 2 & BDGP 1 mean for me? | 00:13:33 | |
The extension of contracts under GLAS & the Beef Data Genomics Programme (BDGP) are to be extended for a rollover period of one year in 2021.
Teagasc beef specialist Alan Dillon & Teagasc environment specialist Catherine Keena join Catherine Egan on the Beef Edge Podcast to explain more about these schemes.
The deadline to apply for GLAS extension is 31st December 2020 while the deadline to apply for BDGP 1 extension is 15th January 2021.
Further information is here:
https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/52789-mcconalogue-confirms-rollover-of-farm-schemes-in-2021/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 01 Jan 2025 | Market Outlook for 2025 | 00:10:42 | |
Market intelligence specialist, Phelim O’Neill with the Irish Farmers Journal, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to reflect on 2024 and discuss the market outlook for 2025.
Looking back on 2024, Phelim discusses the increase in price seen in all cattle categories. Even with this increase in price, there is still a difference between UK and Ireland prices.
Phelim also comments on Irish exports for the past year and looks to the year ahead. With overall beef production down in Ireland and within the EU, Phelim says this is reflected in a decrease in suckler cow numbers and highlights the possible opportunities and challenges this will have.
Finally, Phelim concludes, beef prices are expected to be maintained based on the supply of beef and demand coming into 2025.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 23 Nov 2022 | The key things consider when sourcing quality calves for your beef system | 00:19:15 | |
Joe Patton, Head of Dairy Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss what beef farmers should be looking out for next spring when it comes to sourcing quality calves for their beef system.
There have been big changes in dairy herd numbers in the past few years, with 1.6 million dairy cows expected to calve down in 2023. While 30% will be retained as replacements, 70% of them will be split between exports and reared on Irish farms to beef.
There are many aspects to be considered when sourcing calves. Up until now the visual assessment was one of the few tools a beef farmer had. But the new Commercial Beef Value (CBV) will be a help to farmers next spring in sourcing calves.
There can be huge genetic variation with the breed of calves not to mention comparison across the breeds. Since 2010 there has been a 10% increase in the proportion of cattle slaughtered of dairy origin from 47% in 2010 to 57% in 2020.
The Teagasc Dairy conference will take place on Tuesday, 6th December in the Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork and on Thursday, 8th December in the Mullingar Park Hotel, Westmeath. Both conferences begin at 10am.
Further details can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/dairy-conference/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| 26 Mar 2025 | Reviewing beef prices and budgets for the coming months | 00:16:36 | |
Teagasc Beef Specialist, David Argue, is on this week’s Beef Edge discussing cattle finished so far this year and, given current increasing beef prices, budgets for the coming months.
So far this year up to March 16th, 398,076 cattle have been finished according to the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine. This is an increase of almost 11,000 head of cattle in comparison to the same time last year.
With regards to live exports, tighter cattle supplies across Europe and movement restrictions implemented in some key cattle trading markets due to the spread of bluetongue, are key contributing factors behind the continued firm demand for Irish cattle in key export markets in the early weeks of 2025.
The 2025 calf trade has been slower to start in line with later calf registrations, however, it has increased strongly in week ending 2nd March. There has been a total of 18,963 calves exported since the start of 2025, a 58% decrease on the same time period in 2024.
Quotes from major processors have continued to trend upward and this has been reflected in a balance between supply and demand currently in favour of producers.
With farmers with forward stores questioning whether they should go to grass or be kept in and finished, David highlights some key considerations and costs of production ranging from €215 to €311.
When looking at a 400kg store animal, David discusses the costs of production for a 20 months store or 24 month finished steer with costs ranging from €126 to €476.
David advises the importance of looking at the costs of the production system and take all other factors into account.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 12 Jul 2023 | The Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef | 00:19:00 | |
Ruaraidh Petre, Executive Director, Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast.
Ruaraidh discusses the work of the Global Roundtable that is carried out across 24 countries working together to produce sustainable beef.
Originally from Ireland, but now living in New Zealand, Ruaraidh discusses comparison between the countries’ beef systems.
Further details are available at:
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| 05 Aug 2020 | Are you interested in converting to dairy? | 00:15:58 | |
Teagasc Dairy specialist Patrick Gowing joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast to discuss the Teagasc Dairy Start-Up course.
Patrick highlighted the fact that converting to dairy involves a major commitment and sizeable capital outlay, therefore you need to be sure you are making the right decision.
Patrick discussed the importance of selecting the right cow type, parlour, infrastructure and capital budget.
The six day course starts this autumn and the locations of the course depend on demand. You can register interest online and for further details click here
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 29 May 2024 | Trevor Boland’s update from his autumn calving farm | 00:12:42 | |
Future Beef farmer, Trevor Boland, who operates an autumn calving suckling system in county Sligo is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to give an update on the farm including harvesting of silage and management of grass in the coming weeks.
With current weather conditions very changeable, Trever discusses how he has some first cut silage harvest and the rest will be made in the coming days.
There are currently four groups of stock on the farm grazing and he outlines the management of the various groups in the coming weeks.
Silage quality is very important on the farm as Trevor avoids feeding concentrates to cows. He discusses his fertiliser programme on grazing and silage ground and the management of cows pre-calving
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 20 Nov 2024 | What impact is red and white clover having on animal performance? | 00:27:56 | |
Teagasc researcher Dr. Peter Doyle outlines the impact of red and white clover on animal performance in suckler calf-to-beef production systems on this week’s Beef Edge podcast. This is a recording from the Teagasc National Beef Conference held on November 19th.
Further details from Peter’s presentation are available at: Presentation: The impact of red and white clover on animal performance in suckler calf-to-beef production systems(PDF)
The impact of red and white clover on animal performance in suckler calf-to-beef production systems(PDF)
Watch a video recording of Dr Peter Doyle's presentation here:
For further information on the conference please visit www.teagasc.ie/beefcon24
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 03 Nov 2021 | How to best manage your animal health during winter | 00:17:32 | |
‘Getting Winter Ready’ is a three-part series on the Beef Edge podcast focusing on nutrition, health and housing and for this second part, vet Cara Sheridan with MSD Animal Health discusses how to manage animal health over the winter.
Cara highlights the importance of making adjustments to housing, fixing drinkers and ensuring cattle are dosed and vaccinated prior to housing.
It is best to try and house stock on a dry day, keep stress low, divide stock bases on ages and weight and monitor stocking rates in sheds.
Cara discusses in detail the anthelmintic treatment of lungworm, gutworm, fluke and lice (biting, sucking lice) for different types of cattle groups.
In relation to animals that are sick or show symptoms, the animal should be isolated and Cara advises to act quick, get your vet involved to investigate and implement a targeted treatment plan.
Plus, Cara highlights the benefits of learning from last year to plan for this year.
For more information:
AHI Heath Videos:
https://animalhealthireland.ie/resources/?q=&resource_type%5B%5D=videos&prog%5B%5D=parasite-control
Parasite Control at housing:
https://animalhealthireland.ie/assets/uploads/2021/06/PC-at-Housing-2021.pdf?dl=1
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 24 May 2023 | What will impact silage quality this year? | 00:12:38 | |
Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Joseph Dunphy, is on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast to discuss grazing management on farms at the moment and the dos and don’ts when it comes to harvesting silage.
Joseph outlines steps farmers are taking to overcome the difficult spring and for paddocks that may have got damaged, he discusses how they can they be rectified now.
With silage ground closed late on farms, Joseph discusses the options for cutting and the impact delaying harvesting will have on quality and grass growth for the rest of the year.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 19 Jun 2024 | The Findings from the National Farm Survey Small Farms Report | 00:19:20 | |
Emma Dillon and Kevin McNamara from Teagasc join Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the findings from the recent National Farm Survey Small Farms Report.
Teagasc collects farm data through the National Farm Survey (NFS) and this report focuses on the economic, social and environmental sustainability of the approximately 48,000 farms in Ireland that are too small in economic terms for inclusion in the annual NFS survey.
What's in the Report? Farm Coverage 1. Cattle Rearing
Farm Categorisation Farms typically produce more than one type of agricultural output. In the National Farm Survey farms are categorised into farm types according to their principal output. In this Small Farms Report for 2022, the sample is representative of a population of over 48,000 small farms in Ireland. A small farm is defined as a farm with a standard output of €8,000.
Key Performance Indicators A range of indicators is provided, including information on farm output, production costs, farm supports, farm income, labour input, stocking rate and input usage.
To view the report go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2024/NFS_Smallfarms_Report2022.pdf
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 24 Aug 2022 | Grass Tips in Advance of the Last Rotation | 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
Podcast Survey In order to understand the aspects of podcasts which are most appealing and beneficial to you the listener, it would be appreciated if you could take 3-4 minutes to complete the following survey to give your feedback: https://forms.office.com/r/mDZTE9zPy4
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 23 Oct 2024 | Is Bluetongue Virus a risk for Ireland? | 00:20:16 | |
Dr. Eoin Ryan, Senior Superintending Veterinary Inspector with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, gives an update on the Bluetongue Virus on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
Since the end of August, over a hundred cases of Bluetongue have been detected in England and Wales and farmers in Ireland are hearing more and more about it.
Bluetongue is a viral disease affecting cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas and other ruminants and camelids. Bluetongue does not pose a food safety or public health risk. It is spread between animals by biting midges. There are many different serotypes. Bluetongue virus 3 (BTV-3) is currently the most serious threat.
It has been spreading rapidly across north-western Europe since last autumn. The high-risk period in Ireland runs from spring until late autumn when midges are most abundant.
Clinical signs include: - Fever - Inappetence (loss or lack of appetite) - Drop in milk yield - Reddening of the mucus membranes - Sores on the nose, gum and dental pads - Swelling of the face, lips and tongue (i.e. ‘bluetongue’) - Breathing difficulties if the tongue swells - Drooling - Discharge from the eyes and/or nose - Lameness - Abortion or deformities in offspring/foetus
In severe cases, death can result.
Eoin advises farmers to be vigilant and to report any suspected cases to the local regional vet lab in order to prevent spread of the virus.
There are huge steps being taken to prevent it and Eoin advises farmers against importing embryos or semen to decrease the risk.
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 Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 18 Aug 2021 | Top tips for your autumn calving system | 00:09:05 | |
With approximately 20% of suckler herds operating an autumn calving system, Teagasc advisor Aisling Molloy has some key tips on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
She discusses why autumn calving is appealing to some farmers and the various different beef systems that autumn calving suits.
High quality silage is very important in reducing costs over the winter period in this system and targeting early turnout.
Aisling emphasises that managing the cow’s body condition score in the lead up to calving is key to reducing issues at calving and post-calving.
A quarter of Irish farm accidents and one-fifth of farm deaths are livestock-related with attacks by recently calved cows a common cause of such accidents. Aisling gives some top tips on safety at calving.
Calving the suckler cow and caring for the new born calf are also important tasks on autumn calving suckler herds in the coming weeks and last spring, vet Tommy Heffernan gave a two-part interview to discuss these important topics in detail which are worth listening back to.
In the first part, Tommy highlights all the top tips related to calving the suckler cow:
http://bit.ly/CTC21
In the second part, Tommy highlights all the key tips related to caring for the newborn calf:
https://bit.ly/Care4Calf
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 27 Nov 2024 | Practical nutrient management solutions for your farm | 00:21:45 | |
Teagasc research officer Dr. Patrick Forrestal, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the practical nutrient management solutions that beef farmers can implement on their farms to increase efficiency, reduce costs and address environmental pressures facing the sector.
This is a recording from the Teagasc National Beef Conference held on November 19th.
Further details from Patrick’s presentation are available at:
Presentation: Practical nutrient management solutions (PDF)
Paper: Practical nutrient management solutions (PDF)
Watch a video recording of Dr Patrick Forrestal's presentation:
For further information on the conference please visit www.teagasc.ie/beefcon24
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 06 Dec 2023 | The main drivers of Greenhouse Gases on beef farms & how to reduce them | 00:25:26 | |
Dr Siobhan Kavanagh from the Teagasc Signpost Programme is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with her presentation from the National Beef Conference examining the main drivers of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) on beef farms and the steps that farmers can take to reduce them. Siobhan’s presentation is available at: For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| 19 Mar 2025 | Future Beef farmer, Proinnsias Creedon, on managing grass this spring | 00:13:02 | |
Teagasc Future Beef farmer, Proinnsias Creedon, and his advisor, James Mullane, are on this week’s Beef Edge Podcast with an update on the farm and how Proinnsias is managing grass this spring.
Proinnsias also explains his calf-to-beef system and how he manages balancing working off farm.
The excellent paddock system on the farm has been a big benefit to improving his grazing management and Proinnsias discusses spring grazing and his plan in the coming weeks.
Proinnsias is hosting a spring grass walk on his farm on 26th March @ 3pm, while Future Beef farmer, Cathal Irwin, from Castlebar, Co. Mayo, will also host a walk on his farm on Friday 28th March @ 5pm.
For more details go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/events
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 05 Feb 2025 | The Rules & Regulations of Nitrates | 00:25:51 | |
As thoughts on farms move to fertiliser application, Teagasc specialist Tim Hyde joins Catherine Egan on the Beef Edge podcast for the first of a two-part podcast on the rules and regulations surrounding nitrates.
Tim reminds listeners of the open period for chemical fertiliser, farm yard manure and slurry across the different zones, plus he outlines the regulations around roadways, storing bales and buffer zones. Tim then discusses the differences between grassland and whole farm stocking rates and the rules that apply.
He describes the low emission slurry spreading for farmers stocked over 130kg organic N/ha and >100kg organic N/ha from 01/01/2025.
In relation to P build-up, Tim describes what extra allowances there are for farms stocked over 130kg organic N/ha.
For non-derogation farmers that are stocked over 170kg but exported slurry to remain compliant, Tim explains the additional rules that are applicable to these farms.
Finally Tim comments on the importance of fertiliser planning to know your allowances for the fertiliser register and to allow for more accurate nutrient management planning.
Next week, Mark Plunkett from the Teagasc Signpost programme will go through all the requirements in relation to fertiliser application and the fertiliser register.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 09 Jun 2021 | Insights from Sligo Contract Rearer, Kieran Kielty | 00:17:38 | |
Contract rearer Kieran Kielty from Co.Sligo joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss how he operates a contract heifer rearing system.
Kieran explains how he has developed the system over the past number of years and he outlines the importance of grassland management and quality silage in this system.
As Kieran works off farm he highlights the benefits of contract rearing while maintaining a work life balance.
Being a part of the local contract rearing discussion group is also a benefit to Kieran as he gets to visit other farms and discuss management decisions with other like-minded farmers in the same system.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 04 Jan 2023 | ‘Key enablers to improving profitability on beef farms’ - the speaker presentations from the National Beef Conference | 01:23:28 | |
On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast we are going to hear the four presentations that were given at the Teagasc National Beef Conference panel discussion in December 2022 which was entitled, ‘Key enablers to improving profitability on beef farms’.
The panel was facilitated by Trevor Boland, Teagasc Future Beef Programme participant, and the speakers and topics were:
- Assessing the potential to improve key profit drivers on beef farms
- Abattoir lesions in cattle are associated with an increased age at slaughter
- Reducing the age at first calving for suckler cows – a key profit driver for beef farms
- Has red clover a role in your beef production system? Dr Nicky Byrne Beef Researcher, Teagasc Grange
The conference and speakers can also be viewed on the Teagasc YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TK3bFy7peTw&ab_channel=Teagasc
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 12 Jan 2022 | John Heslin on the technologies beef farmers should consider in advance of the calving and breeding season | 00:23:41 | |
With technologies increasing on farms every year, on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge, John Heslin, MSD Animal Health Market Access and Marketing Manager, and part time beef farmer, gives his insights in advance of calving and breeding season.
John describes how he farms with his father in Co. Westmeath operating a suckling to store and sometime finishing system. With all family members involved it makes work-life balance easier as both John and his father also work off farm as well as John being on the football field for Westmeath and St Loman’s Mullingar, GAA.
John describes how having a calving camera is such an asset as he lives off-farm and his father lives on-farm and they both work. A calving camera allows them to keep an eye on the cows from their phone even if John is away with work.
He highlights that, to reduce labour due to sick calves, they will vaccinate cows pre-calving. Obviously, sire selection is an important factor to minimise calving difficulty, and the fact they use 100% AI, heat detection is an issue when it comes to AI, so John installed ‘SenseHub’ which sends alerts to his phone if the animal is sick or in heat.
Since 1st January 2022, all new cattle tags that farmers are ordering are electronic identification EID tags and from July all calves born will have to have EID tags, but John has been using EID tags for the past 2 years and discusses a number of benefits from using them.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 18 Dec 2024 | Newford Farm Review of the Year | 00:17:22 | |
Michael Fagan, technician on the Newford demonstration farm in Co. Roscommon, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an update on the farm and a review of the year since moving from Athenry Co.Galway.
Michael outlines how the move has been busy with repurposing sheds, reseeding, installing paddocks and water systems, all the while getting used to the overall change in location and soil type of the farm.
Due to weather conditions, weanling and finishing performance is back and Michael discusses finishing cattle performance and management of the cows prior to calving.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 01 Feb 2023 | What you need to know about the changes to the new CAP | 00:18:30 | |
Teagasc Drystock advisor, Niall Kerins, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef edge podcast to discuss the upcoming changes to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Big changes are coming in 2023 with the new CAP is coming into play and which will last for the next 5 years.
Niall first discusses how the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) replaces the Basic Payment Scheme.
Complementary Redistributive Income Support for Sustainability (CRISS) is a new scheme this year and Niall outlines what’s involved in this as payments are front-loaded for the first 30 hectares.
A new scheme, Eco Scheme, essentially is replacing the Greening element of the payment.
Overall, BPS & Greening payments that farmers are familiar with over the last eight years will now be made up of three parts (BISS, ECO Scheme & CRISS).
Farmers can check what their expected payments will be for the coming year on the DAFM calculator.
Niall also outlines how the stocking rate requirement for ANC is reduced to 0.1 LU/Ha. All new area based schemes are paid on ‘Eligible Hectares’.
Parcels with up to 50% scrub/trees will now be 100% eligible for area based schemes. These features are now defined as beneficial feature by DAFM.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 23 Feb 2022 | What can I do to manage costs this year? | 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
| |||
| 20 Sep 2023 | 2023 Beef Budgets | 00:12:53 | |
Aidan Murray, Teagasc Beef Specialist, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss what beef price you can afford to pay for stock, what impact costs have on the bottom line and what price will be needed to cover these costs.
Aidan first compares the figures to date to show that the national kill has decreased from the same time last year.
While beef prices for purchasing are increasing, the variable costs have decreased since last year.
Aidan then outlines a number of different beef systems and the expected prices.
For a full breakdown of the beef budgets launched this week at the National Ploughing Championships visit Teagasc.ie.
Contact your local Teagasc advisor to discuss further: https://www.teagasc.ie/about/farm-advisory/advisory-regions/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | Grassland management tips for this spring | 00:15:37 | |
With a difficult spring leading to challenging grazing conditions, Teagasc Grass10 Manager, John Maher, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with his top tips in relation to grassland management this spring.
John discusses the current soil temperatures and grass growth across the country and on farms where grazing has been delayed and very little grazing has taken place to date, John explains what the key steps are to get stock to grass in the coming weeks.
John highlights the grazing targets to hit to avoid having too much grass left at the end of the rotation or having too much grazed.
Slurry has been spread on most farms and for those planning to go with slurry in the coming weeks John advises this should be applied on silage ground.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 16 Feb 2022 | Top tips for calf rearing | 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
| |||
| 02 Sep 2020 | What you can do to help improve your water quality | 00:21:33 | |
Noel Meehan, Manager of the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advice Programme (ASSAP) joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge to discuss the progress of the programme and what you can do to help improve water quality.
Farming plays an important role in the Irish economy and landscape and approximately two-thirds of the Irish land area is in agricultural use. The quality of the water in our rivers, lakes and groundwater needs to improve and farming practices play a key role in this improvement.
Noel states that the programme is a unique collaborative approach and has keen interest and involvement from farmers. Most often it’s a combination of approaches really and not a one size fits all approach when it comes to water quality.
Noel gives some simple useful tips to improve water quality such as:
- improved nutrient management with more targeted use of slurry and fertiliser
- new approaches to land management to reduce nutrient losses in critical source areas
- better farmyard management and practices
For further information on the ASSAP programme go to:
https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/water-quality/farming-for-water-quality-assap/assap-in-detail/
For further information on The Signpost Series visit:
https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/sustainable-agriculture-webinars/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 19 Apr 2023 | Key aspects of a synchronisation regime for a suckler beef herd | 00:16:32 | |
Dr.Colin Byrne, researcher in Teagasc Grange is on this week’s Beef edge podcast to discuss key aspects of a synchronisation regime for a suckler beef herd.
Current usage of artificial insemination (AI) is low in Irish suckler herds and this has implications for the speed of genetic improvement.
In Ireland, approximately 1 out of every 5 calves born in beef herds are bred from artificial insemination and Colin discusses the benefits of AI.
He outlines different synchronisation regimes for beef heifers and beef cows over 35 days calved.
With sexed semen more widely available for beef sires in the past number of years, Colin also discusses the success rates.
For further details:
And information on examination of bulls for breeding: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Examination-of-Bulls-for-breeding.pdf
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 03 Mar 2021 | What can I apply for under TAMS? | 00:14:13 | |
Teagasc specialist Tim Hyde joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme, also known as TAMS which in January, the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine announced it was extending.
Grant aid is 60% for young trained farmers or 40% in all other cases up to a maximum of €80,000 spend for individuals or €160,000 for partnerships. Minimum spend is €2,000 (all figures exclude VAT).
There have been 20 tranches of TAMS and the Minister also announced some amendments to the scheme for the new tranche which opened on 16th January.
Tim highlights these amendments along with going through a list of what farmers can apply for including animal handling equipment such as fixed and temporary handling facilities, head scoops and weighing scales and feeding system for rearing calves.
He also advises that farmers have to apply for planning permission for sheds and the steps needed.
For further details talk to your local Teagasc advisor.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 22 Mar 2023 | SCEP: what do I need to know? | 00:20:52 | |
Peter Harte, from the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, is on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast to outline the new Suckler Carbon Efficiency programme - SCEP.
SCEP is the successor to the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP), has a budget of €260 million over five years, and is co-funded by the EU under the CSP.
SCEP rewards participant farmers with a payment equivalent to €150/cow on the first 22 cows and €120/cow on subsequent cows.
The National Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme 2023 is a successor to similar schemes in 2021 and 2022, has a budget of €5 million, and is funded from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.
Applications for both measures can be lodged through agfood.ie with a closing date of 2 May for the Dairy Beef Scheme and 22 May for the SCEP.
Further details at:
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 21 Jun 2023 | Strategies for grassland management in the coming weeks | 00:12:40 | |
DairyBeef500 Manager, Alan Dillon, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast with an update on how farmers in the programme are recovering from the drought conditions, grassland management in the coming weeks and information on the upcoming national open day in Co. Limerick.
Alan outlines fertiliser programmes and closing for second cut silage and he advises farmers to continue feeding until growth increases on farms.
Join the Teagasc DairyBeef500 team on Thursday, 29th June at 6pm on the farm of Ciaran Bartley, Boher, Co. Limerick. Eircode: V94 AWT0.
Further details can be found at: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/dairybeef500-bartley.php
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 19 Jan 2022 | Is a registered farm partnership an option for me? | 00:10:48 | |
As the registered farm partnership deadline approaches on 11th February 2022, Teagasc Collaborative Farm specialist, Gordon Peppard, gives an insight into what you need to do to set up a farm partnership, its benefits and implications.
At this time of year farmers start considering various farming options in advance of submitting the basic payment in May. Gordon explains that Registered Farm Partnerships (RFPs) are one of a number of collaborative farm business structure arrangements that will play a key role in the improvement of the social and structural demographics of Irish farms.
Some of the current challenges facing Irish farmers are: age profile, land fragmentation, smaller farm size, financial viability, rural isolation, and farm safety.
RFPs provide a framework where farmers can work together in a formal business arrangement, where the profits of the business are shared among the partners in that business.
For further information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/collaborative-farming/succession-farm-partnerships/
On Registered Farm Partnerships:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/rural-economy/rural-development/diversification/1-Farm-Management----Registered-Farm-Partnerships.pdf
And on the DAFM website:
https://www.gov.ie/en/service/b29f0-register-farm-partnership/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 03 Aug 2022 | The Key Messages for Suckler Farmers from Beef2022 | 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: | |||
| 26 Jun 2024 | The Growing Resilient Organic Farming Systems project (GROFarmS) | 00:14:33 | |
With the launch the GROFarmS project taking place today at BEEF 2024 National Beef open day in Teagasc Grange, Teagasc organic specialist, Elaine Leavy, and Teagasc researcher, Kevin Kilcline, join Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss the role this research programme will have for anyone interested in converting or currently in organics, as well as detail on the variety of organic events taking place in the coming weeks.
GROFarmS stands for Growing Resilient Organic Farming Systems and is an organic farming research project funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Teagasc and is being undertaken in collaboration with UCD.
In the past few years there has been huge interest in organics, a large number of farms have converted and many more are considering the option of converting. Whilst there are various opinions on the benefits of organic farming, there is a lack of evidence and figures on the sustainability of Irish organic farms. The GROFarmS project aims to address this gap by putting figures on the performance and sustainability of organic farms.
Research on beef finishing systems will be conducted on a dedicated, organic certified 100 acre beef finishing farm in Kildavin, beside Johnstown Castle in Wexford. This farm is currently being converted to organic farming standards. This includes a reseeding programme and conversion of farm sheds to meet organic standards. Complimentary research trials on organic finishing diets will also be under taken in Grange research centre which will subsequently inform the design of winter diets in Kildavin.
In addition, the Teagasc National Farm Survey will be extended to capture information on real organic beef farms across the country that will identify what different production practices are being applied on farms, and what they mean in terms of costs of production, profitability and sustainability.
More detailed information on the background to the project and updates from the project will be on the project website at www.Teagasc.ie/GROFarmS.
There is a National Beef Organic Walk on the farm of Ken Gill Co. Offaly which takes place on Friday 12th July 6:30pm: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/events/#nationalwalks
And information on further upcoming organic walks 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: | |||
| 08 Feb 2023 | Presentations from the DairyBeef 500 Conference | 01:00:20 | |
On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast you'll hear three of the presentations that were presented at the recent Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Conference in Charleville.
On the night, Nicky Byrne, Teagasc Researcher, gave an update on the Teagasc Grange dairy beef research, and beef farmer Pat Collins, outlined the type of dairy beef calf that he likes to purchase.
It started with Alan Dillon, programme co-coordinator, discussing the DairyBeef 500 campaign targets and farm financial performance.
Further updates from the DairyBeef 500 programme are available on the Teagasc website at: 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: | |||
| 05 Jul 2022 | Beef2022 Sustainable Grassland Village Update | 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 | |||
| 07 Feb 2024 | Managing the cow before calving and calving the suckler cow | 00:22:41 | |
On this week’s Beef Edge podcast, it’s the first of a two-part episode with Teagasc Researcher and Vet, John Donlon, who gives his insights and top tips in relation to managing the cow before calving and calving the suckler cow.
Calving will be taking place on farms over the coming weeks and John discusses the nutrition to be aware of in the final stages with mineral and vitamins and ensuring that cows are fit and not fat.
Finally, he describes using the calving jack and some of the key things to be aware of.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 19 Aug 2020 | How to apply for the Beef Finishers Payment scheme | 00:12:37 | |
Aidan Murray, Teagasc Beef Specialist, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge to discuss the Beef Finishers Payment scheme (BFP) which is an Exchequer-funded scheme of €50 million to provide income support for farmers with beef finishing enterprises, who have been impacted by the economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic has opened for applications.
The Beef Finishers Payment scheme is open from August 19th and Aidan discusses how you can apply.
An estimated 42,000 farmers will be eligible to apply for the scheme, which will be based on the number of cattle sent for slaughter in the period from 1 February to 12 June 2020, subject to a limit of 100 animals per herd. Based on estimates of eligible animals, a rate in the region of €100 per animal will be payable.
The closing date is 9th September 2020 and full details of the measure including terms and conditions are available at www.agriculture.gov.ie/farmerschemesandpayments/BFP
Applications can be made online through the agfood.ie portal or contact your local Teagasc Advisor.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 19 Oct 2022 | How calving at 24 months helps to reduce emissions, with Kildalton suckler herd manager, John O’Connor | 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 | |||
| 07 Apr 2021 | The Beef Edge Masterclass with Martin Shaughnessy | 00:17:47 | |
With only 20% of beef farmers using AI, suckler & sheep farmer Martin Shaughnessy from Co. Mayo joins Catherine Egan on this week’s podcast for a Beef Edge Masterclass to discuss his beef system & how he uses AI on his farm.
Martin explains that he operates a niche suckler to weanling system targeting breeding quality Belgian Blue weanlings for the export market. He has a compact calving season calving 18 cows from January to mid-March while he also lambs 120 ewes.
Martin uses a vasectomised bull to help with heat detecting especially as he works off farm and he discusses using AI on his farm and how he selects sires. Any cow that does not go in calf is culled he says.
A paddock system is used on the farm which utilises grass. Martin allows the calves to creep graze in front of the cows by using a plastic horse fencing post to raise the polywire. Martin then talks about his catchment area and how he protects it.
You can watch a video of Martin’s farm here:
https://youtu.be/vtJXHJMhbVQ
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 02 Dec 2020 | How to manage winter fodder crops on your farm | 00:10:20 | |
Where stock are to be grazed over the winter months, many farmers will be beginning to transition stock on to fodder crops over the coming days and managing this transition needs to be carefully considered. On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Catherine Egan is joined by suckler farmer Michael Flynn from county Waterford to discuss his beef farm system and to find out how he is managing winter fodder crops on his farm at this time of year.
There is often a fear among farmers as to when to start grazing in case of N poisoning or that they will run out of the fodder crop too early in the spring. Micheal explains that he plans to graze it for 2 months from now to the end of January 2021. Through his experience of grazing cows, weanlings and replacement heifers, Micheal gives key management tips such as double wires and a good electric fence.
The total forage crop proportion of the diet should not exceed two-thirds of the diet on a dry matter basis. A source of long fibre is required to make up the remainder of the diet of which Micheal provides through bales of silage strategically located in the crop.
There is also a risk of toxicity in the spring when the crop flowers, so ideally farmers should aim to have the crop grazed by the end of January. Micheal explains how one year he increased the stocking rate to try to graze the crop faster before flowering.
If there is freezing weather conditions in the coming months Micheal has a plan B in which we will feed silage instead of the fodder crop
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 21 Sep 2022 | The Key Steps to Consider in Conversion to Organic | 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
Podcast Survey In order to understand the aspects of podcasts which are most appealing and beneficial to you the listener, it would be appreciated if you could take 3-4 minutes to complete the following survey to give your feedback: https://forms.office.com/r/mDZTE9zPy4
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| 15 Jun 2022 | Kildalton at 50 and Teagasc’s Ag Education Options | 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: | |||
| 09 Dec 2020 | TB in cattle - what you need to know | 00:22:13 | |
Just over 3% of herds in Ireland will go down with TB in any given year and on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge Podcast, Catherine Egan is joined by Philip Breslin, Superintending Veterinary Inspector with the Department of Agriculture Food & the Marine to discuss all things related to bovine TB.
Philip outlines how the herd test works and why farmers have to do a herd test every year. Wildlife have been shown to play an important role in spreading TB to cattle in Ireland. The department are responsible for removing badgers from areas where there are severe TB outbreaks and introduced badger vaccination in recent years. Philip discusses the Wildlife Unit’s work in reducing the risk of passing infection from wildlife to badgers.
Unfortunately, too many herds experience TB breakdowns and farm families are all too familiar with the stress that this can cause. Philip discusses how the proposed new strategy to eradicate TB will reduce the number of affected farms. He also provides some practical tips on what steps farmers can take to reduce the risk of TB in their herd
For further information visit:
https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/animalhealthwelfare/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 20 Mar 2024 | 10 years of experience in an organic beef system | 00:20:43 | |
Ken Gill operates an autumn calving, organic suckler to beef system located in Co Offaly and he joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to explain his system.
He has 73 suckler cows calving from the end of July to mid-September and all progeny are brought to beef with the aim to slaughter at 24 months.
Ken says that one of the big changes he had to make when converting to an organic system was in relation to housing on the farm.
Being organic means that crop rotation is vital to ensure the continued health of the soil and to aid weed suppression. Oats are grown for sale, with a small quantity retained for feeding on the farm. Red clover/perennial ryegrass is grown for quality silage and winter fodder crops are also sown in certain areas of the farm.
100% A.I. is used to avail of the best genetics available, with visual being the main heat detection aid. Ken offers advice for farmers considering an organic system and says that it is a profitable system for him.
Ken will also feature in the first of a three part Future Beef webinar on Wednesday 20th March at 8pm.
On Monday, March 25th at 8pm the webinar will focus on getting your cow back in calf and on Wednesday March 27th at 8pm the webinar will focus on genetics for the future.
Further webinar details are here: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/events/
You can read more about Ken’s system here: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/farmers/ken-gill/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 01 May 2024 | All you need to know about the SCEP course | 00:11:10 | |
Margaret Brennan, Assistant Principal Officer over Beef Schemes with the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine, is on the Beef Edge podcast to discuss the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) course.
One of the eligibility conditions of SCEP participation requires that participants MUST complete the mandatory SCEP training course by 15 November 2024.
The Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, with the assistance of ICBF and Teagasc, and with contributions from Bord Bia and the Health & Safety Authority (HSA), have developed the mandatory SCEP training course consisting of seven modules.
This online training course will help participants successfully implement the actions within SCEP and advise the best practices in farm safety and livestock handling.
Participants must complete all SCEP online training modules by 15 November 2024 to remain in the programme. This online course is now available to all SCEP participants on the website www.sceptraining.ie
A letter outlining the details on how to access the training, including the participants pin to use when activating your account, is available on Agfood account under the link for Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme
Failure to complete all modules of the online training course by 15 November 2024 will result in you being removed from SCEP and any monies paid under the programme plus the cost of your genomics tests will be recouped.
Screenshot instructions on the process of activating accounts, logging into the training and progressing through the training modules are included in the guide, which also covers frequently asked questions here:
For any participants having technical difficulties or requiring assistance in logging into the training, help is available by email at support@sceptraining.ie or by phone at 074 9707756.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 09 Sep 2020 | Grassland management tips to deal with the current weather conditions | 00:15:28 | |
John Maher, Manager Grass10 Campaign, joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an update on grassland management tips to deal with current weather conditions.
Managing grass in the coming weeks will play an import role in extending the grazing season and John highlights that each additional day at pasture is worth €2/LU.
While there is huge variation across the country, John also discussed a number of issues that have been seen on farms at the moment. With the deadline to apply chemical Nitrogen and Potassium approaching on the 15th September, John advises to select the drier paddocks to apply fertiliser whilst also targeting responsive leafy swards such as reseeded or silage ground with good soil pH.
Also, Potassium (K) is very important this time of year particularly on paddocks where surplus bales were removed.
Watch previous GFOY winner Trevor Boland explain why he entered the competition:
https://youtu.be/jTRgSrk9D2Q
The link to the application form and for further information is:
https://bit.ly/GFOY2020
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 10 Aug 2022 | Future Beef: Autumn Calving update with Cork farmer, Ed Curtin | 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
The Beef Edge Survey In order to understand the aspects of the Beef Edge podcast which are most appealing and beneficial to you, it would be great if you could take 3-4 minutes to complete this survey to give your feedback: https://forms.office.com/r/mDZTE9zPy4
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at:
| |||
| 22 May 2024 | Olivia Hynes’ successful mixed grazing in Co. Roscommon | 00:20:32 | |
For this joint Beef Edge and Ovicast podcast with Catherine Egan and Ciaran Lynch, Future Beef Farmer, Olivia Hynes from Roscommon, discusses how she is managing grass this year and how mixed grazing is working on her farm.
Olivia describes the farm system and how this spring has been on the farm. She is using 100% AI with breeding in full swing and she discusses various sires she has selected.
Weanlings are targeted for the export sales and Olivia keeps 10-12 heifers as replacements annually. Olivia complements the suckler enterprise with an early to mid-season ewe flock. Scanning & weaning percentages are excellent with all lambs finished off grass to factory specification.
Over 90% of the farm is free draining brown acid soil, with moderate to good fertility. Olivia has been working on improving fertility for a number of years and liming is a priority to correct pH levels.
Olivia also outlines the paddock system that she has put in and how it is working for her and she discusses her plan for managing grass in the summer, balancing the demand of the different groups of stock as priorities arise.
For further details go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/farmers/olivia-hynes/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 19 May 2021 | BDGP, BEAM, BEEP-S Update | 00:27:55 | |
Aidan Murray, Teagasc Beef Specialist joins Catherine Egan on this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast to give an update on the various beef schemes.
Firstly, Aidan outlined the actions that farmers had to continue to do in order to comply with the BDGP 1 extension and Aidan advised on various scenarios such as a stock bull being injured or replaced.
Next Aidan discussed the Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM) as applicants committed to reduce the production of bovine livestock manure nitrogen on the holding by 5% for the period 01 July 2020 to 30 June 2021 as compared with the period 01 July 2018 to 30 June 2019.
Aidan said that farmers can choose to defer the commitment to reduce the production of bovine livestock manure nitrogen on the holding by 5% for the period 01 January 2021 to 31 December 2021 as compared with the period 01 July 2018 to 30 June 2019. Penalties for non-compliance were also outlined.
Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme – Sucklers (BEEP-S) was launched earlier in 2021. Aidan highlighted the various actions that farmers need to complete based on what was selected at application. The dairy calf to beef programme, is a new scheme launched in 2021 and Aidan discussed in detail the requirements that farmers must complete to comply.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 07 Jun 2023 | Parasite Control - what do I need to dose for? | 00:11:35 | |
Natascha Meunier from Animal Health Ireland is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss parasite control, managing resistance on farms and the Targeted Advisory Service on Animal Health (TASAH).
As part of the TASAH, a Parasite Control TASAH consult, between trained veterinary practitioners and their clients will continue to be available for 2023. This is a free and voluntary programme supported as part of the Rural Development Plan 2014-2022, co-funded by the Irish government and the EU. All Irish herds and flocks are eligible to take part in the programme for 2023.
Farmers nominate a trained Private Veterinary Practitioner (PVP) to carry out a herd or flock visit to look at various aspects of parasite control management on-farm.
The PVP will make recommendations and will conduct two faecal egg count tests for roundworms (stomach or gut worms). There is no cost to the herd or flock owner, as this is fully funded by DAFM.
All herd and flock owners who were registered in 2022 will be automatically re-enrolled for 2023 and be eligible for a visit.
New registrations are welcome for further details go to: https://animalhealthireland.ie/training/targeted-advisory-service-on-animal-health-tasah/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 28 Oct 2020 | The Beef Edge Masterclass Series: JP Hammersley’s Dairy Calf to Steer System | 00:20:03 | |
In this second of a regular monthly 'Beef Edge Masterclass’ series from expert farmers on the Beef Edge podcast, Catherine Egan is joined by JP Hammersley a farmer in Lattin, Co. Tipperary.
JP explains his system whereby British Friesian bull calves are brought to beef as steers at 24 & 28 months. Calves are purchased from one local dairy farmer at 4 weeks of age and arrive in batches of 12. This has worked well for JP over the years, as he knows he’s buying a healthy calf from a known source. A paddock system, consisting of 45 paddocks, has also been installed for the three grazing groups.
A considerable amount of re-seeding has also been completed. Cattle are weighed three times during the year – turnout, mid-season, and housing. The aim is to get animals heavy enough to produce a 320kg carcass at 24 months and a 350kg carcass at 28 months.
See JP on farm as featured as part of the Teagasc Virtual Beef Week:
https://youtu.be/O8tILuIhKdg
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 30 Nov 2022 | How do Spanish beef farms compare to Ireland? | 00:12:01 | |
DairyBeef 500 advisor, Sean Cummins, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with interesting insights into the recent DairyBeef 500 farmer study trip to Spain.
Over the course of the trip they visited a number of farms in the Catalonia region in the north-east of Spain, with the two main enterprises being calf to beef and suckler to beef.
The key differences between both systems were that farmers were focused on producing a product for the domestic market which is generally a paler meat, produced from younger animals.
One noticeable difference was the target carcass weights. In the Spanish system, lighter carcass weights are generally preferred, with premium prices available for animals producing carcasses between 220-240kg - carcasses that are often penalised here.
Unlike Ireland, all animals are housed for the duration of their stay on-farm. Typical lifetime concentrate input per animal is 1.8-2t.
Substantial numbers can be handled with very little labour input, typically you were seeing 1-1.5 labour units per 1,000 head on the farms visited.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 03 Jun 2020 | How to deal with the current drought conditions on farms | 00:20:51 | |
Currently the west is growing more grass than the east, heavier ground is growing more grass than drier ground, newer ryegrass swards are growing more grass than old pasture and farms with higher soil fertility are growing more grass in general than those with poorer soil fertility.
Demand is also very variable; some drystock farms that have a low daily demand for grass will only need a few minor tweaks while others have a very high demand so each farmer needs to look at their own individual situation.
Further information here
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit: | |||
| 02 Feb 2022 | Using pig manure as a cheaper fertiliser alternative | 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
| |||
| 03 Feb 2021 | The key tips for caring for the newborn calf | 00:19:11 | |
Calving the suckler cow and caring for the new born calf are important tasks on every spring suckler herd in the coming weeks and for the second in a two-part interview, vet Tommy Heffernan joins Catherine Egan to discuss the key tips for caring for the newborn calf.
Tommy first outlines how building the immunity of the calf is important through quality colostrum and describes the 1-2-3 rule of colostrum and how to administer it with a stomach tube if necessary.
Hygiene is also very important and use of adequate amounts of straw is a big help. Treating the calf’s navel is the first point to avoid issues of infection and Tommy discusses the types and treatments of calf scour particularly Cryptosporidium and Coccidiosis.
He also explains that respiratory infections and diseases are one of the main causes of deaths in unweaned calves, highlighting the main causes and treatments.
Finally, Tommy advises on the use of vaccinations to prevent clostridial diseases and unfortunately it is often too late when detected. For further information please consult your local vet.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 03 Jul 2024 | The key messages from the BEEF2024 Dairy Calf-to-Beef Village | 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: | |||
| 15 Mar 2023 | How to achieve your targets this Spring | 00:09:28 | |
Teagasc Future Beef advisor, Gabriel Trayers, is on the week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss how to achieve the targets this spring, getting out to grass and the various scenarios across the country.
With difficult grazing conditions around the country this past week, Gabriel outlines steps farmers can take.
There are two main categories of farmers: those that have got out early and those yet to start grazing and Gabriel discusses the various options.
Mixed beef and sheep farm systems differ from a grazing point of view with ewes and lambs a priority this month.
Gabriel also highlights the importance of good grazing infrastructure and he discusses fertiliser recommendations and the importance of lime.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 04 Aug 2021 | Preparation for Weaning Part 2: How to reduce stress at weaning | 00:15:18 | |
In the second of a two-part series on planning in preparation for weaning, Teagasc Specialist, Aidan Murray, advises how to reduce stress at weaning.
Weaning can be a stressful time on farms both for cow and calf and there are many different weaning strategies with benefits to each process, which Aidan describes.
As part of the Beef Environmental Efficiency Programme-Sucklers (BEEP-S), farmers may have selected the optional measure under Action 2 to feed concentrates to weanlings for which they get €30 per calf weighed up to a max of 100 calves. The objective of this measure is to introduce calves to meal feeding for 4 weeks pre weaning and a further 2 weeks post weaning with the aim being to reduce the stress of weaning on the calf.
Aidan describes the process here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91mJKsEcDC8
Depending on farmers’ systems, farmers may be considering castrating bull weanling and this can add stress at weaning (https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/castration--best-practice.php).
Aidan outlines that calves can be castrated, other than by a veterinary practitioner, before it reaches 6 months of age, using a Burdizzo or before it reaches 8 days of age using a rubber ring (S.I. 127 of 2014), in both cases without the use of anaesthesia and analgesia (S.I. 107 of 2014).
Over these age limits, local anaesthesia, using a prescription only medicine (POM), must be administered by a veterinary practitioner to animals intended for castration.
Finally Aidan advises that farmers should put a plan in place in the coming weeks to ensure the weanlings have a stress free weaning.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 16 Sep 2020 | An update from the Newford Demonstration Herd | 00:15:00 | |
Iarlaith Collins, Manager of Newford Demonstration Herd joins Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with an update on the farm.
With 89% of the herd proving in calf the focus on the farm at the moment is weaning. Weight gain of the bull weanlings is 1.39kg/head/day from birth to weaning.
Extending the grazing season in very important to reduce costs and the winter period on the farm.
Teagasc and Dawn Meats, supported by McDonald's and The Irish Farmers Journal have established a standalone suckler herd at Athenry, Co Galway to demonstrate best practice in sustainable suckler beef production.
The herd, which is known as the Newford Herd, is run on a fully commercial basis and demonstrates the potential of a moderately large suckler beef farm to generate a viable family farm income when operated to the highest level of technical efficiency and best practice.
The herd consists of 100 Angus and Hereford cross Fresian cows, originating from the dairy herd and first calving at 24 months of age. The system is 20-21 months steer beef (Average 350-370kg carcase) and 19 months heifer beef (Average 300kg carcase).
For further updates click go to:
http://www.newfordsucklerbeef.ie/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 08 Mar 2025 | March Grass Management Tips | 00:07:20 | |
Grass10 Advisor Niamh Doyle has her grass management tips for the month ahead.
Niamh discusses turn out of cattle and the spring rotation plan on farms and she highlights the key targets this spring.
Niamh encourages farmers to apply slurry on soils that require Phosphorus and Potassium, particularly the silage ground. Based on soil samples and a nutrient management plan Niamh also discusses chemical fertiliser applications in the weeks' ahead.
You can subscribe to the 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: | |||
| 17 Jan 2024 | Developing a nutrient management plan for your farm | 00:15:36 | |
Teagasc Cattle Specialist, Niall Kerins, is on this week’s Beef Edge Podcast with an update on the nutrient management legislation and developing a nutrient management plan for your farm.
The Nitrates Action Programme underwent a number of changes last year, with stronger measures introduced for the protection of water quality. There were a number of changes in particular that all farmers with a grassland stocking rate above 130kg of N/ha must take soil samples. In addition to this, for arable farmers, all sown arable land must be soil sampled. Further details are here:
Niall also mentions that soil sampling is mandatory on all farms participating in ACRES. Niall discusses taking soil samples and the importance of developing a nutrient management plan with their advisor. - Farmers in Zone A will be permitted to spread organic fertiliser (both slurry and farm yard manure) from Saturday, January 13th - Farmers in Zone B will be permitted to spread organic fertilisers from Tuesday, January 16th - Finally, farmers in Zone C will be permitted to spread organic fertiliser from Thursday, February 1st
The end of the closed period is not essentially a ‘green light’ for farmers to go out spreading slurry, and weather conditions should be looking favourable before slurry spreading goes ahead.
Niall advises how farmers can best maximise the value of slurry nutrients, including using slurry on silage ground. There are numerous benefits of using Low Emission Slurry spreading techniques.
With very high prices for fertiliser over the past number of years, Niall outlines the prices that are expected in the coming year.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 22 Jan 2025 | Caring for the Newborn Calf (Preparing for Calving Pt 3) | 00:19:11 | |
For the final part of our special series in advance of spring calving on the Beef Edge Podcast, Teagasc vet, John Donlon focuses on caring for the newborn calf.
John discusses the importance of colostrum and the 1,2,3 of colostrum in which you use the first milk (colostrum) from the cow; feed the calf colostrum within the first two hours of birth; and calves must be offered at least 3L of good quality colostrum.
John outlines the importance of dipping or spraying the calves navel to prevent infection.
Obviously we expect the calf to get up and suck the cow straight away, but John describes the correct way to use a stomach tube if needed.
Regardless of a suckler or dairy beef system, there are a number of ailments that can arise, in relation to calf scour and respiratory issues and John highlights the importance of administering electrolytes.
Crypto and coccidiosis are unfortunately an issue on some suckler farms, with John detailing the preventative actions and best treatment measures.
Respiratory infections and disease are a main cause of calf deaths and John explains the best ways to prevent and treat this.
Clostridial diseases can cause a number of conditions in cattle. One of the most common conditions is blackleg. Unfortunately it is often too late when detected and there was a rise in reported deaths in 2024. John advises that it is a two shot vaccine and it’s critical the instructions are followed correctly to ensure it is effective.
If you missed either of the first two parts in the series, listen back to Teagasc Nutritionist Aisling Claffey on nutrition pre and post calving, and John Donlon on calving the cow.
The FutureBeef Webinar Series The final part of the FutureBeef webinar Series is on Thursday, 23rd January at 8pm which will focus on Calving and Post-Calving Management.
Click here to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UXK1_LHDSE-W_WDlb9HyGg#/registration
The webinar will be chaired by James Mullane, Future Beef Programme Advisor and will feature Dr John Donlon, Beef Herd Health Research Officer, Teagasc; Dr Doreen Corridan, CEO of the National Cattle Breeding Centre (NCBC); and Michael Biggins, Future Beef Farmer.
This webinar will centre on the calf, covering topics such as the first principles of calving, managing the calf’s first month, and getting the cow back in calf.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 24 Mar 2021 | What impact can weed control & drainage work have on water quality? | 00:16:11 | |
Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advice Programme advisors Mary Roache & Meabh O’Hagan join Catherine Egan on this week’s Beef Edge podcast as part of Water Quality Week to highlight correct weed control management & tips on carrying out drainage work to reduce impact on water quality.
Firstly, Mary discussed the main types of weeds farmers want to control. With docks being the most common, Mary discussed the chemical and non-chemical methods of control.
Mary also advised farmers as to what they must look out for when using pesticides to avoid getting any into our water supplies such as correct application rate, method and buffer zones.
To conclude Mary advised farmers to look at the Basic Payment pack they received recently to complete the necessary recording paperwork for cross compliance. Only a DAFM-registered professional user can apply Plant Protection Products that are authorised for professional use. It is a requirement for sprayers over 3 years of age to have passed a Pesticide Application Equipment Test before being used to apply professional use Plant Protection Products.
Meabh then discussed how land drainage impacts water quality and how farmers can minimise the impact. When it comes to carrying out new drainage works, Meabh advised to consider the bigger picture in relation to new environmental schemes in the future and to talk to your advisor in advance of undertaking any work.
Meabh highlighted that drain maintenance should only take place when needed and after spawning has occurred from July- Sept. She also advised on the ways to minimise the amount of maintenance drains require.
Farmers get more information about how to appropriately carry out drainage and drain maintenance here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/soil/soil-drainage/
For further information on Water Quality Week:
https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/water-quality/water-quality-week/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 04 Nov 2020 | What ration do I need to feed? | 00:18:05 | |
With consistent rainfall over the past ten days, a lot of cattle have been housed around the country. On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Teagasc Nutritionist Joe Patton outlines a number of factors farmers should consider now at housing.
As feed accounts for over 75% of variable costs on most beef farms, Joe highlights the results from the Teagasc fodder survey and tips to reduce costs this winter.
Testing silage is very important to give an indication what ration is required. Joe advised the target of 20kg live weight gain per weanling per month (0.6kg/hd/day).
Joe also outlines that the nutrient content of the compound feed is more critical than the individual ingredients that make up the compound feed.
Watch more from Joe here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/want-50kg-more-winter-weight-gain-for-no-extra-cost-cut-silage-in-may-instead-of-june.php
For further information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/choosing-a-concentrate-type-for-finishing.php
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 10 Apr 2024 | Tips & advice for closing silage ground | 00:12:30 | |
With the difficult weather conditions, DairyBeef 500 advisor Gordon Peppard is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with some timely tips in relation to closing ground for silage.
Gordon highlights that on many farms silage ground won’t be cut but this could provide an opportunity to cut this silage earlier and hence have after grass coming into the rotation faster or the ability to close ground earlier for second cut silage if needed.
Gordon also describes the different fertiliser programme options and weed control available.
Developing a fodder plan for the farm to determine the area of ground that needs to be closed based on the amount of silage required is important while keeping the groups of stock that will be on the farm next winter, Gordon explains on the show.
For further details: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/beef/silage-quality-improvements---ten-point-plan.php
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 11 Dec 2024 | Contract heifer rearing – Liam Cassin’s experience | 00:13:40 | |
Kilkenny farmer Liam Cassin is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss his contract heifer rearing system.
Liam moved from sheep to suckler cows and started contract heifer rearing 14 years ago. The steady monthly cashflow alongside the reduced financial input of purchasing stock are key benefits for Liam.
Grassland management and a good paddock system are very important to make the system viable in order to reach the target weights, according to Liam.
Initially starting with one dairy farmer, Liam has increased the system to now working with four farmers contract rearing heifers.
The dairy farmer visited Liam’s farm and viewed the farm and Liam visited their farm initially. From there the business has thrived and each contract is different as Liam describes.
Further information is available here: https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/collaborative-farming/contract-heifer-rearing/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 26 Jan 2023 | The Steps to Take for a Farm Transfer | 00:17:13 | |
Philip O’Connor and Trevor Boland from IFAC, the Irish Farm Accounts Co-operative Society, are on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss what can be done to help plan a farm transfer.
Philip & Trevor discuss farm partnerships and registered farm partnerships and with the new Basic Income Support for Sustainability replacing the previous basic payment scheme, many farmers are considering options for making changes.
Trevor outlines that with the national reserve, where land that doesn’t have entitlements, the young farmer can claim entitlements and there is no income limit as there was previously.
The Young Farmer Top up on the first 50ha at €165 per hectare is really worth looking at he says. There is a double TAMS grant with a maximum threshold of €90,000 at 60% for the young farmer and 40% for the other party. This does not apply to joint herd numbers.
Young Farmers starting off and who want to get more involved in the family farm can get their name on the herd number and bank accounts and be involved in decision making on the farm.
So with the start of a new CAP period from 2023 to 2027, new schemes and incentives, it is a good time to look at the structure of the farming enterprise and decide if a new structure is needed.
There are a number of options including a joint herd number, a registered farm partnership and perhaps a company in some cases. There is also the additional option of a succession farm partnership.
For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/succession--inheritance/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 26 Apr 2023 | Grazing clover into the grazing sward | 00:29:04 | |
On this week’s Beef Edge podcast, we’re joined by Ciaran Lynch, host of the Teagasc OviCast podcast, for a joint episode to discuss all things clover with Dr. Mike Egan, Teagasc researcher.
Mike starts by highlighting the potential role of clover in drystock systems, how it works and the potential cost savings.
We discuss the impact of soil fertility and weed control has on successful establishment and Mike talks about the impact of timing, sowing rate and varieties selection and over-sowing methods of incorporating clover in to sward.
Post-sowing management can have a big impact on establishment and Mike brings us through grazing management from establishment to closing up at the end of the grazing season as well as offering some tips on minimising the risk of bloat.
Finally, Mike highlights the suite of resources available for farmers to find out more about clover.
For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2022/Clover-Management-2022.pdf
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 29 Dec 2021 | Review of 2021 and outlook for 2022 | 00:19:08 | |
On the final episode of the Beef Edge podcast for 2021, Teagasc Head of Drystock, Pearse Kelly, joins Catherine Egan to look back on the year gone by and to discuss what is expected in the New Year and the outlook for 2022.
In many ways, 2021 was a good year on cattle farms and Pearse outlines how beef prices began to rise in the spring and, like the tide that rises all ships, weanling and store prices followed and have remained buoyant.
The recent Teagasc outlook and review webinar showed that steers, weanling and store prices all increased. Steer beef prices rose by 12% in 2021 which also resulted in higher weanling and store prices.
In order to generate output you require inputs and they too have increased on average across all the cattle systems by about 8% in 2021. Pearse highlights that while predictions suggest we may see some increase in cattle supply in 2022, it will be only marginal and is likely to come on stream in the second half of the year.
Looking forward to the year ahead Pearse says that the Future Beef Programme and Dairy Beef 500 Programme will be the main flagship programmes in the New Year with farm walks expected on some of the farms in early 2022. Pearse also hopes - Covid allowing – that there will be a ‘Beef 2022’open day in Teagasc Grange in July.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 23 Mar 2022 | Is clover an option for your farm? | 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.
| |||
| 15 May 2024 | How to maximise the breeding season on your farm | 00:17:52 | |
Teagasc Researcher, David Kenny, is on this week’s Beef edge podcast to discuss how to deal with current breeding issues and the key tips to be aware of.
With extended housing this spring, David outlines the impact this has had on suckler cow fertility and body condition.
In some cases breeding season has been delayed by 2-3 weeks. With some cows only calved in the last 3 weeks, David discusses a plan for these cows with synchronisation programmes and timed AI. Further details can also be found here:
David says that stock bull fertility is a major concern with approximately 20% of bulls sub-fertile, and keeping records is essential. Carrying out a mid-season scan will allow any issues be detected early.
David discusses the research being carried out in Grange on breeding at the moment which will cover, AI, calving heifers at 24 months and breeding technologies at the BEEF 2024 Open Day taking place on Wednesday 26th June 2024 at Teagasc Grange, Co. Meath.
For further details: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/news/2024/beef2024-openday-launched.php
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 22 Jul 2020 | A unique grazing system that works | 00:14:34 | |
If you don’t measure grass you can’t manage it. On this episode of the Beef Edge podcast, suckler farmer Thomas O’Connor from Co. Kildare joins Catherine Egan to give an insight of his farming system.
The farm is run as a partnership by Monica, Tom and their son Thomas. It is a truly mixed farm with four enterprises comprising beef, sheep, tillage and pigs.
In 2015, Thomas was the winner of the FBD Young Beef Farmer of the Year Award. The beef enterprise consists of 70 suckler cows with all-male progeny finished as bulls under 16 months and heifers at 21 months, with 200- 300 additional cattle purchased for finishing. The unique feature of this farm is the way the O`Connors paddock graze the cattle in large groups during the grazing season.
This is the first year AI was used and Thomas gives an insight into how it went. Grassland management is excellent with all the farm laid out in 2 ha (5 acres) paddocks, with the provision for subdivision of all paddocks.
Thomas will feature as part of the Irish Grassland Association Virtual Beef event from 27th- 29th July 2020 along with beef farmers Tom Halpin, Co. Meath & Paul Turley Co. Down on the Irish Grassland Association social media channels: Facebook.com/Irish Grassland Association and Twitter @IrishGrassland.
For further details click HERE
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
| |||
| 10 Jun 2020 | What are the main parasites to be aware of at the moment? | 00:17:15 | |
Gut worm infection negatively impacts the performance of grazing calves. In grass-based beef production systems good gut worm control is highly dependent on the availability of effective wormers (anthelmintics).
Gut worms can develop resistance to the wormers used to control them. This is known as anthelmintic resistance. Orla highlights the importance of treating for the correct parasite, using the correct product and administering the correct rate of dose for the product.
Orla gives her opinion on the future of Anthelmintic Use in the Suckler Herd. She highlights some very interesting changes that farmers need to be aware of in relation to the future EU regulation changes.
Farmers can hear more about this on the Teagasc Beef Virtual Week on 6th July in the evening panel discussion.
For further information click here
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit: | |||
| 02 Dec 2023 | Bonus Ep: IBR: Impacts & Control | 00:24:17 | |
As a bonus Beef Edge episode, Dr. Maria Guelbenzu from Animal Health Ireland (AHI) who presented at the Teagasc National Beef Conference, discusses the prevalence of Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR), and why Ireland needs to move towards a national eradication programme.
Maria’s presentation is available at: https://www.teagasc.ie/beefcon23/Maria-Guelbenzu/
Full conference details are here: https://www.teagasc.ie/beefcon23/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 11 Aug 2021 | Beef Edge Masterclass Series with Aidan Maguire from Co. Meath | 00:10:52 | |
On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Teagasc Green Acres participant Aidan Maguire from Co. Meath discusses his beef system and gives an update on his farm.
For the past four weeks, drought conditions have made managing grass on the farm very difficult. Aidan describes how he had to feed good quality silage ( 72 DMD) to ensure performance was not impacted.
On a recent weighing, calves were achieving 0.7-0.8kg/head/day while the stores were achieving 0.9-1.1kg/head/day.
Aidan discusses how he plans to introduce meal at grass in the coming weeks with the plan to finish 30 heifers.
Closing up paddocks is also a focus for Aidan in the next few weeks in order to ensure there is grass available next spring.
For further updates from the Green Acres programme subscribe for the free fortnightly newsletter here:
https://715b076b.sibforms.com/serve/MUIEABmyHwOboyRgEW5CKKxG9Z2AtXcyr45Mamg276sYRQJ8X35qt9zgM2zFlpjivTWIjsjgANwuc8QVGrT0BYWtnjLs2WtmdljVYJHWIdGAiBmX9wE_I-4hQ1tHUOyg2hPF2Hja9awpPYpnmRHBtMLbQHG2AaaFNOzF-vw7rEDB8q3soBhfbloK1ByxnDkyOCYcDZksCNQt-LUn
To find out more about the Teagasc Green Acres Calf to Beef Programme click here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/green-acres-calf-to-beef/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 28 Aug 2024 | Making the Winter Gains | 00:10:44 | |
Aidan Maguire, DairyBeef 500 farmer from Navan, Co. Meath, is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to discuss management on his farm and his upcoming National Beef open day taking place on September 5th at 6pm.
Aidan, alongside his son Luke, runs a dairy calf to beef enterprise on their farm, in conjunction with a contracting business. The farm stretches to over 70ha, with 54ha in grass and the remainder in forestry.
Up until 1999, Aidan operated tillage and suckler cow enterprises. Having initially changed to a calf to store system, Aidan then moved to a dairy calf to beef system through which approximately 100 calves were purchased and finished each year.
The predominant breeds purchased were Aberdeen Angus, Hereford and Friesian animals. Annual calf purchases have now increased to 150-170, a mixture of autumn and spring-born. Even though the number of calves has increased, there has been no increase in health issues associated with the rearing of these extra calves.
Since joining the Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Campaign, the Maguires source all their calves from four local dairy farmers and finish their heifers at around 18-19 months and bullocks at less than 24 months of age. The target is to have heifers at over 550kgs live weight at the end of the finishing period and for bullocks to be 600kg, leaving a minimum carcass weight of 270kg for heifers and 300kg for bullocks.
On Thursday, September 5th at 6pm, Aidan Maguire will host a DairyBeef 500 farm walk and live forum on his farm. All are welcome to come along and see his dairy calf to beef system in action. On display on the evening will be his 2023 autumn born and 2024 spring born calves, yearling steers and heifers and his finishing animals.
The theme of the event is ‘Making the winter gains‘, which will be of great interest to both dairy farmers and those interested in rearing dairy bred stock.
Topics on the day will include: Aidan’s current farming system and his financial performance; grassland management tips, including red clover swards; animal health; and winter feeding options for finishing and weanling animals.
The DairyBeef 500 Farm Walk and Live Forum will take place on Aidan Maguire’s farm, Antylstown, Co. Meath, Eircode: C15 W4C2 on September 5th at 6pm and further details on the event are available at: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/db500farmwalkliveforum.php
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 03 Aug 2024 | The Monthly Grass10 Update with Niamh Doyle | 00:04:38 | |
Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.
Currently, growth is ahead of demand on farms and Niamh highlights management and targets for the coming weeks.
Second cut harvested in the past few days indicates the yields are back around the country and for farmers that will need a third cut, Niamh advises to apply 2,500 gallons of slurry and 1 bag 38%N.
For more, you can subscribe to the 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: | |||
| 08 Dec 2021 | The Future Beef Programme | 00:11:30 | |
Martina Harrington, Teagasc’s specialist and programme manager, gives an insight into the new suckler beef demonstration farm programme on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
Teagasc’s Future Beef programme comprises of a network of 24 demonstration farms positioned right across Ireland.
Each farm is representative of their region in farm size, soil type, system, stock numbers etc. The farm size ranges from 13ha to 122ha, while the herd size ranges from 14-suckler cows right up to 112 cows.
The systems range from farms selling weanlings, finishing heifers and steers to producing under 16 month bulls, whilst four are also buying in dairy bred calves.
Martina explains that when designing the programme, they wanted an ‘Operation Transformation’ type model, where there would be one farmer as ‘a leader’ for the majority of systems within the beef sector.
As part of the Future Beef programme, Martina says that the programme will be supporting farmers to adopt technologies new and old to reduce the level of GHG and Ammonia emission from their farms.
Improving water quality and increasing biodiversity on farm are also key aspects of the programme and Future Beef will work closely with the ASSAP programme advisors to inform the participants what can be done on farm to reduce agriculture impact on water quality.
Through farm walks, discussion group visits, press articles, regular updates on the website and social media, the Future Beef programme will show these technologies working on 22 commercial farms and 2 non-commercial farms.
Alongside Martina will be Gabriel Trayers and Aisling Molloy, plus local, regional unit Teagasc Business & Technology advisors and Teagasc researchers who will all be involved in the programme.
For further information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/
Find your nearest programme participant here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/demonstration-farms/future-beef-programme/farmers/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com.
| |||
| 18 May 2022 | Managing costs with Kilkenny farmer, Peter O’Hanrahan | 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
| |||
| 15 Feb 2023 | Galway farmer, Aonghusa Fahy on preparing for calving, calving the cow and caring for the newborn calf | 00:09:37 | |
Future Beef farmer Aonghusa Fahy from county Galway discusses preparing for calving, calving the cow and caring for the newborn calf on the latest Beef Edge podcast.
To ensure he is fully prepared, Aonghusa will carry out a pre-calving check. He makes sure the calving equipment is all working including calving gates, calving cameras, calving jack etc.
Also ensure you have calving ropes, gloves, stomach tube, iodine etc. To help with this, Teagasc has a very useful checklist:
At the end of January, Aongusa’s cows were moved into the pens adjacent to the calving area for ease of movement.
As Aonghusa works off- farm, he has two rotating cameras and is also fortunate that his father lives close to the farmyard.
The cows have been treated for lice and received their vaccinations e.g rotavec corona early in January.
All cows’ backs and tails were clipped which helps keep the udder clean for the newborn calf.
Post calving, the cow is given between 24-48 hrs to bond and Aonghusa ensures that each calf gets colostrum.
Weather permitting, they are let out to a dry sheltered field adjacent to the yard. However, in the event of having to stay housed, the cows are given top quality silage and 1kg of meal/head/day.
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 26 Oct 2022 | Newford Demonstration Farm Update | 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 | |||
| 23 Jun 2021 | John Maher’s tips for maintaining grass quality | 00:14:29 | |
With an increase in grass growth in the past few weeks the challenge now on farms is to maintain quality in the sward.
On this week’s episode of the Beef Edge podcast, Teagasc Grass 10 Manager John Maher gives top tips in relation to managing grass quality.
John highlights the two main ways to manage grass at the moment. Firstly, it involves targeting ideal covers to graze of 8-10 cm and that may lead to paddocks being skipped or let grow on to bulk up as silage.
Secondly, the mechanical method of topping or pre-mowing and although this will lead to some grass wastage it will ensure quality in the next grazing.
John advises that fertiliser applied on farm at the moment will largely depend on stocking rate. Phosphorus and potassium are essential to be applied to improve any damaged paddocks from earlier in the spring. Nitrogen application can be decided upon based on the amount of grass on the farm and demand.
For further information visit:
https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/
You can also view the latest Grass 10 Newsletter here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-newsletter/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 26 Apr 2022 | An Update on the Derrypatrick Herd | 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
| |||
| 20 Apr 2022 | Grass10 Drystock Grassland Farmer of the Year, Aidan Maguire | 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
| |||
| 14 Dec 2023 | The trends for beef prices in 2024 | 00:29:10 | |
Rupert Claxton, Livestock Director from GIRA Consultancy (UK), is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast with his presentation from the Teagasc National Beef Conference giving an overview of the Global Beef Market and highlighting the likely trends for input prices as we move into 2024.
Rupert’s presentation is available at: https://www.teagasc.ie/beefcon23/Rupert-Claxton/
Full conference details are here: https://www.teagasc.ie/beefcon23/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 09 Jul 2022 | Bonus Ep: Q&A with Min. McConalogue at the Beef2022 Open Day | 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: | |||
| 03 Jan 2024 | What’s in store in 2024? | 00:13:05 | |
Teagasc Cattle Specialist Aidan Murray is on this week’s Beef Edge podcast to give an insight into the outlook for the coming year and what farmers can expect. Farmers have seen only a minor reduction in production costs in 2023 compared with 2022 and Aidan reviews the 2023 performance from the outlook conference and discusses the outlook for 2024. Aidan highlights what’s expected in 2024 and explains some of the key requirements of SCEP and the actions farmers need to keep in mind this spring. For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com | |||
| 21 Jul 2021 | Farm Safety Tips from Beef Farmer, Tommy Holmes | 00:12:02 | |
As part of #FarmSafetyWeek, beef farmer Tommy Holmes from Co. Mayo, discusses farm safety on his farm along with his Teagasc advisor Tom Kelly, Teagasc Ballina on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
Tommy outlines his store to finishing system and describes how he has moved from suckler cows to bull beef and now to bullocks.
A large proportion of all fatal workplace accidents occur in agriculture each year and Tommy outlines how he has made his farm safer with good handling facilities. Tommy also highlights how he services his tractor twice a year and is always checking the safety guards are in place.
Tom Kelly his local Teagasc advisor gives tips for farmers to stay safe on their farm, in particular, carrying their mobile phone so they can contact someone in an emergency.
Tom explains that farmers can apply for TAMS grants for various safety equipment on their farm ranging from head scoop to calving gates while he recommends farmers complete the Teagasc safety course and regularly update their Farm Risk Assessment Document which is available here:
https://www.hsa.ie/eng/Publications_and_Forms/Publications/Agriculture_and_Forestry/Farm_Safety_Code_of_Practice_Risk_Assessment_Document.pdf
For further information on farm safety week:
https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/farm-health--safety/farm-safety-week-/
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
Pic source: Irish Farmers' Journal
| |||
| 25 Sep 2024 | The Teagasc Beef Budgets 2024/2025 with Aidan Murray | 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: | |||
| 29 Mar 2025 | April Grass Management Tips | 00:07:18 | |
Grass10 Advisor Niamh Doyle has her grassland management tips for the month ahead.
Niamh comments on current grazing conditions, grazing the first rotation and regrowths on the first paddocks. She also discusses closing up for silage and the importance of completing a fodder budget and using slurry efficiently. It is critical to assess the correct balance between quality and quantity.
You can subscribe to the 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: | |||
| 07 Jul 2021 | What should I be dosing beef animals for now? | 00:15:58 | |
Orla Keane, Senior Researcher at Teagasc Grange, has some timely advice in relation to updating your herd health plan and parasite control on this week’s Beef Edge podcast.
It’s a good time of year when calving is over for a spring calving herd and before it starts on an autumn calving herd to review the herd health plan now and Orla highlights the importance of biosecurity and hygiene and outlines the process for disinfecting calving pens and slatted sheds at this time of year.
She explains that anthelmintic resistance refers to the ability of parasitic worms to survive a dose that should kill them. There are currently only 3 classes of anthelmintics licensed in Ireland for the control of gut worms in cattle. These classes are benzimidazole (commonly known as white wormer), levamisole (commonly known as yellow wormer) and macrocyclic lactones (commonly known as clear wormer).
Anthelmintics from different classes have different modes of action. However, within the same class all products share the same mode of action and therefore when resistance develops to one product within a class generally other products in the same class are affected.
Actions to take to slow the further development of anthelmintic resistance are:
• Use grazing management to reduce exposure to worms
• Use anthelmintics only when necessary
• Use an appropriate product for the worms being targeted
• Use the correct dose rates and proper dosing technique
• Have a biosecurity protocol for bought-in stock
For animals at grass, one of the major health threats is internal parasites. At this time of year gut worms and lungworm are the major internal parasites of concern which
Orla discusses treatment strategies here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYe0WxOEKs0&ab_channel=Teagasc
DAFM Disinfectant list:
https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/e1453-disinfectants/
For more information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/parasite-control-in-growing-cattle-at-pasture.php
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com
| |||
| 17 Aug 2022 | How to manage soil fertility for the rest of the year | 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
Podcast Survey In order to understand the aspects of podcasts which are most appealing and beneficial to you the listener, it would be appreciated if you could take 3-4 minutes to complete the following survey to give your feedback: https://forms.office.com/r/mDZTE9zPy4
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 31 Jan 2024 | Managing my farm financial performance in 2024 | 00:25:40 | |
January is a good month to review your 2023 financial performance before you start focusing and putting a plan in place for 2024 and on this week’s joint episode with Ciarán Lynch from Teagasc’s Ovicast sheep podcast, we discuss financial management tips on drystock farms with Teagasc Financial Specialist Kevin Connolly.
Kevin first outlines the benefits of completing a profit monitor. He discusses the data that’s required and how farmers make use of the data for their system.
Kevin explains the reports that can be developed and the importance of benchmarking the farm as volatile market or weather conditions can really impact financial performance
One year is a starting point and after completing it for 3-5 years it enables the farmer to develop a plan with their advisor to make decisions on the system, on farm investment and future direction of the farm.
Further details are available at: https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/financial-analysis/farm-profit-analysis/
For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: | |||
| 27 May 2020 | An update from Kildalton College on the breeding season to date | 00:15:41 | |
Kildalton Beef Unit operates a mixed grazing system for the cattle and heifers with the sheep flock and all grazing groups rotate around paddocks. Two paddocks are reseeded each year and the grass seed includes clover.
The herd operates a 50% AI and 50% stock bull breeding programme for 12 weeks. Billy Fraher does the AI across the herd and between good conception and culling they don’t carry barren cows. Billy splits the herd into high replacement star cows plus their calves run with the replacement heifers and get material AI straws while the main herd is a mix of stock bull and selective AI. A Fr x steer with a chin ball is used for heat detection along with tail painting.
The herd is there for skills training of the students in Kildalton and WIT. The staff demonstrate various systems, breeds, skills and management to students through the suckler herd. The aim is to have a 4-5 star herd of cows that can leave a gross margin of over €1000 annually from a high input high output system with good grassland management allowing the farm to carry +2.6 LU / ha annually on a sustainably run farm.
For further details click here.
For more episodes and information covered on the Beef Edge, visit: | |||