Irish Farm Business - Vol 4 Issue 3 Autumn 2017

Farm Business FARM INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIFICATIONS FOR ROADWAYS & WATER SUPPLY

CAREERS IN DAIRYING IS THERE A FUTURE?

MEDICINE DELIVERY HOW TO MAKE IT WORK

>> SEE PAGE 30

>> SEE PAGE 34

>> SEE PAGE 46

IRISH

Volume 4 Issue 3 Autumn 2017 Edition Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

DAIRYING

FOCUS ON FEED CHECK YOUR OPTIONS

TIGHT CALVING SCHEDULE PLAN YOUR SHED LAYOUT

Farm Business

Foreword/Contents/Credits

Features

IRISH

DAIRYING

Volume 4 Issue 3 Autumn 2017 Price €3.95 £2.95 (Stg)

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18 CRITICAL TRIANGLE DETERMINES DAIRY SUCCESS Three key factors determine how successfully a dairy unit can reach its potential – genetics, management and nutrition.

By Philip Ingram PhD.Technical Manager, Cargill Animal Nutrition.

Foreword

22 USE MORE GRASS TO MAKE MORE PROFIT

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Analysis of Irish Farms financial data shows that a higher proportion of grass used in diet increases farm profit. George Ramsbottom, Teagasc, Oak Park, Carlow, reports.

he weather and the prices have been relatively kind to farmers through the summer so we’ll enjoy it while it lasts. Brexit is still being talked about but the increased demand for butter and cheese might help to alleviate currency rates. It’s ploughing time and the annual trek to Tullamore is nearly upon us.

Grass Rich Systems: George Ramsbottom has some serious research on the benefits of altering the overall feed ratio in favour of grass. He says the lesson is: How can I increase the proportion of grazed grass in the diet of my dairy herd without incurring extra costs.

Feed Focus: In this edition we have three different articles focusing on different aspects of feed for cows: 1. The benefits of feeding cows individually or in groups of similar yielding cows.

2. The pitfalls of treating dry cows as non-producers and just feeding them what is available rather than planning and feeding a correct diet.

3. Body Condition Scoring…How to achieve the optimal score for each cow and the benefits/consequences of not doing so.

Alternative diets for similar goals.

Medicine Delivery: A friend of mine told me recently of deciding to give his dog bitch an injection to prevent her coming in pup. He did the injection himself and soon afterwards he had a litter of mongrel pups. It was the correct injection wrongly administered. He had an incorrect syringe and injected too quickly. It is very necessary to have the right equipment and to do the job properly.

Farm Infrastructure: Tom Ryan and Pat Tuohy outline the benefits to the health of cows (reduced lameness) and clean working conditions that accrue from proper farm roadways.

They also explain that a good water supply to paddocks is not only necessary but may also increase yield.

If you make it to the ploughing call to us in the Blackwater Agri Pavilion.

We hope you enjoy and gain from this edition…..

30 FARM INFRASTRUCTURE It is crucial to get the layout of the grazing area, farm roadways and water system correct as this affects the health, efficiency and milk yield of each cow.Article by Tom Ryan and Pat Tuohy of Teagasc.

34 DAIRYING CAREERS

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Large scale farms and advances in technology will necessitate further education for farmers and farm employees, writes Marion Beecher and Paidi Kelly, Teagasc, Moorepark.

38 CONSEQUENCES OF LACK OF FINANCIAL PLANNING Without proper planning a farmer can be making reasonable profits and still run out of cash. Philip O Connor, B.A.gr.Sc., MBUIS, IFAC Agri-Support Manager, discusses.

42 DRY COW DIET OPTIONS

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During the dry period the cow’s diet must be managed to ensure she calves down and begins the next lactation in the correct ‘body–condition’, writes Valerie Hobson, Animal Nutritionist, Quinns of Baltinglass Ltd.

46 PROTOCOLS FOR INJECTING DOSING AND GENERAL MEDICINE DELIVERY If the animal gets an incorrect amount of medicine, wrongly administered or in the wrong place, it won’t work and may even be harmful, writes Stephen Murphy of Agrihealth.

50 CALVING ON A TIGHT SCHEDULE Planning for calving an average cow herd over a short period requires planning, writes Paul Lyons of Bo Steel.

54 COMMON PITFALLS FOR DAIRY COWS DURING EARLY AUTUMN MONTHS

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Improving dry cow management in transition period can make a significant impact on yield and profitability, writes Philip Ingram PhD.Technical Manager, Cargill Animal Nutrition.

66 TIME TO LEGISLATE FOR FARM SAFETY? The agriculture sector, in relation to almost every aspect of food production, is highly regulated.

Profiles 28 KUBOTA

Until the next time………

44 TRISKA ENERGY

The Publishers, Irish Farm Business

48 CLAAS MACHINERY 56 NUTRIBIO (C.A.H.L.) Contributors:

Publishers: Denis Lane and Robert Heuston George Ramsbottom (Teagasc), Philip Ingram Enquiries: Editorial: Denis Lane Advertising: James Small Design: John Barrett Production: Emma Meade

(Cargill Animal Nutrition) Tom Ryan and Pat Tuohy (Teagasc), Marion Beecher and Paidi Kelly (Teagasc), Philip O’ Connor (IFAC), Valerie Hobson (Quinns of Baltinglass Ltd.), Stephen Murphy (Agrihealth), Pat Griffin (Health and Safety Authority) and Paul Lyons (Bo Steel).

Distribution: Easons, 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 2017 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 THE 2017 EDITION OF THE NATIONAL three individual sections - Scientific, Technology and Engineering. based company True North Technologies Ltd. scooped DAIRY SHOW IN MILLSTREET IS BUILDING Shannon the overall award last year with their product, Grasshopper, which UP TO BE THE BIGGEST YET was developed by Phd student Diarmuid McSweeney and True North

The show caters for the needs of every commercial dairy farmer and is also a great farming family day out.This year sees stock farm tractor demonstrations and farm safety advice added to an already packed schedule.The specialist dairy trade stand exhibition has hit record numbers as well for the 35th running of the event.

One of the main attractions for trade exhibitors is the National Dairy Innovation Awards. This award means that all the latest products that are targeted to improve dairy farm efficiency and work load are on show within the indoor arena. The award rewards a new product or service, which has been launched in the past 12 months that has revolutionised some aspect of dairy farming. As well as an overall winner, there are also awards in

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Technologies founder Paddy Halton with the assistance of Teagasc, Moorepark. This year the addition of the stock farm tractor demonstrations sees tractors of different brands in the 110hp to 140hp range put through their paces with front loaders attached.

This gives stock farmers in the market for this type of tractor the ideal opportunity to see different models working side by side.

The show of course stays close to its roots with the showcase of the best Holstein and Jersey show cows taking place indoors under tiered seating. Canadian Brian Carscadden will judge the 2017 show. The highly respected judge has previously taken centre stage for national shows in Canada, United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Brazil, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Japan, Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Uruguay, Argentina and Australia.

The whole family is catered for at the event with cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs, a food village, children's activities, animal petting zone and a farm safety section.The show takes place on the 21st of October at the Green Glens Arena, Millstreet, Co. Cork.The venue that has previously held the Eurovision and world title boxing matches is an easy reach for visitors from all over Ireland.

Visitors from the South East should follow signs for Mallow on the N72 then Millstreet. Visitors from the Dublin direction should head down the M8 then turn off at junction 12 to Mallow and follow signs for Millstreet. Visitors from Connacht will head to Limerick, take N20 to Mallow and follow signs for Millstreet.

Tickets are currently available at a discount price on the events website, www.nationaldairyshow.com.

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS September 19th to 21st, Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly Showcasing Irish Food, Farming & Culture • 1700 Exhibitors • 283, 000 Visitors • Over 300 Competitors • Almost 2 million feet of Trade Space • Economic Impact of over €35 million The first inter–county ploughing contest took place in 1931 as a result of an argument between two lifelong friends, Denis Allen of Gorey, County Wexford and JJ Bergin of Athy, County Kildare.

Each argued that their respective counties had the best ploughmen.

This resulted in a challenge being called for.Therefore on Monday 16th of February 1931, the first National Ploughing contest took place in Mr W.K. Hosie’s field at Coursetown in Athy. Since then, the National Ploughing Championships has grown in size, year on year.

The National Championships is now no longer just for ploughing or machinery enthusiasts, the modern event now features something for just about every member of the community. These include a Tented Trade Village, a Food Fair, Craft Village, Livestock, Forestry, Education, Lifestyle, Motor Show, Financial Services, Bio Energy and Agri Service. Along with this, there are many entertainment and special events taking place.

It has expanded from requiring a small field of 26 acres to needing over 700 acres of land today. Since its inception, the National Ploughing Championships has become much more than just an annual inter– county competition; it has become an intrinsic part of Irish rural life.

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How much are the tickets for the event?

• Adults – €20 (10% discount apply on pre–orders of 1O+ online only) • Senior Citizens – €15 (ID will be required at the gate) • Second Level Students – €15 (secondary school rates apply on pre–orders of 10+ purchased through school only).

• Children under 12 go free once accompanied by an adult.

When does it all kick off?

• Exhibition Arena Opens: 9.00 – 18.00 • Ploughing Competitions: 10.30 – 14.30 • Entertainment Programme: 10.00 – 18.00 • Fashion Shows: 11.30/13.30/15.30 What type of stands exhibit at the event?

• Over 1,700 exhibitors at the event featuring exhibits in; Energy, Forestry, Livestock, Machinery, Construction, Agri Business, Auto Arena, House and Home, Food and Beverage, Health and Wellness, Lifestyle and Tourism, Information Technology, Business and Education.

What are some of the best bits to look for at the event?

• Food Fayre, Celebrity Chefs, Cookery/Craft Demonstrations, Auto Arena, Fashion Shows, Machinery Exhibition, Tented Trade Village, Livestock Exhibition, Innovation Arena, National Brown Bread Baking, Sheep Shearing, Sheep Dog Trials, Live Tractor Build, Ploughing Competitions, Live Radio & TV, Pony Games, Hunt Chase, Treshing, Vintage Display, Funfair, Loy Digging, Meggars Competition and much much more.

Why Exhibit?

• Europe’s Leading Outdoor Agricultural Trade Exhibition • Footfall – consistent attendance records • Strengthen relationships with your clients outside the farm gate • Develop Brand Awareness

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS • Media platform extending to all Irish and many International Agri–Media Forums • Development Focus – networking with fellow exhibitors and International Trade Delegations For full programme, further info and ticket queries visit www.npa.ie

Head of the Teagasc Rural Economy and Development programme, Dr Kevin Hanrahan said: “For the agriculture sector as a whole, overall income is likely to increase in 2017, driven largely by the very strong recovery in incomes on dairy farms. Concern remains for prospects in 2018 with on–going uncertainty relating to Brexit a key issue.”

The Teagasc Situation and Outlook July 2017 document is available at TEAGASC FORECASTS SUBSTANTIAL https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2017/Situ INCREASE IN DAIRY FARM INCOMES ation-and-Outlook-July-2017.pdf Teagasc has published its mid–year commentary on the economic For more on this and other Teagasc News and Events visit performance of Irish Agriculture '17. It forecasts very strong growth www.teagasc.ie/news--events/ in dairy incomes, with broadly stable incomes forecast for drystock HSA PUBLISHES 2016 ANNUAL REPORT and tillage systems.

The Health and Safety Authority recently published its 2016 Costs of production on farms have entered a benign period, Annual Report outlining major activities, achievements and with prices for feed, fertiliser and fuel well below the levels seen outcomes over the course of the year. Key highlights include: during the commodity prices boom earlier in the decade. Aside • 10,477 inspections and investigations undertaken from fuel prices, which are likely to average higher than in 2016, • 6,497 inspections carried out in the high–risk farming, there are no signs of imminent production cost inflation in the construction and fishing sectors agriculture sector in Ireland. Irish farm milk prices have rebounded • Written advice provided in over 4,301 inspections strongly over the last 12 months. Having been at their lowest • 369 improvement notices and 413 prohibition notices issued level since 2009, milk prices are now back to 33 cent per litre • 17 prosecutions taken leading to fines of €614,000 and are providing the impetus for a continuing increase in milk • 779 market surveillance checks of chemical products on the production, which could be up by 7 percent nationally in 2017 Irish market relative to last year.With recovering milk prices, higher milk production • Over 8,000 new users of the Authority’s BeSMART tool for and a static cost environment, average dairy farm margins could small business managers double in 2017. Average dairy farm incomes are forecast to • Over 13,000 courses taken on our e–learning portal increase to between €75,000 and €80,000 in 2017, which • Participation of over 26,000 students on the ‘Choose Safety’ programme would make it a record year for dairy farm income.

• Publication of 27 new guideline documents (continued page 12)

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS • Implementation of major awareness raising campaigns aimed at To download a copy of the 2016 Annual Report and general workers, new workers, construction workers and farmers Statistics Summary visit http://www.hsa.ie/eng/ • Approximately 20,000 contacts to our customer call centre Publications_and_Forms/Publications/Corporate/ The Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single IFA SEEKS €100M FOR TAMS INVESTMENTS Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen TD said: “I welcome the The IFA is seeking an allocation of €100m for the TAMS scheme progress made by the Health and Safety Authority in the pursuit in the forthcoming Budget for 2018 to meet the on–farm investment of its goal of making workplace safety, health and welfare an plans of farmers and the commitments entered into with approvals integral part of doing business in modern Ireland. Tragically, 46 already issued for the scheme. people were killed in work related activities in 2016. Although National Rural Development Chairman Joe Brady said that while this is a welcome decline of almost 20% on the 2015 figure, payout of grant aid under the scheme has been sluggish to date there is clearly still much to be done. I urge all employers, large due to IT issues in the Department of Agriculture, around €19.4m and small, to ensure that the safety and health of their employees, and anyone affected by their work activity, is at the core of their has so far been paid out to around 1,500 farmers who have business pursuits.Anything less is unacceptable”. Martin O’Halloran, completed work. A further 400 farmers are awaiting payment.

“With about 10,000 farmers currently having approval to proceed Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority said: “Last year was a successful year for the Authority although there are certain with work and a further 1,500 awaiting approval, these farmers, and those who apply for the scheme over the coming months, industry sectors, for example farming, that remain an area of concern. must be catered for in the Government Book of Estimates for As well as undertaking a wide range of enforcement activity across a variety of industry sectors, we also continued to focus on our prevention 2018 which will be announced on Budget day (October 10th).”

The IFA Rural Development Chairman pointed out that in the activity with the development of several important educational and RDP 2014–2020, an allocation of €395m is allocated to TAMS. awareness raising initiatives. It is this combination of prevention and The scheme is a vital support mechanism for farmers who are enforcement activities that I believe will deliver the best outcomes”. modernising their farms, in some cases expanding their operations, Tom Coughlan, Chairman of the Health and Safety Authority and meeting higher environmental and animal welfare standards. said: “The remit of the HSA is exceptionally broad and includes an important role in relation to the risks to people arising from chemicals It is vitally important the allocations in the RDP are fully utilised.

In relation to changes to the scheme, IFA has recently made a used at work and at home. We continued a take a lead role nationally on chemicals and their health impacts, both in relation to workers and submission to the Department of Agriculture urging the consumers. Over 1,200 inspections under chemicals legislation were inclusion of additional items for grant aid and alteration to the terms and conditions for some sectors. IFA is proposing the undertaken with a view to providing advice and support and, inclusion of underpasses, feed bins for all sectors, farm roadways, where appropriate, to take enforcement action”.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS INSTANT HOT WATER UP TO 85°C ON DEMAND WITH CALOR’S SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTION FOR DAIRY FARMS

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alor is Ireland’s oldest and most trusted supplier of LPG, and L-R Calor Agriculture Energy Specialist Damien Shirkie with dairy farmer – Alan Whitty has a long relationship with the Irish agriculture community as a sustainable and intuitive source of energy across the farm.

With many dairy farms expanding or making improvements, Calor is reminding customers of the range of innovative energy solutions available to them, helping to drive down costs and increase environmental sustainability.

Calor powered Rinnai For many years, Calor energy advisors have worked directly with dairy water heaters farmers to design systems that reduce costs and work for their farm enterprise.The Calor water heating system is unique in that it is the also seen a recent increase in number of farmers choosing to install only system capable of providing instant hot water at up to 85°C robotic milking technology and using Calor for their water heating instantaneously.As one of the most important considerations on a dairy due to the instant availability and high temperatures achievable, farm is hygiene, the Calor solution is ideal as it is more than capable and they are extremely happy with the results”. of providing the large quantities of hot water which are required each Origin Green and the Sustainable Dairy Scheme are placing ever greater day to wash milk lines and bulk milk storage tanks.This is an essential focus on improving the environmental performance of Irish farms. component in managing hygiene and controlling the Total Bacteria The Calor LPG solution also delivers in terms of environmental Count (TBC) of milk and other contamination risks such as Thermoduric sustainability.As water is heated only when required, hot water storage Bacteria. Calor instantaneous water heaters therefore minimise the costs are eliminated. Calor’s intuitive telemetry system also ensures need for chemical detergent use on dairy farms. that you will never run short on gas, as a gauge continuously monitors Calor’s Agriculture Energy Specialist Damien Shirkie explains why gas levels. When you need a top-up, a transmitter sends a signal via farmers are recognizing the importance of a good energy partner to GSM technology, and your local Calor depot will call you to schedule power and compliment their dairy farms: “Two main reasons farmers a fuel delivery at a time convenient to you. are switching to Calor water heating are cost savings and the delivery Calor Gas is part of SHV Energy - the largest dedicated global LPG of 85°C hot water on the farm whenever they wish to use it.We have distributor. Information on Calor is available at www.calorgas.ie.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS new buildings for the pig and poultry sectors and rubber slat mats. IFA has also presented a case for an increase in the investment limit for the intensive sectors and an immediate review of reference costings that determines the grant aid payable.

The current tranche of TAMS closes on the 6th October next.

This article was originally published on www.ifa.ie/latest-news/

WHY FARMERS SHOULD HAVE A HEDGING STRATEGY……AMERICAN VIEW Farmers are all too familiar with the rampant uncertainty that riddles the markets. To mitigate risk and help ease the stress associated with it, farmers should consider putting together a hedging strategy.

Hedging Livestock: Hedging strategies present opportunities to farms that do not grow their own crops, as the effects of a strong or weak growing season can travel into the cattle industry.

Should there be a weak corn harvest, the prices of feed may rise, which will increase the costs of feeding cattle. If cattle futures are trading at $2.75 per pound and the rancher can turn a profit at $2.50 per pound, they may want to lock in the price at $2.75 to secure the profit.While there is always a chance the price may increase or decrease, the benefit of hedging is to increase the chance of turning a profit at the end of the season to remain open for the next season.

How it Works: While hedging seems like a complicated process, it is an effective strategy to turn a profit even during challenging times. When establishing a position, it must always balance out the position with an opposite transaction. This means if a farmer buys a futures contract at their first position, then they must offset it later by selling in their second position. The second

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transaction occurs when the cash market transaction takes place (when the farmer sells their crop), since the hedging price protection is no longer needed and it is closed out.

For example, if a farmer expects their harvest to be at least 20,000 bushels of corn by September, then they can establish a price for the corn in April to protect against the potential of falling prices. In this example, the cash price for corn is $4.50 per bushel in April, and the price of September corn futures is $4.75. The farmer might short hedge his crop by selling four, 5,000–bushel corn futures contracts at $4.75 per bushel. In this example, the price of corn cash and futures falls at the start of August. When the farmer sells their corn to local buyers at $4.22, they may close out their hedge through buying September futures at $4.45.The $0.30 gain in the futures market offsets the lower cash prices allowing the farmer to turn a profit despite the falling prices.

Had the farmer not engaged in a hedging strategy, then they would have received $4.22 per bushel earning a loss on the season.

The prices of crops and livestock are in a constant state of flux based on perceived or actual changes in supply or demand. Due to the ever–changing prices, farmers should frequently analyze their risk exposure and adjust their hedging strategies. Whether a farm produces or consumes corn, hedging can minimize risk.

(Typically, producers implement a short hedge to lock in prices for their corn. Whereas, consumers employ a long hedge to secure a targeted price.) Creating a tailored hedging strategy is another way for farmers to lock in prices during higher priced periods to reduce risk and uncertainty, as well as secure profits at the end of the season.

This article by Howard Marella was originally published on AgFunder News. Visit https://agfundernews.com/ for more stories.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

GETTING MINERALS TO COWS THROUGH THE WATER SYSTEM

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isin Duffy from Muff, Co Louth, worked in Canterbury, New Zealand, on dairy farms for two years. He formed a partnership with his father Niall and started dairying on a Greenfield site in 2012 where they used to run a beef enterprise. Through leasing, the farm has been expanded to 170 acres and they now milk 180 cows. They built a new 24–unit parlour on the farm and installed a new water system. Oisin’s plan was to set up a low-cost grass-based system, similar to the systems he worked on in Canterbury.

The first year they started milking he was finding it difficult to supply cows with minerals.“I was putting out licks and putting it through the meal but it was hard to know which cows were using them and if they were getting enough,” explained Oisin. Because options were limited, they were forced to feed more meal throughout the year to make sure cows were getting enough minerals. The Duffys decided to install a Terra Liquid Minerals controller, which

doses minerals into the water system automatically every day.

Oisin said the installation has helped him make the low-cost system successful because it reduced the dependence on concentrates.

Now the Duffys feed less than 500kg of concentrates annually and meal feeding usually ends once breeding time is over. Oisin said because there was a good mineral source in the water, soya hulls was an adequate feed.

Terra Liquid Minerals controller monitors the Duffys’ herd water intake and can compensate dosing to ensure accurate daily delivery in any weather conditions. Magnesium and minerals are injected separately to allow for higher volumes of magnesium to be consumed in Spring.

“Magnesium might have to be filled once a week while the minerals could last for two weeks,” said Oisin.

Herd numbers and dosage settings can easily be adjusted at any time in the Terra Controller. This is a good way of eliminating wastage and ensuring accurate mineral delivery at all times. According to Oisin, Terra Liquid Minerals delivery drivers monitor and refill minerals as needed. When your minerals are running low, the system sends an alert to Terra to replenish stock so the farmer won’t run out.

For more information: Web: www.tlm.ie Mob: 087 216 5374 Email: sales@tlm.ie

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FOCUS ON FEED

CRITICAL TRIANGLE DETERMINES DAIRY SUCCESS Three key factors determine how successfully a dairy unit can reach its potential – genetics, management and nutrition. By Philip Ingram PhD.Technical Manager, Cargill Animal Nutrition.

N

utrition is one pivotal factor which has a huge influence Developed through peer reviewed research and used by Cargill on realising herd potential and one where most herds can extensively for groups of cows on TMR diets, the ‘lead’ factor is improve their efficiency. calculated from the proportion of the herd in the particular group Genetics planning is long term and herd management is largely and its spread of yields. determined by resources, investment and on farm expertise. And For example, take a typical 8000 litre year-round calving herd while most producers appreciate the importance of good rations, with daily yields from 12 to 50 litres and an average yield of 24 sometimes economic conditions can tempt some to trim back and litres. The Cargill lead factor would be set at 1.3, meaning that cut feed costs. the diet will be set for 30% greater total nutrients than the requirements Producers should tread carefully here. Very simple maths shows of the average cow – in this case 31litres. that reducing the ration cost by 10c/head/day and seeing average Although this is the most efficient compromise possible under yields drop by 2 litres is not a good decision, even at very low milk the circumstances, neither the top, nor the low yielders are being prices. And possible longer term effects on fertility and cow health fed efficiently. carry more hidden costs. These will cause a longer term drop in When the yield range of the group is less, this lead factor can farm efficiency. be brought back considerably, meaning that herd nutrition can be Whether cows are bred for intensive or more forage and grazing met much more efficiently. So, for this example, if cows are fed as based systems, the level of genetics has improved dramatically in two groups, the higher yielding cows will receive much closer to the past two decades. Higher nutritional standards are needed to their allowance (example the top group is now 30 – 50L, the match this, and too often this is not appreciated. Advanced genetics average is 38L, and with a lead factor of 1.15 they should be fed and higher yields are often blamed for poor fertility or health for 44L). This will allow them to milk better and have a better

“Advanced genetics and higher yields are often blamed for poor fertility and health” issues. However, it is often a case of not meeting the nutritional needs of these animals adequately.

Two areas that warrant some attention are more precise rationing and providing a better balance of nutrients.

Cows are more likely to get exactly what they need if they are fed individually (i.e. to yield) or in small groups. This facilitates good feed efficiency which is far harder to achieve in bigger groups of cows. A typical cow group in the modern dairy herd will have a big range of yields and some cows will be underfed and others overfed. At the extreme, many TMR fed cows run as one group will not be very ‘feed efficient’.

TMR herds with more groups can target animal needs more precisely – and therefore more efficiently. It is also possible to set up a ‘lead’ factor to gauge how to feed these groups most efficiently.

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energy balance which will also aid fertility. Additionally the lower group would receive a ration more suited to their needs – less wasteful and less likely to cause them to put on unnecessary body condition which could lead to metabolic issues in the next lactation (again leading to inefficiency).

Dietary balance, particularly to achieve rumen health, is also pivotal to achieving good feed efficiency. Dairy and beef animals use acids produced during digestion for energy. However, too high a level – brought on by nutritional or management issues – can cause acidosis, reduced digestion and reduced performance.

Nutrition is ongoing. There are new ideas and a lot to be gained by more precise rationing and feeding if our high genetic merit herds are to realise their full potential. And there’s no lead time – the action can start today!

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

NEWS THE TAILWELL® POWER TAIL TRIMMER Regular lubrication is important, as with any trimming device, and should be done at from every 30 trims up to a maximum of every 50 trims. Pre-cutting the hair is not necessary even in the case of heavy soiling or crusting. 100 to 200 tails can be clipped per battery charge but this can depend on the level of soiling. Blade sharpening may be necessary depending on the level of soiling (after 1000 to 2000 shears) and can be done easily and problem-free even by inexperienced users with the supplied abrasive paste.

T

®

TAILWELL POWER TAIL TRIMMER

• Fits virtually any battery-powered drill operating at 14 Volt, 1,250 rpm.

• Removes tail hair in seconds, even hair completely matted with dung he TailWell® Power Tail Trimmer attachment has been developed and dirt to make the arduous work involved with cutting hair on the • Now even easier to sharpen with a tails of dairy cows easier. specially developed sharpening paste The removal of cow tail hair soiled with dung and urine is important • Supplied in a handy plastic case for ensuring maximum hygiene of the herd, the milk and the milker. for safe storage ® The cow tail hair should be clipped twice a year to ensure the best The TailWell Power Tail Trimmer ® milk quality. TailWell Power Tail Trimmer fits on to any batteryattachment is distributed in Ireland powered screwdriver (at last 14 Volt) that rotates at a speed of

by Agrihealth and available from Coaround 1,250 rpm. The TailWell2® Power Tail Trimmer is quiet, light Op’s, Retail Merchant and Vet Shop. and produces a smooth cut. It takes no more than 4 seconds per tail For more information contact and can easily be carried out during the milking process. It works on Agrihealth on Tel: 047 71800 the principle of an outer blade rotating around an inner one, therefore or by Email to there is no risk of injury to the animal or the operator. enquiries@agrihealth.ie.

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GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

USE MORE GRASS TO MAKE MORE PROFIT Analysis of Irish Farms financial data shows that a higher proportion of grass used in diet increases farm profit. George Ramsbottom, Teagasc, Oak Park, Carlow, reports.

KEY POINTS

GRASS RICH AND GRASS POOR

• Supplementation of grazing systems reduces grass utilisation as purchased feed is substituted into the herd’s diet in place of home grown and grazed forage.

• Despite increasing milk production per cow, dairy farms that use proportionately more purchased feeds tend to have lower home grown forage utilisation and lower net profitability per hectare • For every additional €1 increase in supplementation costs on dairy farms, total milk production costs increased by €1.60 due to, but not exclusively, more infrastructural and mechanisation costs associated with higher supplementation systems.

Teagasc advocates maximising the use of grazed grass in the diet of dairy cows. Analysis of Irish farm financial data shows that farms using a greater proportion of grass in the diet of their dairy herds tend to be more profitable than those farms utilising a lower proportion of grass.

Typical targets for spring calving dairy herds include growing and utilising more than 12.5 tonnes and 10 tonnes of grass dry matter per hectare per annum respectively. Assuming a stocking rate of 2.5 cows per hectare and a milk solids yield of 450 kg per head1, a target of using less than 500 kg meal per head per annum is achievable on well managed dairy farms. Such targets ensure that over 90% of the INTRODUCTION herd's diet is composed of grazed and ensiled grass. Nationally an With the abolition of milk quotas on March 31st 2015, the limitations estimated 80% of the cows’ diet is composed of purchased feed. The they imposed on milk production are gone. Since then the 30% increase terms ‘grass rich’ and ‘grass poor’ refer to systems of milk production in milk production that has occurred nationally has taken some by where greater than or less than 80% of the diet is composed of surprise. However the question I ask is, “Who benefits from the grazed and ensiled grass. opportunities that quota abolition has presented?”

2016 RESULTS Having lived and worked in New Zealand in the late ‘90’s, and The proportion of grass used in the cows’ diet can be estimated visited there twice since, the change in milk production systems I’ve seen there over the intervening decades is considerable. The creep using the physical data available through the Teagasc financial analysis programme, Profit Monitor (PM). Milk yield per cow is used to calculate towards more ‘grass poor’ systems of production is noticeable everywhere.While one million cows have been added to their national estimated dry matter requirement while costs of purchased feed and herd in the 10 years to 2015, we hear that Kiwi dairy farmers are no better forage are used to calculate the quantity of purchased feed consumed off. Indeed higher production costs and greater levels of indebtedness by the herd. From this, the proportion of purchase feed and forage incurred over the period have left farmers vulnerable to milk price is calculated. Using this methodology, PM data from over 1,300 spring volatility. Who has benefited then from unfettered production in calving dairy farms was used to generate the physical and financial data New Zealand? Well not many of that countries dairy farmers anyway. presented in Table 1.

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1 Combined fat and protein yield e.g. 5,500 litres of milk containing 4.40% fat and 3.60% equates to a milk solids yield of 453 kg.

GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

.

Table 1. Physical and financial data for 2016 for spring calving dairy • The lower output on the grass rich farms reflected lower output farms categorised by proportion of purchased feed and forage (1,352 per cow and per hectare. farms).

• Output per ha on the grass rich farms was on average 26 kg milk • After a wet spring, the 2016 season was a good grass growing year solids per ha or 4% lower than on the grass poor farms. This is as a result of lower output per cow (- 16 kg milk solids per cow). across much of the country – over two thirds (69%) of dairy farms included in this analysis operated ‘grass rich’ systems of milk • On average the grass rich farms had lower variable costs than the production that year. average of the grass poor farms at €1,256 per ha versus €1,566 per • The grass rich farms generated an average2 gross output of €3,461 ha. However, as a percentage of gross output they accounted for per ha compared to an average of €3,620 per ha on the grass poor only 36% compared to 43% of total variable costs on average on the farms, a 5% lower gross output. grass poor farms.

2 Weighted average for all calculations in Table 1.

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GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

• The gross margin was an average of €2,204 per ha on the grass rich farms which was 7% or €151 per ha higher than on the grass poor farms.

• The biggest variable cost on both grass rich and grass poor farms was purchased forage and concentrate accounting for 52% and 61% of total variable costs respectively.

• On average the grass rich farms had lower fixed costs than the average of the grass poor farms at €1,079 per ha versus €1,098 per ha.

• The average grass rich farm in 2016 generated a 15% greater net profit of €1,125 per ha compared to €957 per ha on the grass poor farms.

A summary of the 2016 milk production, grass utilisation and net profit of ‘grass rich’ and ‘grass poor’ farms is presented in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Milk production, grass utilisation and net profit (4/ha) on spring milk dairy farms categorised by % grass in the diet.

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3 Ramsbottom et al. (2015) Journal of Dairy Science 98:3526–3540

It’s not just feed costs that are higher in grass poor systems Previous analysis of large numbers of spring calving farms using PM for the 2011-2014 period found a similar trend with grass rich systems of milk proving more profitable than grass poor ones3. That study showed that as feed costs increase with increasing proportions of bought in feed, extra money is spent in other areas as well as shown in Figure 2.

GRASSLAND MANAGEMENT

Grass Rich Figure 2. Change in feed and other costs (€/ha) as the proportion of own grass in the diet declines.

The extra spending in the grass poor systems doesn’t stop at just meal and forage purchase. For every extra €100/ha spent on feed (meals and forage), an average of an additional €60 was spent on other costs on the grass poor farms.

Grass Poor of greater than €2,000 per hectare was twice as great in the grass rich systems of milk production as it was for the grass poor operators.

LESSONS FOR FARMERS As a result of this analysis, all dairy farmers irrespective of their system of milk production should ask themselves the question, “How can I increase the proportion of grazed grass in the diet of my dairy herd without incurring extra costs in the process?”

The extra costs included: • Machinery operating and running costs (including contractor costs);

Steps that farmers can take to achieve this include: • Ensuring that the soil lime status and P and K index are optimised – if you don’t know, take soil tests now and act on the results.

• Farm maintenance and running costs (including car, ESB and phone);

• Walk the farm regularly and measure the amount of grass that you grow to control surpluses, manage deficits and identify low yielding paddocks for improvement.

• Worryingly both short and long term interest costs are higher indicating a greater level of indebtedness is being incurred on the grass poor farms both through day to day expenditure and through long term borrowings. The rest of the difference was made up of small increases in a range of different costs.

• Ensure the ‘milking platform’ is fully reseeded and accessible by the cows – there is no place for growing forage crops such as maize silage or whole crop on the platform at platform stocking rates of over 2 cows per milking platform hectare and no need at lower stocking rates.

This study does not suggest that farmers in grass poor systems of milk production can’t make a reasonable margin. There was as much variation in net margin per hectare within systems as there was between systems. However the proportion of farmers generating a net margin

• Many out farms are performing poorly. Improving their potential to grow grass for replacement heifers and to provide grass silage for the winter requirements of the dairy herd will be a lot more profitable than purchasing more feed or forage to feed the cows.

Photo: Aidan McCarthy

“While one million cows have been added to the national herd, we hear that kiwi farmers are no better off”

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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FARM DESIGN

FARM INFRASTRUCTURE It is crucial to get the layout of the grazing area, farm roadways and water system correct as this affects the health, efficiency and milk yield of each cow. Article by Tom Ryan and Pat Tuohy of Teagasc.

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arm infrastructure is key to maximising grass production and utilisation. The major infrastructural elements are farm road– ways and water systems. In grazing systems cows are required to walk to the milking parlour and back twice daily from wherever they are grazing. Consequently, a lot of thought needs to be invested in deciding where to site the farmyard on the farm, how to subdivide the farm into a paddock system and what the optimum layout of roadways will be to make animal movement most efficient.

The four key issues to consider are: 1. Distance that cows are required to walk 2. Design and layout of cow roadways. (See roadway design) 3. Access to the milking parlour for milk tankers and other large vehicles separate from cow roadways 4. Farm security and animal disease biosecurity Proper subdivision of grazing land into paddocks is essential to be able to successfully manage pastures and achieve desirable rotation intervals. Paddocks must be connected with an efficient roadway system so that the herd can move from one paddock to any other paddock on the farm. The ideal paddock system should include about 20 to 23 full sized paddocks and a few small paddocks near the parlour for sick cows etc.

ROADWAYS The milking process really starts when the cows leave the paddock.

A well–designed, carefully built and properly maintained farm roadway system has many benefits, including, less lameness, less mastitis and better general animal health, faster and easier stock movement,

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cleaner cows and milk and more efficient paddock access. Problems are caused by; pebbles and loose stones on the surface, a bumpy surface with secure stones, lodged/trapped water on the surface, very dirty section near the farmyard, and a roadway level with or lower than the field. The reasons for these defects are many but may be due to flawed construction methods, unsuitable materials and lack of maintenance.

ROADWAY WIDTH The width of roadways depends on the number of cows in the herd. Typical widths of 3.7m to 5m are suggested for herds up to 150 cows with wider roadways needed for bigger herds. A rule of thumb is an extra 0.5m wide for each extra 100 cows in the herd.

The fence should be positioned about 0.5m (20 inches) from the edge of the roadway. This will allow cows to utilise the full width of the roadway while at the same time prevent them from walking along the grass margin. A cow track in the grass margin usually means that the fence is too far out and the surface of the roadway is likely to be poor also.

The length of the roadway required will depend on the size and general layout of the farm. On farms with heavy soils a more intensive roadway system makes grazing management easier. The intensity or land area devoted to farm roadways ranges from 1–2% of the grazing area.

ROADWAY CONSTRUCTION New farm roadways must be laid in good weather when soil conditions are dry. This is primarily to ensure that the roadway

FARM DESIGN material does not mix or get pressed into soft soil. Ideally remove a thin layer of topsoil before placing the roadway material. Be careful not to remove too much topsoil as the depth of the roadway will have to be increased to bring the roadway surface above field level.

The finished level of the roadway must be above the level of the field, otherwise drainage will be onto the roadway instead of off it.

A wide variety of locally sourced materials may be used as the main road material. If this material is available on the farm, so much the better. This foundation layer is made up of granular fill material.

The usual depth is about 200–300mm (8–12 inches). The biggest stones should be no bigger than about one third of the thickness of this layer. The intended slope should be formed in the foundation layer. This means that the surface layer will have the same slope and an even thickness. Generally, 75 or 100 mm (3 or 4 inch) down material is used.

Compact with a vibrating roller before the surface layer is spread.

Compaction interlocks the material to give a stronger roadway and helps prevent loose stones from mixing with the surface layer. The roadway should be completed with about 50–75m (2–3 inches) of a COSTS fine material on the surface. The surface layer needs to be laid evenly A 4.3m wide roadway, with 0.3m depth of material and will need and compacted. The surface of the roadway has a big influence on one 25 tonne load to cover a length of 9–10 metres. This assumes a the level of lameness in the herd. The surface needs to be smooth, density of about 2 tonnes per m3 for the material used. A similar

“A fact that is often overlooked is that, improving water supply can result in an increase in milk yield” fine and strong enough to support animals but with a little give in it also. Rough surfaces with protruding stones, loose gravel or pebbles (either sharp or round) lying on the surface are a major lameness factor.

Getting water off the roadway quickly will extend the life of the surface and reduce the cost of maintenance. Potholes will also be less likely to develop. To remove water quickly from roadways they should slope to one or both sides. A crossfall of between 1 in 15 and 1 in 20 is about right.

sized load would cover 45 metres with a 63mm (2½ inch) thick surface layer. The price of road making material, both crushed stone and dust for the surface, is typically €7–10 per tonne plus VAT. As the construction material amounts to over 80% of the overall cost, strict control over the depth and width of the roadway, in line with needs and good construction practice, is essential. Farm roadway costs range between €4 and €7.5 per square metre. Calculate costs in advance and monitor progress. This will avoid surprises and cost overruns.VAT is refundable on new farm roadways but not on repairs.

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FARM DESIGN

an adequate flow rate, which is in most situations about 16 to 22 A good water supply is extremely important for production, health litres per minute (3.5 to 5gal/min).

In general, standard ballcocks are described by their size and and welfare of livestock. The water supply system must be good pressure.

Ballcocks can have high, medium or low pressure jets. The enough to supply adequate water needs in paddocks, the parlour high, medium and low pressure refers to the pressure the ballcock and dairy, and the dwelling. On most farms the water system consists can withstand without leaking when the trough is full. of a series of expansions or additions carried out over the years as The high–pressure jet has the smallest hole and the low–pressure requirements changed. Only when the system fails to cope, such as jet the biggest.

The high pressure jet in a standard ½ ballcock is only during a dry summer, do people realise how marginal their system 1/8 of an inch in diameter whereas the medium jet is ¼ of an inch has become.

A fact often overlooked, is that improving water supply can result in diameter. Other ballcocks are available that have openings of ½ in an increase in milk yield. A dairy cow can be satisfied long before inch or greater. In most systems medium pressure ballcocks will she is full, so if the water is slow to come through to the trough, she provide an adequate flow rate. In practice, most standard ballcocks are sold with high pressure jets in them, which is one reason why so may be quite contented, but milk yield can suffer by over 20%.

Common problems on most farms centre on inadequacies in areas many farms have flow rate problems.

WATER SYSTEMS

such as, water source, pumping plant, pipe sizes, ballcocks and troughs.

WATER TROUGHS

Cows can drink anything from 10 litres of water when dry to 60 to 110 litres when milking, depending on production levels and weather This is probably the most common problem with water supply on conditions. They can typically drink at the rate of 14 litres a minute from a trough. Allow cattle 10 to 15 litres per 100kgs of body weight farms. Even on farms where piping was laid in recent years under– sizing of pipes still occurs. In small pipes, flow rate reduces because per day.

Carefully consider trough location; cows don't like to walk more of friction between the water and the inside surface of the pipe. than about 250 metres to get a drink. Locate water troughs away from With regard to pipe size it’s the change in cross–sectional area in paddock gateways and farm roadways. This will shorten the walk to relation to its bore (diameter) that’s important. It’s hard to imagine water, prevent bottlenecks, and reduce the wear and tear at gateways. that a 20mm (3/4 inch) pipe has approximately twice the cross– Check water troughs regularly to ensure that ballcocks are working sectional area of 12.5mm (1/2 inch) pipe. Similarly, a 25mm (1 inch) properly and that there are no leaks; a leak at a water trough is a real pipe has four times the cross–sectional area of 12.5mm (1/2 inch) disaster. pipe, although it’s only twice the bore.

Flow rate should be considered before trough size in ensuring The pressure loss is also affected by the pipe length, i.e. if you adequate supply. However, large troughs provide more drinking double the length of the pipe you double the pressure loss. The net effect of pressure loss is reduced flow rates. Increasing system pressure space and can compensate a bit for poor flow rate at peak drinking time. The main advantage of big troughs is they give more space for to maintain flow rate is not a good solution. It would be extremely drinking. Each cow drinking at a trough needs 450mm of space energy inefficient and give rise to damaging levels of pressure. The measured along the trough rim. For large herds it may be necessary answer is to use the right pipe size. to install a second trough in the paddock.

SMALL PIPE SIZES

BALLCOCK PROBLEMS Very often the ballcocks are the weak link in an otherwise satisfactory water supply system. Ballcocks are frequently over restrictive, even on systems where the pipe sizes are adequate. A high pressure 12.5mm ballcock in the drinking trough is not capable of allowing

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CONCLUSION Proper planning of paddocks, farm roadways and water supply will make life healthier, easier, and more efficient for man and beast.

EDUCATION

DAIRYING CAREERS Large scale farms and advances in technology will necessitate further education for farmers and farm employees, writes Marion Beecher and Paidi Kelly, Teagasc, Moorepark.

INTRODUCTION

create further employment on farms. Teagasc estimates that between now and 2025, an additional 6,000 people will be needed to enter the industry as either successors or employees and in a variety of full time and part time positions.

The impressive growth in Irish milk production in 2017 comes on the back of record production during 2016 when total domestic milk output reached 6,395 million litres which was valued at €3.38 billion to the national exchequer.

Dairy production and ingredients currently represents 30% of total REASONS FOR GROWTH food and drink exports and is the fastest growing agri–food industry Along with increased herd size there are a number of other factors within the EU, growing by almost a quarter since the end of EU creating opportunities in dairy farming and these are outlined below. quotas in 2015 alone.

Unlike other manufacturing areas, previous studies show that economic l Based on a growing world population, the long term projections activity in the dairy sector is of significant value to the wider national are for the future demand for dairy products to continue to grow. economy sourcing 75% of goods and services from other Irish suppliers. Ireland, with its grass based system of milk production, is in a great Growth in the sector also has a high employment multiplier effect position to capitalise on this growing demand. and supports employment in other parts of the economy.

With approximately 20% of the country’s total forage area devoted l The 2016 National Farm Survey preliminary report showed the to dairy production, further expansion within the sector is expected average dairy farmer made a net profit of €924/ha which is more over the next decade. The national dairy herd has grown from 1.1 than what was achieved in other enterprises. million cows in 2010 to 1.35 million cows in 2016. During that same With a higher milk price in 2017, dairy profitability is likely to period, average herd size has increased from 58 to 75 cows, with exceed €1,500/ha which will increase interest in further expansion half of all cows now milked in herds of in excess of 100 cows. The on existing dairy farms and in additional conversions from other increase in the number of larger scale farms has and will continue to enterprises to dairying.

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EDUCATION l There is growing interest in collaborative farming arrangements to

establish new and larger dairy businesses since milk quota removal.

The creation and subsequent success of the Macra Land Mobility Service, has facilitated the change of land use of over 10,000 hectares in three years, proving that Irish farmers are interested in collaborative farming. Successful business arrangements involving farms that have been converted to dairying and existing dairy farms which have been reinvigorated by the addition of a young, enthusiastic and skilled people are now increasingly common.

different positions are outlined in the Teagasc Stepping Stones to a Career in Dairy Farming.

As well as exciting opportunities there are many other reasons to consider a career in Irish dairying such as: l Opportunity to earn a good income and have a good work life balance l Variety of work, working with nature in the outdoors and with animals l Opportunity to work both on your own and as part of a team l A farm owner can avail of long term tax relief incentives by engaging in l Seeing the rewards of your effort every day through milk in the tank long term leases with tenants.This is increasing the land availability to l Using the latest science and technology to try to improve farm performance skilled farmers. l Working in businesses undertaking exciting expansion plans l The 2013 CSO data showed the average farmer in Ireland was 57 l Social side of farming through Macra, discussion groups and other years old with 17% of dairy farmers over the age of 65. Macra surveys farming events have identified that 50% of farmers over 50 years old have no identified successor.There is both a lack of successors and a shortage of people EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Farmers need to be skilled in a wide range of areas to run profitable with the necessary skills to take on the running of farms. Many of these farmers may consider employing labour or entering collaborative and sustainable farm businesses. Managing a dairy farm is much more than just overseeing the milking process. Due to environmental farming arrangements in the future to continue in dairying. issues and demand for increased productivity and efficiency, farmers A REWARDING AND FULFILLING CAREER have made many changes to their farm management practices The increased herd size in addition to the other factors described resulting in the need for a more highly trained, qualified and skilled above mean that for the first time in a generation, there are now dairy farming workforce. exciting opportunities and a career progression framework in place Dairy farmers will need an increased level of understanding of on Irish dairy farms. There are opportunities for people to enter the business principles to survive and prosper. To sustain a vibrant and industry with limited experience and with opportunities to progress prosperous business for the future, dairy farmers must develop to business ownership by building on their skills through experience their farming operations by upgrading skills in financial management and education. This progression route and profiles of people in (e.g. accounting, business structures, strategic planning, succession

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EDUCATION programmes will equip the next generation dairy farmers with the additional skills and knowledge needed to meet the challenges of an expanding industry.

ADVANCED CERTIFICATE IN DAIRY HERD MANAGEMENT: This programme provides the graduate with the knowledge and technical skills required to manage a dairy herd. Having completed one year in an agricultural college, students typically spend a further 20 weeks in college and 12 weeks on practical learning with a host farm in Ireland or overseas. Course content is a combination of technical (dairy management, nutrition, breeding, grass management including grazing infrastructure, and environmental modules) and farm business modules. Students who successfully complete the programme have the skills and competencies to join the dairy industry as herd managers.

PROFESSIONAL DIPLOMA IN DAIRY FARM MANAGEMENT: The specific purpose Level 7 PDDFM programme is the recognised standard for farm ownership and management training.The programme aims to provide enthusiastic dairy farmers with the latest research and best practice management knowledge to successfully run large scale dairy operations. Uniquely, this programme provides graduates with a mix of on–the–job/off–the–job diploma level training and accreditation which is the recognised standard for successful farm management. The core element of the PDDFM is a two year paid professional work experience based programme on high performance planning), people management, communication and negotiation, in dairy farms. While on work experience with approved progressive addition to technically efficient sustainable farm management. commercial dairy farms, students have the opportunity to implement Recent studies have highlighted that successful dairy farm businesses their technical knowledge in a controlled active learning environment. are underpinned by excellent financial management, as people with Uniquely, students on the programme learn from experienced good financial management skills achieve a higher level of business agricultural researchers, consultants, and teachers and from other

“Work/life balance will be improved for all involved” growth in the long–term.

Education in combination with relevant work experience on different farms, with mentor employers who take an interest in their employee’s learning and development are the best ways to develop the skills needed for successful farming. Agricultural education is an essential starting point for any young person and Teagasc provide specific dairy training through the Advanced Dairy Certificate and the Professional Diploma in Dairy Farm Management. Both these

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like-minded enthusiastic students through classes that are interactive and discussion based.

The aim of the programme is to maximise students’ career prospects in the dairy industry. This is achieved by supporting them in gaining solid experience and career development. Graduates from the PDDFM course have been successfully employed in Ireland, New Zealand, Germany, UK and Saudi Arabia as dairy farm managers, or as managers on their own family farms.

EDUCATION Applicants must possess a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture or an equivalent recognised agricultural award to be eligible for entry into the programme.

CONTINUOUS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

l Paying a fair wage reflecting the responsibilities and hours worked

on time without exception l Ensure employees achieve a good work life balance by having regular start and finish times and a labour efficient farm set-up.

Continuous education is a requirement of all people in business l Provide training and professional development opportunities for and farmers and their employees are no different. There are a employees number of short term courses such as the FRS milking skills and MACRA Skillnet courses which farmers can avail of on an ongoing l Give employees responsibility and autonomy in decision making basis. Outside of formal education, farmers can also up-skill and planning their own workload themselves by learning from other farmers, family, the media and industry experts through participation in an active discussion group. l Ensure the farm has excellent infrastructure and meets the highest Knowledge gained from other farmers is valuable because it is local standards of farm safety and comes from direct experience and observation over time.

Employers should also encourage those working on their farms to CONCLUSION participate in a discussion group to further their development.

To attract and retain people in the industry, dairy farming must be an enjoyable and rewarding career which offers a good work/ life balance comparable with other careers. Increased herd sizes, an The number of young people that choose dairy farming as a career aging farmer population and a lack of successors have resulted in is going to be influenced by the perception that they have of the the creation of new and exciting career opportunities in the dairy industry. To attract people to the industry, dairy farming must be an industry. The expansion in dairy production in Ireland has created enjoyable and rewarding career offering a good work/ life balance career progression pathways which will allow new entrants to start comparable to other careers. their career as farm assistants and progress to herd manager, farm Having a good working environment on the farm will result in manager and business ownership by building on their skills through improved work efficiency, increased employee satisfaction and experience and education. increased farm operational efficiency. Teagasc have recently published a guide for employers on employing labour. There a Article by Marion Beecher and Paidi Kelly, Teagasc, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, number of practical things that can be done by dairy farmers to Co. Cork become employers of choice including:

BEING AN EMPLOYER OF CHOICE

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FINANCE

CONSEQUENCES OF LACK OF FINANCIAL PLANNING Without proper planning a farmer can be making reasonable profits and still run out of cash. Philip O Connor, B.A.gr.Sc., MBUIS, IFAC Agri-Support Manager, discusses.

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financial analysis process should begin with consideration of the farm business as a whole. What is the financial condition as evidenced by the balance sheet and a review of net worth? How much debt is there? Is the debt manageable given the requirements for obligations such as taxes, family living expenditures, and business expansion? Where are my profits going year to year? Am I increasing my net worth? Have I the “cash” to meet my weekly / monthly commitments throughout the year?

Farmers in expansion phase need to balance their commitments in paying for the expansion (increase in stock numbers, increases in land via lease / purchase, capital expenditure, increased loan repayments etc) versus their already existing financial commitments such as their own / family living expenses. In downwards milk price years financial planning is vital in understanding can you meet all of these commitments?

Knowing the answers to these questions will allow the farmer to gain control. To pave out a path they are ready and able for. A good foundation is half the battle in running a successful business. The first step in this process is to understand what Net Profit is? Where it goes? How it impacts cash flow, and is it increasing my Net Worth?

NET PROFIT In accounting, net profit is equal to the gross profit minus overheads minus interest payable for a given time period (usually: accounting period). In other words all of the trading income a farm generates minus all the variable and fixed cost in generating that trading

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income. However farmers must understand that “Profit” is not the bottom line. The “profit” is used to finance the following on the farm over the given period: 1. Non Farm expenditure – usually living expenses 2. Capital Loan Repayments – only interest is allowable as an expense when calculating Net Profit 3. Tax 4. Capital Expenditure

CASHFLOW Cash is to a business as air is to the human body. Consider the consequences of the body being starved of air – yes, it would cease to function.

Even if the air supply is restricted it can result in significant damage to the body. Lack of sufficient cash flowing through a business has the same effect. In essences cash flow is accounting for all actual monies as they enter and exit the business. It does not account for buying or selling goods / services on credit but rather reflects when these monies for purchases / sales enter the farmer’s bank.

NET WORTH A farmers net worth is reflected on their balance sheet at year end.

It is the total Assets (Land, buildings. machinery, deposits, cash, stock, investments etc) OWNED by the farmer less all liabilities (merchant credit, loans, overdraft, land loans etc) OWED by the farmer at a given time. Usually on farm accounts this is calculated at year end and is reflected on the balance sheet. If a farmer is investing in land,

FINANCE stock, investments or deposits, in theory his net worth will increase year on year as the value of his assets increases over his liabilities.

Don’t forget these “assets” have to be paid for! Where is this money coming from?

PRACTICAL EXAMPLES OF CASH STARVATION IMPACTING ON CASHFLOW AND LIVING EXPENSES

Expanding dairy herd Dairy farmers favour the building up of their dairy herd from their own stock replacements rather than buying in. This minimises HOW DO I MONITOR NET WORTH YEAR ON disease risks and an immediate cash out–flow. However, it does YEAR? mean a gradual cash out-flow over a two year period of €670-700 Net worth for the purposes of this article is generated from using (Teagasc estimate, not incl own labour plus opportunity cost of land, and retaining farm profits (an individual’s Net worth can increase possible 450 as per Teagasc) and the cash foregone from the sale of from outside sources eg Inheritance, pensions, investments, spousal the calf in year one of €250-300 (average). Add to this the fact these income or increased value of existing assets). costs will not be tax deductible as a taxable expense because they Farmers need to understand how their profits are used and review are balanced by the fact that the animal is valued in closing stock. the impact it is having on their balance sheet and therefore Net Stock Relief may be available at 25%, 50% or 100%. Twenty home Worth. In IFAC Accountants we provide our clients with a Source & reared entrants into the dairy herd will use €30,000 cash over the Use of Funds Statement which shows exactly where their profits are two years – this needs to be built into the cash budget otherwise going, how it impacts on their balance sheet and whether their Net there may be no cash available to pay farm expenses, loan repayments Worth Increased or Decreased? and most importantly the farmers own living costs as they fall due.

SOURCE & USE OF FUNDS STATEMENT Net Profit / Loss (As per P & L Account)

€97,040.00

Add Back Non Cash Items Decrease in Stock Values Depreciation

€€34,060.00

Sale Of Capital Items Receipt of Capital Grants

€4,500.00 €11,366.00

Personal / Non-Farm Cash from Investments Non Farm Income

€5,900.00

Total

€152,866 (A)

Purchase of Land / Quota Purchase of Capital Items

€20,000.00

Increase in Stock

€15,496.00

Drawings Taxation Purchase of Investments

€51,898.00 €18,752.00 € 3,289.00 €109,435 (B) €43,431

The Deficit (A minus B has effected your Finances) Loan Balances Overdraft Cash On Hand / Deposits / Debtors Creditors

Down no change Up DOWN

WHAT DOES THIS STATEMENT TELL ME? The above figures show that this farmer has increased his Net Worth over his accounting year. After all “cash” was taken in and all “cash” paid out this farmers Net Worth went up by €43,431. His loans went down, his creditors went down and his cash / deposits went up.

If A minus B was negative, this “deficit” has to be paid for? How would this happen? Increased Loans, increased creditors, decreased deposits / cash.

€23,452.00 €€7,082.00 €12,897.00

Positive No Change Positive Positive

FARM DEVELOPMENT To cope with extra livestock numbers, increased output and improved efficiencies farm investment may be necessary.

Cash starvation can arise here due to a variety of the following reasons: • The total cost not being accurately quantified at the pre-planning phase.

• No provision being made for contingency over-runs. We recommend a 10% - 20% contingency cost provision for over-runs.

FIXED ASSETS & VALUATIONS Net worth can be increased on the balance sheet by increasing the value of the fixed assets. Eg Increase the value of individual livestock, increase the value of land.

Building and machinery will decrease in line with depreciation which is reflected on your Profit & Loss account. It would be IFAC advice for the purposes of calculating Net Worth that land values and stock values remain constant and therefore will only effect Net Worth on an increase in livestock numbers or the purchase of land area.

• No quotations being sought from building contractors and suppliers, and if sought restricted to one contractor/supplier.

• Quotation not being compared with standard farm costings for similar work e.g. Teagasc costings.

• No provision for actual date of grant of payment i.e. bridging finance.

39

FINANCE

• Funding from the current account and or greater merchant credit cash that requires to be generated in order to meet the capital debt which puts huge pressure on cashflow and again the farmers element of loan repayments. Annual cash flow budgeting is vital to run a farm profitably and successfully. own living expenses • Not factoring on your cashflow the capital loan repayments if borrowing for the capital expenditure.

All or a combination of the above results in a cash shortage, mismanagement of the current account, greater reliance on expense of merchant credit with consequent inability to pay debts as they fall due and huge pressure on the family farm living expenses.

THE CAPITAL REPAYMENT TRAP The profits shown on a farm Profit and Loss Accounts only shows bank interest payable but not the capital repayment element of loan repayments. The capital repayment element has to be funded from after tax income.

Example: The annual loan repayments in years 1, 4 and 7 to a bank on €50,000 borrowed over seven years at 6% to purchase land is as follows Annual Repayment Interest Portion Year 1 Year 4 Year 7

€8,950 (100%)

€8,950 (100%)

€8,950 (100%)

€3,000 (33%)

€1,850 (21%)

€ 500 (5%)

Capital Portion €5,950 (67%)

€7,100 (79%)

€8,450 (95%)

From this example you can see that the tax deductible interest element of the repayment in Year 1 of €3,000 is 33% of the total amount repayable which drops to €500, being 5% of the total annual payment in Year 7.

A farmer taxable at 50% tax rate (including levies, PRSI, USC) would have to earn €16,900 profit before tax in Year 7 to repay the €8,450 capital element to the bank.

It is therefore vital to understand the difference between the yearly profit as shown on a Profit and Loss Account and the actual surplus

40

CONCLUSION Farmers need to be conscious of the fact that although they may be increasing their Net Worth through the purchase of assets or expanding their livestock numbers they need to be aware that these assets have to be paid for out of cash flow. In conclusion if a farmer is not generating enough profit to meet all of their financial commitments their Net Worth (ignoring the impact of increases in assist values) will decrease as their liabilities increase while their assets remain static or decrease. As the farm is starved of cash flow in meeting its financial commitments inevitably, the living expenses will also come under increasing pressure.

FOCUS ON FEED

DRY COW DIET OPTIONS

During the dry period the cow’s diet must be managed to ensure she calves down and begins the next lactation in the correct ‘body–condition’, writes Valerie Hobson, Animal Nutritionist, Quinns of Baltinglass Ltd.

C

ows should have an eight-week dry period in preparation for the next lactation.This may need to be extended if cows have a poor Body Condition Score (BCS). Cows should calve down and be dried off at a BCS of 3.25. During the dry period the cow’s diet must be managed to ensure she calves down and begins the next lactation in the correct ‘body-condition’. If the cow is too fat or too thin at calving, subsequent milk production and fertility will suffer. Nutrition-related problems around calving such as milk fever and retained cleanings can also have significant effects on subsequent production in the herd.

Traditionally cows were fed grass silage alone during the dry period but in recent years this is changing and nutritionists are advising the inclusion of concentrates in the dry period and it’s not simply to correct BCS. Every condition score (~ 50 kg) below target at calving results in the cow milking 450 litres less during the next lactation along with a reduction in fertility.

Table 1: Energy supply to dry cows in good body condition (3.0-3.5)

Diet Options Include: 1. Top quality silage (>72% DMD) ad lib 2. Average quality silage (68 - 72% DMD) ad-lib plus 1 kg concentrate 3. Poor quality silage (64 – 68% DMD) ad-lib plus 2.5kg concentrate Table 2: Energy supply to dry cows in low body condition (2.5-3.0)

TRADITIONAL SILAGE BASED DRY COW DIETS • Energy required to maintain body condition = 90 - 100MJ/d • Assuming DMI of 10kg/d (could be higher for top quality silage and early in dry period. Lower for poor quality silage and close to calving) • Diets: Top quality silage – restrict grass silage slightly Average quality silage – ad lib Poor quality silage – ad lib plus 1kg concentrate

42

*For simplicity the dry matter intake of grass silage is kept 10kg/d, though the inclusion of concentrates would reduce the silage intake to some extent

FOCUS ON FEED

ALTERNATIVE DRY COW DIETS Traditionally in the dry cow period, concentrates supplemented poor quality grass silage and cows dried off in poor body condition.

The use of prolonged dry periods allowed cows to gain condition this in essence was fine but recent research has shown that this period is ‘the critical time’ in the production cycle when cows must be prepared and adapted to the job in hand i.e. lactation! The use of concentrates should not be looked upon solely as a means of gaining condition but also need to be considered in the dry cow period for other reasons: 1) To increase the energy density of the diet 3-4 weeks prior to calving when the dry matter intake starts to decline and declines rapidly 1 week prior to calving (decline of 30%)

DIET 3: SILAGE ALLOWANCE IS REDUCED, CONCENTRATES AND STRAW INCLUDED • Benefits of concentrates on post calving intakes and performance • Increased rumen fill • More control over weight loss/gain • Reduction in incidence of milk fever, retained foetal membranes and displaced stomachs • Lower silage requirement *A variation of this diet: 2-3kg Hay, 2-3kg straw, 3kg concentrates and 15kg grass silage

2) Concentrates help prepare the rumen by acclimatizing the microflora to the lactation diet and also increase rumen papillae surface area, this results in higher intakes and better absorption of nutrients in early lactation

DIET 4: 25% GRASS SILAGE, 25% CONCENTRATE, AND 50% STRAW • Benefits of concentrates on post calving intakes and performance

3) The inclusion of concentrates in the pre-calving diets is likely to result in higher pre-calving intakes.This has a positive impact on lactation, since dry matter intake pre-calving is positively linked to intake 1 month post calving.

• Cows need to be dried off in good condition • Lower silage requirement

• Borderline in terms of energy supplied, especially in final weeks The inclusion of concentrates in the dry cow diet may allow a prior to calving reduction in the quantity of grass silage required. Straw (and/or hay) may partially replace this grass silage. Reduction in grass silage can Table 3. Dry Cow Diet Options be beneficial due to: *Ratio on a DM Basis: Silage: Concentrate: Straw a) Increasing cost of second cut silage and years of grass silage shortage b) More grass available for grazing c) Negative effect of high K levels in grass silage on milk fever Different Dry Cow Diet Options are shown in Table 3.

DRY COW COMPOUND RATION

• Crude protein requirement of dry cows is 13% in the total diet DM. If splitting cows, crude protein for far off dry cows is 12%, close up dry cows is 14% and heifers prior to calving 14% • The crude protein of the concentrate will depend upon the crude protein of the silage, the level of concentrate supplementation • A standard Dry Matter Intake (DMI) of 10kg/day is used and the level of straw inclusion. (concentrate inclusion and stage of dry period would influence the • Supplementing grass silage (13% crude protein) with 1-2kg intake achieved). concentrates, a 12% CP ration.

• Supplementing grass silage, 2-4kg of straw and 2-3kg concentrate, a 17-24% ration (17% @ 2kg straw and 3kg concentrate, 23% @ 4kg straw and 2kg concentrate) DIET 1: GRASS SILAGE DIET • The inclusion of protected proteins in the dry cows rations have been shown to have a positive effect on production and fertility • Sufficient energy supplied while intake is maintained at 10kg DMI • Lactating cow rations and beef rations, with minerals have • Lowest cost diet relatively high levels of Ca. Inclusion of additional Ca in the dry cow DIET 2: GRASS SILAGE ONLY FOR HALF OF diet only predisposes cows to milk fever, these rations should be avoided when supplementing grass silage only (less critical for other THE DRY PERIOD forages or if high levels of straw is fed) Grass silage plus 2kg concentrates for 2nd half (4 weeks) of • A dry cow mineral should be fed with all these diets 4-6 weeks the dry period prior to calving • These diets are aimed at maintaining body condition.

Supplementation rates would vary if silage quality varied from that in Table 4 or cows had lower than the target body condition of 3.0-3.5

• Diet energy density is increased in final 4 weeks to account for Proper dry cow management and nutrition is now viewed the drop in intake as a key time in the production cycle. Care and attention during • Sufficient energy supply for the whole dry cow period this time will have major benefits during subsequent lactations!

• Benefits of concentrates on post calving intakes and performance

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44

MEDICINE DELIVERY

PROTOCOLS FOR INJECTING DOSING AND GENERAL MEDICINE DELIVERY

If the animal gets an incorrect amount of medicine, wrongly administered or in the wrong place, it won’t work and may even be harmful, writes Stephen Murphy of Agrihealth.

I

ssues that are important in getting the most out of wormers, fluke treatments or vaccinations and contribute to how efficacious the treatment is going to be, include:

• Ensuring the apparatus used in administering the remedy is functional • Using the correct needle size and changing needles regularly • Avoiding introduction of contamination when injecting by employing a hygienic technique • Accurate weight assessment of the animal is essential • Correct care of the equipment after use • Using the correct route of administration, such as subcutaneous injection, intramuscular injection, pouron treatment or oral administration.

When treating cattle with antibiotics, de-wormers and other drugs, it is important to use proper dosage which is generally determined by weight of the animal. Thus it is crucial to know the weight, rather than guessing. Underdosing may not give the desired results, and overdosing in some instances can be harmful.

In the case of de-wormers, underdosing won't kill the parasites and simply leads to drug resistance.

In the U.S. it is estimated that annual parasite related losses (which includes poor performance) in the livestock industry is more than $100 million. These losses can be minimized with proper parasite control.

If using vaccines dose is not an issue. Doses are given in volumes such as 2mls or 5mls per head, depending on the product; it's not weight-specific. But with antibiotics, de-wormers, etc. the dosage is always by body weight and animals need to be dosed correctly.

Parasite resistance is another important reason to never underdose.

Most parasitologists believe that the continuous exposure to less

46

than adequate dosage is what selects for resistance in the parasites.

The most susceptible parasites might die, but the resistant ones survive and they become the predominant population.

Good hygiene is essential when injecting animals. Injectable products are sterile and automatic injecting equipment should be kept in a clean sterile condition for this purpose. Clean applicators and syringes after use by continuously squeezing the applicator and pumping water through. Disassemble the apparatus and wash all parts in hot soapy water before reassembling. Before use, check that the apparatus is filling and emptying correctly and if using a good quality device ensure any worn parts are replaced.

ALWAYS READ THE PACKAGE LEAFLET BEFORE DOSING TO ENSURE: • Correct method and route of administration • Meat and offal withdrawal period • If product is or is not authorised for cattle or sheep producing milk for human consumption, including the dry period

MEDICINE DELIVERY • If allowed during pregnancy or not allowed for the latter part of pregnancy • Adhere to the storage conditions of the product and the shelf life indicated after first opening the product All animals in a group should be treated at the same time and treated animals should be kept separately from non-treated animals throughout the withdrawal period. Non-compliance with this recommendation may lead to residues in non-treated animals, due to grooming or licking. If animals are to be treated collectively rather than individually, they should be grouped according to their bodyweight and dosed accordingly, in order to avoid underdosing or overdosing. The veterinary surgeon should give advice regarding the appropriate dosing programmes, including the product choice, and stock management, to achieve adequate parasite control. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations on disposal of unused product.

ADMINISTRATION For sucbcutaneous injections use a convenient clean site such as the side of the neck or over the ribcage, where the skin is loose. In sheep the site should preferably be free from wool.

Massage the injection site after administration. Use injection equipment calibrated to accurately deliver the calculated dosage.

Divide large doses between two or more injection sites. Ensure the site is clean and dry and never inject through a dirty hide.

Never put injections into the hindquarters. The rump was a traditional location for intramuscular injections, because it was the easiest place to reach when injecting cattle through a chute without catching them individually. It creates problems with tissue damage and abscesses in the best cuts of meat, however.

EQUIPMENT There are a wide variety of medicine delivery products on the market and the availability of free semi-disposable equipment is still an influencing factor. A well-made durable applicator or syringe will not only last years but it will save time and money over its lifetime. Many applicators and syringes use a mix of cast aluminium and high grade plastic parts however many new products are now entirely plastic due to advancements in this material. New products in this area include a vaccinator that can simultaneously deliver two different vaccines at the same time using one syringe. The next generation of medicine delivery will see new technology that can deliver medicine by injection, pour on, drench or inrta nasally from one device while recording information to custom applications.

The advantages of purchasing a high quality piece of equipment are; • You will ensure accuracy in delivery of medicines thus saving time and money • High quality applicators and syringes are designed to be easily use and easy to clean • Most quality brands have a full range of parts available for applicators and syringes and some have local servicing facilities in Ireland.

Needle choice is another important factor. Choose the appropriate needle size and length for the product given, taking the injection site into consideration. A larger-diameter needle (no smaller than 16-gauge) is preferred for mature cattle with thick hides, because you are less likely to bend or break the needle. Calves have thinner skin, and a smaller-diameter needle (18-gauge) can be used. A new, sterile needle is recommended to be used per animal. However, it is acceptable to use the same needle for up to ten injections. Some vaccinator brands now feature long reach injection bars as an accessory to help reach inaccessible or difficult areas in certain situations.

Conclusion: When it comes to the administration of expensive medicines it is very important to read the label and follow instructions carefully.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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New generation of ARION 600 and 500 tractors.

LAAS has introduced a new generation of the popular ARION 600 and 500 range, with enhanced equipment options, a wider range of engines and many new features. These include a new entry model, the 125hp ARION 510, and at the other end of the range a more powerful ARION 660 developing 205hp.

In addition to the current CIS, ARION 600/500 is also now available with the new CIS+ or with the latest CEBIS Touchscreen display.

CIS+ combines the simplicity of the CIS version, such as the DRIVESTICK control, but with the advanced features such as electronic spools and the CMATIC CVT transmission, previously only available on the higher specification CEBIS versions.

The CEBIS version features the new 12–inch touch screen display and intuitive DIRECT ACCESS, in addition to the CMOTION multifunction control lever, which can be operated using just three fingers.Engines remain the same, but on the ARION 600 the engine idling speed is automatically reduced from 800 to 650 rpm when the All new ARION 600/500 models can be fitted with the new PROACTIV tractor is stationary to further reduce fuel consumption.

The HEXASHIFT 6-speed powershift transmission has also been front axle suspension, developed by CLAAS. The tractor weight is further developed and now includes a cruise control function where optimally supported on the front axle thanks to the triangular arrangement of the two suspension rams that are angled outwards. the selected forward speed selected is maintained automatically at The Intelligent control system on the PROACTIV front axle suspension the optimum engine speed, independent of the current task. also provides active roll stabilisation on bends and reduces pitching Another new feature is SMART STOP. When the brake pedal is movements during braking and acceleration.This guarantees optimum pressed, the transmission disengages automatically – there is no

“This guarantees optimum ride comfort even when driving at high speeds on roads, tracks and fields, and increases safety when driving with heavy implements attached” need to use the clutch pedal. This reduces the driver's workload, especially during clutch-intensive tasks such as front loader work and round baling.

The continuously variable CLAAS CMATIC transmission in the ARION 600/500 models also now uses a new generation of software, which incorporates many customer requirements identified under real-world conditions and further refines engine-transmission coordination. For example, cruise control can be deactivated with the accelerator pedal, and the transmission adjusts more rapidly to the job in hand as the driver can switch between two saved engine droop values simply by pressing a button.

ride comfort even when driving at high speeds on roads, tracks and fields, and increases safety when driving with heavy implements attached as it prevents the tractor/machine combination from bouncing. Service time has also been considerably reduced, as the suspension system uses just four grease nipples.

Another new feature available on the ARION 600/500 is the CLAAS Dynamic Steering system. Dynamic Steering allows the driver to change the number of turns of the steering wheel needed to achieve the same steering lock and adjust the steering to the current task, simply by pressing a button.

The operator has the option of two different automatic modes, each with two levels, and a manual mode with four intensity levels.

This makes handling much faster and easier, such as when using a front loader or when turning at the headland.

Updates to the cab include the option a 4-pillar cab, similar to that on larger AXION 900 and 800 models, giving an uninterrupted field of vision to the driver’s left.

Other new features include an electronic Parklock parking brake on the REVERSHIFT shuttle lever. If the driver leaves the seat without engaging the Parklock, the parking brake on the tractor and any attached implements/trailers is automatically activated.

In addition to the 110 l/min load sensing system, there is also now the option of a new high output 150 l/min system. For the ARION 630 models and above, 42-inch rims and a maximum tyre diameter of 1.95 m are also available, allowing a greater contact area.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

48

Alastair McCallum CLAAS UK Product Manager Tractors and Telehandlers Tel: 01284 763100 Web: claas.co.uk

SHED DESIGN

CALVING ON A TIGHT SCHEDULE

C

Planning for calving an average cow herd over a short period requires planning, writes Paul Lyons of Bo Steel.

alving down a herd of 80+ cows over a tight schedule is a daunting prospect. What if you also had another 40 ewes following on a few weeks after? This makes for a hectic spring on the Mounsey farm in Cloughjordan, Co Tipperary. In this article I will look at planning for calving an average Irish cow herd over a short period and what needs to be considered in terms of space, equipment and design.

The Mounsey farm is a family affair - Joe Mounsey, his wife Breeda and son Adam. In addition to their dairy herd, they also keep sheep.

The cows begin calving in the last week of January and two years ago the Mounseys decided a dedicated calving shed was badly needed. A number of factors needed to be considered including:

Figure 2 – Sheeted gate with wheel

• Location of the calving shed in relation to the current accommodation and milking parlour • Ease of cleaning of bedding • Provision of feeding barriers to easily feed large numbers of cows and heifers during calving

Figure 3 – Head rail barrier with bottom

• To provide a calving gate for assisted calving.

For Adam, the location of the shed was easy. An existing lean-too off a grain store was home to a number of older and possibly vintage tractors, broken machines and general clutter. The shed measured 10.7m x 14.3m (34' x 47') and the plan was to make a wide feeding passage with 3 large pens and 1 smaller pen. Adam and Joe already use large straw and peat bedding in their existing shed and were keen to incorporate this into the new shed. As hygiene is a fundamental pillar of a trouble free calving season, it was very important to be able to clean out the shed quickly and rebed in time for the next batch of cows and heifers. The final layout is shown in Figure 1.

Dividing gates in the shed were kept short and they close to a removeable post. Again the ease of cleaning out via the loader was the reason. The feeding passage was left at a generous 13' so that silage could be delivered by telehandler. The Mounseys favour a single head rail type design for the feed barriers as opposed to a diagonal barrier. Joe finds more cows are able to feed at once and if one cow starts to bully the others for feed, there is less chance of cows getting injured.

In the divide nearest the front of the shed, one of the gates is a calving gate. A small pen was placed at the back of the shed, this was intended as an isolation pen and it also doubles as a bull pen for periods outside of calving when the bull needs to be housed.

While the Mounseys find their cows and heifers calve relatively easy and unassisted, trouble can never be ruled out so a calving gate was planned here. Calving gates were once very rudimentary

50

affairs, often home-made with field gate and a rope halter but recently they have become purpose built products and when selecting one it would be important to have the correct features including: • Adjustable settings on the head gate • A quick release feature (see figure 5) • Facility to perform Caesarean sections • Facility to put a newborn calf sucking* • Easily folded away.

SHED DESIGN Figure 1 – Calving shed

51

SHED DESIGN

Figure 4 calving gate

Figure 5 – quick release feature on head lock.

* While this is primarily the concern of a suckler farmer, it is increasingly popular for dairy calves to be left suckling for a few hours post calving to take advantage of Colostrum in the first few hours post calving.

between the uprights and a shorter barrier swinging over them.

This means that silage can be left in place when moving animals.

I also asked Joe if he had any recommendations for the equipment needed to have ready before calving starts. He recommends the following:

The department of agriculture now has a complete specification for calving gates and calving facilities; SI – 147, Minimum Specification for Calving Pens, Separation Pens, and Isolation Boxes.

• Calving ropes • Calving jack (make sure it’s in good order)

As the shed was already existing, construction was completed • Arm length disposable gloves over a short period of time. First on the agenda was to clean out the shed; the older tractors were rehoused and the defunct machinery • Lubricant was scrapped.

“Calving gates were once very rudimentary affairs...but recently they have become purpose built products” A new floor was poured and extra uprights were added to support the feed barriers and gates. The penning was fitted in a day. On the front of the shed, Joe wanted one long gate that could open away from the direction that the loader would be approaching from when cleaning the shed. For safety, this gate was fitted with a wheel and a telescopic hinge so that it was always in contact with the ground. In addition the lower section of the gate was sheeted with cladding to prevent a breeze blowing into the shed.

• Calcium (for weak cows post calving) • Scour treatment • Iodine solution • Tags and Tagger

Calving can be a stressful time and often the profitability of a farming year can hinge on whether it is a success or not. It’s best The shed has now been used for two calving seasons and I spoke to plan ahead and have proper facilities in place. This will reduce stress on cows, newborn calves and most of all farmers and their to Joe Mounsey lately to see how the shed was working for him. families.

Joe's response was that his one regret was that he didn't do the There is peace of mind from having a plan and the right facilities job sooner! In addition to housing the cows, he also now feeds in place. It’s very important to purchase a good quality calving calves in the back pens of the shed during calving as the shed is gate. directly across the street from the parlour.

If you are not happy with your facilities, it’s best to seek professional advice to design and construct or adapt your facilities.

After the first calving season he decided to change around the feed barriers. They are now hung from opposite upright so that cows can walk straight into the pens. Two of the barriers with Paul Lyons is a Design Engineer with Bo Steel who specialise in cattle, sheep and equine solutions. Paul.lyons@built2last.ie integrated bottoms were switched in favour of loose timbers

52

FOCUS ON FEED

COMMON PITFALLS FOR DAIRY COWS DURING EARLY AUTUMN MONTHS Improving dry cow management in transition period can make a significant impact on yield and profitability, writes Philip Ingram PhD.Technical Manager, Cargill Animal Nutrition.

But is grazing the perfect system? It is a good system if it can be controlled, but it can lead to disastrous consequences if it cannot.

There are health threats of grazed grass. Fresh grass is often high in potassium and this has the potential to trigger health problems, particularly milk fever.

Where milk fever is a potential problem, these protocols can be followed: • Specific paddocks that are lower in potassium levels can be identified for dry cows. These paddocks should be fertilised carefully and no slurry should be applied.

• Cows should be removed from high potassium paddocks during the last 2 to 3 weeks of pregnancy and housed, fed on a controlled close-up dry cow ration.

D

ENERGY INTAKE OF GRAZING DRY COWS

The nutritional value of grazed grass is dependent on both availability and quality. Cows should be dried off in body condition score 3 and also calve down in the same condition. Therefore, there is no need for excess energy from exceptionally good quality grass in the dry period.

Dry cow energy intake should not exceed 100MJ/day otherwise they can easily put on condition. Over conditioning will contribute to fatty liver and increase the risks of metabolic disorders such as ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF POOR DRY milk fever, ketosis and displaced abomasums. It can also lead to low dry matter intake and possibly more difficulties in getting COW MANAGEMENT Many herd problems – such as low feed intake post-calving, cows back in calf. body condition loss, low peak yield, metabolic disorders or health Over-conditioning of dry cows can happen very quickly, especially if they are on a paddock which is too large and has an excess of and reproductive problems – can be traced back to nutritional grass. Regular observation of dry cows is necessary to ensure and management issues during the dry period.

Losses related to the dry cow period can be as high as €155 for they are not gaining too much weight. LiFT is a ‘Transition cow’ product from Cargill designed specifically to improve liver a ketosis case, €208 for a mastitis case, or €390 for reduced

ry cows have typically been categorised as ‘non-producers’ when it comes to management routines. Cows in milk have received the preferential treatment. But when cows are dry they undergo dramatic metabolic and physiological changes in preparation for the next lactation. Management protocols for dry cows can have a huge impact on the health and productivity of the dairy herd.

“Plan what to feed rather than feeding what is available” function and should be used in the close up dry period to reduce fertility. Underlying problems – such as fatty liver – that do not always show clinical signs act as a brake on milk yield and can be the risk of fatty liver and all its associated problems – ketosis, reduced dry matter intake and milk yield for example. Cows at very costly whilst going un-noticed. high risk of fatty liver syndrome are those with high yield potential Improving dry cow management in the transition period can and those calving down in excess body condition. therefore make a significant economic impact on the farm.

Supplementation should also include appropriate levels of macro minerals, such as high level of magnesium to prevent grass staggers, NUTRITIONAL SOLUTION trace elements and vitamins. These can be fed in the form of free Dairy producers and nutritionists have been working hard for access minerals or mineral licks while dry cows are on pasture. years, trying to improve dry cow management. Numerous nutritional strategies, with varying degrees of success, have been tried with Crucially, they must be fed right through the dry period, at the correct rate for their full effect. Feeding during the last few the aim of preventing or managing problems around the transition weeks is not enough to build up reserves, and an extra mineral period. allowance near the end of the dry period cannot compensate for There is no magic recipe or cure-all, but there are common pitfalls of dry cow management and nutrition that can be avoided. a lack of mineral feeding earlier on.

GRAZING DRY COWS

SUMMARY

During the late summer and early autumn, dry cows are often turned out to pasture as a low cost and low labour alternative to housed dry cow systems. Getting cows off concrete helps reduce feet and leg problems, and also results in easier calving simply by allowing more exercise.

Producers must have a close look at dry cow feeding during summer months and plan what to feed, rather than feeding whatever is available. Dry cows can be grazed successfully if grazing is properly controlled and body condition is monitored regularly.

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COMMERCIAL FEATURE

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MASTERVET HIGH TRACE BOLUSES Deliver more trace elements for longer. astervet High Trace boluses are formulated to provide a reliable continuous source of trace elements for cattle.

Unlike other boluses Mastervet High Trace boluses release a constant amount of trace elements to the animal for the full duration of cover.

This technology is known as Zero Order Kinetics and provides the longest and highest delivery of trace elements to your cattle.

The complex matrix structure of the Mastervet High Trace bolus ensure that as the bolus size shrinks over the 6 month usage period a constant daily amount of trace elements is delivered.

Other boluses are manufactured using a technology called First Order Kinetics which deliver a constant % of the bolus weight daily however as the bolus gets smaller less trace elements are released, Mastervet High Trace boluses have been trialed extensively including a trial by the INRA an internationally renowned research facility in France. The results of the trials speak for themselves:

• After 98 days in the rumen (50.5 % of the release period of the bolus—180 days), the bolus had released 53.3g - that is 49% of its initial weight of 108.6g was released over a 3 month period.

• Leaving a remainder of 51% of the content of the bolus, providing optimal trace element levels for the final 3 months.

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MASTERVET HIGH TRACE BOLUS: Can help to prevent health and fertility problems in dairy and suckler cows.

Contains copper (to aid with fertility and work in conjunction with zinc for hoof health), cobalt (important for immunity, blood growth and formation of B12), selenium, zinc and iodine (vital for immunity and reproduction)

ALSO AVAILABLE IN THE MASTERVET BOLUS RANGE: • Mastervet Dry Top Bolus Provides additional trace minerals for dairy cattle during the dry period.

• Mastervet Junior Plus Bolus Provides a steady stream of trace minerals to help optimise growth rates of young stock.

Contains copper, cobalt, selenium, zinc and iodine.

• Mastervet Calcitop Bolus Can help to prevent calcium deficiency and reduce the risk of milk fever in dairy and suckler cows.

Contains 20g of calcium and Vitamin D. • Mastervet Magnitop Bolus Can help to prevent magnesium deficiency and reduce the risk of grass tetany in dairy and suckler cows. New Boluses in the range include Calftop Twin (for young calves), Mammitop (improves general cow health) and Ketotop (helps prevent ketosis in Dairy Cows) Contact CAHL on 059 9151251 or visit www.cahl.ie.

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS HOW FLOGAS SOLVED THE PROBLEM OF INSTANT HOT WATER FOR KILKENNY FARM

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ot only do the Power family have a proud tradition of Kilkenny hurling, with four All–Ireland Hurling Championships under their belt, they’re also well–established dairy farmers in Callan.

On Kilbricken farm, brothers Jim, John and Edmund Power have built up a 1,200 acre mixed enterprise that includes a 400 strong herd of Holstein Friesian dairy cows.

Kilbricken Farm uses large volumes of water to clean its 50–unit rotary milking parlour every evening and its 20,000 litre milk tank every other day.

Back in 2012, the farm’s existing electric hot water heating unit John Power of Kilbricken Farm in Callan cleaning with instant hot was struggling to reach the required 80◦C temperature and was taking water powered by Flogas longer to fill the tank each time.The brothers were on the lookout for a THE CHANGE–OVER solution when Jim met Flogas Sales Executive Tommy Murray at the Due to the size of the rotary milking parlour, Mark Murphy, a Callan Co–op. A free site visit was organised shortly afterwards to Registered Gas Installer from Heat Services Network, installed demonstrate how a hot water heating system powered by Flogas LPG, was three cascading 56kW Andrews FASTflo heaters to produce 36 litres of hot water at 80◦C per minute and connected them to a a cost–effective solution for the Power brothers.

Flogas LPG bulk tank sited nearby. The installation was completed seamlessly, as in most cases Flogas uses existing pipework so no THE FLOGAS SOLUTION The Flogas system uses Andrews FastFlo water heaters to produce major changes are needed and there’s no disruption to farm activities. up to 12 litres of hot water at 80◦C per minute and the auto ignition As the Power Brothers will tell you, it has undoubtedly become a system eliminates running and storage costs when idle, so the farm winning edition to their farm. Jim Power said,“Not only do we now have instant hot water on demand for a range of activities on our farm, only pays for the hot water that’s used.

Not only was the FastFlo heating perfect for the farm’s cleaning which has made a big difference to our workload, we estimate that duties, it was also ideal for the calving season, as its precise temperature we’re saving over 20% on our hot water heating bills as a result.”

For further information visit www.flogas.ie/dairy control means that the calves’ milk could be heated up quickly and easily.

J B TYRES www.jbtyres.com

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J B Tyres began business in 1989 by the current owner James Barfoot – a one man band operating out of a small two bay garage on the main street of Tobermore in South Derry.

James grew up on a farm in the neighbouring village of Desertmartin and so always had an interest in the agriculture sector. The business evolved into a specialist agriculture dealership with Michelin, Trelleborg and Goodyear being the main brands and offering specialist technical advice to the customer.

In 2005 J B Tyres became the first dealer in the UK and Ireland to sign up for the exclusive Michelin Exelagri programme which promotes excellence and professionalism in tractor tyre fitting and servicing.

J B Tyres are currently one of the largest stockists and suppliers of agri tyres not just in Ireland but the whole of the UK, with a comprehensive range in stock of Michelin, Kleber, Goodyear, Trelleborg and Taurus they can supply tyres to cover all agricultural needs.

For further information visit the website www.jbtyres.com or Tel: +44 (0) 28 7964 4128

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS BOBMAN: A SMALL MACHINE WITH A BIG WORKRATE. SAFER FARMING WITH TIME AND MONEY SAVINGS TOO A typical customer with circa 200 cubicles could save up to 2 hours per day, when compared to traditional methods of manually bedding and disinfecting the cubicle beds.

A farmer utilising a BOBMAN over a 5 month housing period could deliver labour savings of up to €2800 during that time.

Safety: A BOBMAN can significantly reduce the risk of back injuries, slips, trips and falls.The operator can brush beds scrape the slats and apply the bedding all in one pass quickly and effortlessly while sitting on the machine.

Traditional methods of carrying heavy buckets of lime and brushing or scraping beds have a high risk of back injury and slips or falls.

Range: BOBMAN is a ride on diesel engined machine that uses a large The bobman range caters for every farm size, and all bedding preferences. hydraulic powered brush head to brush cubicle beds, at the (lime, sawdust, chopped straw, paper mulsh, peat bed and disinfection same time the machine can dispense bedding and or disinfectant sprays to name a few). as well as scraping the slats or passage.

There are 4 core models, the Pro, S, FL and SL we have Bobman The bobman range of cubicle sweepers available in Ireland from machines working on farms with 100 to 1000 Cows here in Ireland.

Moreway Ltd can bring significant time and cost savings on the dairy farm. This year we celebrated 250 machines operating across the island.

For further information visit moreway.ie Dairy farming is very labour intensive and any tool that can reduce that work load and give time back to the farmer must be a worthwhile Email: info@moreway.ie or Tel: 086-152 8237 / Tel: 086-813 0876 investment.

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IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS BIOCEL LTD LAUNCH NEW HOOFCARE HYGIENE RANGE

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iocel Ltd the leading Irish owned company in the supply of Dairy Hygiene & Teat Care products are pleased to announce that following extensive R&D & farm trials the launch of a range of a hoofcare hygiene range under the OPTI–HEEL brand.

Problems with hoof health is a key cause of forced culling from Irish dairy farms with Teagasc figures of up to €300 per animal now being accepted in the industry where a lameness problem exists.

A dairy cow with a high mobility score will deliver a reduced milk yield combined with fertility and mastitis problems. The issue may not be apparent until the infection has taken hold within the herd and the use of routine foot bathing is accepted as a key component of a good dairy farm lameness management plan.

Formaldehyde & Copper Sulphate are widely used and although somewhat effective both carry a number of negatives.

Research has shown that Formaldehyde is not effective in short contact time foot bathing, combined it with being rated as highly toxic & a known carcinogen while Copper Sulphate can be effective when mixed with Formaldehyde does not break down readily in the environment.

Biocel Ltd with over 50 years expertise in dairy hygiene have developed a 2 pronged approach to the challenge being faced

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currently and set to increase with extra cow numbers on farms.

OPTI–HEEL is a blend of organics acid, surfactants & tea tree oil that is very effective at maintaining Hooves where a good routine & lameness management plan is in place. OPTI–HEEL is effective at low usage rates and the product is soil tolerant in that even after 500 cow passes the product retains it disinfectant properties. OPTI – HEEL Plus is a unique blend of Peracetic Acid with surfactant and foaming agent that can be used in conjunction with OPTI–HEEL to give the Hooves a deep disinfection, further reducing the infection level with the herd.

Both OPTI–HEEL & OPTI–HEEL Plus are safe to use and are both environmentally friendly and break down readily in the environment.

OPTI–HEEL & OPTI–HEEL Plus hoof bathing program is designed to be extremely cost effective versus conventional treatments & offers the user a safe antibiotic free solution to herd lameness as part of the overall control plan.

OPTI–HEEL & OPTI– HEEL Plus is available in 10lt, 20lt, 200lt packs at your local stockists & watch out for lameness workshops that will be taking place nationwide.

Visit www.biocel.ie for further information. Biocel Ltd, Rockgrove Ind. Estate, Glounthaune, Cork. Tel: 021 4353516

IRISH FARM BUSINESS – DAIRYING

PRODUCT NEWS W

NORCAR MINI-LOADERS APPOINT NEW IRISH AGENTS oodpecker Environmental, a family run business providing nationwide service, is 14 years in business this year. Now sole distributors for Schliesing woodchippers, Jo Beau and Greenteeth products throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland, and recently appointed importer and distributor for Norcar Loaders.

Norcar are designed & manufactured in Finland for durability in the toughest of environments, Norcar’s high specification multifunctional miniloaders are recognised as world leaders in their class. They are compact and designed to have as low a centre of gravity as possible, which lowers the risk of tipping over with Norcar mini loaders, even in difficult terrain.They have the driver's seat located at the rear, similar to larger front loaders, which makes them flexible and able to move in confined spaces without having to worry about protruding parts colliding with surrounding obstacles.The driver always has a clear view of the equipment and control of the placement of the front wheels.

The articulated steering's turning angle enables a very tight turning radius, which is a popular feature on all Norcar loaders.The mini loader's low profile front frame and compact lifting boom ensure excellent forward visibility. The machine remains stable even when handling heavy loads since the extension boom is short when retracted. Parallel leveller makes the machine safe and effective when using the pallet forks, as the attachment remains in the correct position, regardless of the boom height. Parallel leveller also provides the loader with greater lifting power this gives a comfortable ride, and an ability to perform tasks with great precision.

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The renowned wheeled range and versatile compact track loaders, plus a huge selection of interchangeable attachments, cover a multitude of applications for virtually all kinds of jobs and types of environment in the construction, forestry, farming, equestrian, industrial, building, land– scaping and renewable–energies market sectors.

We are now looking forward to the National Ploughing Championships 2017, Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly on the 19th, 20th & 21st September, which is proving to be an interesting and busy one with a record attendance last year of 283,000 over 3 days!!

For further information contact: Woodpecker Environmental Ltd., Glenview, Boranaraltry Lane, Glencullen, Dublin 18.

Tel: +353 1 2950646 Website: www.woodpeckerenv.ie James: +353 87 133 4000, email: james@woodpeckerenv.ie Annmarie: +353 86 818 1636, email: annmarie@woodpeckerenv.ie

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.

HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITY

TIME TO LEGISLATE FOR FARM SAFETY? The agriculture sector, in relation to almost every aspect of food production, is highly regulated.

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armers and farm organisations continually stress that they are over regulated and weighed down by red tape. Indeed an example would be EU Directives and Regulations on food production and quality assurance, which most will agree are in place for very good reason.

In all areas of managing modern society, regulation is often the first action of the state to try to manage difficult societal issues, especially in areas where self-regulation does not seem to work.

The agriculture sector involves a very wide range of work activities with significant hazards. Good management of these activities, an understanding of the risks and a professional approach is essential to prevent farm death and injury.

The hazards most associated with fatalities in agriculture include, crush injuries from tractors and farm machinery, being struck or

While certainly all these factors may be relevant, no job is so urgent or so important that any farmer should risk their life doing it.There is always a safer way and generally, when properly thought out, doing the job safely needn’t incur significant cost.

How much does it cost to safely reverse park and chock the wheels of a tractor or machine? How much does it cost to clean the steps, clean the windows, clean & set the mirrors? How much does it cost to establish a one-way-system in the yard? How much does it cost to instruct kids, or indeed a very elderly farmer, to never approach a moving vehicle? How much does it cost to isolate the cow before entering a pen to treat a calf? How much does it cost to use a vehicle when herding cattle? How much does it cost to check wind direction when agitating slurry? etc. All of these things could prevent a significant number of farm deaths and injuries.

“Farmers are over 8 to 10 times more likely to be killed in a work related accident than anyone in the general workforce” crushed during livestock handling or livestock attacks, falls from Of all of the high risk workplace sectors regulated by the Authority, height and being struck by falling or collapsing objects. Farmers Agriculture stands out as the only high risk sector that, to date are over 8 to 10 times more likely to be killed in a work related does not have its own dedicated health and safety regulations. accident than anyone in the general workforce.

Generally, farmers want to ensure they are compliant with their Farmers also suffer from a higher rate of non-fatal injury with an legal requirements. If all else fails then maybe it’s time to table estimated 2,500 very serious farm injuries each year. The main types Safety, Health and Welfare (Agriculture) Regulations and set out in of injury include manual handling, slip, trips & falls, entanglement detail, and in black and white, specific requirements to keep in machinery, being struck by livestock, struck by moving vehicles farmers and farm families safe. or collapsing material and falls from height.

Issues that could be covered would include; duties of the farmer, The Authority and the Farm Safety Partnership have, over the last contractors, farm workers, safety awareness training, tractor skills 10 years, produced an extensive resource of safety information and training, quad bike training, teleporter and loader training, chainsaw advice in the form of safety leaflets, publications and videos, so awareness training and first aid training. of the risks in farming is now, or should be, very high. However, we Some general requirements could cover; PTO’s and machinery continually find that farmers will regularly take risks by operating guarding, storage of materials, stacking of bales, slurry handling, defective tractors and machinery, risks while dealing with livestock, farmyard safety, yard layout and general access & egress, traffic with poor work practices or in doing jobs they are not trained or routes and danger areas, lighting of farmyards, electrical safety and competent to do. fire safety. Safe operation of vehicles & protection of pedestrians, Many will argue that time pressure, the weather window, the lack riding in insecure positions on vehicles, child safety, elderly safety, of help, the ever increasing workload, and maybe the lack of money protection of health, prevention of toxic gases and drowning. all force the farmer to take such risks simply to get the job done.

Maybe it’s time to start this debate, but with an open mind?

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