INSIDE THIS ISSUE The Economics Of Feeding Concentrates in 2021 Fertiliser Requirements And Silage Quality Tackling Coccidiosis - Dairygold Agri ...
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
PAGE The Economics Of Feeding
08 Concentrates in 2021
PAGE Fertiliser Requirements
13 And Silage Quality
PAGE Tackling Coccidiosis
26
PAGE Introducing Kaf Gro - Rumi Force
29
ISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021 www.dairygoldagri.ie
Welcome to the March edition of
MILK MATTERS
DAIRYGOLD’S DAIRY ADVISORY BULLETIN
CONTENTS
Dear Milk Matters Reader, March Dairy Nutrition ........................ 03
The Economics Of Feeding
This months Nutrition Matters Concentrates in 2021 ........................ 08
examines how correct nutrition
can positively influence fertility Chemical Control Of Ragwort
performance. The article also In Grassland........................................... 10
highlights how butterfat and protein LeanFarm................................................. 11
percentages can be used as a
management tool, helping you to Fertiliser Requirements
assess the nutritional status of your And Silage Quality.............................. 13
herd. Fertiliser For Grazing Ground
In March.................................................. 14
Grass Matters explores how management decisions made
now influence the amount of grass your farm will grow this Multi-species Swards:
spring. Farmers Leading The Way!................ 15
You need to ensure: Dairygold / Teagasc
• that you have enough of the farm grazed in early march Joint Programme................................. 17
to allow sufficient time for grass to recover.
• that you have enough early fertiliser out to ramp up Dairygold / Teagasc
growth this spring. Joint Programme................................. 18
• that your fertiliser programme matches your soils P&K Grass Matters....................................... 19
requirements.
Within Grass Matters, John Maher, Teagasc, also looks at Dairy Farming On Difficult
how management of spring grazing will differ on heavier Heavy Land........................................... 21
type soils. Fertility & Breeding............................. 22
We also have advice on the correct fertiliser to use for March Tackling Coccidiosis........................... 26
grazing ground and first cut grass silage. We explore how Daisy 4 Weeks...................................... 27
the fertiliser programme you use on your silage ground
could impact on your winter feed bill. Introducing Kaf Gro - Rumi Force.... 29
CHFC Matters........................................ 30
Ragwort is becoming more and more visual around the
countryside every year. Amie Coonan discusses a spray AHI Notes................................................ 31
programme to deal with ragwort on your farm.
Yours Sincerely,
To contact the editor of
MILK
MATTERS
Liam Stack M.Agr.Sc
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
PAGE The Economics Of
08 Concentrates in
Feeding
2021
PAGE Fertiliser Requireme
13 And Silage Quality
nts
PAGE
RUMINANT TECHNICAL MANAGER,
Tackling Coccidiosi
26 s
PAGE Introducing Kaf Gro
29 - Rumi Force
ISSUE 97 - MARCH
2021
www.dairygoldag
ri.ie
DAIRYGOLD AGRIBUSINESS
email: lstack@dairygold.ie
2 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
MARCH DAIRY NUTRITION
March Nutrition:
Key Point: Our goal is to minimise BCS loss
By LIAM STACK,
M.Agr.Sc,
Cows thatRuminant Technical
lose less than the 1st 5 weeks after calving ovulate 15 days earlier
0.5 BCS inManager
st
reach 1 service 14 days earlier than cows that lose 1BCS *Dairy.co.uk
Relationship between
Relationship between body
body condition
condition loss
loss post postand
calving calving
6 weekand 6 rate (for cow
in calf
KEY POINT: Our goal is to week
with ain calf ratecondition
pre-calving (for cows with
score of >a3)pre-calving condition score of
>Teagasc trial 1999.
3). Teagasc trial 1999.
minimise BCS loss
Cows that lose less than 0.5 BCS in the 1st 5 weeks after
calving ovulate 15 days earlier and reach 1st service 14
days earlier than cows that lose 1 BCS *Dairy.co.uk
KEY POINT: Every 1% increase in 6
week calving rate is worth €8.20 per cow.
Moving from 58% 6 week calving rate to
90% will increase profits in a 100 cow herd KEY POINT: Every 1% increase in 6 week calving rate is worth €8.20 per cow. Moving fro
by €25,000 or will increase net margin by 58% 6 week calving rate to 90% will increase profits in a 100 cow herd by €25,000 or w
increase net margin by c. Intake
5c/ltr. potential
c. 5c/ltr. Energy Intake (UFL) Potential of different forages
By now hopefully everyone has some level of grass in your cow’s diets. This is very
Intake
important from an economic point ofpotential
view, but I would contend that it’s far more impo
from an energy intake point of view.
By now hopefully everyone has some level of grass Grass is the most digestible forage available to your cows. This high level of digestibilit
means that cows will eat more grass than any other forage and that this grass has a hig
in their cow’s diets. This is very important from an level of energy than any other forage.
economic point of view, but I would contend that it’s Dry Matter Intakes Potential of different forages
far more important from an energy intake point of view. Grass Grass silage Grass silage: Maize silage
The more of grass you can get into your cows diets the better. It will provide more
Grass is the most digestible forage available to your Grass requiring less concentrate
than grass silage, Grass silage feeding
Grass silage:
while Maize silage
returning better produc
cows. This high level of digestibility means that cows
Energy Intake
The more (UFL)you
of grass Potential
can getofinto
different forages
your cows diets the better. It will provide more
will eat more grass than any other forage and that grass than grass silage, requiring less concentrate feeding while returning better produc
Energy (UFL) Intake
has a higher level of energy than any other forage.
Energy Intake (UFL) Potential of different forages
Energy (UFL) Intake
Dry Matter Intake Potential of different forages
The more grass you can get into your cow’s diets the
better. It will provide more energy than grass silage,
requiring less concentrate feeding while returning
better production.
Grass Grass silage Grass silage: Maize silage
However, our Grass
approach to grass Grass silage
at this time of theGrass
yearsilage:
mustMaize silage
be planned.
If we over allocate grass, we will run down our covers too quickly and3we wont hav
sufficient grass on the farm come the 4th-10th April. We must adjust our concentr
However, our approach to grass at this time of the year Milk Yield
must be planned.
18 22 24 28 32
If we over allocate grass, we will run down our covers 12 Kg DM 2 Kg 4 Kg 5 Kg 6.5 Kg 8.5 Kg
too quickly and we won’t have sufficient grass on 14 Kg DM 1.5 Kg* 1.5 Kg 2.5 Kg 4.5 Kg 6.5 Kg
the farm come the 4th-10th April. We must adjust our 16 Kg DM 1.5 Kg* 1.5 Kg* 1.5 Kg* 2.5 Kg 4 Kg
concentrate feeding based on the quantity of grass
17 Kg DM 1.5Kg* 1.5 Kg* 1.5 Kg* 1.5 Kg 3 Kg
our cows are eating.
*grass alone does not meet a cow’s daily requirement for calcium,
phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, iodine and selenium. Even though
Replacing even 2kg DM silage with 2kg DM grass is a cow’s energy demand might not require concentrates, feeding
1.5kg of concentrates at grass is the cheapest and most effective
worth doing from a performance standpoint. However,
method of supplying these minerals.
getting a small amount of grass into your cows daily
doesn’t mean you can go from feeding 6-8kg of
Be-wary of over estimating the volumes of
concentrates to feeding 2-3kg of concentrates. 6kg
DM grass daily equates to c. 1kg lower concentrate
grass your cows are consuming
feeding levels for the same level of production.
Ultimately if we get this energy intake
Energy supplied by the forage portion of a cows diet wrong, cow will lose too much BCS in the
UFL Concentrate 1st 8 weeks after calving and herd fertility
Supplied Saving performance will be disappointing.
Grass silage only 9.4 Early Warning Sign of Underfeeding
2kg DM grass + 10 kg DM 1. Low Milk Proteins:
68 DMD Grass silage 9.8 -0.5 kg In early lactation, herd protein below 3.05/3.1 are
6kg DM grass + 6 kg DM of concern.
68 DMD Grass silage 10.7 -1.25 kg 2. High butterfat to protein ratio.
This is an indication of ketosis. In early lactation,
herd butterfat:protein ratio of above 1.4:1 are of
Concentrates required: Out by day, In by night
concern.
Milk Yield (kg) Eg. Butterfat % of 4.5, to a protein % of 3.15 is a
ratio of 1.43:1. The high butterfat% is coming from
18 22 26 30 34
the body fat the cow is losing.
6kg DM grass + 6 kg DM 4 6 8 10 12
64 DMD Grass silage Kg Kg Kg Kg Kg Consult your Dairygold Area Sales Manager on
6kg DM grass + 6 kg DM 3.5 5.5 7.5 9.5 11.5 what your milk constituents are telling you about
68 DMD Grass silage Kg Kg Kg Kg Kg your cow’s diet.
6kg DM grass + 6 kg DM 3 5 7 9 11
72 DMD Grass silage Kg Kg Kg Kg Kg Reason for low milk protein/ketosis/underfeeding:
• Diet is too low in energy; caused by:
*It is possible to get higher grass intake into cows allowed c.4 hours 1 . Feeding low energy (UFL) feeds i.e poor
grazing, put a specific on-off grazing plan has to be implemented.
quality silage or poorly managed grass (with
insufficient concentrates to balance)
Concentrates required: Grass + concentrates 2.L ow intake of high energy feeds i.e
If however, you are getting larger volumes of grass into overestimating grass allowance.
cows then there can be larger savings in the volume of
concentrates needed ACTION:
• U
se the latest and best grassland management
techniques to maximise grass intakes and grass
quality.
4 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
• Increased concentrate feeding at grass if cows Be wary of feeds with low mineral inclusions.
intakes are not being met eg during adverse Minerals and vitamins are expensive to include in
weather. compound feed. Our nutritional team at Dairygold
Quality Feeds know the importance of the mineral
MYTH: nutrition of your cows to yearly performance. We
Feeding a higher protein feed at the same level will include our minerals and vitamins pro-rata with our
help. The protein content of your nut has very little feeding or Cal Mag rates. This means that our vitamin
implication on milk protein % and cow body condition and mineral inclusion are in sync with our feeding
score loss. If your milk proteins are low, feeding the levels i.e. if you feed one of our feeds at our prescribed
same kgs of a higher protein feed will only worsen the level all your cows vitamin and mineral requirements
situation. YOUR COWS NEED MORE KGS OF FEED. are being fully met. However, through investigation
we have discovered that other players in the market
1. Feeding low energy (UFL) feeds i.e poor quality silage or poorly managed grass (with
What protein nut should I get? have vitamin and mineral inclusions out of sync with
insufficient concentrates to balance)
The
2. Lowprotein
intake ofcontent of your
high energy feedsconcentrate
i.e overestimating is ofgrass
much their recommended feeding levels i.e. if you feed their
allowance.
lower significance than how much of the concentrate feeds at the prescribed levels, your cow’s Magnesium
ACTION:
you are feeding. requirements will be met but your cows daily allocation
- Correct concentrate feeding for grass silage/ grass in the diet of trace elements and vitamins will be low. These
- Better grassland management.
But a general rule offeeding
thumb feeds
(withcan contain as low as 25-50% of the Copper,
-1. Feeding
Increased low energy (UFL)
concentrate feeds
atis:grass
i.e poor quality silage or poorly managed grass
if cows intakes are not being met eg during adverse
insufficient concentrates to balance)
• Inside on silage or silage + a few hours grazing
weather. Zinc, Iodine, Se and Vitamin A, D and E contained in
2. Low intake of high energy feeds i.e overestimating grass allowance.
– 18% our feeds.
MYTH:
ACTION:
• Out by day (6-10 hours grazing)– 16%
Feeding a higher protein
- Correct concentrate feedingfeed at the
for grass same
silage/ level
grass willdiet
in the help. The protein content of your nut
-has •
Better Out full
grassland time - 14%
management.
very little implication on milk protein % and cow body condition score loss. If your milk
- Increasedare
proteins concentrate feeding
low, feeding theatsame
grass ifkgs
cows
of intakes areprotein
a higher not being metwill
feed eg during adverse the
only worsen
weather.
Mineral Nutrition:
situation. YOUR COWS NEED MORE KGS OF FEED.
On both
MYTH: silage and grass diets cows need mineral
What
Feedingprotein
a highernut should
protein feedI at
get?
the same level will help. The protein content of your nut
supplementation.
The protein
has very content ofon
little implication your
milkconcentrate
protein % andiscowof body
muchcondition
lower consequence than
score loss. If your milkhow much of
proteins are low, feeding the
the concentrate you are feeding.same kgs of a higher protein feed will only worsen the
situation.
Dietary YOUR COWS NEED
deficiencies ofMORE KGS OFSelenium
Copper, FEED. and Iodine
But
are alinked
What
generalto:rule
protein nut
of thumb is:
should I get?
- Inside
The protein on
content silage
of yourorconcentrate
silage + aisfew hours
of much grazing
lower – 18% than how much of
consequence
• poor fertility,
- Out by day (6-10
the concentrate you are feeding.hours grazing)– 16%
- • cystic
Out fullovaries,
time - 14%
But a •general
anoestrous,
rule of thumb is:
-
Mineral Inside on silage or silage + a few hours grazing – 18%
Nutrition:
- • Out
irregular or supressed
by day (6-10 oestrus
hours grazing)– 16%
On both silage and grass diets cows need mineral supplementation.
- • Out
and early embryonic death
full time - 14%
Grass
Mineralalone as a mineral source for daily cows
Nutrition:
Grass
On both alone asgrass
silage and a mineral
diets cowssource for dairy
need mineral cows
supplementation.
Grass alone as a mineral source for daily cows
Dietary deficiencies
Dietary deficiencies of copper,
of copper, selenium
selenium and are
and iodine iodine are
linked to:linked to:
5
DON’T COMPROMISE
ON PERFORMANCE THIS SPRING
Dairygold PostCalver Gold helps you meet the challenges your cows
face. Don’t compromise on their ability to perform this spring.
NO COMPROMISE ON BODY CONDITION SCORE IMPROVED FERTILITY PERFORMANCE
- PostCalver Gold is a high-energy ration with a high - The higher the vitamin E status of the cow, the
inclusion rate of native cereals and maize meal. better her overall immune system will work.
PostCalver Gold is 5% higher in its energy density Low immunity compromises herd performance.
than your average feed. This maximises the energy PostCalver Gold contains 500% more vitamin E
density of the feed, making it easier for the cow to than other post-calver feeds on the market.
meet her energy requirements. - Bioplex copper and zinc and Sel-Plex are minerals
- Yea-Sacc is a live yeast from Alltech. Irish research produced by Alltech that act the same as the
trials completed at University College Dublin have natural, organic, plant-based minerals within
shown us that Yea-Sacc reduces the demand on the cow. Through their higher level of animal
the cow’s body reserves by maximising intake and availability, Bioplex copper and zinc and Sel-Plex
increasing feed efficiency, reducing the need for the are proven to:
cow to take these nutrients from her own reserves • Support immune status of the cow
and, as a result, helping to reduce the impact of
• Help reduce days to first service
body condition score loss in early lactation.
• Support reproduction performance
REDUCED LAMENESS
MILK SOLID PRODUCTION
- Biotin is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin that is
produced by rumen microbes and is included in A reduction in milk solid production is often caused
PostCalver gold. Additional supplemented biotin can by a lack of rumen-available energy. PostCalver
improve hoof health, hoof hardness and milk yields. Gold contains maize as its number-one ingredient
and is a high-energy formulation. PostCalver Gold
Comparison of lame and non lame cows by percent pregnant
also contains digestible fibre, which helps reduce
Nonlame Lame
100 the acid load in the rumen and maintain milk fat
90 yield.
80
% of non-pregnant
70 - Yea-Sacc from Alltech - the most widely
60
researched live yeast culture on the market
50
40
- works by removing oxygen from the rumen
30 and increasing the presence of fibre-digesting
20 bacteria. This helps reduce acidity in the rumen
10
and increase the pH, which
0
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 can maintain or increase
Days in milk
butterfat levels.
6 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
DON’T COMPROMISE
ON PERFORMANCE THIS SPRING
Feed quality in the first 12 weeks of lactation is critical to ensuring
that your cows meet their maximum potential. PostCalver Gold
is formulated to support cows at grass in early lactation.
NO COMPROMISE
ON BODY CONDITION FERTILITY
SCORE
MILK
LAMENESS
SOLIDS
Ensure that your cows reach their potential this season
and next by feeding PostCalver Gold.
www.dairygoldagri.ie
Please contact your local ASM, our Inside
Sales Team or Lombardstown Mill on
022-47275 to order.
7
THE ECONOMICS OF FEEDING
CONCENTRATES IN 2021
By LIAM STACK, M.Agr.Sc,
Ruminant Technical Manager
Tn = +/- 0.5 c/kg milk. Increased concentrate costs
have an impact but when you annualise it, its not large
enough in my opinion, when the consequences are
considered to change your feeding plan.
Why is the recommended feeding rate only dropping
by 1 kg when cows go out to grass?
When cows are going out to grass they generally
consumed 1kg DM grass per hour grazing (for those of
you practicing on off grazing, with cows on stand-off
yards or where silage is being restricted to encourage
grass intakes this can be a lot higher). If they are out for
6 hours that’s a grass intake of c.6 kg DM grass. This 6
kg DM grass will replace 6kg DM silage, supplying an
additional 1-1.2 UFL. This is the energy in c.1-1.5 kg of
concentrates. Therefore, you can drop your feeding
rates by c1 - 1.25kg. Higher grass intakes will allow
for higher concentrate drops. If you drop too quickly
without the grass intakes to compensate milk proteins
will drop.
Feed prices are higher this spring versus what they
were in 2020. This will lead to increased costs at farm
Offsetting the increased feed costs this spring:
level. Should we consider a differing feeding strategy
1. Get cows to grass ASAP.
in 2021 vs previous years?
rass is cheaper than grass silage. Getting cows out
G
Despite the fluctuating feed price there are some
to grass for 3 to 4 hours per day while feeding 7kg of
constants. The energy required per kg of milk produced
concentrates can save €750 per month for 100 cows
is the same. The consequences of underfeeding your
cows are the same, these are:
2. M
ove to a 16% crude protein feed when you get
• excessive body condition score loss,
grass into the diet
• low milk protein,
• and ultimately fertility issues.
Feeding 7kg per day of a 16% protein feed vs an 18%
protein feed when your cows go to grass can save
Calving to breeding feeding plan for a cow that
€420 per month for 100 cows.
peaks at 28 kg or that milks c.5800 kgs annually:
• 3 weeks indoors on silage + 8kg of concentrates
Grass even at small amounts can bring saving and
(70 DMD silage)
performance benefits. It is important however not to
• 6 weeks with cows out by day, silage at night +
overestimate grass intake and drop feeding levels too
7kg of concentrates
quickly.
• 8 weeks of concentrates at grass full time + 2.5kg
of concentrates
This is 600kg per cow in total. At a concentrate cost
of €350/Tn this is an annualised feeding cost of 3.6c/
kg milk. A change in concentrate cost of +/- €50 per
8 www.dairygoldagri.ie
ISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
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9
CHEMICAL CONTROL OF
RAGWORT IN GRASSLAND
By AMIE COONAN, B.Ag.Sc
Ragwort (Senecio Jacobea) also known as ragweed or buachalán is poisonous in the green and preserved state
and has been responsible for many animal fatalities. Ragwort is listed as one of many noxious weeds in the
Noxious Weeds Act. It is also a biennial plant meaning it lives for two years.
Ragworth poisoning can also show symptoms such as tenesmus, hind limb weakness and severe animal pain
according to the Department of Agriculture. Normally animals don’t eat ragwort in pastures unless grazed grass
availability is extremely restricted. An animal must consume up to 12% of overall daily intake in the weed to cause
severe problems. Ragwort becomes more palatable to animals when cut or sprayed, as this releases sugars in
the plant. Most fatalities occur where there is a mixture of ragwort finely chopped in hay or silage where cattle are
forced to eat this palatable ragwort.
Spray Control
At smaller infestation levels, pulling of ragwort can
be a successful control option. For larger infestation
numbers, sprays such as Lupo and Forefront T provide
good control but measures must be taken to avoid
stock eating any dying or dead ragwort present.
The key points in chemical Ragwort control include:
• T
he best time to spray ragwort is at the rosette
stage, roughly around half the size of a rugby ball
• T
he larger the ragwort the longer it takes for the
carcass to rot down and not be cut in silage/grazed
• Avoid spraying once the plant becomes stemmy
• Ensure the plant is actively growing
• S
pray in the Spring (February to mid March) or late
Autumn (September to mid November)
• E
nsure that the plant is fully decayed into the soil
before grazing again (usually 5 to 6 weeks).
The best spray options are in the table below, note no spray control option is clover safe. Forefront T can only be
used on grazing ground.
Spray Rate L/ha (l/ac) Water Rate L/ha (l/ac) Note
Forefront T 2.0L/ha (0.8 l/ac) 300L/Ha (120 l/ac) To be sprayed on grazing ground only
Lupo 4.0L/ha (1.6 l/ac) 200L/Ha (80 l/ac) Add an adjuvant for best control
10 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
FARMER PROFILE: Ger Buckley (Laharn Dairy Farm), Laharn, Coachford, Co. Cork
We the Buckley family at Laharn farm milk 180 cows and have completed the Dairygold Leanfarm Training.
We have enjoyed the Leanfarm Go To Project hosting Waste Walks and making improvements to save time,
effort and money.
We undertook this Lean project because we felt there was significant room for improvement on the farm. A
lot of time was being wasted searching for tools and consumables.
My son Timmy asked me one day last year if we had
masking tape and I said I did not think so. When we were
doing the 5S, I discovered 5 rolls of masking tape. We
now have a place for this and all other items. This is even
more important when there is more than one person
working in the yard, so we decided to nominate a place
for everything and make sure everything is kept in its
place.
One of the first things we did was put up white boards
in the dairy. On one board, we outlined all the tasks that
are to be done, by when, also who is responsible. For
example, January IBR and Rotovac K99 and Zanil and Photo 1:
spot on is given. We also set targets for grass walks, Whiteboard showing monthly work schedule.
fertiliser and slurry and servicing of machinery.
We have a section on the board for farm safety which is constantly being updated with new tasks which
are ticked off when they are done e.g. PTO shafts needing repair. We also have a list of contacts in case of
emergency.
Key Lean Measure on the Laharn Farm:
“We felt the easiest way to save time on our
farm was to increase to 24 units where one
person is needed to milk.”
Point of Use is so important as you are much more
inclined to do a job if everything is there waiting for
you. For example, if there is a lame cow, it is treated
immediately, and the recovery rate is much faster. A lame
cow can become a cull cow very quickly if not treated.
We also fitted a new footbath so that the cows walk
through it every day while they are housed. It is seven
feet wide, eight feet long. The water and bluestone are Photo 2:
Footbath on the Laharn farm where
changed every second day. This is easily done as the tap
cows walk through.
11is above the bath. This has eliminated lameness around calving which was a problem in the past.
Last year we made a Lean List of Improvements which could
cut out waste and save time.
1. Extend the parlour to 24 units.
2. Point of Use for tools and consumables e.g. hoof paring.
3. Move tool shed.
4. Organise parking of machinery.
5. Sell machinery not being used.
6. Install roller doors.
7. Fix eave chutes and put new drains around the yard.
8. Replace broken skylights in shed and install safety bars.
9. Plant trees to increase biodiversity and provide shelter and
firewood.
We moved the tool shed from near the old milking parlour to beside the new milking parlour. We were
wasting time going to the old yard for tools. We find 5S
(Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardise and Sustain) to be an
invaluable Leanfarm tool. Having the yard and buildings
tidy creates a much more pleasant working environment
and gives more time to focus on tasks.
We built accommodation for 160 cows and straw bed for
24 cows before and 24 cows after calving on a green field
site 20 years ago. It also contains an office and a three-
bedroom apartment which has been very useful for work
colleagues over the years.
Photo 3:
The cows finish calving in early April and the calving house Cows in calving pen.
is cleaned out and used as a drafting area for the breeding
season, which starts on the 26th of April.
TARGETS FOR NEXT YEAR
• Change to variable speed milk and vacuum pumps. • Research into heat detection aids.
• More recycling of plastic, paper, cardboard and water. • Research into PV solar panels.
• Plant more trees and create wildlife corridors. • Restoring and repurposing old farm buildings.
• Explore ways to reduce fertiliser use. • New silage slab.
• Grassland re-seeding / 40 grass walks / focus on residuals. • Reduce spraying and encourage more wildflowers for pollinators.
LAHARN FARM VIEW Benefits Delivered on
ON LEAN the Buckley Farm
“Lean to us is when tightening ✔ P oint of Use
a bolt the first ten turns are
necessary but the last half turn is ✔ Reduced time searching
essential.” Ger Buckley. ✔ Better work life balance
12 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
FERTILISER REQUIREMENTS Fertiliser Requirements and Silage Quality:
AND SILAGE QUALITY By Liam Stack
Your grass silage fields will start to head out in mid to late May (variety dependan
By LIAM STACK,
the correct fertiliser programme for your soil indexes you will not have achieved t
bulk at this stage, you will delay cutting date and silage DMD will suffer.
M.Agr.Sc, Ruminant Technical Manager
Figure 1: Pattern of change in grass yield and digestibility
Your grass silage fields will start to head out in mid to late May
(Source: T eagasc, Grange Beef Research Centre)
(variety dependant). If you have not used the correct fertiliser 10 80
programme for your soil indexes you will not have achieved 9
the required crop bulk at this stage, you will delay cutting 8
70
DM yield (t/ha)
date and silage DMD will suffer. 7
DMD %
6
5
Silage DMD is the driver of your silage quality, it will influence 4
60
intakes, production and the level of concentrates you need to 3
feed across the winter. 2
01-May 08-May 15-May 22-May 29-May 05-Jun 12-Jun 19-Jun 26-Jun 03-Jul
50
Harvest date
Silage Digestibility vs Beef performance Silage DMD vs Concentrates required across the winter
Silage Digestibility Silage DMD is60
the DMD
driver of 65
yourDMD 70 itDMD
silage quality, 75intakes,
will influence DMD production
concentrates you need to feed across the winter.
DMD% 75 70 65 60 Dry cows (BCS 3) 1.5kg 1kg Restricted Restricted
Intake (kg/day) 9 8.3 7.6 7 Silage Silage
Silage Digestibility vs Beef performance
LWG (kg/day) 0.83 0.66 0.49 0.31 In-Calf Heifers 2.5kg Silage2kg Digestibility 1.5kg 1kg
DMD% 75 70 65 60
Ref: Teagasc Grange Weanlings Intake (kg/day)
1.5kg 9 8.31kg 7.6 70.5kg 0.5kg
LWG (kg/day) .83 .66 .49 .31
Ref: Teagasc Grange
First cut grass silage Nitrogen (N), Cost of winter feed €4,125 €2,888 €825 €619
Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) Feeding plan for 100 Dry cows, 20 weanling & incalf heifers
Silage DMD vs Concentrates required across the winter
requirements (5t/ha DM)
60 DMD 65 DMD 70 DMD 75 DMD
units/ac Dry cows (BCS 3) 1.5kg 1kg Restricted Silage Restricted Si
In-Calf Heifers 2.5kg 2kg 1.5kg 1kg
Index N P K S Weanlings 1.5kg 1kg 0.5kg 0.5kg
1 100 32 140 16 For older swards with lower yield potential reduce N, P, and K by 20u
N, 3u P and 20u K. Cost of winter feed €4,125 €2,888 €825 €619
2 100 24 120 16 Feeding plan for 100 Dry cows, 20 weanling & incalf heifers
3000 s/ac of slurry reduces N, P, and K by 18u N, 15u P and 90u K.
3 100 16 95 16
4 100 0 0 16
Fertiliser Programme to meet Slurry
silage requirements.
Nutrients Supplied
If you are not applying slurry to silage
Product Rate N P K S
grounds you should consider a product
like 16-5-20+S. Slurry 3000 gal/acre 15 18 90 Yes
No Slurry +
Nutrients
Total N Total P Total K
Supplied
Selenigrass + S 3.5 bags/acre 88 103 - 18 - 90 Yes
Product Rate N P K S
Sweetgrass + S 3.5 bags/acre 81 96 - 18 - 90 Yes
16-5-20 5 bags/acre 80 25 100 Yes
Silage Boost 4.5 bags/acre 95 9 45 Yes CAN + S 3 bags/acre 81 96 - 18 - 90 Yes
Selenicut 4.5 bags/acre 90 9 54 Yes PU 38%N + S 2 bags/acre 96 91 - 18 - 90 Yes
Please Contact your local Area Sales Manager or our Inside Sales Team on 022 31644 for more information
13FERTILISER FOR GRAZING
GROUND IN MARCH
By WILLIAM BURCHILL, PhD.,
Teagasc/Dairygold Joint Programme
A wet and cold start to spring 2021 delayed the first fertiliser N applications on many farms across the region
to the second half of February. To keep grass growth moving we need to be thinking about what we should be
spreading in March and when.
Timing?
On most farms there will be one more blanket spread of N in March before following the cows with fertiliser begins
during the second rotation in April. Fertiliser N applications will provide growth for around 4 weeks this time of the
year. Use these points and the date you last spread fertiliser/slurry to make your decision on when you spread N
fertiliser in March.
What to spread?
Where fertiliser or slurry was applied in Jan/Feb 36 to 46 units N/ac should be applied in March to reach the 60-70
units N/acre target by the 1st April (Figure 1). Nitrogen in slurry should be taken into account in this 60-70 units N/
acre target (6 units N/1,000 gal when spread by splash plate and 9 units N/1,000 gal when spread by dribble bar
or trailing shoe). Where slurry is being spread after grazing in March, this should be topped up with 23 units/ac of
fertiliser N (Figure 1). Apply the slurry first and then the fertiliser 7-10 days later.
Where paddocks have received no slurry or fertiliser N up to now 30-40 units N acre should be applied in early
March. Paddocks that will not get slurry in spring will benefit from a fertiliser with P and K in March if they are not
in index 4. However, only apply P fertiliser if the farm has a P fertiliser allowance to do so.
Figure 1: Fertiliser for grazing ground in March
Fertiliser targets on grazing ground by 1st April
• 60 - 70 units N out
• P and K out (either Slurry or Fertilizer)
Mid-Jan to End Feb
23 Units N/ac Slurry* No slurry or fertiliser out
March
Slurry 46 units Slurry*
2x18:6:12/ac** 2x18:6:12/ac**
+23* units N/ac N/ac +23-30 units N/ac
*2,500 gal/ac spread by Trailing shoe or dribble bar. 6 units N/1000 gal splash plate and 9 units N/1000 gal dribble bar or trailing shoe.
** Only apply P fertiliser if allowed to do so. Contact local advisor. Avoid P on index 4 soils
14 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
MULTI-SPECIES SWARDS:
FARMERS LEADING THE WAY!
By CIARA DONOVAN,
Farm Sustainability Advisor, Supply Chain Division
There has been increased interest in ‘multi-species What are the Benefits
swards’ by farmers and seed breeding companies
of Multispecies Swards
over the last few years. It is claimed that they can
Clover (red and white) is well known for its nitrogen
produce more grass even with lower fertilizer inputs.
fixing potential and are often used in multispecies
Unfortinuatley, though farmers have begun to try out
mixes. But clover is just one member of the legume
this new pasture system, as yet, there is little research
family and all host the nitrogen fixing soil bacteria
published on the subject within a dairy system. This
Multi-Species Swards:Farmers Leading the Way
which live
! in the root nodules of these plants. Different
article aims to examine what multi-species swards
By Ciara O’Donovan members of this family have differing advantages, for
are, what the proported benefits of this new pasture-
There has been increased interest in ‘multi-species swards’ by farmers andinstance, Sainfoin,
seed breeding another nitrogen fixing legume,
companies
type are and what research is available or underway
is with
over the last few years. It is claimed that they can produce more grass even often used
lower in multispecies
fertilizer inputs. mixes as it is drought
around this subject.
Unfortinuatley, though farmers have begun to try out this new pastureresistant.
system, as yet, there is little
research published on the subject within a dairy system. This article aims to examine what multi-
Whatswards
species is aare,
Multi-Species
what the proported Sward?
benefits of this new pasture-type
Whenare and whatare
herbs research
grownis in swards, their beneficial
As the name suggests, it issubject.
available or underway around this a sward mix consisting
contribution is linked to their long root systems and
of a number of species which generally include at
What is a Multi-Species Sward? their ability to draw both water and minerals from deep
least one grass, herb and legume species. Different
As the name suggests, it is a sward mix consisting of a number of species downwhichingenerally
the soilinclude
profile,
at much deeper than roots of
seed companies have a variety of different sward
least one grass, herb and legume species. Different seed companies have grass species.
a variety These
of different extra minerals are used not just
sward
mixes, with the number andoftype of species differing
species differing depending on soilby
mixes, with
ards:Farmers the number
Leading the and
Way type
! theand
type plants butusage
desired by microbes
(i.e. in the soil. This increased
depending
grazing on soil
or silage). Manytype andthe
include desired usageLeft
below herbs: (i.e. grazing(deep tap root) right – plantain (long
– Chicory microbial activity can help to increase the nutrient
Ciara O’Donovan
or silage).
thin Many include the below herbs: Picture 1 –
root system)
ti-species swards’ by farmers
cycle within the soil, making more minerals and water
Chicory (deep tapand seedPicture
root). breeding2companies
– plantain (long thin
ey can produce more grass even with lower fertilizer inputs. available for more growth of all species present. A
root system)
un to try out this new pasture system, as yet, there is little larger variety of minerals are also present in the leaves
a dairy system. This article aims to examine what multi- of herbs compared to grass monoculture swards,
benefits of this new pasture-type are and what research is which are thought to have anthelmintic properties for
livestock feeding on them. More research is needed to
verify thisswards,
Multispecies however.like clover/rye grass swards have similar issues
onsisting of a number of species which generally include at control before seeding must be thorough since after planning, no h
Different seed companies have a variety of different sward Multispecies
eliminate unwanted swards,
specieslike clover/rye
without the losesgrass swards
to desired species al
es differing depending on soil type and desired usage (i.e. have similar issues in relation to weed-control. Weed
between 3 to 5 years by seed-producing companies for many legum
w herbs: Left – Chicory (deep tap root) right – plantain (long control before
is short-lived, seeding
and few musthave
Irish trials be been
thorough since
in place after
to definitively m
Picture 1
What are the Benefits of Multispecies Swards
Clover (red and white) is well known for its nitrogen fixing potential and are often used in multispecies
mixes. But clover is just one member of the legume family and all host the nitrogen fixing soil bacteria
which live in the root nodules of these plants. Different members of this family have differing
advantages, for instance, Sainfoin, another nitrogen fixing legume, is often used in multispecies mixes
as it is drought resistant.
When herbs are grown in swards, their beneficial contribution is linked to their long root systems and
their ability to draw both water and minerals from deep down in the soil profile, much deeper than
roots of grass species. These
Picture 2 extra minerals are used not just by the plants but by microbes in the soil.
This increased microbial activity can help to increase the nutrient cycle within the soil, making more
minerals and water available for more growth of all species present. A larger variety of minerals are
15
ards also present in the leaves of herbs compared to grass monoculture swards,
What which are thought
research to havecarried out?
has/is beingthe loses to desired species also. Persistence is estimated to be
ing companies for many legume and herb species, which in itself
e been in place to definitively measure persistency.
years, receiving 135kg N/Ha, the green bar represents
a multispecies sward consisting of two species of
grass, 2 species of herbs and 2 species of legume; the
yellow bar is a multispecies sward also but consisting
of 3 grass species, 4 legume species and 5 herb
species, both mixed species receiving only 70 kg N/
Ha. These swards were co-grazed with beef cattle and
sheep.
planning, no herbicidal control will successfully
Having only one year of data, it would be folly to jump
eliminate unwanted species without the loses to
to conclusions, however the initial results are very
desired species also. Persistence is estimated to be
promising. They indicate that mixed species swards
between 3 to 5 years by seed-producing companies
can both increase grass dry matter production (by 2
out? for many legume and herb species, which in itself is Ton/Ha) while also reduce nitrogen requirement (by
short-lived,
n Ireland and few Irish
around multispecies trialsthough
swards, have the
been in place
majority to
have 100 kg/ha) when compared to the ryegrass sward.
definitively
hin a sheep or beef measure persistency.
systems. Little has been published relating to John Gilliland of Devenish while presenting this
m, though research within this arena is currently underway in data, commented that “the mixed species swards
What research has / is
other research centres and farms across the country. outperformed the other swards especially during
being carried out?
r 6456) carried out in conjunction with Teagasc, the Dept. of drought periods when the deeper tap roots were
A number of trials have taken place
ed at number of studies into the subject and the practical in Ireland around able to draw water up from deeper in the soil, which
multispecies swards, though the majority have been was also synergistically beneficial to the grass
in relation to swards grazed within a sheep or beef species in the same sward.” He also noted that the
systems. Little has been published relating to the number of earthworms increased to three times that
its use within a milking
species, 4 legume platform,
species andthough research
5 herb species, both ofmixed species
the other receiving
swards in thisonly
first70 kg N/Ha.
year of the These
experiment.
within this arena
swardsiswere currently underway
co-grazed with beef in Moorepark,
cattle and sheep.
Johnstown Castle and at other research centres and
farms across Having only one year of data, it would be folly to jump
the country.
m, an experiment was to set
conclusions,
up in 2019howevercomparing thegrass
initial results are very
production
The graph below, promising.
A Research shows
Update the They
results
(project indicate
from the
number that mixed
first
6456) year species
carried out swards
of the
nial ryegrass sward,can
in conjunction both
receiving increase
170 kg N/Ha,
with Teagasc, grass dryblue
the the
Dept. matter production (by 2
ofis Agriculture
permanent
ad been
andpresent
UCD inonTon/Ha)
the farm
2018, while
looked foralso
atmany reduce
number years,nitrogen
of receiving
studies requirement
135kg
into the (by
ultispecies sward
subject 100 kg/ha)
consisting
and when compared
of twoimplications
the practical species of grass, to
were2as the ryegrass
species
follows: of sward.
John Gilliland of Devenish while
yellow bar is a multispecies sward also but consisting of 3 grass presenting this data,
Practicalcommented
implications thatfor“the mixed species swards
stakeholders:
outperformed
Multi-species grasslandthe swards, other swards if especially
optimally during
formulated,drought
offer an periods when the
opportunity deeper tap
to increase roots were
yields
able toofdraw
at low inputs water up
inorganic N from deeper in similar
or achieve the soil, which
was alsoinputs
yields at reduced synergistically
of inorganic beneficial
N compared to the grass
species in the same sward.”
to monocultures of perennial ryegrass. However,that the He also noted
challengesnumber relating of earthworms
to mid-season increaseddigestibility,
to three times that .
ensilabilityofand
thepossibly
other swards in this first
persistence year
still of the
need to experiment
be
solved.
Given the potential benefits of multispecies swards, both financially
Given the potentialand environmentally, the
benefits of multispecies swards,
At Devenish’s “Irish within
research Lighthouse” farm, an
a dairy setting experiment
can’t come fast enough. In the meantime, it is a testament to
both financially and environmentally, the research the
was set up manyin 2019 Irishcomparing
farmers that grass
haveproduction
been trialling with
this newwithin
system, of their
a dairy determination
setting can’t come to become more In the
fast enough.
four different types of swards. The graph below,
efficient and more sustainable. They are possibly leadingshows the way
meantime, it isfor
a us all?!
testament to the many Irish farmers
the results from the first year of the experiment. The that have been trialling this new system, of their
red bar is the perennial ryegrass sward, receiving 170 determination to become more efficient and more
kg N/Ha, the blue is permanent pasture, the heritage sustainable. They are possibly leading the way for us
sward which had been present on the farm for many all?!
16 www.dairygoldagri.ieISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
DAIRYGOLD / TEAGASC JOINT
PROGRAMME 2018-2020
Dairygold/Teagasc Joint Programme 2018-2020
By GRAINNE HURLEY,
Dairygold Monitor Farmers Profit Monitor Summary 2020 Dairygold Teagasc Joint Programme
The TeagascMonitor
Dairygold Dairy Profit MonitorProfit
Farmers is an important tool used to analyse
Monitor Summary The the
netfinancial
marginandof linked technical farmers in 2020
the monitor
performance
2020 of dairy farming operations. The Teagasc/Dairygold wasmonitor farmers completed
15.40 cent/litre their of 1.07cent/lire
– an increase
profit monitors in January to review their financial performance, benchmark
compared to themselves
2019. Thisagainst the in net margin was
increase
group and to focus
The Teagasc onProfit
Dairy their strengths
Monitor isandanweaknesses highlighted
important tool as part
largely dueof the analysis
to an completed.
increase in milk price received by
used to analyse the financial and linked technical the monitor farmers which was on average 37.41c/litre.
Table 1 highlights the financial performance of the monitor farmers in 2020 versus 2019. It includes
performance of dairy farming operations. The The monitor farmers received a high milk price due to
the gross output figure which is a combination of milk sales, cattle sales and changes in stock
Teagasc/Dairygold monitor farmers completed their their management skills and also due to investment
inventory. A summary of the costs associated with dairy systems are also included. Then net margin
profit monitors in January to review their financial they have put into breeding their cows to produce
is the deduction of total costs from the gross output. It is important to note, however, that even
performance, benchmark themselves against the high solids – the group average for milk fat was 4.47%
though paid labour is included in total fixed costs, the farmers own unpaid labour/drawings is not
group and to focus on their strengths and weaknesses and protein was 3.78% in 2020 (Table 2).
included in the total costs nor is tax paid or
highlighted as part of the analysis completed.capital repayments.
The net margin of the monitor farmers in 2020 was 15.40 cent/litre Even though total costs
– an increase increased slightly (+0.12c/
of 1.07cent/lire
Table 1 highlights the financial performance of the litre) compared to 2019, variable costs such as feed
compared to 2019. This increase in net margin was largely due to an increase in milk price received
monitor farmers in 2020 versus 2019. It includes the and fertilizer reduced in 2020. While February 2020
by the monitor farmers which was on average 37.41c/litre. The monitor farmers received a high milk
gross output figure which is a combination of milk was one of the wettest we had seen in many years
price due to their management skills and also due to investment they have put into breeding their
sales, cattle sales and changes in stock inventory. A and the drier farms suffered mini droughts at various
cows to produce high solids – the group average for milk fat was 4.47% and protein was 3.78% in 2020
summary of the costs associated with dairy systems stages during the summer – all in all it was a good
(Table 2).
are also included. Then net margin is the deduction year for grass growth and the farms increased grass
of total
Even costs
though from
total the
costs gross output.
increased It is important
slightly (+0.12c/litre) compared growth slightly
to 2019, to 14.3tn/ha.
variable It feed
costs such as was interesting to see
to note,
and however,
fertilizer reducedthat even While
in 2020. though paid labour
February is one milk
2020 was of thesolid production
wettest we had per
seencow was the same in both
in many
included in total fixed costs, the farmers own unpaid years at 542kg/cow but
years and the drier farms suffered mini droughts at various stages during the summer – all in all it was with a greater fat and protein
alabour/drawings
good year for grass is not included
growth and in thethe totalincreased
farms costs norgrass make
growthupslightly
in 2020.to 14.3tn/ha. It was
is tax paid or capital repayments.
interesting to see milk solid production per cow was the same in both years at 542kg/cow but with a
greater fat and protein make up in 2020.
Table 1. Table 2.
Financial summary of the Dairygold Monitor Farmers 2020 Table
Farm2. Farm physical
physical summarysummary of the Dairygold
of the Dairygold Monitor Farmers
Monitor Farmers 2020 2020
Table 1. Financial summary of the Dairygold Monitor Farmers 2020
17DAIRYGOLD / TEAGASC
JOINT PROGRAMME
Kevin Morrissey
By JOHN- Dairygold/McCARTHY, Teagasc Joint programme
Soils Pilot Project in the Dairygold / Teagasc Joint Program
Kevin Morrisey
Farm:
Kevin Morrissey milks 95 cows on his family farm in Roches Point, Trabolgan, Co. Cork
on a milking platform of 31 hectares. His cow type is a Holstein Friesian delivering 510 kg
of milk solids per cow in 2020. His grazing season length extends from early February
to late November. Kevin has a free draining loam soil type with a sandstone bedrock
and is part of the Soils Pilot Project in the Dairygold / Teagasc Joint Programme.
Fertiliser
Farm: KevinPlan 2021: milks 95 cows on his family farm in Roches Point, Trabolgan, Co. Cork on a
Morrissey
Havingplatform
milking taken a of new
31 set of soilHis
hectares. samples
cow typeandis aupdated
Holsteinhis nutrient
Friesian management
delivering 510 kg ofplan,
milkasolids
fertiliser shopping list was
created. Kevin used some protected urea products in 2020 for the first
per cow in 2020. His grazing season length extends from early February to late November. Kevin time and is very
haspleased with how it
aperformed
free drainingforloam
him. soil
He type
is going
with to use predominantly
a sandstone bedrock and protected
is part ofurea products
the Soils in 2021.
Pilot Project Kevin likes the 29-0-14+S
in the
product as
Dairygold he likes
/ Teagasc to have
Joint a blend of potassium (K) and sulphur (S) in his fertiliser to maximise the response
Programme.
from summer nitrogen (N) applications. He has a small phosphorus (P) allowance for 2021 and will use this for
reseeding
Fertiliser purposes.
plan Kevintaken
2021: Having has amade incremental
new set progress
of soil samples in reducing
and updated his N fertiliser
his nutrient use over the past 2 years.
management
plan, a fertiliser
Through shopping list
a combination was created.
of recording andKevin used some
monitoring protected
fertiliser urea products
applications in 2020
he has for the
reduced his yearly chemical N
first time and is very pleased with how it performed for him. He is going to use predominantly
use by 800 kg saving him 800 euro. This is built on a foundation of 94% of the farm being at a pH of ≥ 6.3 and
protected
95% of the urea
landproducts
being atin Index
2021. Kevin likes thefor
3 or greater 29-0-14+S
P and K.product as he likes to have a blend of
potassium (K) and sulphur (S) in his fertiliser to maximise the response from summer nitrogen (N)
applications. He has a small phosphorus (P) allowance for 2021 and will use this for reseeding
Planned Fertiliser:
purposes. Kevin has made incremental progress in reducing his N fertiliser use over the past 2 years.
Fertiliser
Through a combination of recording and monitoring fertiliser applications Tonnes he has reduced his yearly
chemical N use by 800 kg saving him 800 euro. This is built on a foundation
29:0:14+S 15.17 of 94% of the farm being
at a pH of ≥ 6.3 and 95% of the land being at Index 3 or greater for P and K.
Urea (46%) + NBPT 16.81
18-6-12+S
Practical steps to reduce N fertiliser use at farm level this year 4.43
1. Spread
Practical stepslime where required
to reduce N fertiliser use at farm level this year:
2. Monitor and record
1. Spread lime where required fertiliser use
2.3. Monitor
Target aand
small N reduction
record fertiliser(2use
- 3 units/acre) at each application throughout the year
3.4. Target
Realise
a the
small fullNNreduction
value of slurry
(2 - 3using LESS technology
units/acre) (Dribble bar/
at each application Trailing shoe)
throughout the year
4.5. Realise the full N
Apply summer N value
with aof slurry
blend of using LESS
S, K and technology
P (Dependent on(Dribble
individual bar/ Trailing
farm shoe)
P allowances)
5.6. Apply summer
Regular checksNand with a blend of of
maintenance S, fertiliser
K and P spreader
(Dependent on ensure
should individual farm P allowances)
accurate
6. R egular
and even checks and maintenance
application of fertilizer of fertiliser spreader should ensure accurate and even
application of fertilizer
Farmer’s view: Reducing his chemical N usage required planning and time to build the confidence
that he canView:
Farmers farm as normal without the reductions impacting his bottom line. These improvements
minimise
Reducinghishis farms environmental
chemical N usageimpactrequiredandplanning
put in himand a better
time position
to build to deal
the with possible
confidence that he can farm as normal
reductions
without the in reductions
N allowances. Regular soil
impacting his sampling
bottom line.and These
improving soil fertility are
improvements the keyhis
minimise to success.
farms environmental impact
The
andlong
put term
in himgoala isbetter
to successfully
position establish whitepossible
to deal with clover onreductions
the milking in platform in the hope
N allowances. of
Regular soil sampling and
boosting milk solids production while further reducing fertiliser N use.
improving soil fertility are the key to success. The long term goal is to successfully establish white clover on the
milking platform in the hope of boosting milk solids production while further reducing fertiliser N use.
18 www.dairygoldagri.ieJohn Maher ISSUE 97 - MARCH 2021
Teagasc, Moorepark
GRASS MATTERS
By JOHN MAHER, Grass10, Teagasc, Moorepark
TIME TO CATCH UP ON GRAZING
o Start the Grazing Season!!!!
Grazing has got off to a slow start in 2020 due to conditions are difficult, then practices have to be put
poor grazing conditions. While the growth of grass is in place to keep grass in the diet of the cow without
imageclose “2018 grazing
to normal, season
the turnout starts
of cows now”
to grass has been causing serious damage to the land. These practices
delayed. We have now entered catch-up mode on include:
most farms. So we must get moving in terms of grazing
ry farmer will undertake over the next 2 months is to ensure that
the farm. Many farms will have got very little grazing - Grazing for a few hours after each milking
have an adequatein
completed supply of grass
February. Someearlyofnext
the spring.
dryer farms have - U
sing different entry and exit points to the
10 - 20% grazed by March 1st. However grass supply is paddock
allenging during September. Reports I get back on grass supply on
still very good on farms with the Average Farm Cover - G
razing low covers of grass in difficult grazing
rms are swamped in grass which makes grazing out very difficult.
(AFC) close to 900 KgDM/ha on March 1st (PastureBase conditions
t have Ireland
enoughFigures).
grass available
Wherefor October
slurry and willtook
application require
place in - U
sing grazing techniques that minimise damage
. Irrespective of grassthere
mid-January, supply
hasonbeen
the farm,
a good weresponse
must focus
inon the
grass to land
ht. growth.
Grazing lower covers of grass enables more area to
tumn grazing
Grass inmanagement
March of dairy cows. be grazed and faster recovery of grass to begin the
While things have not gone according to plan in second round of grazing in April. Lower covers of
uatelyFebruary,
fed usingwe themust
cheapest available feed which is grazed
keep grass in the diet of dairy cows grass are greener and faster to recover after grazing.
rth €1.80/cow/day additional
as much as possible profit.
during March. There are many It is important though that once a paddock/section is
reasons for this but primarily it is to: grazed during difficult weather that a back fence is put
e farm up for spring grass. Many farmers do not realise that up to prevent cows going back onto this area.
he autumn- Increase
and thatMilk Price (higher
autumn fat & protein
management of grazed grass is
the supplycomposition)
of grass available in spring on any farm. Check grass regrowth levels!
- Increase milk yield Every dairy farmer will need to examine the farm for
- Lower the cost of milk production ( a lot of costs grass supply during March. It is important to keep
are increasing currently) an eye on the recovery of the first paddocks grazed.
- Grow more grass and increase grass quality in During March it is important to walk the farm to ensure
subsequent rotations that there is enough grass is available in April to start
of 2nd rotation. Therefore you must walk the farm.
Despite the weather challenges that appear at this
time of year, every framer must try to get cows out The primary time will be the 3rd & 4th week of March
grazing simply because it is good for cows, good for and the primary area to look at is the paddocks grazed
the farmer and good for the grass plant. Every day early. This will tell you what level of grass recovery has
cows are at grass will increase profit, reduce costs taken place. There will need to be 4 - 5 paddocks with
and enable the farm to grow more grass. a good level of grass recovery to gain a knowledge as
to when the 2nd rotation can begin in April.
Each additional day of grazing in February by the
calved proportion of the herd for the average milk A paddock grazed on March 1st and taking average
supplier will increase farm profit by over €100 per growth rates in March of 20 kgDM/ha/day – then
day, through improved milk constituents and lower these paddocks will have a cover of about 600 kgDM/
feed costs. ha by April 1st. This will only happen though if these
paddocks have received their Nitrogen fertiliser/slurry
Need to get Grazing: application.
As long as ground conditions are adequate underfoot
- grazing can take place day and night. When ground
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