Irish Farm Business - Vol 5 Issue 1 Spring 2018

Farm Business FARM DESIGN PROFESSIONAL PLANNING SAVES MONEY

CALF MILK REPLACERS CHECK THE INGREDIENTS

FARM FINANCE DAIRY HERD EXPANSION LINKED TO TAX PLANNING

>> SEE PAGE 34

>> SEE PAGE 46

>> SEE PAGE 48

IRISH

Volume 5 Issue 1 Spring 2018 Edition Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

DAIRYING

SPRING WORK FOR SUMMER SILAGE

HOW TO INCREASE YIELD & QUALITY

MAKE THE SWITCH TO NON-CHLORINE CLEANING

Farm Business

Foreword/Contents/Credits

Features

IRISH

DAIRYING

Volume 5 Issue 1 Spring 2018 Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

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Foreword

18 PRECISION REALISES NEW POTENTIAL IN CALF MILK REPLACERS More isn’t necessarily better when it comes to protein levels in calf milk replacers, writes Dr Jim Quigley a leading international authority in calf and heifer research.

22 SPRING EFFORT LEADS TO SUMMER REWARDS

W

hatever about Global Warming it certainly feels like we have entered a period of Ireland Wetting. As Joe Healy said there hasn’t been more than two dry days back to back in many parts since last July. Dealing with rain on an ongoing basis can be very difficult physically, fodder wise and mentally. We can only hope that those that need support will get that support.

In this edition we have a new section on farm design written by Donal Flanagan, whose father had the same occupation and so it is in the blood. He makes the point that because of the knowledge built up over the years they can do a better and often more efficient job than a farmer taking on a project on his own.

Calf milk replacer is now in more frequent use as it is more straightforward to plan and it is improving in quality and means of delivery particularly for those with a lot of calves. A few different viewpoints are outlined in this edition.

The highest value product that comes from milk in Ireland is infant formula travelling across the world to many markets including China.The purchasers of the product naturally set very high standards because of its end use. As time moves on the ability of the buyers and specifiers to find faults including unwelcome residues in milk is increasing because their measurement instruments are improving.

This means that chlorine residues are now in the spotlight. Farmers need to move away from cleaning agents that contain chlorine as the end risk of residues is enormous.

We have also articles on planning for quality silage through the full cycle on harvesting and storage.

We hope you enjoy and gain from this edition…

Successful summer silage is born out of good basic ground– work in spring, writes Joe Patton, Teagasc Dairy Specialist, Grange, Co. Meath.

30 WATCH THE GRASS NOT THE CALENDAR Making quality grass silage – A guide to ensuring good fermentation, by Grace Thomas M.Agr.Sc. P.A.S. Nutritionist, Agriking Ltd.

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34 THE IMPORTANCE OF PROFESSIONAL PLANNING & SUPERVISION Optimum Design of a Cattle House – A close look at the building process and scheduling that can make all the difference, by Donal Flanagan.

38 BEST PRACTICE SUGGESTS MOVING TO NON-CHLORINE CLEANING OF MILKING EQUIPMENT Removal of chlorine from cleaning routines would minimize the possibility of residues in milk & milk products. David Gleeson, Teagasc, reports.

42 CATTLE CRUSH ATTACHMENTS – BEING SAFE WHILE WORKING ALONE As animals are being handled more frequently, it is essential to look at items that improve safety. By Paul Lyons.

46 STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL CALF REARING When purchasing milk replacer it is important to focus on the ingredients listed on the bag, writes Paul Kennedy, MSC, MBA, Ruminant Sales Manager, Interchem.

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48 INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE – HOW TO EXPAND YOUR DAIRY ENTERPRISE The main reason for expansion is for increased profits; increased profits means increased tax. Philip O’ Connor (IFAC) discusses.

58 CALVING – PLANNING FOR SAFETY Currently the main story in agriculture is dairying and the big push is to produce as much milk as possible from grazed grass. Inspector Martina Gormley of the Health and Safety Authority reports.

Until the next time………

The Publisher, Irish Farm Business

Profiles

42 Publisher: Denis Lane Editorial: Denis Lane Advertising: James Small Design: John Barrett Production: Emma Meade

Contributors: Dr. Jim Quigley (Cargill), Joe Patton (Teagasc), Grace Thomas (Agri–King Ltd Nutritionist), Donal Flanagan (Farm Buildings Services Ltd.), David Gleeson (Teagasc), Paul Lyons (Bo Steel), Paul Kennedy (Interchem), Philip O’ Connor (IFAC), Martina Gormley (Health and Safety Authority).

20 AINSWORTHS 28 KUBOTA Distribution: EM News Newspread Published by: Select Media Ltd, 4-5 Burton Hall Road Sandyford, Dublin 18 Tel. + 353 1 6622266 Email. info@selectmedialtd.com

All material contained in this edition is copyright of Irish Farm Business 2018 and may not be reproduced or electronically stored without the permission of the publisher. However items may be freely reproduced provided the source is acknowledged. Content and views expressed in the publication do not necessarily represent those of the publishers.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS MEATH FARM MACHINERY TAKE ON KRAMER

Meath Farm machinery is pleased to announce it has reached an agreement with Kramer to sell and support its range of Loaders and Telescopic Handlers.The agreement is for both agricultural and industrial sectors covering Leinster and Connaught from our depots at Kilberry, Navan, Co Meath and Poles, Co Cavan.

KRAMER is a long established German manufacturer of high quality 4 wheel drive and 4 wheel steer centre boom and side boom Telescopic handlers.The range of products includes wheel loaders, telescopic wheel loaders, compact telehandlers and large telehandlers up to 5.5 ton to 9 metre.

Combined with automatic bucket return, variable speed regulation and all round visibility it is a market leader and a reliable machine for any task.

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Give us a call or come and see us to find out more about this range of high quality products.

Commenting on the acquisition of the Kramer range of loaders, Ian Timmons of Meath Farm said:“The Kramer franchise represents an exciting opportunity for Meath Farm Machinery Ltd. The broad product range enables us to satisfy our customers’ various requirements and to offer an appropriate machine for every area of application. We are very much looking forward to representing this high quality German brand in Ireland.”

For Sales Contact your local depot: Meath Farm Machinery Ltd, Kilberry Navan, Co Meath.

Tel: 046 9023946. Niall Flynn Tel: 087 6985159.

Meath Farm Machinery Ltd (Cavan), Dublin Road, Poles, Co Cavan Tel 049 4323033 Pat Kelly Tel 087 2897351.

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS BO STEEL DRAW FOR PINK CALVING GATE FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH

TEAGASC AND HSA RENEW JOINT INITIATIVE TO PROMOTE FARM Bo Steel in Loughrea, Co Galway have launched a drive to raise SAFETY AND HEALTH

funds for breast cancer research, the draw for one of their calving In January Teagasc and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) gates with a small twist. The winner will be presented with a signed a ‘Joint Initiative Agreement’ to promote farmer safety and calving gate painted pink to support the worthy cause. health for the next three years.The initiative aims to provide safety Bo Steel's managing director Paul Lyons reports massive interest and health research, training and advisory support to farmers. in their new pink gate especially for spouses and female farmers. The renewal of the joint initiative comes at a challenging time for To date, the campaign has raised over €1500 for the charity Mayo farming due to expansion in the sector and an ageing farmer pink ribbon. population.The agriculture sector, which represents 5 to 6 percent To enter, go to everydayhero.ie and donate to the Bo Steel of the workforce, often accounts for up to 50% of work related cancer campaign. Alternatively you can also enter at any Bo deaths.

Steel agent.

In 2017, out of a total of 47 workplace deaths, 24 farmers died in work related accidents, with 14 being aged 65 or older.

The joint initiative, in place since 2005 when the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act was enacted, was established to make farm safety and health more accessible to farmers through a simplified ‘Farm Safety Code of Practice’.

During 2018 research on farm accident levels conducted by the Teagasc National Farmer Survey will be finalised. A jointly funded study on the usefulness of discussion groups in promoting farm safety is also underway.

As part of the joint initiative, training on use of the ‘Farm Safety Code of Practice’ will continue to be provided by Teagasc and Agricultural Consultants. Completion of the training is also a requirement for farmers to secure DAFM TAMS11 funding.

Martin O’Halloran, CEO of the HSA, in welcoming renewal of the joint initiative, stated that it has led to increased awareness but that must now lead to safer work practices.“The approach to farm

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS safety and health is generally well understood by farmers and the LAOIS FARMER TOM PHELAN ELECTED broader farming community, but this awareness must now be matched NEW IFA NATIONAL DAIRY CHAIRMAN by real actions on the ground. Farmers face a wide variety of hazards Laois dairy and beef farmer Tom Phelan was recently elected and risks on a daily basis and must proactively manage them to Chairman of the IFA National Dairy Committee, succeeding Sean ensure a safe and healthy working life.”

O’Leary at the end of his term.Tom Phelan farms with his wife Caroline Professor Gerry Boyle, Teagasc Director stated that Teagasc will be and children Martin, Karen and Marie-Thérèse in Pike of Rushall, near emphasising the need for improvements in work organisation to cut Mountrath in Co. Laois, and supplies creamery milk to Glanbia. farmer workloads in its advisory programmes in 2018.“Working long Tom has a strong track record of farmer representation. He has hours and hurrying have been shown to be major contributory chaired his local Glanbia area and regional committees, he was factors in farm accident causation,” he stated. “This may also be a Macra na Feirme Laois Co. Chairman and has had significant contributory factor to the rise in accidents among older farmers in experience within IFA, serving on the Dairy and Farm Business recent years,” he said. Patrick Griffin, Senior Inspector with the HSA Committees and as County Chairman for Laois. He has also been pointed out that a new revised version of the ‘Farm Safety Code of representing the National Dairy Committee on the IFA Animal Practice’ and Risk Assessment was released in 2017 and all farmers Health Project Team. must complete the new document by the end of 2018. Dr John Outlining his key priorities,Tom Phelan said,“I am conscious that McNamara, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist stated that Teagasc I am starting my term as Chair of the National Dairy Committee would be mounting safety and health exhibits at major events in 2018 after a strong year for dairy trade and milk prices, and with more including the National Beef Open day at Teagasc Grange on 26th June.

The joint initiative will also have an international dimension in challenging market conditions ahead”.

2018. A European COST Action (Co-operation in Science & Speaking about his priorities as Chairman, Tom Phelan said: Technology) meeting will take place in Ireland during March. The “Optimising milk prices will remain my top priority. Nothing has a meeting, organised by Teagasc and HSA, will share knowledge on bigger impact on dairy farmers’ incomes. Volatility is continuing to improving farm safety culture throughout Europe.Also from April 29 challenge dairy farmers’ incomes. We need to develop more - May 4 a major ‘World Congress on Occupational Health and Safety’ income risk management tools. We must defend the farm family (ICOH International Congress, 2018) will take place in Dublin, which model, as it is intrinsic to our farming industry. will include presentations on Teagasc / HSA / UCD research on farm “While recognising that sustainability is a very important issue for the entire industry, farmers must see a return for their effort. safety and health.

Our ability to attract and retain labour onto dairy farms will be For more news from the HSA visit crucial. The dairy industry has enormous potential to deliver for www.hsa.ie/eng/News_Events_Media/

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS farmers and for the Irish economy. However, future industry planning 27th European Grassland Federation General Meeting Cork must be based on delivering sustainable returns for farmers, rather Date: 17 June 2018 - 21 June 2018 than be purely supply driven.”

Event Time: 09.00 This news article was originally published on Venue Rochestown Park Hotel, Rochestown Rd, Douglas, Cork. www.ifa.ie/latest-news/ In 2018, the EGF will be hosted by Teagasc in Cork; this will be the 27th General meeting. Cork the second biggest city in Ireland is EVENTS located in the heart of dairying in Ireland. It will offer delegates Early Spring Grazing Farm Event for Dairy Farmers – the first hand opportunity to see and experience dairy, beef and Co. Cork sheep production from grassland.

Date: 21 March 2018 More information is available at www.egf2018.com Event Time: 11am Visit Teagasc’s website at www.teagasc.ie/news--events/ Venue: Martin Buckley, Ardragh, Scart, Bantry, Co. Cork. for more news and other events coming up in 2018.

Early turnout to grass and the use of proven grazing technologies will increase dairy cow performance and reduce costs of milk production.

Teagasc has organised a series of on-farm demonstrations of the practicalities of early spring grassland management.

Events will focus on: • How to manage cows during difficult grazing conditions • Spring nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertiliser plan • Setting the farm up for early grazing Grass10 Farm Walk - Winner of Young Farmer Category Date: 29 March 2018 Event Time: TBC Venue Farm of Tim Crowley, Bandon, Co. Cork - Winner of the 'Young Farmer Category' in the Grass10 Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition. A farm walk will take place on 29 March on the farm of Tim Crowley, Bandon, Co. Cork. Tim is the winner of the 'Young Farmer Category' in the Grass10 Grassland Farmer of the Year Competition.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS ENERGY IN AGRICULTURE 2018 Ireland’s largest Energy event for the farming community will take place on Tuesday 21st August 2018 and is free to attend. Energy in Agriculture 2017 attracted 2500 attendees and 63 exhibitors.

Energy in Agriculture 2018 will highlight opportunities for farmers with regards to renewable energy and how they can adopt a sustainable approach to their farming processes. The organisers want everyone who attends to walk away with new knowledge, new contacts and new ideas. Keep checking back for updates and announcements on the new programme. Gurteen College, Ballingarry, Roscrea is the venue for Energy in Agriculture 2018.

Register your interest at https://energyinagriculture.ie/register/ and keep an eye on the website https://energyinagriculture.ie/ for up-to-date information and news.

CARGILL BACKS LIVESTOCK VISION TECH CAINTHUS

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Cainthus, an Irish startup focused on using computer vision and predictive imaging analysis to monitor the health and well-being of livestock has received an undisclosed investment from protein giant Cargill.

Cainthus uses various types of imaging equipment to monitor livestock operations while artificial intelligence and custom algorithms detect behaviour in individual animals to monitor their health and alert the user when an action is required.The Cainthus system is able to detect food and water intake in individual animals as well as when the animals are in heat and more, says founder David Hunt.

Imagery can come from drones, satellites, CCTV, and smart devices, but the most common set-up in Cainthus trials is an installation of a few dozen CCTV cameras on dairy farms.

Within seconds Cainthus imaging technology can identify individual cows by their features, memorize their unique identity and record individual patterns and movements.

“If you boil down on a granular level we’re looking at rate of change of pixels. We train our AI to understand that a particular pixel pattern is a cow and when that pixel pattern exhibits a rate of change of movement that determines what the gesture is,” explained Hunt.

Cargill is also entering into a partnership with the startup and has already run several trials with Cainthus technology. So far, Cainthus has tested their system in commercial dairy farms in New York, California, Canada, Italy, and Spain.

An internal team at Cargill has been searching for strategies to use digital technologies to fundamentally improve livestock and aquaculture operations for around eight months, Sri Kantamneni, managing director of digital insights at Cargill, told AgFundernews.

He said that one of the most attractive qualities of Cainthus technology was its potential to apply to all animal protein sectors.

“We have hopes for taking their technology to pork poultry and aquaculture as well,” said Kantamneni.

Trials have shown that farmers can earn an additional $100-200 return per animal, per lactation cycle using the system and the most common issues that Cainthus detects are the cows running out of feed at night and not having enough water. Fixing these problems alone can bring a noticeable financial return, said Hunt.

“There is so much intervention opportunity with an individual cow that goes unidentified today.” Hunt explained that using

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS Cainthus tech, not only are more issues mitigated, but dairy staff been very close to deals with other funders, but he felt that none do not need to enter into the cows’ space unless the system could provide the support that a large strategic in the animal suggests an intervention, leading to calmer animals and less protein industry could, so he focused his efforts on finding a strategic partner rather than raising a venture round to reach patrolling by dairy workers.

This investment from Cargill is for the time being, in lieu of a commercialization. formal funding round. Hunt told AgFunderNews that Cainthus had “The hardest thing in agtech is route to market. If you’ve got a new product and a new face, that makes it difficult for a farmer.

We felt that a big ag strategic would be the most useful to us. We talked to a number of strategics and a few were difficult to engage with. Cargill had clearly done their homework more than anyone else,” said Hunt.

Last year, Cargill released the first two elements in a suite of digital tools across its animal nutrition business – Dairy Enteligen and iQuatic – and is set to announce at least four more before the second half of this year, according to Kantamneni.

In its first iteration, Dairy Enteligen is a record-keeping farm management tool to help dairy farmers move away from notepads and excel sheets to record information about their herd and performance. iQuatic is an equivalent product for the aquaculture industry.

While Cargill is not focused on acquisitions as much as other agribusinesses have been to formulate the basis of their digital offerings – Monsanto acquiring Climate Corp and DuPont acquiring Granular are two examples – the company is considering acquiring relevant businesses, particularly on the sensing side, according to Kantamneni.

This article by Emma Cosgrove was originally published on AgFunder News. Visit https://agfundernews.com/ for this and other stories.

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CALF REARING

PRECISION REALISES NEW POTENTIAL IN CALF MILK REPLACERS More isn’t necessarily better when it comes to protein levels in calf milk replacers, writes Dr Jim Quigley a leading international authority in calf and heifer research.

The latest research shows that lower concentrations of protein amino acids.“This is already well researched in the pig and poultry sectors, and it has allowed them to improve feed efficiency, reduce but with a specific balance of amino acids can improve wasted nutrients and minimise feed costs. Even dairy cow rations growth rates in pre-weaned calves while reducing milk are formulated to optimise amino acids for maximum milk yields replacer costs and ‘waste’ nitrogen.

Calf nutrition is really changing, according to Cargill’s Jim Quigley with lower protein concentrations.Yet until now we haven’t adequately who, after more than 25 years in the industry, says that he’s seeing specified amino acid requirements for dairy calves.” more progress now than ever before.“People have challenged the Calf milk replacers here are typical between 22% and 23% protein and 26% for a high protein milk replacer. Some may even protocols that we’ve followed for many years.This is good – it’s have protein levels of 28%. led to one of the most comprehensive reviews of calf nutrition “But more isn’t necessarily better,” says Dr Quigley, adding that the for many years.” company’s latest trial work looked at key components in calf nutrition: Dr Quigley, who is an international authority in calf and heifer rearing and spends 50% of his time on research projects and the • How much CMR can we feed and what sort of response can we get.

• Can we improve growth rates and productivity with a better other 50% communicating the latest knowledge through Cargill combination of constituents? specialists globally, has recently been this side of the water to • What’s the best balance of amino acids for growth rates and performance? disseminate the latest developments in calf milk replacers with

“Until now we haven’t adequately specified amino acid requirements for dairy calves” precisely balanced amino acid supplementation – and lower protein concentrations.

“Pre-weaned calves receive nearly all their daily protein intake from milk or milk replacer,” he says. “Essentially all the amino acids needed for growth will come from the liquid diet. Complete milk proteins – casein plus whey – have been considered ideal.

When corrected for digestibility, this amino acid profile matches that in lean tissue growth. Until recently, we’ve believed this to be a ‘perfect’ match.”

AMINO ACID-LED However, the components of milk protein can have different amino acid profiles.These can be limiting in certain essential

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Trials using combinations of amino acids with a range of milk replacers of varying protein contents were trialled on calves at Cargill’s Nurture Research Centre in New Paris, Ohio.

Calves were fed on milk replacer and starter from two days old through to weaning at four to six weeks, using multiple titrations of amino acids under many different feed programmes.

Amino acid balance improves protein use, calf performance and nitrogen efficiency

CALF REARING Results, shown in Figure 2, indicate a 10% average increase in WEIGHT INCREASE OF 18% total weight gain and 13% increase in frame growth where the Combinations of lysine and methionine and threonine, often amino acids were included. additional referred to as limiting amino acids where a lack of one results in a ‘gap’ in the diet that limits growth, were used, plus other important amino acids arginine and histidine.

BETTER PROTEIN USE Calves were measured for daily liveweight gain and skeletal size “And when we consider costs, we can see a better return where – height, circumference and hip width.These growth measures calves are fed a milk replacer with optimal protein (24%) and the provided a valuable measure of performance. latest package of balanced amino acids compared with a 28% Results showed that calves up to four weeks old achieved an protein milk replacer and no supplementary amino acid balance,” 18% increase in average daily weight gain where a specific amino says Dr Quigley.“This is because feed costs and cost per kilo of acid supplementation was added to 24% and 26% crude protein weight gain are less in the lower protein ration.” milk replacers, Figure 1.

Another advantage of feeding lower protein is the improvement These calves achieved average daily weight gain above that delivered in nitrogen efficiency.“There’s less waste – a 28% milk replacer by a 28% crude protein milk replacer. All milk replacers contained creates more waste nitrogen than a 24% protein product that, 17% fat and were fed at 0.7kg/head/day up to weaning. based on our trials, we consider ideal. More waste is uneconomical “This showed us that lower concentrations of protein but with and has environmental and stewardship implications.” specific amino acid supplementation can produce better results, Dr Quigley considers that they have arrived at protein levels more cost-effectively and with less waste,” says Dr Quigley. with a balance of amino acids for calf milk replacers that will improve performance and reduce the cost per unit of body weight Figure 1 Effect of amino acid supplementation in milk gain through more efficient protein use. replacer on calf growth rates

NEW-LOOK REPLACERS “Work in the US has demonstrated the benefit of balancing calf milk replacers for amino acids rather than formulating to protein, says Cargill UK & Ireland calf and heifer specialist Bianca Theeruth.

“Trial results show that we can achieve the same performance in calf development on a lower protein calf milk replacer balanced for amino acids compared with a higher, more expensive, protein replacer with no additional amino acid supplementation.

“The advantages also include better use of protein and contribute to a more sustainable industry.” These latest developments in calf nutrition have been put into practice in the Cargill’s ProviMilk™ milk replacers.“These are now formulated to an amino acid requirement and not protein per se and will help producers achieve more protein-efficient and cost-effective growth rates,” she adds.

Cargill’s research went on to develop its amino acid balancing technology, AmNeo™, and include more amino acids in the evaluations, leading to an improved amino acid balance.

The performance of groups of calves with these varying levels of amino acid supplementation in an optimal 24% crude protein milk replacer at 17% fat were been compared.

Figure 2: Effect of low and high amino acid supplementation included in AmNeo balanced package on calf growth rates (Calves fed on a 24% crude protein and 17% fat milk replacer at 680g/day. Weaned at 42 days)

Bianca Theeruth, Technology Specialist (Calf & Heifer) Cargill Premix & Nutrition, UK & Ireland.

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insworths have advised and supplied beef and dairy farmers with homoeopathic remedies for over three decades, priding themselves on providing advice to support their natural effective homoeopathic remedies. The 3000+ farmers they supply in the UK, continue to enjoy success and also benefit from savings in production, from the use of residue-free treatments, with no side effects – unlike antibiotics there is no resistance to the medicines.

Truly a win-win formula for the farmer.

Homoeopathy can be used to prevent a very wide range of common bovine problems – surprisingly, even those for which there is no conventional approach available. For example, homeopathic medicines can be used to reduce the susceptibility of a herd to soil-based organisms, where these cannot be eradicated. When they are used in conjunction with good hygiene and efficient husbandry the results continue to speak for themselves.

Ainsworths manufacture a range of remedies for prevention and treatment. These are designed for simple administration to either the herd, via water troughs or sprayed on the nose or vulva for individual treatment.

Their Technical Director, Tony Pinkus, has had many years of advising farmers about which remedies to use and this has allowed him to discover what works in practice. He now shares this accumulated experience with a Self-Help Book for Herdsmen If you need remedies for the prevention of common diseases and a 42 remedy Bovine Kit which covers a wide spectrum of (like TB, Cryptosporidium, Leptospirosis, Ringworm, Scours, and common bovine problems with advised homoeopathic treatments. Pneumonias) or treatment for mastitis and foot problems – consider Tony Pinkus also provides a one day training course for farmers homoeopathy and call Ainsworths for a chat. to assist with the principles and practice of herd treatment.

Visit www.ainsworths.com

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SILAGE PLANNING

SPRING EFFORT LEADS TO SUMMER REWARDS Successful summer silage is born out of good basic groundwork in spring, writes Joe Patton, Teagasc Dairy Specialist, Grange, Co. Meath.

INTRODUCTION ‘The hay saved and Cork beat’ is an old definition of a good summer in the Munster hurling belt. It neatly links together sport and farming, two enduring pillars of Irish rural life. In the sporting field, the availability of new technologies and data analytics has revolutionised planning and preparation capabilities over recent years. It is now possible to do things faster, more accurately, and to a higher standard than ever before. Nonetheless, it remains a core principle that success in summer is born out of doing the basic groundwork well during spring. The same logic can be directly applied on the farming side, certainly in relation to grass and silage crop management. It is no coincidence that those farms consistently achieving excellent results Teagasc Dairygold Farm Cork for silage crop quality and quantity employ a ‘winning formula’ based on learning from experience and following sound scientific principles.

SILAGE QUANTITY AND QUALITY THE CURRENT STATE OF PLAY The year 2017 brought its own feed challenges in the second half of the year, especially in the north western regions where rainfall amounts ran well ahead of 10-year averages from August onwards.

For much of the rest of the country, the narrative was quite different with many grass-measuring farms reporting strong annual grass growth rates and adequate silage reserves. This is illustrated in Figure 1, which shows the annual grass growth pattern for the research farms at Teagasc Moorepark (Dairygold Farm) in Cork, and Teagasc Ballyhaise dairy unit in Cavan. Annual tonnage of dry matter grown (Teagasc Teagasc Ballyhaise dairy farm, Cavan PastureBase) at these sites was very similar at 15.3t and 15.1t DM Figure1. Annual grass patterns for Teagasc sites in Cork and Cavan per hectare respectively, albeit with different weekly growth patterns. (Teagasc PastureBase)

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SILAGE PLANNING These grass tonnage levels are quite representative of well-managed commercial grassland farms across the country. In terms of feed capacity, such farms are capable of sustaining whole-farm stocking rates (SR) up to 2.7 LU per ha in a dairy context with all foragesilage and grass- accounted for. It is more difficult to provide an indicative SR for beef farms given the range of systems in place; however the same principle of matching stocking rate to annual grass growth applies. In practice, combining higher SR and/or lower annual growth rates on farms will inevitably lead to shortages of conserved silage, as feed deficits are generally pushed into the winter period. Current estimates of mean annual growth rate on dairy and beef farms stand at approximately 9-10 t DM per ha. Exceeding a SR of 1.9LU per ha at these levels would increase the risk of silage shortage. This calculation of stock carrying capacity can be an eyeopener on many farms. Managing the farm to achieve higher annual growth rates is therefore the first step to a successful silage plan.

Figure2. Target DMD for different classes of cattle From a quality perspective, the standard of silage samples tested nationally has remained disappointingly poor in recent years. Dry matter digestibility (DMD) is the primary measure of value because it relates very well to milk yield and liveweight gain potential. The average DMD of samples tested in 2017 was approximately 63%, with a typical range of 58-78%. Based on Teagasc research targets for silage quality, it is clear that the average silage crop quality will struggle to meet the nutritional needs of anything other than dry

suckler cows (Figure 2). Poor weather at cutting is the first and most frequent reason cited, but there is enough good silage made in the bad years, and bad silage made in the good, to conclude that this not a valid conclusion. It seems that as an industry we have lost sight of the relevance of good quality winter forage, even though it can fit well into high performance grass systems. Getting back to first principles of spring sward management on individual farms is required to addressing this issue.

FERTILISER AND LIME TARGETS: The first step to improving silage yield and quality on most dairy and beef farms is to take soil samples and develop a field-by-field fertiliser plan based on the P, K and lime requirements (Table 1).

Treat P and K separately as silage fields may be adequate for one nutrient but be lacking in the other. Provision should be made for a stock of lower K silage on dairy herds, to be fed for 2-3 weeks in late pregnancy as an aid to milk fever prevention. This can be best achieved from second cut swards. Reduce the N application rate by 20-25 kg per ha for old pastures or if the field was grazed rather than cut the previous year. Many silage swards will benefit from sulphur applied at a ratio of 1:10 to fertilizer N, applied in the spring. Deficits in S can reduce leaf growth and protein content in the crop; assess the requirement by testing forage for S content (Target 0.20 to 0.22% of DM).

Soil pH is often the first limiting factor for silage yield so ensure the target pH 6.3 is met. Apply lime in summer/autumn (after silage cutting is ideal) but avoid spreading for 3-4 months before cutting as it may adversely affect the silage fermentation process.

Table 1. Fertiliser nutrient application rates guidelines for first cut silage (kg/ha) Soil Index P required K required N required Sulphur required

1 2 3 40 30 20 175 155 125 125 12-14 (10% of N applied)

4 0 0

“Management decisions around silage yield should therefore be based on meeting DMD targets rather than bulk”

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SILAGE PLANNING A well-known guideline for fertilizer N is that grass uses up 2 units of N (2.5kg) per day on average during spring growth. Fertilizer N should be applied approximately 50 days before planned cutting date. Sticking too rigidly to this interval though, could mean delayed first cuts on some farms with a consequent cost to quality. The crop may still be harvested earlier depending on nitrate and sugar levels.

If weather conditions are otherwise suitable, it is advisable to test the grass crop rather than delaying cutting based solely on the ‘2unit rule’. Wilting to >28% DM is a very effective aid to preservation if nitrate readings are high.

Grazing in spring has been shown to reduce yield of dry matter in the first cut crop, by 0.7 to 1.4t DM per ha depending on grazing and cutting date (earlier grazing and longer intervals reduce the effect).

However, it is important to assess the effect on silage demand and total forage harvested from the field area. Research studies in Grange and Moorepark have demonstrated a reduction in silage requirement and an increase in forage utilised when early season grazing of silage ground was practised.

GRAZING IN SPRING:

Figure 3. Grazing in spring- effect on total forage energy harvested

To achieve good quality silage in early summer, it is essential that the sward has is clean and green to the base in late February. Graze to <4cm residual in February/March before applying fertilizer for silage. A similar effect can be achieved by tight grazing with young stock in late autumn. However, swards with yellow/dead material must be grazed off otherwise silage DMD may be reduced by up to 6-7 percentage points. Silage ground re-seeded the previous autumn should have been grazed at least twice before closing for silage. Silage ground on grazing areas for dairy herds should by definition be grazed in spring.

Figure 4. Grass growth stage effects on silage DMD

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Balancing yield and quality targets: Grass DM yield is the single most important factor determining silage cost per tonne, but quality also needs to be considered when setting target cutting date. Dairy farms operating at or below ‘national average’ silage quality, stand to benefit from improving DMD of first cut silage by 4-5 points, due to better control of dry cow BCS, improved milk solids in lactating cows, and higher growth rates in youngstock. For beef herds, the potential benefit of improving grass silage DMD depends on the mix of stock

SILAGE PLANNING on the farm over the winter period. While ‘national average’ silage is suitable only for dry suckler cows requiring zero body condition score gain, farm systems requiring higher animal performance (growing/ finishing cattle) stand to benefit from raising silage DMD by at least 5-6 percentage points above average level.

Target silage DMD therefore varies with type of stock to be fed.

Within a given sward, DMD is very much determined by grass growth stage at harvest (Figure 4). For higher DMD silage (73+), harvest at or just before seed heads emerge. DMD drops by 1 unit for every 2-3 days delay after that, depending on weather and sward conditions. If the crop lodges or there is dead material at the base, DMD generally drops a further 3-4 units.

It is clear that no single harvest date will be suitable for all stock.

Depending on the farm system in place, this may lead to complications in silage management. However, a simple approach to meeting quality requirements is to: 1 Define the highest quality silage required on the farm first.

2 Estimate the total quantity of this silage needed.

3 Calculate the area of first and subsequent cuts needed to produce this silage.

4 Mark on the farm map and set targets for spring grazing, fertiliser, cutting date.

5 Manage the remaining area to produce silage of standard quality.

yields before grass heading date. This point is illustrated in Figure 5; it shows a well-managed sward on high fertility soils reaching target DM yield of 5tonnes per ha by May 25th. A sward on poor fertility soils takes 2-3 weeks longer to reach the same yield by which time DMD has fallen significantly. Delaying cutting in this manner would actually reduce total utilisable feed energy harvested per ha.

Furthermore, the sward on high fertility soil has 2-3 weeks extra recovery time after first-cut, resulting in improved second-cut silage yield and quality, and perhaps additional autumn grazing. Management decisions around silage yield should therefore be made on the basis of meeting DMD targets and improving annual grass tonnage per hectare, rather than focussing solely on the bulk of an individual cut.

RESEEDING: Productive silage ground should have predominantly perennial ryegrass swards. Old permanent pasture can produce high DMD silage in ideal conditions, but is less responsive to fertiliser nutrients for first-cut crops, leading to delayed harvest and risk of poorer DMD. Lower sugar content makes preservation more difficult. The decision to reseed should be based on sward composition and performance. A rule of thumb is that silage ground should be reseeded every 8-10 years (5-6 years for multiple cut systems). Many farms do not reach this target, especially if silage ground is on shortterm lease. Reseeding is unlikely to be successful if soil fertility and post-emergence management to promote tillering and weed control are lacking. Assess performance of individual fields and make a plan to improve the poorest performing areas.

Flexibility is needed around cutting date management, and each farm should develop a plan that suits its own scale, facilities, and stock type. For example, a farm carrying spring-calving sucklers plus some finishing cattle may take an early cut of high DMD bales in SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS mid-May on 20-30% of silage area, with the remainder of first-cut Grass silage production is one of the most significant costs to dairy taken at 66-68% DMD in early June for feeding to dry cows. and beef systems in Ireland.There is significant scope for improvement But what about the apparent loss in yield associated with higher of crop yield and quality through application of well proven grass quality silage? It is a common view that silage quality must come at a management principles.The required changes will be very cost-effective direct cost to ‘bulk in the pit’. This is not entirely accurate, as the for the great majority of farms and involve improved practices rather than principal factors driving grass yield - soil phosphorus (P) and potassium a simple increase of purchased inputs. New technologies and analysis tools (K) status, soil pH, reseeded ryegrass swards, nitrogen (N) application should be employed if needed. As in sport, early season management rate - also drive quality because they facilitate cutting of high DM in particular is where the game is won or lost.

Figure 5. Effect of soil fertility status on firstcut harvest date and silage DMD

26

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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The tractor has been specifically designed for jobs that demand excellent manoeuvrability and a demanding operability in jobs with power takeoff.The use of the two programmable revolution memories, coupled with the electronic management of speed, allow the working speed to be kept constant.

In addition, the 40-ECO transmission with six synchronised gears, with dual speed High-Lo technology, allows farmers and contractors to change gear directly, gently and quickly. The electro-hydraulic reverser, which avoids using the clutch, provides a fast and gradual change in direction.

Kubota is aware of the importance of comfort when working. The Ultra Grand Cab II has been designed for this reason, a cab that is so wide that it offers a vision of almost 360º. This panoramic visibility is increased thanks to the sunroof with a sliding sun visor.

This, together with a large range of equipment, ensures maximum comfort and high levels of productivity throughout the year. The tractor also features high-power lights that allow working at night, he M5001 Series has been introduced to replace and succeed and the storage spaces and doors have been optimised, with the company’s previous M8540 and M9960 models.When designing continuous glass and with the possibility of entering from both sides this innovative tractor, the company focused on four fundamental safely. aspects of the tractor that would enable it to successfully carry out any The M5001 tractor can be equipped with the LA1854 shovel specifically daily job in the field. These were driving convenience, the ease of use, designed by Kubota for this tractor that guarantees compatibility and the versatility of the tractor and its manoeuvrability. By doing this, optimises results in the applications.The downward sloping design of

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“Every last detail has been taken care of in the Kubota M5001 tractor for the driver to work as comfortably as possible” Kubota has been able to launch the new M5001 Series that will make the bonnet provides optimum visibility and safety.Another key safety significant improvements in all these areas, satisfying the requirements feature are the anti-lowering valves, which allow the shovel to maintain of the most demanding customers, at the same time as increasing the its position even if the system suffers pressure losses. efficiency of the job.

The loader is equipped with a quick coupling system for implements This is an extremely exciting time for Kubota business as the company and hydraulic hoses, which makes it easier to change buckets and continues its long term investment in the agricultural sector.The launch disassemble the loader. of the M5001 Series completes the renewal of M Series, which started Every last detail has been taken care of in the Kubota M5001 tractor with the introduction of the flagship M7001 Series, introduced to target for the driver to work as comfortably as possible.The front loader is the 130HP to 170HP sector. Kubota has also invested over €40 million equipped with KSR (Kubota Shockless Ride), shock absorber system, in a new production facility in Northern France – Kubota Farm Machinery, which minimises sudden movements in the cab when working for highlighting Kubota´s commitment and global move in the mainstream example on rough terrain or driving on the road. agricultural market.

For more information on Kubota and its wide range of The M5001 series impresses with its functions and high efficiency, agricultural solutions, call 01844 268000 or visit www.kubota.co.uk thanks to Kubota's leading-edge diesel technology. In this regard, the Japanese company is the first manufacturer to incorporate a CRS (Common Rail System) equipped with a urea catalyst (SCR), a system to recirculate exhaust gases with water refrigeration (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC).The combination of these technologies optimises the individual operation of each one of them and reduces power consumption. In addition, this 16-valve engine meets strict emission control requirements imposed by Europe in the last stage of emissions known as Phase 4.

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28

GRASS MANAGEMENT

WATCH THE GRASS NOT THE CALENDAR Making quality grass silage – A guide to ensuring good fermentation, by Grace Thomas M.Agr.Sc. P.A.S. Nutritionist, Agriking Ltd.

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he aim when making silage is to capture as much of the nutrients as possible from the fresh crop and preserve them with minimal losses.

Many factors influence the capturing and preservation, some of which are outside of our control, like the weather; however, there are many management practices that can help mitigate the variability in silage quality and preservation.

All producers should be motivated to make the highest quality silage possible, as silage quality will determine animal performance and greatly influences the level of grain required during the winter period.

Harvesting should take place, when possible, at peak crop quality rather than by the calendar date. This can be difficult in wet conditions; wider swards and spreading quickly (within one hour) will help speed up wilting. Be aware that silages harvested in wet conditions are more likely to have clostridia due to dirt splashing onto the crop and pick up at harvesting, wet silage also promotes clostridia growth.

Target dry matter (DM) at harvesting for pit silage is 23- 30% and 3035% for bale silage. The nitrate and sugar level of grass needs to be considered before cutting. Sugar levels in grass silage tend to be highest after sunny weather and at peak levels in the afternoon so, if possible, grass should be mowed in the afternoon.

If this is not possible it is best to wait until after the dew has evaporated The four main factors that impact the quality of silage are as before cutting. Sugar is important in the ensiling process and a goal detailed below: of at least 3% is the key to achieving good fermentation.

High nitrate levels in grass can negatively impact the fermentation 1. FRESH GRASS process, it is recommended to avoid cutting grass when nitrate levels Silage quality is determined mainly by the quality of the crop being are high. High sugar levels can sometimes help mitigate the negative ensiled. Leafy, young, immature crops tend to be lower in fibre and effect of high nitrates but, if in doubt, please speak to an advisor. high in protein and sugars.

Both nitrate and sugar levels in grass can be assessed on farm before Figure 1 shows the degradation of protein and the increase in fibre cutting using nitrate strips and a light refractometer (See Figure 2). levels as grass matures.

Older crops produce silage with more bulk but are generally 2. PITTING / BALING poorer in quality and have lower feed value compared to young Once the crop is mowed every effort should be made to ensure that crop silage. the grass is pitted correctly to allow for optimum fermentation. The pit should be filled rapidly and evenly. It needs to be packed tightly Fig 1: Grass silage quality as it grows to create as dense a silage as possible.

Density of the pit is important as pits with lower densities tend to contain more oxygen which can lead to higher heat damage and poor fermentation. Pits with lower bunker densities have been proven to have greater dry matter losses compared to higher density pits. The pit should be covered and sealed as soon as possible.

Baled silages need to be wrapped with in 2-3 hours of baling. The number of wraps needed is usually determined by the dry matter of the grass, 6-8 layers of film is the minimum recommended amount.

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GRASS MANAGEMENT The use of inoculants on silage helps improve the quality and digestibility. They can help accelerate fermentation rates by rapidly dropping the pH. This drop in pH helps kill off the “bad” microbes faster.

Some fermentation aids such as Lactobacillus buchneri only start to grow after initial fermentation of 60 days.

This can be a problem as, if the pH of the silage is not rapidly reduced, it can produce “rogue” fermentation.

Fig 2: Nitrate strips and Light refractometer

3. FERMENTATION The goal for optimum fermentation is to remove oxygen from the silage as soon as possible so that Anaerobic Fermentation can commence.

The presence of oxygen in the pit allows Aerobic Fermentation to occur, the effect of which can be seen in the Figure 3. The oxygen trapped in the silage will delay the production of lactic acid, cause heating, dry matter loss and will prolong the production of less desirable acetic acid.

Respiration in the grass continues after chopping, this can help towards the removal of oxygen in the pit. This process converts the available oxygen to carbon dioxide, water and heat whilst utilising the sugar in the silage. The goal is to allow Lactic acid producing bacteria to dominate the silage quickly and to hinder undesirable fermentations from any yeast, moulds, clostridia or bacilli.

Fig 3: Effect of oxygen on fermentation

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wo new revolutionary products which may help in the control and reduction of Somatic cells in cows have been launched on the market by Ryall O’Mahony Ltd. Both are based on the natural ingredient Allicine, an extract of the garlic bulb. Allicine acts as a natural antibiotic but without the obvious drawbacks. Both are withdrawal free.

The first is available as a tube for use on the infected quarter and when used for 4 consecutive milkings at the earliest sign of sub-clinical mastitis the UDDERCURE tube has been shown to give very positive results.

The ALLICINE bolus is for use on individual cows showing a high Somatic Cell Count and may help in reducing high Cell counts and improve the overall health of the cow.

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31

GRASS MANAGEMENT

“Harvesting should take place, when possible, at peak crop quality rather than by the calendar date” The preferred option is to use Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) such as Lactobacillus plantarum, L. acidophilus, Pediococcus pentosaceus and Enterococcus faecium, these bacteria produce only lactic acid with the least amount of shrink, DM loss and heating.

Figure 4 shows the rapid production of lactic acid by LAB’s. A combination of LAB’s is preferred as they can work in synergy.

Some additive/inoculations contain more than just bacteria, each of these added ingredients work together into help aid fermentation, increase digestibility and lower DM losses.

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Figure 5 shows a list of these ingredients and the positive effect they have on silage production.

FEEDING Fermentation is complete when the low pH in the pit stops the bacterial action. Once the pit is stable it is safe to feed.

When the pit is open, maintaining good pit face management is the best way to ensure that the open pit stays stable.

This can be achieved by removing a least 6 inches from the feed

GRASS MANAGEMENT face a day, keeping the face smooth and limiting the face exposure.

Managing the pit face will help stop the introduction of oxygen into the fermented silage and potentially starting secondary aerobic fermentation.

In conclusion, during the production of quality grass silage some losses are inevitable.

However, the aim is to lower the losses and produce the best silage possible. Agriking Ltd have a forage treatment product Silo-King® that has been designed to help the rumen unlock more of the nutrients from forage and to improve profitability.

This product contains a combination of LAB’s, Enzymes,Antioxidants, mould and yeast inhibitors and preservatives.Agriking representatives can also advise on silage cutting, provide detailed analysis of your silage and offer advice on the optimum way to feed.

Fig 4: Lactic acid product after ensiling

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33

FARM BUILDING DESIGN

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROFESSIONAL PLANNING & SUPERVISION Optimum Design of a Cattle House – A close look at the building process and scheduling that can make all the difference, by Donal Flanagan.

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eople sometimes lose sight of the overall objective by the time the slatted tank is built, and the shed frame has been erected and all that work is paid for, but any aspect of a farm building that animals are in contact with should be planned and specified properly, not just the basic frame.

FARM BUILDINGS SERVICES LTD. – COMPANY BACKGROUND My name is Donal Flanagan – B. Agr. Sc.- Farm Buildings Services Ltd., Ardscull, Athy, Co. Kildare. Our business has been trading in the farm buildings business for the last 44 years now, providing a complete project management service for building works across the farming and agri industry all over the island of Ireland.

My father Donal Senior started the business in1974, at a time when slatted cattle housing and modern farm buildings as we know them today were just coming on the horizon and sometimes seen as new ideas that were pushing the boundaries. Over the years in business he developed unrivalled experience and knowledge of how to construct farm buildings in a cost-effective manner while ensuring that clients needs were met in line with their farming system.

To say that I have benefitted greatly during the transition where day to day responsibility now rests on my shoulders is an understatement. From dealing with swampy, bottomless ground under sections of large grain stores to shifting rock under slatted tanks, the problem was always engineered out and a solution found.

And so I push into 2018 with sadness due to my father’s death over the Christmas period, but happy and thankful for the benefit of 14 years’ experience sharing his knowledge and experience in a professional capacity. I am a firm believer in the values he held dear, honesty, integrity, behaving in a professional manner while at work, giving value to your clients and being careful because you are responsible for someone else’s money.

34

FARM BUILDING DESIGN

THE BUILDING PROCESS (SEE PROJECT DRAWING): Having a professional plan the job means the work is done on time and any potential problems are flagged and solved early: 1. Advice on design and layout according to requirements. This can take from two weeks to more than a month depending on the complexity of the proposal. Some farmers know exactly what they want while others require ideas and advice before full agreement is reached on a design. Working in existing yards, adding on to existing buildings is generally more difficult than moving to a green field site. This project took a little longer to design due to the topography on site making certain options prohibitive due to the costs involved. Significant changes in ground levels would have called for steep ramps in the farmyard, lots of filling to tie in with existing yard levels, and significant engineering detail to erect the buildings safely and securely.

2. Once agreement is reached this is progressed to a full set of drawings and submission and processing of a Planning Application to the Local Authority. Preparation of drawings and documentation required by Local Authorities will take another two weeks. It is important to take the time to prepare a submission clearly, with accurate details on the existing farm yard and farming operations.

This allows the Local Authority to make an informed decision and understand the need for the proposed development.

A Grant of Permission will take a minimum of 12 weeks from the time the Application is lodged. This is generally achievable for most agricultural developments.

Where Further Information is requested the process may take up to six months longer. No problems were encountered in this case and Planning Permission was granted without any questions being asked.

(Some projects may require the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements or specific chapters such as Site Assessments or Ecological Reports where development is taking place in or near a sensitive area such as a Natura 2000 site or perhaps a graveyard which may require an Archaeological Report. These reports may take a number of weeks to prepare but can be provided as part of our service.)

3. When Planning Permission is in place we can provide cost estimates or tender the proposed works. The overall cost and value for money are very significant with any new development. Accurate costings that account for every element of the works will give the farmer a true picture of the requirements.

A lot of farmers carry out some aspects of the work themselves which is fine, but they do not account for the cost of their own labour, which can be a false economy.

We are finding that in larger dairy units the farmer does not have the time to carry out any work on the new development, but they don’t assess this properly beforehand, and then view the requirement to employ a contractor as an extra cost.

This process will usually take two to three weeks, depending on the scale of the project and what decisions a farmer must make. E.g. milking machine supplier. It is important to note that in a busy time like the industry is currently experiencing, costs are tending to rise so careful management of the figures is necessary to secure the best prices.

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FARM BUILDING DESIGN better product. Very few people consider the possible benefits in providing rubber matting along the feed face where cows feed for around 8 hours per day during the housing period.

It should be acknowledged that the dimensions specified in 5. Supervision of the works to completion forms the majority modern dairy cubicle housing are more generous in recent times. of our work. As part of this service we complete the necessary Passage widths within animal areas have generally increased paperwork, e.g. Grant Aid Applications, Commencement Notice. which certainly allows greater freedom of movement but is also A Commencement Notice is a legal document and must be submitted to the Building Control section of the Local Authority partly a function of greater animal numbers housed in one area, leading to a greater density which a requires a larger area to be at least 14 days and not more than 28 days before site work provided. Increased width of crossovers, particularly where begins.

Health & Safety requirements can be quite onerous and should drinkers are situated is a very noticeable improvement over be handled very carefully. Only competent contractors who are older cubicle houses where as little as one cubicle space was taken out to allow for circulation of stock. It is very important in compliance with regulations should be used, and promoters to note that a lot of more recent houses don’t make sufficient are obliged to fulfil their obligations. provision for crossovers when cubicle houses are stocked in Regular site visits are important to co-ordinate the works, ensure compliance with Dept. of Agriculture specifications and separate groups.

4. The best package (i.e. building contractor, shed contractor, gates, railing, stall work contractor, plumber, electrician etc.) is chosen and contractors appointed.

“Having a professional plan the job means the work is done on time and any potential problems are flagged and solved early” other standards and to ensure that the project runs safely. This project will take approximately six months to complete fully.

6. Certification of payment to contractors for works completed. Where required we act on our client’s behalf to certify that works are completed and payment can be made to the various contractors employed.

7. We employ a Chartered Engineer to prepare all our drawings, provide certification/ specifications for works where necessary and to help with compliance under various codes such as Health & safety.

We are in contact with a large range of builders, contractors and suppliers around the country on a regular basis. The cost of a professional planner should be easily recovered by their pricing and planning knowledge when compared to self build.

ANIMAL COMFORT While there is general acceptance of rubber cubicle matting for dairy cows, there is a wide variation in the quality of material available.

Selection of product used is usually dictated by price rather than examining the cost: benefit ratio of fitting a higher spec. or

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Gates are generally placed across passageways with no provision for stock to circulate so they hit a dead end. This is not a good setup and should be avoided through more thorough planning and provision of more crossovers to suit any system of grouping cows according to weight, age, milking or dry etc. being employed on each individual farm.

Cubicle bed widths haven’t changed greatly and usually don’t need to be more than 1.15m to 1.2m centre to centre unless cows are quite big. The widespread use of cantilever style cubicles play their part in this, allowing cows to stretch their legs more comfortably and with less risk of damage.

We find more recently that as the particular style of cantilever cubicle division has changed, the positioning of the neck rail, combined with the overall length of the cubicle bed and whether a brisket board is used or not along with the presence or absence of a head wall are all parameters that need to be examined and set up very carefully in terms of positioning the cow correctly so that she doesn’t lie up too far and dirty the bed, while maintaining enough lunging space for the cow to stand up comfortably. A little more time invested, and maybe money also to get this setup right will pay for itself many times over in the lifespan of the building.

SHED CLIMATE The importance of sufficient ventilation - without draughts and appropriate volumes of fresh air including cubic air capacity cannot be overstated.

Plentiful natural lighting is another very important factor. In our opinion there is no such thing as too much. Standing in a nice airy livestock shed that is as bright inside as the day is outside makes for a very comfortable environment and very happy, healthy and productive cows.

I will expand on the points made above in future issues and comment on the picture above of a conventional milking parlour recently completed, along with a project due to start shortly - see drawing opposite, comprising of adding extra cubicles, slatted tanks and robotic milking facilities to existing cubicles.

If you wish to engage our services or chat about a proposed project feel free to contact me (Donal) at Tel: 087 9947743. www.farmbuildings.ie

FARM BUILDING DESIGN

37

MILK TANK & EQUIPMENT CLEANING

BEST PRACTICE SUGGESTS MOVING TO NON-CHLORINE CLEANING OF MILKING EQUIPMENT Removal of chlorine from cleaning routines would minimize the possibility of residues in milk & milk products. David Gleeson, Teagasc, reports.

required as compared to liquid products which contain the lower caustic levels and therefore should be used with hot water and only Due to more stringent product specifications for residues such as on one occasion. To adapt the traditional weekly powder cleaning Trichloromethane and Chlorate, it is becoming increasing difficult to routine to completely non–chlorine cleaning there are a number of potential steps that could be considered: (i) include a number of achieve those specifications, when chlorine–based products are used as part of the milking equipment cleaning protocols on–farm. daily hot acid washes (phosphoric acid) per week (up to 3); (ii) include peracetic acid in an additional rinse twice daily; (iii) add Removal of chlorine from cleaning routines would significantly hydrogen peroxide to the diluted powder solution (on one occasion reduce the likelihood of these residues in milk and consequently, per week.The inclusion of acid rinses (either from phosphoric, peracetic residues levels in the final products, such as lactic butter and milk or hydrogen peroxide) is to sterilise the plant surfaces and minimize powder. The introduction of non–chlorine cleaning for traditional protein deposits which would previously have been addressed when milking systems in Ireland is relatively new and this document is an using chlorine solutions. attempt to guide industry on best options based on the knowledge available.

Sodium hydroxide liquid based cleaning: As stated earlier, the concentration of liquid based sodium hydroxide Sodium hydroxide powder based cleaning products: detergents is much lower than in powder products and therefore Powder based sodium hydroxide ‘Cold wash’ cleaning protocols (one wash in 14 containing chlorine) have been used by dairy farms these products are less suited for reuse at a subsequent wash occasion.

All of the new non–chlorine protocols using powder and liquid for many years and have been proven to be satisfactory from a based sodium hydroxide require more regular use of acid based microbiological point of view and the risk of chlorine residues is products.

Acid products are often referred to as ‘acid descale or minimized to one wash occasion per week. The use of powder milk–stone removal’ which generally contain phosphoric acid and to products are most suitable where manual washing is normally used a lesser extent, nitric acid. Additional care needs to be taken when and is less satisfactory where automatic systems are in place for using these acid products, e.g. eye protection, gloves. Liquid sodium cleaning both machine and bulk milk tank. A small number of hydroxide and acid based products are ideally suited to situations where powder products contain chlorine. Therefore making sure the product chosen does not contain chlorine is critical, if complete automatic cleaning systems are in place. A range of commercially available products representing various combinations of sodium non–chlorine cleaning is required. Powder products contain much hydroxide liquid and acid can be selected. A number of caustic/acid higher levels of caustic (76%) as compared to most liquid caustic cleaning products/protocols which were supplied by chemical products (21/29%). This is why these powder products can be used distributors have been evaluated at Moorepark (Biocel, Deosan, in a cold or hot solution and recycled for a further wash occasion if

NON–CHLORINE CLEANING OF MILKING EQUIPMENT AND BULK MILK TANKS

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MILK TANK & EQUIPMENT CLEANING Grassland Agro and Kilco). These protocols have been demonstrated to maintain effective plant cleaning without detection of residues.

Depending on the products and chemical distributors, different cleaning steps may be recommended in a weekly milking machine wash routine: a caustic liquid product (21/29%) used with hot water (70/750C) 4 times weekly after AM milking and used with cold water 7 times weekly after PM milking. Acid is then used with hot water on the remaining 3 times weekly after AM milking. Alternatively, a caustic liquid product (21/29%) used with hot water 7 times weekly after AM milking and used with cold water 7 times weekly after PM milking may be put in place. Additionally hydrogen peroxide may be added to the main wash solution on two AM occasions. An additional rinse with peracetic acid included should be carried out after the completed detergent rinse cycles at both AM and PM milking.

Non–chlorine cleaning protocol with acid as the main cleaning agent.

Where acid is used as the main cleaning and sterilising agent, current evaluated choices are limited to products promoted by Diversey and Grassland Agro. Acid based products that combine both cleaning and sterilisation of the milking plant and are both chlorine and chlorate free are generally more expensive.

However, these products do simplify the cleaning protocol, since one product is multi–functional; it removes organic materials, such as carbohydrates/fats, and mineral deposits, such as manganese/iron, and also sterilizes the stainless steel surfaces.

The inclusion of a caustic based product to the wash routine on one or two occasions per week would help to reduce the overall cleaning cost and maintain plant cleanliness.

Peracetic acid: a replacement for chlorine: Peracetic acid has similar antimicrobial properties to sodium hypochlorite and is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria including spores, yeasts, moulds and viruses. Peracetic acid is considered a stable equilibrium mixture of peracetic acid, water, hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid. Wash routines can include the use of peracetic acid in an additional rinse which may be undertaken twice daily after each milking. But the caustic detergent solution must be rinsed thoroughly from the plant before the peracetic acid is included in an additional rinse. This is important because of (i) safety concerns, and (ii) the caustic alkaline solution will neutralize the acid solution making it less effective. No additional rinsing of the

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MILK TANK & EQUIPMENT CLEANING

plant is required after rinsing with peracetic acid, under two conditions: Non–chlorine cleaning of bulk milk tanks: Combinations of caustic detergent (sodium hydroxide) and acid (i) if the manufacturer recommended usage rate is adhered to (generally (phosphoric/peracetic acid) may be used to clean bulk milk tanks in 60 mls per 45 litres); and (ii) the routine is completed at least one hour before the start of the next milking occasion. In situations where a similar manner to that used for milking machine cleaning. Bulk peracetic acid is used twice daily, then there is not a requirement to milk tanks may be cleaned using (i) fully automatic detergent dosing equipment (two pumps connected to two dosing plastic tubes); (ii) include a regular acid descale wash. semi–automatic when the detergent is manually filled into a bowl before washing commences; or (iii) totally manual cleaning. There Hot water for daily cleaning: are a number of cleaning protocols that can be used for fully automatic With non–chlorine liquid based cleaning protocols (as opposed to systems (i) dosing unit can be programmed to use the caustic detergent powder products) the use of regular hot washes is necessary and (21/29%) or the acid detergent (phosphoric/nitric) on alternate milk the recommended temperature for circulation is 70/750C and not collections days using hot water (60/75oC). (ii) alternatively, one reducing to < 400C on completion of the wash cycle. The inclusion unit can be programmed to use the caustic detergent and the second of a warm water post milking rinse, as opposed to the normal cold pump could be used to add peracetic acid to an additional final rinse, has benefit in removing fat deposits from stainless steel surfaces, rinse after each collection. When peracetic acid is used, then it is not making detergent cleaning easier. From an electrical cost point of necessary to use acid descale (phosphoric/nitric); (iii) if an acid based ‘one for all product’ is used, then just one automatic dosing view, it is recommended to use night rate electricity and apply hot washes daily after the AM milking; with cold wash circulation being pump is used. Where semi–automatic bulk tank cleaning is in place, then protocols (i) and (iii) are most appropriate. an option after the PM milking.

“Sourcing advice from chemical product distributors is also an important consideration when changing to non-chlorine cleaning” Table 1. Non–chlorine cleaning protocols evaluated at Moorepark

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MILK TANK & EQUIPMENT CLEANING Steps to take if changing to non–chlorine cleaning products: If changing from chlorine based detergent steriliser products to non–chlorine products, it is critical that the automatic detergent dosing systems for both machine and bulk milk tank are re–calibrated. This is necessary to ensure the correct uptake of the different detergent

products, as take up rates may be lower for products that do not contain chlorine and that have slightly higher caustic content than products previously used. To check if the correct quantity of product is being used, the following steps should be taken: (a) determine the quantity of water being used in the wash trough for the main wash cycle. The recommended water usage rate is 9 litres per milking unit. (b) calculate the quantity of detergent required based on drum label. Higher levels of detergent are generally recommended when cold water is used. (c) fill a clean container with a fixed quantity of detergent and place the automatic dosing tubes in the container prior to the next cleaning occasion. (d) subtract the remaining quantity of detergent from the original amount to establish the amount used for the wash. (e) Should the levels be lower or higher than recommended by the manufacturer, then the automatic system needs adjustment (probably by the milking machine or bulk tank fitter). Sourcing advice from chemical product distributors is also an important consideration when changing to non–chlorine cleaning, as product technical personnel are best placed to advice on their own product range and routines.

More detailed information on wash protocols may be had on the Teagasc milk quality webpage: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/milk-quality/cleaningguidelines-for-milking-equipment/

KEY POINTS OF NON–CHLORINE CLEANING 1. Hot water usage is critical 2. Increased use of acid based products is necessary 3. No recycling of liquid products for a further wash occasion 4. Requirement to re–calibrate automatic dosing systems when different product is used

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ANIMAL HANDLING

CATTLE CRUSH ATTACHMENTS – BEING SAFE WHILE WORKING ALONE As animals are being handled more frequently, it is essential to look at items that improve safety.

By Paul Lyons.

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n my younger days, I was an avid kayaker, tackling fast flowing rivers, going over big drops, weirs and stopper waves. I was young and enthusiastic but one bit of advice was drilled into me by those that taught me the basics. 'Less that 3 should never be'. This meant that two people should never be on a river without a third; if one got into trouble, it would take one to help and one to go for help. You are wondering, how is this possibly related to cattle handling?

Well in an ideal world when working with animals the same rules should apply. Wild swollen rivers are not too unlike agitated cattle who don't really want to be injected, inspected or manhandled.

In previous articles I have covered shed and crush design but in this piece, I am going to cover some simple and not so simple things that can be done to make a crush safer and ultimately, making working alone with cattle safer. I am not for one minute condoning working with cattle on your own but I am not foolish either. It happens on every farm, almost every day but so too do the injuries and the fatalities. The items of equipment I am going to cover are in table one along with a brief description.

loaded ones are very useful as they allow cattle to move past and act as a non return as well as an anti backing bar. The swivel/slide ones are good for putting directly behind animals when working closely such as up near the head gate or during AI or scanning. There is a lot of innovation in the area of anti-backing bars and most cattle handling companies have a decent version but it is worth doing your homework to see how other users are faring with the product you intend to buy. The way the bar grips the side rail of the crush seems to be a real challenge to get right. I have heard of one story where an AI technician was trampled when the animal started to reverse, the bar failed to grip the crush tube and only stopped when it came to the crush upright.

THE ANTI BACKING BAR This piece of equipment is the simplest and cheapest form of crush safety equipment. Gone are the days of a random bit of galvanised tube stuck into a wall. There are now many many designs to choose from that can be placed anywhere along a chute.They fall into pretty much two types, spring loaded bars and swivel/slide bars.The spring

Figure 1 – Spring loaded anti backing bar

Equipment

Description

Anti backing bar Leg lifter Sliding gate Lock out gate Headscoop

Stops cattle reversing in a chute Secures a leg while inspection Allows safe isolation of an animal As above Allow restraining of head

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Figure 2 – Sliding/Swivel Anti backing bar

Relative cost

From €150 upwards for a decent version From €350 From €300 From €150 + fitting From €400 + fitting

ANIMAL HANDLING

SLIDING GATE Sliding gates are not all that popular in Ireland but the few that are in operation have been found to be extremely useful by their owners.

They are usually placed behind a crate type cattle crush or as in the one in Figure 5 after a forcing pen into the crush race. They are hung from an overhead track and operated by a simple handle or a lever to allow greater speed. If situated behind the animal near the head gate, they allow the animal to be isolated from the rest of the animals in the race and worked on in isolation. In the case of the one pictured, they allow animals to be moved from a circular forcing pen into the race without having to mix with the animals to close a gate etc.

AI GATE

Figure 3 – Leg Lifter

Figure 4 – Leg lifter

LEG LIFTER

These gates are in a similar vein to the sliding gate but a little simpler to implement. See Figure 6 for a diagram of how an AI gate can be put in a crush race. Once the animal you want is caught in the head gate, the small gate can be opened back to block off the rest of the animals in the race and also allow access to the rear of the animal for AI. They are becoming increasingly popular in races that are incorporated into run off chutes from parlours where a cow in heat needs to be isolated. As with some of the simpler ideas in this article, it is relatively inexpensive and easy to incorporate into an existing crush.

These attachments have been around for some time but are an invaluable bit of kit. They clamp onto the crush rails in a similar fashion to the anti backing bars. A ratchet system then allows an animal’s leg to be drawn back and up. They are very useful when dealing with hoof injuries or even putting calves to suck and a leg ANTI KICK GATE requires to be kept from kicking. There seems to be a pattern that is Figure 7 shows an anti kick gate designed and patented by Galway in use by all companies making a leg lifter, a dog leg bar with a ratchet man Pat Keary. This device is fitted to a crush while castrating bulls. It can and rope. It’s generally tried and tested and a solid piece of kit. be moved up tight to the animal so that the hooped shaped bar is over the bull’s scrotum, this immobilises the animal and allows safe castration of the bull.

HEADSCOOP

Figure 5 – Crate type crush with sliding gate

Figure 6 – AI gate design

Figure 8 – Simple head-scoop

Figure 7 – anti kick gate

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Figure 8 – Head scoop

Figure 8 and 9 shows two types of commercially available headscoop. These are fast becoming a must have piece of kit in the same vein as an anti backing bar. There are scoops to suit all budgets but with the anti-backing, some additional features are well worth paying the little extra for. A scoop generally is fitted via a bracket to the post holding the crush gate. It’s either a permanent fixture or can be removed or swung out of the way when not in use although not all scoops can swivel away. When in use, the scoop consists of a moulded or rubber lined piece to support the animal's head and keep it held up. It makes all manner of work much much easier such as de-horning, bolousing and general dosing. Some notes on the essential features that are needed on a good head-scoop: 1. Decent ratchet mechanism with an easily operable quick release. I would consider this essential as animals could lose footing on their front legs, placing full weight on the ratchet mechanism making release very difficult and animal injury certain.

2. Some scoops are specifically designed for a manufacturer’s head gate, ideally, they should have adjustment to suit a variety of crushes and ideally be something you could easily bring from one crush to another as many farms now have more than one. 3. The scoop should not interfere with normal crush operation, they should allow the crush gate to open as normal or be able to swivel out of the way.

The neck support should not hinder an animal swallowing. The moulded head-scoops have a slight slope on the moulding too so that although restrained, the animal can still swallow medicine.

And so in this short article, we have looked at some methods to improve the safety of a crush without a total redesign. Simple readily available products that can enhance safety quickly. The advice always is that you should do your research before you buy, assess the benefit you will gain and also the quality and reliability of the product you are buying.

Paul Lyons is a Design Engineer with Bo Steel who specialise in cattle, sheep and equine solutions.

Paul.lyons@built2last.ie

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL CALF REARING

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When purchasing milk replacer it is important to focus on the ingredients listed on the bag, writes Paul Kennedy, MSC, MBA, Ruminant Sales Manager, Interchem. s calving season is upon us, now is the time to plan your calf VITAL INGREDIENTS IN CALF MILK rearing to ensure that calves get the best start and achieve REPLACERS target growth rates.

Protein: The general recommendation for milk replacer protein Good colostrum management is the first step in the process, calves level is 20% to 27%. The most common levels used by farmers are should receive the 1st milk, within two hours of birth and consume 20% to 22%. Higher protein levels are usually reserved for intensive 3 litres. The use of hydrometers and refractometers can help to milk replacer feeding programs designed to increase calf growth distinguish if the colostrum is of a good quality and has adequate rate. With these programs, the increase in protein percentage coincides levels of IgG’s. Avoid pooling colostrum and ensure that good hygiene with an increase in milk replacer feeding rate and a decrease in milk is adhered to. replacer fat percentage. Milk proteins are highly digestible compared Strong milk prices and labour concerns have justified farmers to to non-milk proteins and provide a desirable amino acid profile for

“Protein sources are typically the most expensive milk replacer ingredients” make a switch to calf milk replacers (CMR’s). The manufacture and feeding of CMR also ensures that disease cross over is minimised, thus assisting in the control of Johne’s disease. Avoid feeding residue/ waste milk as this may assist in the growing health issues surrounding antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

When choosing a calf milk replacer, it is important not to purchase solely on price. Quality ingredients, such as high levels of wheybased powders are easily digestible for young calves and supply the necessary protein requirements for skeletal growth and muscle development.

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calf growth. Many different milk products are used in manufacturing milk replacers. These include whey, whey protein concentrate, delactosed whey, skim milk, and casein.

Whey products are currently utilized as principal protein sources in milk replacers. Protein sources are typically the most expensive milk replacer ingredients.

Fats and Oils: Energy fats and oils provide a concentrated energy source for animal feeds. Fat levels in milk replacers typically range from 10 to 24% with 15 to 20% being the most common. Higher fat milk replacers are often selected for cold climates while low fat

COMMERCIAL FEATURE formulas are more often used in hot climates and in formulations designed for intensive milk replacer feeding programs. Lard and choice white grease of swine origin are often used in lower quality milk replacers, whereas high performing, quality milk replacers use vegetable oils exclusively such as soy, palm and coconut oil. However, they are substantially more expensive to use than animal fats.

Comparison of Fat Source Digestibility in Calves Fat Source Milk Fat (in whole milk) Lard, White grease Coconut Oil Palm Oil

Digestibility % 95 – 97 88 – 96 92 – 96 92 – 96

Source: Adapted from Davis and Drackley, 1998

Day

Time

Day 1

In 1st 6 hours

Day 1

12 hrs later

Note Calf born (30kg) 3 litres colostrum (may have to split into 2 feeds) 1.5 litres colostrum (only feed if hungry) 1.5 litres am 1.5 litres pm Cow’s milk + handful of powder mixed in Swap to milk powder.

Gradual increase volume/feed 2 x 2.25 litres/day mixed at 150g/litre Mix at 40-450C Feed at 390C.

Strategies to ensure that replacement heifers calf down at 24 months Day 2 to Day 4 am and pm of age have seen farmers making a switch to high performance CMR’s that contain protein levels of 26%, assisting heifers to reach their target daily live weight gains. These CMR’s such as Interchem’s Day 5 to Day 42 am and pm ProHeifer have been developed to ensure maximum growth rates during the pre-ruminant stage, especially between days 15 – 42 where calves will have their highest conversion rates. The inclusion of digestive enhancers such as Cylactin in CMR has the added benefit of enhancing micro flora bacteria assisting in rates of absorption and helping avoid scour.

Questions often arise around frequency of milk feeding to calves, Day 42 to Department of Agriculture and animal welfare regulations guidelines Day 58 am and pm Reduce feed down to 1.75 exist to highlight that calves under 28 days of age must be fed twice litres per feed and down to per day. This is in line with rumen development and will avoid issues 1.5 litres by day 58 of excess milk travelling into the rumen and causing scour.

Weaning of calves should take place when calves are consuming Day 59 am and pm Down to 1 litre of milk adequate levels of concentrate feeds, usually between 1 – 1.5 kg per day. A critical factor that is often overlooked in rearing calves is access Day 60 am and pm am– Nil to fresh clean water, this is necessary to rehydrate calves and assist pm– 1 litre with the development of rumen microflora.As with all feeding strategies, ensure good hygiene is maintained and examine equipment regularly The calf can be weaned to ensure it is in good working order. when it has doubled birthMany farmers implement a standard operation procedure (SOP) weight and has consumed plan, this ensures that the daily feeding regime and management of 1.5kg of concentrate for the calves conforms to a set routine. three consecutive days.

Below is an example of a feed table that is suitable for cross bred calves being fed on Interchem’s ProHeifer CMR. • Offer fresh ad lib water, feeding straw and nuts from birth.

• 8-12 weeks continue ad lib straw, nuts, water.

Interchem’s ProCalf range of milk replacers include ProHeifer 26% protein, ProCalf 21% protein and ProMilk 20% protein. All are available in 25 kg presentations. The ProCalf range is manufactured under GMP status and is fully traceable ensuring reliability and quality.

With enhanced vitamins and flavouring’s powders are easily mixed and are suitable for all feeding systems, from bucket, computerised feeders and once a day practices. Interchem’s dedicated calf specialist team are available to support farmers throughout Ireland in areas such as designing feed plans, giving guidance on health strategies and calibration of computerised feeders.

ProCalf/ProHeifer is available throughout Ireland through your local agricultural merchant and veterinary surgeon outlet.

For more information on calf rearing or to contact any of our calf specialist team call 01-4518959 or visit www.procalf.com

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FARM FINANCE

INVESTING FOR THE FUTURE HOW TO EXPAND YOUR DAIRY ENTERPRISE The main reason for expansion is for increased profits; increased profits means increased tax. Philip O’ Connor (IFAC) discusses.

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s a qualified accountant in one of the most intensive dairy regions in Ireland I have experienced planning for dairy expansion both from those currently in expansion phase and those reviewing their options. The main reason for expansion is for increased profits; however increased profits will result in increased Tax. These considerations need to be assessed before deciding to expand. Other key considerations in deciding to expand are the cash-flow implications and funding the expansion. Many farmers forget that deciding to expand their dairy herd by 25% results in having 25% more calves & 25% more replacements. Can the existing farm holding and structures cope with these increased numbers?

In this article today I am going to review all three of these phases as to how they impact on a farmer’s profits, tax and cash-flow management. I will also be reviewing a case study dairy farm enterprise who has already looked at all of his expansion options in order to fully maximise his 168 acres of owned land. I will show that through proper planning they are maximising his profits and reducing their overall tax bill as they increases his dairy herd.

PRE-PLANNING

Pre-planning is the most important phase in deciding to expand.

The farmer and his advisor both have an essential key role in this phase. Many famers have commented to me in my office that the The decision to expand has three main phases all as equally new milk quota in Ireland is “litres per hectare”.

Because of land scarcity and fragmented holdings in Ireland it is as important as each other. In my office I am involved with my therefore vitally important to maximise the potential of your existing clients in all three phases giving both financial and tax advice: holding.

1. Pre-planning – Review all your options on paper, if it doesn’t work on paper it won’t work in reality.

It should always be the objective of a progressive farmer to 2. The expansion phase – cash flow management, managing increased maximise the productivity of the existing herd before profits & tax increasing numbers. A farmer should therefore first 3. Post expansion – On-going Tax considerations, succession concentrate on: planning.

1. Breeding Policy through the use of Economic Breeding Index STUART CROWLEY – A COMMON PITFALL (E.B.I) A common pitfall and danger is the flawed assumption that the pre2. Grassland management techniques tax profits will be fully available to meet living expenses, capital 3. Skilled labour requirements and bank repayments. A farmer / advisor need to be 4. Herd health and nutrition realistic about the existing herd / farm capabilities and the impact on profits the proposed expansion will have on the farm. Only Expansion through increasing cow numbers is where the major then can I make informed decisions on Tax advice and therefore management, financial and tax challenges arise. There are design a Tax structure to cover the expansion phase and deal with two significant cost issues in increasing cow numbers by expected profits into the future. breeding own stock:

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FARM FINANCE 1. Cost in “carrying” additional animals on the farm for up 24-28 months before they start producing.

2. Cash flow implications - The farmer must remember that in previous year’s surplus stock was sold where as in an expansion phase these animals are retained, resulting in decreased sales and increased feed costs.

IS ACCESS TO MORE LAND REQUIRED?

area that are expanding are using a mixture of increasing productivity of their existing herd while simultaneously expanding the dairy cow numbers to maximise the potential of their existing land bank.

The farmer together with his agricultural advisor/consultant should then prepare the information for the 5 year projection of annual profits which will include a sensitivity analysis taking into account the impact of milk price fluctuations and input price increase scenarios.

1) Is the existing acreage adequate? – If not?

2) Is local leased/rented land available for medium to long-term leasing? – At what cost?

3) Is purchasing of additional land an option? – Is it available? – At what cost?

4) Is milk production partnership or contract rearing an option- At what cost?

At this stage I as an accountant would review the expansion plan and provide the following for my clients: 1) Prepare a projected cash flow.

2) Design a tax structure which will minimise tax to the greatest extent and tie the structure in with the business plan and cash flow.

3) Assess those figures to determine whether the projected profits QUANTIFY CAPITAL EXPENDITURE TO COPE after tax minus capital expenditure, capital repayments and living expenses will meet annual repayments.

WITH INCREASED NUMBERS A properly designed expansion plan will save money through cashflow management and your tax liability as a result of increased profits.

The following questions will have to be addressed in the case of increased numbers: THE EXPANSION PHASE 1) Is the milking parlour large enough?

The expansion phase can only begin once all of the projections 2) Has the farm enough housing for the additional animals?

3) Has the farm enough storage facilities for the increased volume of have been reviewed and the best course of action decided by the farmer. The physical expansion plan will be completed by the farmer slurry, keeping in mind the nitrates directive? and reviewed by the advisor.

4) Will increased capital expenditure lead to better labour It is my job as the farm accountant to Tax plan through-out the efficiencies and low cost labour infrastructures?

The farmer / advisor will then need to review all of the options in period of expansion in order to minimise tax liability and maximise cash flow. deciding the best way to expand the business. Most farmers in my

JOHN DOE’S REVIEW OF HIS EXPANSION PLAN • Pre-plan and make accurate / reasonable future profit projections.

• Accurate milk forecasts – In my situation Dairygold require this going forward.

• Continuous review of the management practices on the farm.

• Maximise the potential of your existing herd / farm • Succession planning essential especially if forming a company.

• Tax planning is essential – No point in increasing profits for the Tax man!!

• Don’t over stock – don’t forget that 25% more cows results in having 25% more calves & 25% more replacements • There are “panic” moments in choosing to move your enterprise to a company or partnership. A good accessible accountant is key in reassuring you during these moments.

• The use of expert advice. You need to have an excellent working relationship with all of your advisors. In my case I used: - Agricultural Advisor – In my case Teagasc - Dairy Nutritionist - Coop - Accountant - Solicitor - Bank Manager • Labour costs are major consideration in expanding and need to be fully reviewed of when they will be needed.

• Join a discussion group and review your performance against your peers. Be honest with your numbers!

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FARM FINANCE

TAX PLANNING Tax planning is essential on a farm where expansion is being contemplated and / or profits are increasing. The following should be reviewed and maximised where possible.

1. Income Averaging.

2. Family Wages.

3. Pension Contributions.

4. Can the new Stock Relief tax changes be utilised? Partnerships?

5. Repairs Versus Capital Expenditure.

6. Private Versus Business Use. 7. Tax write-off for capital expenditure.

8. The tax impact of access to additional land – only the interest on a loan for the purchase of new land can be offset against profits. The capital repayments must come out of cash flow.

9. Reviewing Existing Structure of Business – Married couples can claim a maximum of €65,000 at the low tax rate.

10.Examine the Limited Company option.

POST EXPANSION In marrying your dairy expansion plan with the optimum tax-plan and structure you should also ensure it does not run counter to future succession planning. Surround yourself with good professional competent agricultural and taxation advisors.

CASE STUDY REVIEW – JOHN DOE John Doe is a spring calving dairy farmer. He is farming 168 acres of owned land with a further 30 acres adjoining rented land. John

some valuable lessons which he is applying now as he increases his herd size again to 150 cows.

He has reviewed all his options partnerships, contract rearing etc and has decided to concentrate on maximising the production from his existing land bank. He is expanding using both increased productivity per cow as well as increasing cow numbers.

THE EXPANSION PHASE: John along with his Teagasc advisor and nutritionist has consistently improved the quality of his herd over the last two years. On average his cows are milking 6,500 litres per year. He has an 18-20% culling rate and all are breed using AI and are chosen for their EBI rating.

His EBI rating still has some scope for improvement.

This has been identified and through nutrition and AI his EBI rating is improving. John identified the purchase of a diet feeder in 2011 and the implementation of a detailed nutrition plan as key to this success. he is also conducting a re-seeding policy on the farm with on average 25-30 acres being re-seeded each year. His only major capital purchase at this time is a bulk tank at a cost of €37,000 in 2013. This was funded through a combination of a grant, vat refund, trade in and medium term loan. As he increased his numbers profits and tax began to be a problem. Having reviewed John’s expansion plan and exhausted the major tax reliefs it was decided to enter him into a company in 2012. This reduced his tax bill in 2012 by 40% and with the high milk prices seen this year will reduce John’s tax bill by over 50% in 2013 compared to what it would have been if he remained a sole trader. John also funded the purchase of the bulk

“It should always be the objective of a progressive farmer to maximise the productivity of the existing herd before increasing numbers” has 136 acres available in one block with the remaining land accessible through an under pass. His current quota is 657,000 litres which is filled with 108 Holstein Frisian cows (over production of milk is feed to calves). He is currently in the expansion phase with the aim of having 130 cows next year and to further increase to 150 cows by 2015. As such John is retaining 45-48 heifers this year as future replacements.

THE PRE-PLANNING PHASE: John was originally farming a mixed farm dairy and beef farm. In 2007 he decided to exit beef and concentrate solely on his dairy enterprise. At this time he increased his herd from 70 to 100 cows and constructed a new 14 unit milking parlour. Quota was also an issue and he purchased quota (as leases expired) to match his increase in milk production.

The costs involved in expanding from 70 – 100 cows taught John

tank and diet feeder through the company which is a more efficient way of repaying loans.

POST EXPANSION PHASE The sole reason for John’s expansion program is to improve profitability on the farm. Prudent tax planning has minimised John’s Tax liabilities.

The company structure allows him to fund his requirements for personal drawings in a tax efficient manner. It provides a substantial directors loan which can be retained and used for exceptional personal requirements. The company also allows the retention of cash within the business as result of the 12.5% corporation tax rate.

John is currently in his early forties and is married with two young children. It is his ambition in the future that he will be able to reduce his labour input into the farm as he gets older. He hopes that the expansion program combined with the limited company structure will enable him to employ a fulltime labour unit to full fill this ambition.

JOHN DOE’S REVIEW OF CHOOSING THE COMPANY PRO’S IN THE COMPANY OPTION • Decreased Tax from my previous personal tax top rate of 51% to its current rate of 12.5% cooperation tax rate.

• I have more net money available to repay existing loans taken out in the company. My re-payment capacity has also increased.

• Ifac Partner explained and organised the entire change over to the company. This significantly reduced the potential stress in changing to the company.

• Timing of entering company is a key. The success of this is based on conducting an accurate review each year on the Tax situation of the farm.

• Tax free directors loan to the full value of the assets which I transferred in. In my case this was my stock and machinery.

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CONS IN THE COMPANY OPTION • Company option results in higher admin – not suitable for everyone if you have poor records.

• Department regulations in company option – Changing Single Farm Payment & leasing of farm to company. This requires expertise.

• Using two accounts can be confusing – Personal account for personal expenditure and company account for business expenditure.

AGRI DESIGN & PLANNING SERVICES My name is Aidan Kelly. I provide an advice service on Agri Designs and planning applications. I’m based in south Tipperary, but cover all of Ireland with planning applications completed in 18 different county councils. I provide a personal service to farmers thinking of expanding their farm yards, farm building, roadways, or redesigning existing sheds for a new use. I also provide a service for Gps paddock & roadway design and site surveys. I can provide full start up packages to new dairy start up. I am a qualified architect who has been specialising in agricultural design for the past ten years. I am a dairy farmer myself a new entrant in 2013 starting at 50 cows and now milking 120. I understand what farmers require. Listed below some of the project I have been involved in.

· Milking parlour layouts · Cubicle Housing · Cattle slatted housing · Sheep & Goat housing, · Hay barns · Storage shed (Grain storage) GPS FARM MAPPING

· Farm Roadway designs underpass design

· Water infrastructure layout · Farmyard redesigns Visit www.adps.ie for further information.

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS E

TERRA LIQUID MINERALS oin Toohey along with his wife Collette farm just outside the “ancestral home” of Barrack Obama in Moneygal on the border of Offaly and Tipperary. Here he milks 120 cows of varying genetics. Eoin focuses on minerals to help him achieve his goals.

“We have a selenium issue here on the farm, low magnesium and high molybdenum swards, as well as an Iodine issue. Having spread lime in the past compounded the problem of releasing the molybdenum meaning we were showing up with copper deficiencies.

“I chose to put in a Terra liquid Mineral System 3 years ago to help me overcome my mineral deficiencies. I chose the system as I felt it was more consistent than other methods available, with the dispensing done automatically removing the responsibility from myself or relief milkers etc, to distribute the magnesium and the minerals. This way I always know it’s done. This gives you great peace of mind.”

The system works by monitoring water flow to the herd and automatically compensating for changes in consumption, so on a wet day the cows still get their required dose. “I also like the fact that I can monitor the water consumption and spot leaks using the Terra Controller.”

After inputting exact cow numbers and dosage rates the system deliveries the Magnesium, Minerals or Bloat automatically ensuring accuracy and consistency while eliminating waste. Even if there is a leak the system it will only dispense one days worth of minerals and the controller can be fitted into most water systems.

Terra Liquid Minerals use analysis and can tailor make their minerals to individual farms ensuring exact deficiencies are targeted. Eoin went

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on to say, “I have noticed a definite improvement in the herd, having no retained cleanings in 2017. I saw the same pattern in 2016 and noticed after metri checking the herd I had a very small number of ‘dirty cows’, also I have had the vet out to far fewer cows over the last few years.This has led to a tighter calving pattern and an increase in my production curve in February over previous years. I have also been feeding a high zinc mineral mix which has led to a big improvement in lameness both in overall hoof health and hardness of the hoof.

“While I have increased my mineral spend I definitely see the benefits in all areas of the milk production cycle which has saved me money and time.”

Visit www.terraliquidminerals.ie for more information.

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS L

TACKLING LAMENESS WITH THE PROVITA HOOFSURE ENDURANCE (RANGE) ameness is now a major challenge in Irish dairy herds. Digital dermatitis (DD), more commonly known as Mortellaro, is an infectious condition and one of the major causes of lameness reducing milk yield, fertility, mobility and feed intake. A study conducted on ten dairy farms in Ireland by Somers and O’Grady in 2015, show that 89% of cows had lesions on their hind feet, 11.8% had lesions on their front feet and only in 6.9% of cows were no lesions found.This infectious condition spreads quickly through the herd and can reduce milk yield by at least one litre per cow per day. Overall cost is estimated to be €10,000 per 100 cows in a herd.

It is very important that controlling and treating lameness is a top priority. It is extremely critical that farmers are able to monitor Digital Dermatitis on their farm, and can use their footbaths correctly to help tackle the problem. However, a staggering 80% of footbaths are used incorrectly (AFBI). It’s important to note that a specific farm orientated Digital Dermatitis control plan is imperative as it will allow the farmer to see the changes to the DD problem on their farm. Different levels of Digital Dermatitis should be tackled in various ways. Provita Animal Health can offer support in this instance.The Provita DD App is easy for farmers to use, and involves simply entering the size, colour and profile of the lesion. The app will convert your observations and categorise them into early, acute, healing, chronic or chronic and acute DD lesions. Once the data has been submitted a full report and specific recommendations for the farm will be made by Provita.

THE FULL HOOFSURE RANGE BY PROVITA INCLUDES THREE PRODUCTS. HOOFSURE ENDURANCE is a footbath solution, scientifically proven proprietary blend of organic acids, essential oils and wetting agents. It is a safe, non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and biodegradable product, which can be easily disposed into a slurry pit or lagoon.This product should be used at a 1% dilution rate for maintenance and a 2%+ dilution rate in more difficult conditions.

HOOFSURE ENDURANCE can be used as a 25% topical spray in conjunction with or as an alternative to footbathing.

This involves 4 simple steps: 1. Clean feet if necessary 2. Do not overfill the sprayer, leave at least 2 litres space at the top. If overfilled and/or over pumped the sprayer will be damaged.

3. Spray feet with Provita Hoofsure Endurance (1 part product to 3 parts water).

4. Apply three consecutive days in a row.

HOOFSURE KONQUEST is a scientifically proven proprietary concentrated gel, for topical application. It can be used with a hoof bandage. Use this on more difficult cases of DD. HOOFSURE COMBAT is a unique film–forming hoof spray containing a proprietary blend of organic acids and essential oils, providing persistent longer lasting activity.

For further information please contact Whelehan Animal Health at (01) 4688900 or email: colm.menton@tpwhelehan.ie

BIOCEL LTD LEADS THE CHARGE IN THE REDUCTION OF CHLORINE/CHLORATE RESIDUES Zurich Rising Star Award Winner Peter Hynes who uses the Biocel Chlorine Free range pictured the Biocel Technical Team - L/R Tom Costello, James Taylor, Peter Hynes & Donal Sheahan”

under the brand names Circodine CF & Multisan CF. These new products, in conjunction with the Biocel unique Peracetic Acid products Serpent / Hydrox 5 combined with the new formulation BLAST offer a totally Chlorine free system for the cleaning and disinfection of milking plant & bulk tanks.

The products & cleaning programs have been tested and proven in a combination of Moorepark and farm trials ensuring they deliver quality results comparable to systems using chlorine based cleaners, while also eliminating and reducing TCM & Chlorates residues.

The Biocel Chlorine free system also offers added saving in both water heating and usage costs.

The key to maintaining quality results when using a Chlorine free wash routine are 1. Attain an adequate wash temperature in the hot wash with target dump temperature of 60degC. iocel Ltd the leading Irish supplier of Hygiene & Teat Care 2. Follow a rigid program of using Serpent as a disinfectant/ scale products for over 50 years, are leading the charge in the reduction preventative or descale weekly as part of the program. of chlorine associated residues with range of new and improved 3. If the wash struggles to reach an adequate temperature or is Chlorine free products. These new products, in combination with difficult to clean due to the presence of milk meters, a hot wash existing proven products, offer the industry an option to clean with Circodine CF, Multisan CF, Blast, Serpent Hydrox 5 should dairy equipment Chlorine free. be carried out weekly as part of the routine or alternatively a Biocel Ltd have worked very closely with the industry both at chlorinated wash with an extra final rinse. farm and processing level since the challenge of TCMs & more recently Chlorates arose in the industry enabling the company For more information on the Biocel Ltd, chlorine free products to have a deep understanding of the challenge from “ farm to fork”. & wash programs visit www.biocel.ie or Call: 021 4353516 Circodine P & Multisan / Aquasan the Biocel Ltd trusted & proven for a free consultation with our Dairy Hygiene Technical chlorinated products are now available in chlorine free formulations team.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

How Dipetane Works: Dipetane uniquely addresses and solves the fundamental problem existing in standard combustion, which is that some of the valuable carbon remains unburnt. Irish scientists are the first and only scientists worldwide who have discovered how to enable the existing fixed oxygen to gain proper access to burn the valuable carbon much more completely compared to standard combustion.

Injector Protection: Dipetane protects costly injectors and valve stems from the EC 90% cut in sulphur, the sulphur had been acting as a lubricant for Injectors and valve stems.

Dipetane’s full burning of the carbon leaves no hard unburnt carbon grating in the system and combined with its built in lubricant greatly increases lubrication thereby protecting injectors and valve stems.

DPF’s-Diesel Particle Filters: Minimising regeneration, minimising fuel usage and protecting DPF’s is very efficient. As mentioned above protecting DPF’s through the use of Dipetane is critical and very costeffective. Dipetane treated fuel’s unique ability to burn the carbon more completely, compared to all standard fuels means that much less un-burnt carbon enters the DPF and therefore the regeneration occurs less often. In some 6.8 Litre engines Dipetane’s use has extended the regeneration from 70 hours out to over 200 hours. This is a substantial fuel saving and protects the DPF from the very high revs involved in the regeneration process.

Up to 10% fuel savings: Dipetane’s independent Scientific Chassis Dynamometer and Boiler Tests under controlled conditions show up to 10% fuel savings. Mix rate for Dipetane is always 1:200. 1 Litre treats 200 Litre’s Diesel, Petrol, Kerosene, Heavy Oil. It does not change the spec of the fuel. It is not an ‘additive’, being 100% hydro-carbon.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS INSTANT HOT WATER NO LONGER A PROBLEM FOR HIGHACRES FARM THANKS TO FLOGAS THE FLOGAS SOLUTION

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Hot water on tap for David Sheehy of Highacres Farm in Baltimore, Cork, thanks to his Flogas-powered dairy hot water system

avid Sheehy is a well-established dairy farmer in Baltimore, Co. Cork. He inherited Highacres farm with its 8-unit milking parlour from his father in 1997 and operates it alongside his own company, Boveq Scanning Services. It provides ultrasound scanning, pregnancy diagnosis and other diagnostic scanning to over 17,000 cows a year throughout Cork.

THE CHALLENGE Highacres farm milks around 60 Holstein Friesian cows with calving in Spring and Autumn.

Between his busy farm and his thriving business, having a reliable supply of hot water was vital for effective cleaning as well as controlling the Total Bacteria Count (TBC). However, the farm’s existing electric hot water heating unit was struggling to reach the required 80°C temperature and this was having a knock-on effect in terms of hot water storage and costs. With a 4,000 litre milk storage tank and an 8-unit West Falia milking parlour that was being upgraded to a 10-unit to look after, David badly needed a solution to his hot water dilemma.

At the annual Millstreet National Dairy Show, David met Ian Barry, the Flogas sales representative for Cork and was introduced to the Flogas solution for dairy farms, which uses Andrews FastFlo water heaters to produce up to 12 litres of hot water at 37-80°C per minute. The auto ignition system eliminates running and storage costs when idle, so the farm only pays for the hot water that is used. The Andrews FastFlo heaters would also prove ideal during calving season, as its precise temperature control meant that their milk could be heated up quickly and easily. After further research and a farm visit by Ian, he decided to go ahead and make the change.

THE CHANGEOVER A Flogas LPG tank was installed near the milking parlour on a concrete base. A Flogas RGI registered installer connected the tank to a single Andrews FASTflo 56kw heater sited on the parlour wall alongside an indoor temperature control panel.The entire process took about a day with no disruption to the farm’s daily activities.

“Having hot water whenever I need has saved me a huge amount of time and the temperature control panel is very easy to use. The installation was very straightforward and there were no interruptions at all.”

David Sheehy For further information visit www.flogas.ie/dairy

MORE TIME-SAVING APPS FROM KINGSWOOD K

ingswood Computing has just launched an EID App for their Kingswood Herd (PC-based) and Kingswood Mobile (phonebased) users. This App will connect directly to the many EID readers with Bluetooth connectivity that are now becoming available with the growing uptake of EID tags.

Initially the App is targeted at dairy and beef farming operations, where recording speed is critical – such as pregnancy scanning and animal weighings. Eventually Kingswood users will be able to use the App for all recording events, including calvings, heats & services and animal remedies.

Derek and Mary Deane, prominent suckler/ beef farmers from Carlow, believe the App has great potential to save them time in the animal weighings they regularly undertake on farm. They’ve been using a preliminary version of the App for the last few months and are able to painlessly transfer their weights into their Kingswood Herd

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system. Derek is particularly keen on the sire and dam analysis that can be easily performed in Kingswood Herd once the animal weights are transferred in.

In another major improvement for dairy farmers in Kingswood Herd, Kingswood users can now download up to three Planned Bulls for each of their dairy-bred cows from the ICBF national database.

The ICBF can optimise the selection of bulls for each cow based on the farmer’s breeding objectives and the strengths and weaknesses of individual cows.

The Planned Bulls once downloaded into Kingswood Herd will appear at the top of the list of available bulls when it comes to serve the cow. So no last minute head scratching when it comes to the busy breeding season!

For more info on the EID App or Kingswood Herd contact Gerry Lynskey at Tel: 01-4596677 or at Email: info@kingswood.ie.

HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITY

CALVING – PLANNING FOR SAFETY Currently the main story in agriculture is dairying and the big push is to produce as much milk as possible from grazed grass. Inspector Martina Gormley of The Health and Safety Authority reports.

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aximum production from grass necessitates a very short concentrated period of calving beginning now. The fly in the ointment is the lack of labour availability and the increased risk levels. Put a very tight calving period in a very small labour pool and this will promote hazardous situations.

The potential stress and tiredness can be addressed by advance planning, risk assessment, implementing controls including investment in good infrastructure.

By making sure there are plenty of well positioned lights around the farmyard makes for a better safer working environment. Calving gates allow for safer management of the calving process which reduces stress on both the farmer and the animal. Yard tidiness will help eliminate slips, trip and falls and allows all the necessary items to be found in a hurry easily.

Before the busy season, getting all machinery guarded, serviced and maintained can avoid trouble during stressful periods. The maternal instincts of the cow kick in around calving and results in elevated animal stress levels and unpredictable behaviour. Animal stress comes from, the maternal instinct to protect the newborn, unwanted visitors, excited callers anxious to see the newborn, unwanted attention, a dog nearby, or the calves of another cow

wagons, loaders, agitators, slurry equipment also pose particular risk. The number and increase in quad bike fatalities in recent years is alarming.

Maintenance programmes of basic farm machinery such as tractors, loaders, tele-handlers appear deficient regarding brakes, mirrors and steps.

The Health and Safety Authority have recorded an increase in fatal accidents in Irish dairy farms in the past 10 years (2008-2017).

The Authority will undertake three targeted Agriculture Inspection Campaigns during 2018. Livestock Safety Month in February, Vehicle Safety Month in May and Work at Heights in October.

Areas being assessed during Livestock Safety Month include;

l Is an adequate physical barrier established between the farmer

and freshly calved cows when treating/handling calves?

l Is there an escape plan for animal birthing activity?

l Is there ongoing investment in animal handling facilities e.g.

crush, head scoop, calving gates?

l Are facilities & procedures adequate for loading & unloading animals?

A new revised version of the ‘Farm Safety Code of Practice’ and Risk Assessment was released in 2017 and all farmers should complete

“The Authority will undertake three targeted Agriculture Inspection Campaigns during 2018” may be placed in a pen too close to hers. These stressors on the cow can in turn trigger dangerous agitated behaviour.

However, it is avoidable with careful consideration and prioritisation of the necessary controls. Identifying and implementing a safe system of work would include, ensuring that an adequate physical barrier is established between you and the new protective mother especially when tagging or treating the calf. When managing any newborn calf, treatment, tagging, etc., they are likely to ball triggering an attack making a strong physical barrier between you the cow and a practical escape route essential.

Most fatal accidents on dairy farms involve tractors, vehicles, quad bikes and machinery. Tractors and farm vehicles accounted for 54% of farm fatalities in 2017. Machinery movement around a busy yard operating in the vicinity of pedestrians must be managed and controlled with a traffic management plan. Walkways should be clearly designated and kept clear. The visibility around feeder

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the new document by the end of 2018. It gives information on safe systems of work, the likely risks encountered on farms and useful controls to avoid injury.

As the above figures show, farmers over 65 years account for 35% of fatal farm accidents in the past 10 years. However, 48% of the farmers that died on Irish farms in the past 10 years were aged 60 and over.

Ireland exported €12.6 billion of food and drink in 2017. 24 people died on Irish farms during the year. Sustainability is the new word associated with this dairy boom. The potential growth in market outlets for Irish dairy produce provides a great opportunity to provide a decent living. However, sustainability is about meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this context is it really sustainable to let 24 people die on our farms in the pursuit of earning a living and what message are we giving future generations.