OviCast

February Grass10 Update Feb 21, 2025

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh also highlights opening covers on farms and current growth rates, plus we discuss fertiliser prices and targeted application before finishing up with grazing management.

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Clostridial vaccination Feb 19, 2025

Kieran O’Mahony, Area Veterinary Manager at Zoetis, joins us on this week’s OviCast to discuss Clostridial vaccination in sheep.

Kieran outlines the challenges posed by Clostridial disease, followed by an in-depth discussion on vaccination strategies and optimal timing for both ewes and lambs.

We also cover key practical considerations, including proper vaccine storage and administration, and why these steps are crucial for effectiveness.

Additionally, we address the supply challenges encountered this year and their impact on vaccination programmes.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Scan results & managing ewe condition in late pregnancy Feb 05, 2025

As lambing season approaches, we're joined by Dr. Frank Campion to discuss key aspects of managing ewe condition at this critical stage of the production cycle.

Frank begins by analysing the latest scan results from the BETTER farms and comparing them to previous seasons. We also examine the challenges posed by lower feed value silage this year and its implications for feeding plans.

Frank highlights the significant impact of ewe body condition score (BCS) on lamb survival, growth rates, and flock culling decisions.

We explore practical short-term strategies to mitigate these effects, with a particular focus on the heightened vulnerability of younger ewes.

For more information:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/events/2025/Are-we-paying-enough-attention-to-ewe-body-condition-score-and-how-important-is-it.pdf

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The Sheep Census Jan 28, 2025

Jason Callaghan from the AIMS division in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine joins this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of the Sheep Census.

Jason outlines the key dates and deadlines for submission and explains the three different methods available:

- Written form

- Agfood account

- Using the AIMS Services app

He also walks us through the different census categories and provides guidance on how to complete the submission process.

For more information contact: sheepid@agriculture.gov.ie

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

January Grass10 Update Jan 23, 2025

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh first discusses over-winter growth and the importance of assessing opening covers; she then explains the spreading dates for chemical and organic fertiliser and the need to ensure conditions are suitable before spreading.

Finally, Niamh encourages anyone who has soil samples to collect to do so in the coming weeks to address soil fertility this year.

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Knowing your nitrates stocking rate Jan 21, 2025

Environmental specialist, Tim Hyde, joins us on this week’s OviCast to discuss calculating nitrate stocking rates on farms.

Tim explains how this figure is calculated for different classes of livestock. We discuss how to find the figures for cattle and how to calculate the contribution of sheep on the farm.

With new regulations in effect this year, Tim explains how this may impact producers for the coming season and the importance of knowing your own farm figures.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Bonus Ep: Tips for dealing with the cold snap Jan 07, 2025

With the cold snap this week, there’s a bonus OviCast episode with sheep specialists Damian Costello and Michael Gottstein sharing valuable insights on managing sheep farms during the present conditions.

Damian addresses challenges such as water supply and handling stock, emphasising the importance of safety during this difficult period and highlighting key considerations for farmers.

Michael discusses the impact on livestock, providing guidance on managing hypothermic lambs and the importance of supplementing feed.

He concludes by encouraging farmers to check in on their neighbours and reaching out for assistance when needed during this period.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Situation and outlook for 2025 Jan 07, 2025

Each year, the Teagasc Agricultural Economics and Farm Surveys Department reviews the current production year and examines the prospects for the upcoming agricultural season.

For this week’s OviCast, recorded just before Christmas, I sit down with Teagasc researcher Anne Kinsella to discuss the performance of the sheep sector in 2024 and the outlook for 2025.

Our conversation covers key topics, including price trends, changes in input costs, export markets, and profit margins. We also explore the outlook for the coming season, the influence of international markets on producers, and recent trends in global trade.

For more detailed information:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2024/Outlook-Sheep_DEC2024_AKFinal.pdf

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Feeding the ewe in mid-pregnancy Dec 23, 2024

Dr. Tim Keady is on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss feeding the ewe during mid-pregnancy and its impact on productivity.

Tim outlines the energy requirements of the ewe during this phase, we discuss the impact of grass supply and feed value in outdoor scenarios and the impact of different qualities of silages indoors.

Tim also talks about mobilising reserves, potential condition score loss and the impact that can have on next year’s lamb performance.

We finish up discussing feed management introducing supplementation to thinner ewes and planning ahead for next year.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Diversifying the farm business Dec 19, 2024

Kilkenny sheep farmer, Brian Nicholson, joins this week’s OviCast to talk about the changes to his farm system in recent years.

Brian describes how he has converted part of his farm over to an organic system, we discuss the sheep, beef and tillage systems and their integration and how he has adapted his farm to suit.

We finish up discussing how he is incorporating agro-forestry into his farming system.

The Teagasc/FBD Environmental Sustainability Awards video of Brian Nicholson’s farm:

https://youtu.be/jXgk4ZnJxxo

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

December Grass10 Update Dec 17, 2024

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, has her monthly update on the OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh discusses the closing plan on farms, grazing conditions and the impact of re-grazing paddocks on spring growth.

We discuss the variation in performance of individual fields on farms and some investments to improve productivity next year.

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Key advice at housing Dec 13, 2024

Sheep specialist Damian Costello joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss winter housing.

Damian talks to us about some of the key considerations at housing, penning and space allowances.

We discuss straw usage, alternative bedding and keeping slats clean during the winter before finishing up discussing housing for organic flocks.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grazing management on forage brassicas Dec 04, 2024

Dr Frank Campion joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss grazing management on forage brassicas.

Frank discusses yields and why you should do a feed budget for the crop. We then discuss intakes, utilisation and the factors that influence it.

Frank also explains fencing, crop allocation and managing in wet conditions and he has advice for managing the crop in frosty conditions.

We finish up discussing the transition of the crop with finishing lambs and pregnant ewes.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Hill flocks focus on condition and mating management Nov 26, 2024

Dr. Frank Campion joins us on the latest OviCast as we discuss ewe condition and mating management in hill ewes.

Frank discusses the impact of ewe condition on performance in hill flocks, plus we discuss the targets and variation in ewe weight on the BETTER farms.

We move on to discuss single sire mating and crossbreeding, finishing up with Frank offering some tips on reducing the impact of ram infertility.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

November Grass10 Update Nov 23, 2024

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update on the latest OviCast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh discusses the higher growth rates over the past few weeks and the impact this has had on grazing this back end.

We also discuss the closing plan and the importance of staying on target and we finish up with Niamh offering some tips on achieving good graze outs.

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Market update: high lamb prices and positive outlook Nov 19, 2024

Bord Bia sheep sector manager, Seamus McMenamin, joins us on this week’s OviCast with an update on the market conditions.

We discuss the current trade and what’s driving prices, the trend in numbers this year and how this might impact the trade for the coming months.

We also discuss the impact of bluetongue and southern hemisphere imports on trade on the European market.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Lamb finishing rations and feed management Nov 15, 2024

Teagasc ruminant nutrition specialist, Aisling Claffey, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss lamb finishing rations.

Aisling explains ration spec and highlights some of the key areas to look out for when choosing a finishing ration, highlighting why it’s important that it’s correctly formulated.

We move on to discuss feed management with Aisling offering her tips on trouble shooting potential issues to avoid a dip in performance.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Bluetongue – UK update, spread control measures and vaccination Oct 29, 2024

Dr Fiona Lovatt from Flock Health joins us on this week’s OviCast to talk about the bluetongue situation in the UK.

Fiona gives us a description of the condition and explains the impact it has on livestock. We discuss the spread of it in Europe and the UK and the control measures put in place to limit its impact and how they work.

We also discuss the role of vaccination and how this differs from previous serotypes encountered.

More information on bluetongue can be found on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s website at:

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/cd6c0-bluetongue-virus/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Examining blackloss and photosensitisation in Scottish hill flocks Oct 22, 2024

Dr Fiona McAuliffe from the SRUC joins us on this OviCast episode as we discuss the challenge of blackloss and photosensitisation in Scottish hill flocks.

We discuss the extent of blackloss or the unexplained loss of lambs on extensive hill grazings.

Fiona describes the various causes and some of the follow up work where she examined the underlying factors responsible for lamb losses.

We move on to discuss photosensitisation in more detail, its causes, predisposing factors and management options.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

October Grass10 Update Oct 15, 2024

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers, and managing supply for the weeks ahead.

We discuss the autumn closing plan, graze outs and managing clover swards at closing.

Finally, Niamh discusses upcoming deadlines for FYM and lime and Potassium applications.

Link to the autumn closing planner:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdf

You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc’s Labour on Sheep Farms Survey Oct 08, 2024

Sheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss a new survey just launched that is examining labour on sheep farms.

Labour is widely acknowledged as a big challenge in the running of a sheep enterprise, particularly in an era where part-time, sheep farming is now the norm.

Damian talks about the key areas the survey is examining and how this information will help inform future discussions.

We finish up with Damian explaining how to complete it online and in paper formant

The link to the survey is:

https://bit.ly/47yLo23

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Checking teeth, molar problems and other health issues this autumn Oct 03, 2024

Seamus Fagan from the Department of Agriculture’s Regional Veterinary Lab in Athlone joins us for the latest OviCast episode as we discuss various health issues this autumn.

With many flocks completing the final check over ewes before going to the ram, Seamus highlights some of the teeth problems they have been seeing in the lab in recent years that are going under-diagnosed and how this is contributing to thinner ewes.

We focus in particular on molar teeth problems in ewes, how they present and the impact that it can have.

We also discuss other health issues seen this autumn - in particular clostridial challenges.

Finally Seamus emphasises the importance of monitoring ewe condition over the coming months and investigating causes of ill-thrift.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Focus on sheep scab and treatment options Sep 30, 2024

Bimeda Vet, Rachel Mallet, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss sheep scab and treatment options.

Rachel first explains how sheep scab occurs, how it is spread and correct diagnosis. We then discuss the various treatment options for both conventional and organic flocks.

We finish up discussing plunge dipping with Rachel highlighting best practice when completing this task.

For more information on mobile sheep dip operators go to:

https://www.bimeda.ie/mobile-sheep-dippers

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Ploughing 2024 – focus on lamb finishing Sep 17, 2024

Sheep specialists, Michael Gottstein and Damian Costello, are on this week’s OviCast as they discuss the focus on lamb finishing at the sheep section of the Teagasc stand at this year’s National Ploughing Championships.

Michael talks to us about some of the decisions that need to be made with regards to lamb finishing and purchasing stores this autumn.

Damian takes us through some of the technical areas they will focus on and they discuss the demo that will be there on the day.

We finish up with Michael encouraging those visiting to drop in and visit the team to discuss the options for finishing lambs and all other sheep related queries.

Link to the store lamb calculator:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Store-lamb-finishing-calculator_2024.xlsx

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

September Grass10 Update Sep 13, 2024

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update on the latest OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers and some of the variation across the country. We discuss building covers and planning ahead for closing up paddocks.

Niamh also discusses the fertiliser register and upcoming deadlines for fertiliser slurry and FYM.

We finish up with Niamh offering tips on grazing autumn reseeds.

For more, you can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Lameness: survey results of causes and farmer management practices in Ireland Sep 03, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, we catch up with postgraduate student, Jake Delaney, to discuss some of the results of a survey he collected last year looking at ovine lameness in Ireland and assessment of farmer management.

Jakes gives us some background to the issues and his survey and we discuss the type and level of lameness reported and the increased levels of CODD.

Jake talks to us about correct identification and the impact that can have on control. We discuss management practices on farm to reduce lameness, prompt treatment, culling repeat offenders and quarantine.

We finish up with Jake summarising some of the key findings and other ongoing work in the area.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Post-weaning lamb performance Aug 30, 2024

Dr. Frank Campion re-joins us as we discuss lamb performance post-weaning on the latest OviCast podcast.

Frank talks about lamb performance on farms post-weaning and some of the factors that influence this.

We discuss lamb growth rates since weaning on the BETTER farms and how they have been managing lambs.

We move on to discuss lamb management, finish times, supplementation and where the priorities lie on farms for the coming weeks.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Focus on getting condition on Aug 28, 2024

Dr. Frank Campion joins us on this week’s OviCast as we discuss getting the ewe flock in the right condition for mating.

Frank discusses some of the tasks that need to be completed at the moment. We discuss the ewe condition on the better farms post weaning and some of the causes of low body condition at present and the management of replacement hoggets.

We move on to discuss nutritional requirements, grazing management and keeping sufficient replacements.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

August Grass10 Update Aug 24, 2024

Teagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update discussing grass management tips for the month ahead.

Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers and some of the variation across the country.

We discuss building covers as we head into the autumn with Niamh offering advice on reducing demand and fertiliser application.

We finish up with Niamh offering tips on grazing management at present.

For more, you can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Is autumn reseeding an option? Aug 07, 2024

We’re joined on this week’s OviCast by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss autumn redesign.

We start by discussing the impact of timing on reseeds. We discuss field prep, different reseeding methods and their suitability and fertiliser and lime applications.

Philip also explains variety selection and the inclusion of clover, plus we discuss post-sowing management, the grazing of new reseeds this autumn and the impact that can have on production next spring.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Recap - SIS Genotyped Ram Task Jul 31, 2024

We’re joined on this week’s episode of OviCast by Jaynell Anderson, Programme Manager with Sheep Ireland, to discuss the SIS Genotype ram task.

With ram sales underway, Jaynell gives us a recap on what the requirements of the SIS ram task are for hill and lowland flocks and how to identify eligible SIS approved rams in sales catalogues and using the ram search tool.

We also discuss some of the frequently asked questions about the task and we finish up discussing ram supply and the upcoming multibreed sale in August and the new hill ram sale later this Autumn.

For the ram search go to:

https://appsh.sheep.ie/ram-search

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grass update & management tips for the coming weeks Jul 23, 2024

Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we catch up with Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, to get an update on the current situation and discuss management tips in the coming weeks.

Niamh first highlights the factors that have limited grass growth over the last number of months.

She also comments on the long term Nitrogen fertiliser type trial at Teagasc, Johnstown Castle, which provides an insight as to how different fertiliser types/formulations have performed under the same conditions and with N applied at the same time and at the same rate.

Niamh discusses ways to reduce demand by scanning early to remove empty cows and cull ewes and the introducing of creep to lambs and weanlings.

Coming into August, it is important to focus on building grass covers and Niamh explains the ways farmers can achieve this, as well as discussing fertiliser plans and the need to target slurry to replenish offtakes and completing fodder budget.

Niamh then finishes up discussing her key tips for management in the coming weeks.

Further information is available at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/

Subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Monitoring parasite burden and interpreting the results Jul 14, 2024

This week we talk to Dr Orla Keane about monitoring the parasite challenge in lambs.

We discuss the challenge stomach worms poses from this point of the season onward with Orla talking about using faecal sampling to monitor worm burden, explaining the process, what’s being tested and what the results mean.

Orla also discusses the thresholds for dosing and the factors that influence the rise in worm counts.

We move on to discuss drench testing to determine dose efficacy and we finish up highlighting best practice around faecal sampling and why it should be used on farms.

For more information go to:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/flock-health/anthelmintic-resistance/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grazing Focus: Grass supply, sward quality and fertiliser Jun 28, 2024

On this week’s OviCast we’re taking a grazing focus and are joined by Philip Creighton.

We discuss grass supply and sward quality and some of the factors that are influencing it at the moment.

We move on to discuss management options for the coming weeks and finish up the episode discussing fertiliser applications.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Time to wean? Jun 19, 2024

Sheep Specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us on this week’s OviCast to discuss weaning options on farms.

We discuss the current situation on farms, challenges with grass quality and why weaning now is beneficial.

Michael explains the weaning process with some useful tips and management of the ewes and lambs post-weaning.

We finish up discussing some of the areas we need to address at the moment from parasite burden to mineral supplementation to tackling lameness.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Focus on wool quality and shearing Jun 11, 2024

Jayne Harkness-Bones, Depot Manager with Ulster Wool, joins us for this week’s OviCast to discuss the factors that influence the quality of wool, the challenges in the marketplace in recent years and what happens to the wool from purchase until it reaches market.

We talk about shearing, wool handling and storage, with Jayne highlighting some simple practices to make the process easier and improve the quality of the wool harvested.

In the latter half of the podcast, Jayne who is also a council member of the Irish Grown Wool Council, discusses some of the work they have been involved in to realise the potential of wool, develop further opportunities and provide support to the industry.

For more information on some of the items discussed see the following links:

https://irishgrownwoolcouncil.com/

Preparing for Shearing: https://youtu.be/QiyvrF9g-dc

Top tips on how to harvest wool at shearing time: https://youtu.be/qO8HJdMsmME

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

How the lamb trade is shaping up for the summer Jun 04, 2024

Seamus McMenamin, sheep sector manager with Bord Bia, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we look at the lamb trade.

Seamus discusses factory throughput this year to date; we discuss what’s been happening with international trade; falling ewe numbers in the UK and Europe and the impact that this could have on lamb trade this summer.

We finish up discussing trends in demand and attracting younger consumers.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Time to think about blowfly control May 28, 2024

With blowfly strike a risk on farms, for this week’s OviCast we’re joined by sheep specialist Damian Costello to discuss the risk factors, how it occurs and treatment options available to farmers.

For more information:

https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep/put-a-plan-in-place-to-deal-with-blowfly-strike.php

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Olivia Hynes’ mixed grazing system in Roscommon May 21, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, we’re also joined by Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we catch up with Co. Roscommon beef and sheep farmer, Olivia Hynes.

Oliva starts by giving us an overview of her system, we discuss breeding and the use of AI in her suckler herd, lamb performance this spring and some of the challenges it has posed.

We discuss mixed grazing, grassland management and investing in grazing infrastructure, before finishing up with Olivia highlighting the three things she has focused on that have had an impact in her farming system.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Flukicide residues – observing withdrawal dates and correct usage May 14, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, we’re joined by Terry McElvaney, Veterinary Inspector with Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, to discuss some issues that have occurred with flukicide residues in lamb carcasses.

We discuss the problems encountered and the follow up investigations with Terry explaining some of the issues caused and issues they have encountered.

We also discuss the key areas to focus on when using anthelminthic and antibiotics to avoid these type of issues occurring.

Details of licensed veterinary products can be found on the HPRA veterinary medicines webpage:

https://www.hpra.ie/homepage/veterinary/veterinary-medicines-information

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Knowing the chemical fertiliser limit for your farm May 08, 2024

Environmental specialist, Tim Hyde, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss fertiliser limits on farms.

We discuss how the introduction of the fertiliser register has put purchased fertiliser more in the spotlight on farms.

Tim explains the implications of this, how farmers can work out their stocking rate and what the limits are on farm.

We discuss the importance of soil sampling, how this impacts your fertiliser limit and the importance of a fertiliser plan.

We finish up discussing some changes to slurry spreading and the use of LESS technology on farms that are in place this season and coming down the tracks.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The National Sheep Welfare Scheme Apr 23, 2024

David Buckley from the Department of Agriculture is on this week’s OviCast to discuss key aspects of the new National Sheep Welfare Scheme.

David first gives an overview of the scheme, we discuss eligibility, reference numbers and the application procedure.

David then takes us through the various tasks explaining how they would work and what documentation is required for each.

We finish up discussing the payment dates, administrative checks and the help desk contact details.

For more information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/b253f-national-sheep-welfare-scheme/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The key management tasks to do at present Apr 17, 2024

Sheep Specialists, Michael Gottstein and Damian Costello, are on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the key management tasks to do on farms at present.

We discuss fertiliser application, planning for silage and grazing management and we look at the scenarios where supplementation is needed.

In the second half we switch to dealing with the various health challenges highlighting the continued risk of grass tetany, treating for Nematodirus and Coccidia. We also discuss the challenge mastitis poses in ewes at the moment and the need to treat early where scald appears in lambs.

More information about what was discussed can be found here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep/fertiliser-grassland-and-supplementation-advice-for-sheep-farmers.php

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Nematodirus forecast 2024 Apr 10, 2024

Dr. James O’Shaughnessy from the Department of Agriculture’s Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins us on the latest OviCast to discuss this year’s Nematodirus forecast.

James first explains the condition, symptoms and we discuss the high risk periods around the country.

We discuss treatment, some of the factors that may lead to a higher challenge on farms this spring, and we also discuss the potential risk of concurrent infection with coccidia.

For more information on the forecast can be found here:
https://bit.ly/Nematodirus_Forecast_2024

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Managing the challenging grazing conditions Apr 08, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, we discuss grazing management with Dr Philip Creighton.

With the challenging conditions we discuss the grazing situation around the country, opening covers and the impact of delayed fertiliser application on grass growth.

Philip discusses managing supplies, targeted supplementation where supplies are tight and grazing strategies that can be implemented in the coming weeks. We also discuss fertiliser application rates when conditions allow for grazing and silage.

We finish up with Philip discussing having preventative measures in place for grass tetany due to the current grazing conditions.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep trade update Mar 22, 2024

Sheep and Schemes editor from the Irish Farmers Journal, Darren Carty, is on this week’s OviCast to talk about the current sheep trade.

With prices hitting new highs we chat about the trade at the moment.

Darren talks to us about the hogget trade this spring, the start of the early lamb hitting the market and niche markets for milk lamb.

We discuss what’s driving trade, what’s happening on international markets and speculate for what may be in store in the coming months.

We finish up discussing the cull ewe trade and weighing up the option of selling in marts versus direct to abattoirs.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Preventing grass tetany post turnout Mar 12, 2024

Grass tetany is one of the challenges in early spring and on this week’s OviCast, Teagasc Sheep Specialist, Damian Costello, talks to us about this in more detail.

Damian explains how it occurs, the pre-disposing factors and high risk periods.

We discuss the symptoms and treatment in acute cases and Damian describes the various preventative measures and how these can be implemented on farms.

Read more about it here:

https://bit.ly/Grass_Tetany_24

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Hill Flocks: feeding & health advice in the run up to lambing Mar 05, 2024

Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss some timely advice for hill flocks in the run up to lambing.

Michael discusses some of the key areas to focus on this spring highlighting how ewe condition is a challenge.

We discuss the basics of nutrition and some of the feeding strategies that might be employed.

We finish up on to discuss some health areas that require attention in the lead into lambing.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

How to correctly set up a fertiliser spreader Feb 27, 2024

When focusing on improving fertiliser use efficiently, one often overlooked aspect for the return on investment is the fertiliser spreader itself.

For this episode of OviCast I’m joined by Teagasc machinery specialist, Francis Quigley, to take us through some of the practical considerations around this piece of equipment.

Francis explains many aspects from basic maintenance checks before the season commences, to correct set-up on the tractor and its impact that can have on the spread pattern.

We also discuss calibration, use of technology and the impact of the operator.

For more information:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/soil--soil-fertility/fertiliser-spreaders/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Scanning, condition score and preparing for lambing on the BETTER farms Feb 20, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, we catch up with Dr Frank Campion to get an update on the BETTER farm sheep flocks.

We discuss this year’s scanning results, dealing with issues and benchmarking performance. We move on to ewe condition score on the farms at scanning and since tupping and discuss the practical steps farmers can take to manage this.

We finish up discussing grass supplies, preparing for lambing and culling problem ewes.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Vet lab submissions Feb 13, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, we’re joined by Seamus Fagan from the Department of Agriculture’s regional veterinary lab in Athlone.

As a follow-on from his talk at the recent Sheep Conference, we discuss the importance of records to highlight flock health issues on farm and to help provide a better flock history, particularly in the case of abortion. We discuss the submission process and the timeline for results.

We also discuss some of the challenges seen in the lab this spring with a notable fluke challenge present on farms.

Finally we finish up discussing some of the findings from the ongoing thin ewe survey.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Completing a profit monitor Jan 30, 2024

For this week’s OviCast, I’m joined by my Teagasc colleague, Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we discuss financial management tips on drystock farms with Teagasc Financial Specialist, Kevin Connolly.

Kevin first explains the benefits of completing a profit monitor and we discuss what data is required and the ways to simplify this process.

Kevin takes us through the information the profit monitor can generate and how it can be used to highlight key areas to focus on, allowing farmers to benchmark their own farm performance.

We finish up with Kevin offering his three key pieces of advice for listeners to undertake in 2024.

For those interested in completing a profit monitor you can find out more at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/financial-analysis/farm-profit-analysis/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Michael Forde on managing a sheep & beef system on a fragmented farm Jan 23, 2024

For this week’s OviCast we head west to Corrandulla, Co. Galway to hear from sheep and beef farmer Michael Forde who is a participant on the BETTER farm programme.

Michael first discusses his farming system and some of the challenges of a managing a fragmented farm.

We chat about the impact of a difficult 2023 on lamb performance, sales and ewe condition and how he managed the flock this winter.

Plus we discuss the steps he has taken to address ewe condition since housing, this year’s scanning results and his feeding plans for ewes in late pregnancy.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

National Sheep Conference Preview Jan 16, 2024

On this week’s OviCast we look forward to the Teagasc National Sheep Conference with Dr Philip Creighton previewing the topics being covered.

Philip discusses the times and locations of this year’s conferences and highlights the speakers and the topics they are covering.

These include ‘Nutrition during pregnancy: management and the consequences’, to ‘Simplifying farm transfers: key considerations and strategies’ and ‘Diagnosing and managing flock health issues - on farm experiences’.

For more details visit:

www.teagasc.ie/sheepcon24

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Scanning - making use of the information Jan 09, 2024

With scanning complete on many flocks, on this week’s OviCast we chat to Sheep Specialist Michael Gottstein about making use of this information.

We start off talking about this year’s scanning results and move on to discuss the immediate management changes that can be made by setting up feeding groups.

Michael discusses why we need to divide them on the basis of scanned litter size and lambing date but also highlights the importance of assessing and managing ewe condition score this season.

We also discuss pregnancy rate and the causes of higher empty rates. Scan results are also a useful benchmark and we finish up the episode chatting about using this information to highlight key areas to focus on in the short and longer term.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Management at housing this winter Dec 26, 2023

For this week’s OviCast, we hear from a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar with Sheep Specialist Damian Costello speaking about key management advice at housing this winter.

Damian covered various aspects from some of the challenges faced this year to managing ewe condition to practical advice at housing.

Damian also answers some audience questions on the topic.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Alternative bedding options Dec 19, 2023

For this week’s OviCast we talk to independent sheep and beef consultant, Dr Liz Genever, about an on-farm project she was involved in examining various bedding options.

Liz gives us a background to the project, what bedding options they compared, how they set it up and what they examined.

We discuss the levels of usage of the various bedding sources, labour input, ewe cleanliness and ultimately costs involved.

We move on to discuss the suitability of each, a hybrid bedding model incorporating different bedding options and how the farm where the project was conducted changed practices.

Finally, Liz highlights the ways to stretch supplies with key areas to focus on.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Silage testing - what the results mean Dec 15, 2023

On this week’s OviCast we talk to Dr Tim Keady about the importance of silage testing and what the results mean.

Tim emphasises the importance of getting a silage test conducted correctly early to know the feed value of your winter forage.

He explains the variation in results nationally, what each of the measures mean and most importantly, the implications for feeding.

We discuss how the results could highlight areas to focus on for next year’s silage harvest.

We finish up with Tim discussing the implications of feeding different feed value silages has on animal performance and the amount of supplementation required.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Tackling the fluke challenge this winter Nov 28, 2023

Veterinarian, Shane McGettrick, who is Laboratory Manager at the Department of Agriculture Regional Veterinary Laboratory in county Sligo is on this week’s OviCast to talk about the fluke challenge this winter.

We start with Shane discussing what fluke-related issues they are seeing in the lab at this point in the season. We discuss the Department’s fluke forecast and how this may be a more challenging season for fluke.

We move on to discuss treatment with Shane highlighting the importance of choosing the correct active ingredient, potential flukicide resistance, and why it’s important to work with your vet to put a control programme in place on farm.

We finish up discussing rumen fluke and the risk it may poses on certain farms.

Read the 2023 DAFM fluke forecast at:

https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/ec21e-liver-fluke-forecast-november-2023/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Managing forage brassicas Nov 21, 2023

On this week’s OviCast we’re joined by post-graduate student, Mark Dolan, to discuss different aspects of management of forage brassicas.

Mark gives us some background to some of the work he has been involved in using forage brassicas to finish store lambs.

We discuss yields of the different crops, utilisation rates and the factors that influence them and how they have adapted management during periods of poor weather conditions.

We finish up discussing lamb kill out on the crops and the impact of regular drafting on grazing days.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Is it time to house finishing lambs? Nov 08, 2023

Teagasc sheep specialists, Damian Costello and Frank Campion, are on this week’s OviCast to discuss the challenging grazing conditions in recent weeks that has put pressure on farms both in terms of lamb performance and grass utilisation and supply.

We discuss the option of housing remaining lambs for finishing indoors and also discuss some of the key factors to consider at housing, levels of performance, kill out percentages, nutritional requirements and feed management.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Examining the trends in the national ewe flock Nov 02, 2023

Darren Carty, Sheep and Schemes Editor with the Farmers Journal is on this week’s OviCast episode to look back on the trends in the national ewe flocks over the past decade and the implications of this for the sheep industry.

Darren discusses the change in ewe numbers, the regional shift and the impact this has had on the sector.

We discuss breeding sales this year, opportunities and resilience in the sector and finish the conversation with Darren highlighting some of the technical areas that will come more into focus in the coming seasons.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Breeding, grassland and finishing lambs in Ballyhaise college Oct 24, 2023

Fergus O’Rourke and Niall Conaty from Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College in Co. Cavan join us on the latest OviCast podcast for an update on the flock.

We start with Fergus giving us a bit of background to the farm and flock. Niall discusses the breeding plan, keeping an eye on ewe condition mating management.

With the difficult grazing conditions Niall discusses how they have adapted management to graze out heavier covers while we also discuss the closing plan for the farm and current targets.

Fergus discusses lamb performance as some of the challenges this season with finishing remaining ram lambs indoors.

To find out more about Ballyhaise Agricultural college visit:
https://www.teagasc.ie/education/teagasc-colleges/ballyhaise/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Joining ewe lambs & some of the factors that influence its success Oct 13, 2023

Dr Tim Keady joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss joining ewe lambs and some of the factors that influence its success.

Tim discusses what the key drivers of the system are, we discuss the impact of joining weight and the influence that the ram effect can have.

Tim offers his insights on the duration of the breeding season and ram management during the mating period.

We discuss post mating management with Tim emphasising the importance of nutrition and the need to manage ewe lambs separately during the production cycle.

We finish up discussing the potential knock-on effect of joining ewe lamb on subsequent performance.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The steps to reducing gaseous emissions on sheep farms Oct 10, 2023

As part of Sustainability Week, on this week’s episode of OviCast we chat to signpost programme participant, John O’Connell, to discuss how he has implemented the 12 steps to reduce gaseous emissions from his farming system.

We chat about the various measures he has implemented from addressing soil fertility to better grassland management.

John explains the importance of animal health planning for his breeding programme and we finish up discussing his experience of over-sowing clover and the role he sees for it on his farm.

For more information on the 12 Steps:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/environment/climate-change/signpost-programme/12-Steps-to-Reduce-Gaseous-Emissions-on-Sheep-Farms.pdf

And to find out more about the Signpost programme go to:
https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/climate-change--air-quality/signpost-programme/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Store Lambs Part 2 Sep 26, 2023

Michael Gottstein re-joins us for the second part of the episode on store lambs, with a focus on those purchasing lambs.

He highlights the importance of getting health treatments in place on arrival and what impact this has.

We discuss expected performance, diets and mineral nutrition particularly for those lambs that will be intensively finished on farms, and explain the importance of feed and financial budgets and what hill flocks can do to improve saleability.

You can find the store lamb calculator at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/financial-management/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Store Lambs Part 1 Sep 22, 2023

We’re joined over the next two episodes by Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep knowledge Transfer in Teagasc, to discuss store lambs.

In this first part, Michael discusses the current market condition for stores, some of the challenges and the potential of store lamb finishing.

We discuss the options for lowland and hill farmers with remaining lambs on farms, the importance of feed and financial budgets and what hill flocks can do to improve saleability.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Hill ram genotyping and sales Sep 19, 2023

David Coen from Sheep Ireland is on this week’s OviCast to talk about progress in breeding in the hill sector.

David discusses the impact hill genetics has on the national flock, SIS scheme and ram eligibility.

We discuss the work by the 17 breeding groups over the past year to get rams genotyped and the impact this has had on developing flock books.

Finally we finish up with David discussing how breeders can build on this going forwards to improve genetic improvement in hill flocks.

Some links discussed in this week’s episode to search for potential rams or to sign up to Sheep Ireland are:

Ram Search:

https://appsh.sheep.ie/ram-search

Ram sales/catalogues:

https://www.sheep.ie/?page_id=29

Sign up online form:

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=AH5m37xZikKh2Tgra-Oid02OFzIK2SJKuUbHvUCuGqJURVpMT1ZLRU02RkxPTDdGTkhFRFNKNFpLTS4u

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Will ewe condition at mating effect performance next spring? Sep 12, 2023

Dr. Fiona Mc Govern is on this week’s OviCast to discuss the impact of ewe condition at mating on ewe productivity.

Fiona discusses the usefulness of body condition scoring as a management tool. She also explains the impact of condition on litter size and its carry over effects on lambing assistance, lamb birth weight and productivity next spring.

We finish up with Fiona discussing the importance of getting condition right this autumn to build ewe body reserves.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The Fertiliser Register – what you need to know Sep 05, 2023

Dr. Finbarr O’Regan from the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine (DAFM) Inspectors joins us on this week’s OviCast.

Finbarr discusses the introduction of the National Fertiliser Database and the fertiliser register taking us through the key dates, registration process and how it will work for the coming season including some of the implications for both merchants and farmers.

We finish up discussing the importance of entering the closing stocks this autumn.

For more information visit the DAFM National Fertiliser Database page at:

https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/98355-national-fertiliser-database/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

How do foster lambs perform relative to their counterparts? Aug 29, 2023

At a point in the season where we’re looking at how lambs perform and where the tail end lambs come from, on this week’s OviCast podcast, we chat to Dr Frank Campion about how foster lambs perform in commercial flocks.

Frank discusses some work he has recently presented on the topic, we discuss how these lambs grow in early and late lactation, the variation among them and their counterparts and some of the reasons why some lag behind and others aren’t successfully reared drop off.

We finish up discussing how ewe management this autumn can impact this next spring.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Planning ahead for the autumn Aug 15, 2023

Sheep enterprise leader, Dr Philip Creighton, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss planning ahead for this autumn.

We discuss the impact poor grazing conditions has had on lamb performance this year and the knock-on effect this has on management for the autumn. Philip emphasises the importance of accessing grass supply and increased demand on farms.

We discuss grass growth rates, fertiliser applications and building covers as we move into the autumn.

We finish up with Philip discussing the need to put plans in place for finishing lambs and ensuring there is sufficient grass covers heading into September.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Market challenges Aug 08, 2023

Bord Bia Sheep Sector manager, Seamus McMenamin, joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to give a market update.

Seamus discusses current throughput and some of the challenges with light carcass at present.

He also discusses the international trade, in particular the increased volumes of Australian lambs and what impact that has had on our export market.

Seamus has an update on plant approval to get lamb exported onto the US market, and with store lamb sales ramping up, we move on to discuss the potential impact of an earlier Easter and Ramadan on the hogget trade next spring.

Finally, we discuss domestic promotional activity to target a younger audience to improve domestic consumption.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Designing a sheep handling unit Aug 01, 2023

Teagasc Advisor, Edward Egan, joins us on the latest OviCast episode to discuss designing a sheep handling unit.

Having good handling facilities can reduce labour, improves both safety and welfare for handler and sheep alike and also encourages timely preventative actions.

Edward talks about the booklet he produced, ‘A Guide to Designing a Sheep Handling Unit’ and he discusses the key aspects of design from considering the sheep’s behaviour, location and size, to some of the key features that can be incorporated into a handling unit.

You can read the booklet here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2020/A-Guide-to-Designing-a-Sheep-Handling-Unit.pdf

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

TAMS III Farm Safety Capital Investment Scheme: Sheep Handling Equipment Jul 25, 2023

We’re joined on the latest OviCast episode by Teagasc Advisor, Edward Egan, to talk to us about the sheep handling equipment available under the TAMS III Farm Safety Capital Investment Scheme.

We discuss what the grant aid rates are and how these are calculated; Edward outlines what fixed and mobile equipment covered under the scheme; and he takes us through the application process highlighting some of the key dates and information required at submission and explains how to check if the application has been approved.

Finally we finish up discussing how applicants make their claim for payment and what information is required to complete the process.

To find out more:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/4f3ae-farm-safety-capital-investment-scheme/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Lamb performance – playing catch up in the second half of the season Jul 18, 2023

Dr Frank Campion joins us on this episode of OviCast with an update on lamb performance and management on the BETTER farms.

Frank starts off describing the bounce back in lamb growth rate on the farms in May and June. We tease this out discussing grassland management, parasite challenge and the impact of early weaning.

We move on to discuss the current state of play on the farms with regards to weaning weight, drafting the implications of carrying increased numbers for some into the second half of the season.

In the latter part of this episode we talk about some management aspects over the coming weeks, finishing groups, grassland, fertiliser, forage crops and parasite control.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep Improvement Scheme Genotyped Ram Task Jul 11, 2023

Kevin Mc Dermott, Sheep Ireland manager, joins us on this week’s OviCast to talk about the genotyped ram task that forms part of the Sheep Improvement Scheme.

Kevin first explains what’s involved in the task for lowland and hill producers. He talks about ram eligibility and how to identify these rams using the Sheep Ireland ram search tool or the sales catalogues.

Finally, he discusses the numbers of eligible rams that are available via the Sheep Ireland ram search at:

ramsearch.ie

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Keeping a check on the worm burden Jun 28, 2023

Sheep specialist, Damian Costello, is on this week’s OviCast to talk about managing the parasite challenge over the coming weeks.

Damian explains what the burden is and he and Ciarán discuss the current challenge, monitoring worm burden and deciding when to dose.

Damian explains the importance of knowing how effective your wormer is, how to conduct a drench test and interpret the results.

Finally, he highlights some of the resource material available to help explain some of the issues raised in more detail.

For more info:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/flock-health/anthelmintic-resistance/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The Sheep System in Gurteen Agricultural College Jun 20, 2023

This week’s OviCast catches up with Ger Carey from Gurteen College in this week’s episode to give us a run down on the 450 strong sheep system they operate in Gurteen.

Ger brings us through the early and mid-season production systems, how this has changed to accommodate students and future plans on the flocks.

We discuss breeding, wintering on forage crops and managing ewe condition.

We talk about lamb performance this year, drafting and the importance of hitting carcass spec for their system.

The college has made some significant investments in housing and handling facilities on the farm over the past number of years, we discuss how this has improved management and productivity in the flock.

Finally, Ger discusses the skills that students acquire during their time at the college, including the shearing course they run annually.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Can we reduce ewe wastage and improve their longevity in a flock? Jun 13, 2023

Why are ewes leaving the flock and can we reduce the level of ewe wastage? On this week’s OviCast podcast, we discuss this topic in more detail with Prof. Paul Keynon from New Zealand’s Massey University.

Paul discusses the reasons ewes are culled and lost out of the system and explains the impact this can have on flock output, lamb performance and costs in the system.

Paul also talks to us about variation in ewe replacement rates in flocks in New Zealand and some of the reasons for these differences among farms.

Finally, he discusses how we can alter management on farms to improve ewe longevity in a flock and improve overall productivity.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

What was the impact of the difficult spring on lamb performance? Jun 06, 2023

On this week’s OviCast, we talk to Dr. Frank Campion about the impact this spring has had on lamb performance.

Frank gives us an update of the lamb growth rate on the BETTER farms and we talk about the variation among the flocks and how the performance compares to previous years.

Frank discusses some of the reasons for this and how the difficult conditions following turnout made this worse.

We finish up discussing what impact this will have on lamb sales this year as well as some of the steps farmers are taking to mitigate this.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Weighing up early weaning May 30, 2023

For this week’s OviCast episode, Ciarán Lynch caught up with Prof. Paul Keynon, Head of School, School of Agriculture & Environment/Professor in Sheep Husbandry at Massey University in New Zealand to discuss the option of early weaning as a management tool for certain sheep systems.

Paul defines what early weaning is and at what age and weight lambs need to be for it to be considered.

They discuss when and where it could be considered an option for flocks and what impact it can have on their system and Paul talks about post weaning management, highlighting the need to ensure high quality feed is available to ensure these weaned lambs perform.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Shearing, training courses and wool challenges May 23, 2023

With the shearing season underway, for this week’s episode we chat to shearer and Mayo native David Heraty.

First David describes a typical shearing season for him and how this year has started off. David tells us how he got started and built up his shearing contracting business over the past decade.

We discuss the importance of shearing courses to equip farmers with this skill and the challenge of getting the next generation involved.

We also talk about the preparation on the day of shearing to make the job that bit easier on all involved.

David who is the Irish Sheep Shearer’s Association representative on the newly formed wool council talks about its aims and what they hope to achieve over the coming years.

We finish up the episode talking about the challenge of improving wool presentation and what steps farmers can take.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Establishing and managing companion forages in a sheep sward May 16, 2023

For this week’s OviCast, we chat to post-graduate student, Lisa McGrane, about some of the factors influencing the establishment and persistency of companion herb and legume forages in sheep swards.

Lisa discusses some of the work they have undertaken in the area, examining the impact of herbs (chicory & plantain) and legumes (white and red clover) on performance and productivity.

We discuss the impact of various establishment methods on sward content of companion herbs and legumes, issues around their persistency and challenges associated with re-establishing them in sheep swards.

We also discuss the impact of seeding rate at establishment and type of ryegrass used in the mix has on both the content and persistency in a sward.

As with all reseeds, post-sowing grazing management has an impact and Lisa discusses what they have found by altering the post-grazing sward height on these different forages.

Finally we finish up the episode with Lisa offering some advice for those sowing it this year on targeting finishing lambs and getting the grazing infrastructure right to get the best out of their reseed.

To find out more about the work Lisa has been undertaking you can watch her presentation from this year’s National Sheep conference at:

https://youtu.be/eNdAmoM9Nik

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Aidan & Eddie Connell from Co. Offaly May 09, 2023

This week on OviCast, I got the opportunity to sit down with father and son duo, Eddie and Aidan Connell, who farm at Clonbullogue, Co Offaly, and who are hosting this year’s Irish Grassland sheep event.

The father and son partnership are running a 400 ewe mid-season flock, finishing upwards of 150 bulls and grow winter barley and maize for their own use.

Eddie and Aidan talk about how each of the enterprises operate and the integrated nature of the farm.

We discuss some of the challenges this spring and the carry-over impacts of last year’s drought on flock productivity.

We discuss grassland management, paddock setup and silage and the impact on lamb performance.

With a lot of stock purchased on the farm each year, Eddie talks about the importance of a good vaccination programme for the purchased ewes and weanlings each autumn.

Managing the workload on the farm is also important and Aidan talks about the sheep shed they constructed in 2018, some of the key adaptions made to it as well as upgrades made to their handling system to improve overall labour efficiency on the farm.

For more details of Irish grassland Association sheep event go to:

https://www.irishgrassland.ie/event-detail/sheep-event/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep 2023 Preview – the largest dedicated sheep industry event of 2023 May 02, 2023

Darren Carty, sheep and schemes editor from the Irish Farmers Journal is on this week’s OviCast to talk about the Sheep 2023 industry event which takes place in Gurteen Agricultural College on June 18th.

Darren explains where this year’s event is happening and the background to it and previous events.

He discusses the broad range of activities that are on display from sheep shows and breed exhibits to trade stands and the host of technical workshops that will be there on the day.

Darren highlights how this focused sheep event provides a shop window for exhibitors and attendees to interact and see what’s new in the industry.

He talks about the various demonstrations that will run throughout the day from butchery and cooking through to shearing and sheep dog training demonstrations.

Darren also describes the host of other activates that are on display on the day including the keenly contested Young Shepherd competition.

Sheep breed societies, and for those interested in taking a trade stand at the event can make a booking through an online booking portal at:

bit.ly/SHEEP2023Form

Or email Sheep2023gurteen@gmail.com

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Getting clover into the grazing sward Apr 25, 2023

On this week’s OviCast, I’m joined by Catherine Egan host of the Teagasc Beef Edge podcast for a joint episode to discuss all things clover with Dr. Mike Egan, Teagasc researcher.

Mike starts by highlighting the potential role of clover in drystock systems, how it works and the potential cost savings.

We discuss the impact of soil fertility and weed control has on successful establishment and Mike talks about the impact of timing, sowing rate and varieties selection and over-sowing methods of incorporating clover in to sward.

Post-sowing management can have a big impact on establishment and Mike brings us through grazing management from establishment to closing up at the end of the grazing season as well as offering some tips on minimising the risk of bloat.

Finally, Mike highlights the suite of resources available for farmers to find out more about clover.

For more information go to:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2022/Clover-Management-2022.pdf

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grazing: getting back on track Apr 18, 2023

After a difficult number of weeks, conditions appear to be turning the corner providing an opportunity to get grazing back on track, and on this week’s OviCast, we’re joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss some of the steps needed over the coming weeks.

Philip starts by discussing the impact recent conditions have had on sheep systems. He discusses grazing targets, fertiliser type and application rates for the coming weeks, emphasising the need to boost supplies during a period of high demand.

Philip highlights need to plan for making a proportion of high quality silage and replenishing stocks that were depleted this spring.

Finally, he discusses grazing groups, batching up and residence periods in grazing paddocks.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Nematodirus challenge in lambs Apr 11, 2023

Dr. Orla Keane is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the challenge of Nematodirus in lambs this spring.

Orla first explains how the Nematodirus challenge can carry over on farms from year to year.

She highlights the Department of Agriculture Nematodirus forecast and the implications for farmers.

Orla explains what age it affects lambs, the clinical signs, as well as the risk for young calves.

She also discusses the possibility of co-infection with Coccidia and explains the treatment options and best practice when administering doses to young lambs.

Here is the link to the Department of Agriculture Nematodirus forecast for 2023:
https://bit.ly/Nematodirus_Forecast_23

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

New study aims to get to grips with lameness Apr 04, 2023

On this week’s OviCast podcast, we’re joined by postgraduate student, Jake Delaney, and Teagasc Researcher, Dr Frank Campion, to discuss a new project that aims to examine lameness and associated issues on Irish farms.

Jake first outlines the common causes and issues around lameness, while Frank discusses the impact it has on performance and some of the practical control issues that occur at farm level.

Jake explains what they will be examining in the study and highlights an online survey that is currently available and that he encourages farmers to complete.

The survey can be accessed here:

https://bit.ly/Lameness23

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dealing with the current adverse weather conditions Mar 29, 2023

Conditions during March have been difficult and has thrown up many challenges for farmers.

On this week's OviCast podcast, we’re joined by Teagasc’s Head of Sheep, Michael Gottstein, to discuss this in more detail and offer some advice on how to manage things through this period for those at different stages - from those lambed in early March, to those currently lambing and with outdoor lambing flocks.

We discuss various aspects of management, grazing, nutrition and hygiene and highlight some of the disease risks during the period with Michael offering some useful tips and advice on each.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Hot water systems for farmyards Mar 21, 2023

Having access to some source of hot water in the farmyard is essential, especially in spring.

For some farms however, there is a requirement to supply larger volumes either for artificial rearing of lambs or calves or for general farm use.

So what are the options and which suits best? This week’s OviCast is joined by Teagasc Researcher, Dr John Upton, to shed some light on this topic.

John first outlines the various heat sources that are available and emphasises the importance of knowing what the individual demand is on the farm.

He discusses the capacity, energy efficiency and running costs of the various heating systems before offering some tips on the maintenance of these systems and highlighting some factors that will influence their longevity on farms.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Treating hypothermia in lambs and use of the glucose/intra-peritoneal injection Mar 14, 2023

Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to talk about diagnosing and treating hypothermia in lambs.

Michael explains what hypothermia is, the symptoms and predisposing factors.

They discuss steps involved to warm these lambs up to normal body temperature based on age, severity and the type of energy source required.

Michael explains why and how to use the glucose/intra-peritoneal injection, describing the technique, how to make up the glucose solution and why it’s a vital lifesaving technique that farmers can use.

Here also is a link to a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar covering this and other lambing related topics:

https://bit.ly/Letstalksheep_Mar23

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Colostrum: what to know about collection, storage and thawing Mar 07, 2023

Dr Emer Kennedy joins Ciarán Lynch on this latest OviCast podcast to talk about some key aspects of colostrum management on farms.

Emer explains the importance of colostrum in newborn ruminants and discusses the importance of hygiene during the collection process, storage both fresh and frozen of the colostrum, as well as the correct thawing procedure.

Emer highlights the impact management has on colostrum quality during each of these tasks and offers some useful practical tips that farmers can implement this spring.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Tackling sheep scab in Northern Ireland Feb 28, 2023

County Antrim veterinarian and sheep farmer, Paul Crawford, who is also the chairman of the Northern Ireland Sheep Scab Group joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss sheep scab.

Paul starts by explaining what causes sheep scab, the clinical symptoms and how to diagnose it in flocks.

We discuss the routes of transmission and risk factors for the spread of mites before Paul takes us through the treatment options and the challenge of developing resistance to some of these, highlighting the importance of best practice.

We discuss some of the findings from his Ph.D. studies on the numbers of outbreaks, disease awareness and treatment in practice in Northern Irish flocks.

Finally, Paul highlights a new project that launched last year to tackle the issue on farms.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Clostridial disease prevention protocols Feb 24, 2023

In this bonus episode from a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar, you'll hear from veterinarian Charles Chavasse who is the Area Veterinary Manager with Zoetis.

Charles describes what the different clostridial diseases are and how they affect the animal.

He goes on to explain the vaccination process adding some useful tips and highlights some common pitfalls.

Charles also takes questions submitted by the audience on the night and a full recording of the webinar will be available on the Teagasc YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/user/TeagascMedia

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Flock health Feb 22, 2023

This week’s OviCast podcast is from a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar with Maresa Sheehan who is based in the DAFM RVL in county Kilkenny.

Maresa talks about the flock health issues that they observe in the lab each spring, what causes them and explains what approach to take when issues occur.

She goes on to discuss the thin ewe survey which is a new project being run by the RVLs across the country this year.

Maresa also takes questions submitted by the audience on the night and a full recording of the webinar will be available on the Teagasc YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/user/TeagascMedia

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Spring fertiliser planning Feb 14, 2023

Teagasc Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist, Mark Plunkett, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss fertiliser planning this spring.

With fertiliser costs remaining high, Mark starts by explaining timing, location and rate of nitrogen application this spring with Mark highlighting the crops’ requirements at present.

He discusses the P & K requirements and how this could be supplied to grazing ground and the silage crop with Mark emphasising the importance of slurry use and alternative strategies where this is not available.

He then discusses the impact of correcting soil pH has on productivity and N use efficiency and why more farmers need to consider spreading lime where needed.

Finally, Mark highlights the importance of fertiliser spreader calibration this spring.

For more info:

https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/soil--soil-fertility/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Late pregnancy nutrition: energy demand, ration composition & protein source Feb 08, 2023

For the latest OviCast podcast, Ciarán Lynch discusses late pregnancy nutrition with Dr Tim Keady.

Tim discusses the impact of nutrition on performance in the weeks before lambing and Tim explains the increase in foetal growth that occurs during these final weeks of gestation and the impact this has on the ewe’s energy demand and intake.

He discusses concentrate price and why it’s essential to examine ration composition when purchasing. Tim expands on this point giving his pick of energy, fibre and protein sources he would include in a ration.

The discussion moves on to the impact of protein source on performance with Tim discussing the results of trials comparing soya bean meal to alternative protein sources.

Finally, Tim explains target feeding rates and what influences this.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The impact of dosing adult ewes for worms has on the development of resistance Jan 31, 2023

On this week’s OviCast podcast Ciarán Lynch caught up with Dr Dave Leathwick following this year’s National Sheep Conference.

Dave, who is principal scientist in parasitology at the Pastoral Agricultural Research Centre in New Zealand, has for almost 35 years been researching nematode parasites of grazing livestock, with a focus on their biology and control, and the development and management of anthelmintic resistance.

Dave discusses the challenge posed by anthelminthic resistance in New Zealand and the factors contributing to its development.

In a wide ranging discussion Dave explains in detail the impact of dosing adult ewes for worms has on the development of resistance.

He finishes up discussing how worm control will require a change in mind-set going forward to maintain a susceptible worm population on farms.

Read Dave’s paper from the National Sheep Conference here:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2023/National-Sheep-Conferences-2023.pdf

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Market Trends 2023: Throughput, current challenges & demand for the coming months Jan 26, 2023

Seamus McMenamin, Sector Manager with Bord Bia, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast with an update on the current market trends.

Seamus first discusses the throughput in the back end of 2022 and the carryover of lambs into this year before moving on to some of the challenges seen in the current trade and lamb consumption figures in our main markets as well as the domestic trade.

Seamus also highlights the current lamb supply and demand on the global market and what the prospects are for the coming months.

Finally, Seamus explains the growth seen in export markets during 2022 and new markets for this season.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Managing ewe lamb replacements – does it influence their performance as ewes? Jan 10, 2023

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss managing ewe lamb replacements and the influence that has on their subsequent productivity.

Tim first outlines the various sources of replacements in the national flocks. With the majority of these replacements not entering flocks until 18-19 months of age, he discusses the various factors during the rearing phase that influence their subsequent productivity.

Tim breaks down the rearing phase into winter and summer management and explains their impacts.

He then discusses the target weights at the various stages and how these might be achieved.

Finally, Tim highlights the importance of replacement ewe lambs management and why it’s an investment in the future productivity of the flock.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Leitrim farmer John O’Connell on managing ewes this winter, scanning & setting the flock up for lambing Jan 06, 2023

For the latest OviCast podcast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by county Leitrim farmer, John O’Connell, who is a participant in the Teagasc Signpost programme.

John discusses what’s been happening on the farm in the past few weeks as he has housed the ewe flock.

He also talks about grazing management this autumn and some of the challenges and benefits of winter grazing off farm.

John explain maintaining ewe condition and the move to winter shearing ewes in recent seasons as well as why he has moved to precision chop silage to feed to ewes on slats.

Finally, he discusses the scan results this year and his feeding plans this spring, plus the importance of getting the basics right now as he prepares for lambing.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dealing with the challenges during 2022 & the key tasks to start 2023 Dec 20, 2022

Sheep Specialists, Michael Gottstein and Damian Costello, join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss the sheep farming year and look ahead to what’s in store for 2023.

Michael first looks back at 2022 and some of the challenges it posed discussing how some farms were better able to adapt to these challenges and what made their systems more resilient.

Damian discusses some key tasks that need to be completed early in the New Year to set farms up for 2023.

Both Michael and Damian finish up encouraging producers to seek out advice where needed to help their farm business during 2023.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Update on the forage crop study: performance to date & managing during the cold snap Dec 13, 2022

Dr. Frank Campion and postgraduate student, Mark Dolan, join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast with an update on the ongoing work examining finishing hill-bred lambs on a range of forage crops.

Mark first gives the background to the project and what crops they are grazing, followed by an update on crop yield and utilisation this year and the reason for some of the differences observed.

They also discuss lamb performance across the different crops and how they have been managed up to this point.

The recent cold snap has posed challenges and Frank and Mark discuss managing the crops during this period and what lasting impact the severe frosts have had on the crops themselves.

Finally, they highlight the suitability of this system to finish lighter lambs and what carcass weights have been achieved.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farm Safety this Winter Dec 08, 2022

Teagasc Advisor, Serena Gibbons, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss farm safety this winter.

Serena first discusses the recent data from the Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) highlighting the number and location of accidents on farms.

She highlights the extra challenges the recent cold snap poses and has some practical tips to deal with it as well as the need for some caution around routine tasks.

With a lot of work conducted in the evenings in farm yards, Serena details the importance of good yard lighting and why some jobs are better suited to daylight hours.

Serena also talks about the need for added safety around machinery during the winter period both for the operator and other individuals on the farm, with Serena highlighting some safety aspects in relation to road use that are particularly important at this stage of the year.

Finally, Serena explains the importance of having your mobile phone on you and making others aware of where you will be while working alone should anything go wrong.

For more information and useful links please visit:

https://www.teagasc.ie/rural-economy/farm-management/farm-health--safety/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

What you need to know about the new Sheep Improvement Scheme Nov 29, 2022

Michael Gottstein, Teagasc's Head of Sheep, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the new Sheep Improvement Scheme launched by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

Michael starts by outlining the timeframe for the scheme and the payments available. He discusses how to apply for the scheme and the options for new entrants.

He explains how the reference number is calculated for each flock and discusses the tasks involved for both lowland and hill farmers, detailing the new genotyped ram task and how this will operate.

Finally, Michael reminds producers about the application process and to apply in time before the closing date.

For further information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/98a53-sheep-improvement-scheme/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Assessing the fluke risk this winter Nov 22, 2022

Dr. James O’Shaughnessy from the Dept. of Agriculture Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast for a broad discussion on the risk fluke poses this winter.

James describes the impact it has on animal health from acute to chronic infection and discusses the forecasted fluke risk for this winter and how that can vary across the country and amongst farms with James explaining detection, sources of information and the importance of farm history.

Treatment options and the importance of choosing an appropriate flukicide for this point of the season are highlighted before finishing up discussing rumen fluke with James explaining the risk it can pose.

For further information:
https://animalhealthireland.ie/resources/?resource_type[]=documents&resource-tag[]=faecal-sampling

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Finishing lambs: the impact of diet & management Nov 15, 2022

Dr Tim Keady is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss some key aspects of finishing lambs in the latter half of the season.

Tim gives some context on the numbers finished in the latter half of the season and the levels of performance achieved at grass in late autumn along with the impact of concentrate supplementation.

He also discusses indoor finishing systems and some of the key considerations from expected finish date to facilities available.

With high concentrate prices, producers will be looking at some alternatives diets and Tim explains the impact of forage inclusion in the finishing diet by comparison to ad-lib concentrate finishing systems in terms of growth rate, carcass gain and kill-out %.

He explains the margin over feed in these systems and the impact increased carcass or concentrate prices has on profit.

Finally, Tim discuss the impact of shearing at housing and other management practices has on the productivity of these indoor finishing systems.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Genotyping Rams Nov 08, 2022

David Coen from Sheep Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain genotyping rams.

David outlines the benefits of genotyping rams and the kind of information it can provide from scrapie genotypes to parentage verification to genomic evaluations. David and Ciarán also discuss the processes and costs involved for producers.

David then explains the ram genotype task in the Proposed DAFM Sheep Improvement Scheme highlighting the criteria for both lowland and hill flocks.

Finally, in relation to hill flocks, David discusses how genotyping could lay the foundation for breed improvement programmes within hill breeds.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Managing breeding ram lambs as the season draws to a close Nov 01, 2022

Teagasc advisor, David Argue, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss some important aspects of ram lamb management as the breeding season draws to a close.

Management during the first season can have an impact on ram longevity, David begins by emphasising the importance of having rams acclimatised prior to turnout.

He discusses management of ram lambs during the breeding season and in particular the duration of the joining period.

David also highlights the importance of meeting their nutritional needs during the post mating period to allow them to regain condition and he offers his tips on minimising the risk of rams fighting when grouped up or removed from the ewes.

Finally, David explains some of the key health areas that need to be addressed as the season draws to a close.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Update from the Central Progeny Testing flocks’ improving margins Oct 27, 2022

Sean Godfrey from Sheep Ireland is on this week’s OviCast podcast with an update on what’s happening in the Central Progeny Test (CPT) farms.

Sean first explains the role of the CPT flocks and the other sources of commercial data that goes into the evaluations.

He discusses the number of ewes and rams involved, plus the mating strategy on the farms from the use of cervical AI to mob mating and the role of genotyping to identify parentage.

With a lot of traits being measured on the farm Sean takes us through some of the key measurements and why they’re an invaluable source of maternal data.

Finally, Sean discusses performance recording, highlighting the benefits of signing up for LambPlus for pedigree and commercial breeders alike.

Find our more information on Sheep Ireland’s website: https://www.sheep.ie/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The 12 steps to reduce gaseous emissions on sheep farm whilst improving margins Oct 18, 2022

As part of Sustainability Week, Teagasc advisor Tom Coll joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the 12 steps from the Teagasc Signpost team to reduce gaseous emissions on sheep farms.

Tom starts by highlighting how some of these steps will require a change of mindset, others are common practice on sheep farms which will not only have environmental benefits but will also result in better welfare and profitability on farms.

Tom breaks down the 12 steps into 3 key sections: land, livestock and inputs. He explains each of these individually detailing how the changes required might be implemented, what’s involved and the benefits it has for the environment and the farmer.

Finally, Tom encourages farmers to consider what steps they are already implementing and what additional areas they could focus on for the coming seasons.

For more information on the 12 Steps:
https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/environment/climate-change/signpost-programme/12-Steps-to-Reduce-Gaseous-Emissions-on-Sheep-Farms.pdf

And to find out about the Signpost programme go to:
https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/climate-change--air-quality/signpost-programme/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Mating advice - reducing the risk posed by an infertile ram Oct 11, 2022

Teagasc sheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast with key tips around ram management during the mating period.

Firstly, Damian emphasises the need to make sure the ram is physically sound and any aliments are addressed prior to turnout and how this could impact ram fertility.

Damian talks about the use of raddle and the need to observe mating activity and in particular repeats during the mating period.

He discusses dealing with injured rams and why it’s a good idea to check rams during the mating period, plus Damian explains why group mating with three or more rams reduces the risk of using an infertile ram and the advantages of mopping up ewes after the first cycle.

Finally, Damian advises not to over-use ram lambs or over-rely on older rams with ailments as the mating season progresses.

Podcast Survey

In order to understand the aspects of podcasts which are most appealing and beneficial to you the listener, it would be appreciated if you could take 3-4 minutes to complete the following survey to give your feedback:

https://forms.office.com/r/mDZTE9zPy4

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Planning the autumn grazing rotation Oct 04, 2022

Dr Philip Creighton is on this week’s OviCast to discuss some key aspects of grazing management this autumn.

Philip first talks about current grazing conditions and supply on farms as well as some of the challenges this autumn.

He then discusses the closing plan and how this may need to be modified on farms where supplies are tight.

Philip explains how clover or multi species swards may have to be managed slightly differently at closing to get the best out of these swards.

Finally, Philip encourages farmers to review fertiliser and management strategies this year and assess what worked well or needs changing for the coming season.

Autumn closing planner:

https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdf

Podcast Survey

In order to understand the aspects of podcasts which are most appealing and beneficial to you the listener, it would be appreciated if you could take 3-4 minutes to complete the following survey to give your feedback:

https://forms.office.com/r/mDZTE9zPy4

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Drafting, breeding ewe lambs and grassland management in Co. Roscommon Sep 27, 2022

Shane Moore, BETTER Farm Participant who is farming just outside Athleague in county Roscommon, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to talk about lamb performance and drafting.

With the breeding season around the corner, he discusses breeding ewe lambs and how this year’s cohort are shaping up.

Shane also discusses grassland management, overall production this year and how he has made some changes to his management from using protected urea to using a dribble bar for slurry to establishing clover based swards in response to increased input costs.

Shane then explains the autumn grazing plan on the farm and finishes up highlighting the upcoming open day on the 6th of October at 6:30pm.

Details of the farm walk can be found here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/gfoty-shanemoore.php

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For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Getting a handle on lamb drafting Sep 20, 2022

Sheep Specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some important aspects of lamb drafting at this point in the season.

Michael discusses the national kill and type of carcass being supplied and he discusses the expected kill out percentage in lambs and what can influence it.

He also explains the issues with under-fleshed carcasses, both in terms of delivering returns to the producer and the type of carcass they produce.

Michael then highlights the key areas to focus on for lamb finishing and how to trouble shoot some of the problems.

Finally, Michael emphasises the importance of not only drafting at the correct weight but also ensuring there is adequate cover when drafting lambs.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Gearing up for another year in Kildalton Agricultural College Sep 13, 2022

With another college year starting off, Emma Tobin from Kildalton Agricultural College joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to highlight the different full time and part time courses that are available.

Emma discusses the blended approach to learning from the classroom to the practical side of flock management as well as some of the newer technologies they use.

She also discusses the college sheep flock and its management and how it forms a vital part of student education before finishing up to explain the role of on-farm placement and how it provides students with an excellent opportunity to gain first-hand experience.

You can find out more about Teagasc Kildalton here:

https://www.teagasc.ie/education/teagasc-colleges/kildalton/

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Haemonchus contortus: a parasite challenge to be aware of in sheep Sep 06, 2022

Séamus Fagan from the Department of Agriculture’s Regional Veterinary Lab in Athlone joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep.

Séamus explains how this parasite is sometimes referred to as the barber’s pole and how it affects sheep.

With some cases appearing around the country this year, he discusses the symptoms, transmission and control options as well as diagnosis in flocks.

Finally, Séamus encourages farmers to be vigilant when it comes to flock health issues, investigate further and seek advice where needed.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Francis Gonley in Co Sligo & his plans for lamb finishing Aug 30, 2022

BETTER Farm participant, Francis Gonley, and programme manager, Dr. Frank Campion, are on this week’s OviCast podcast to chat about Francis’ system and lamb finishing this autumn.

Francis starts off explaining his lowland and hill system, grass growth and how the lambs have performed this season.

He discusses his reasons for selling off the lighter lambs from both flocks as stores, while Frank discusses the level of performance of the long keep lambs and how they don’t suit every system.

Francis details his options for selling and finishing the remaining lambs on the farm this autumn.

Finally, Francis and Frank highlight the upcoming open day on the farm and what topics will be covered and for more information on the event, go to:
https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/bettersheepwalksligo.php

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:
https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Brian Keane on his mixed enterprise, dealing with drought & sowing cover crops for the winter Aug 23, 2022

Sheep BETTER Farm Programme participant, Brian Keane, and his Teagasc Advisor, James Doran, join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to get an insight into the system he is operating and how he is managing this season.

Brian, who is farming near Enniscorthy in Co Wexford, first gives some background to his farming enterprise which comprises of sheep suckers and tillage.

He discusses how the dry spell has affected his farm over the past few weeks and James highlights what steps Brian has taken to manage through the dry spell.

Brian explains what cover crops he has put in for the winter and their potential to finish lambs with James also offering some tips on best management.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sheep Market Update Aug 16, 2022

Seamus McMenamin, Sheep Sector Manager with Bord Bia, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss current trends and the outlook for the sheep market in the coming months.

Seamus begins by discussing current trade and throughput this year to date. Since spring, Seamus explains the impact reopening has had on lamb consumption both on the domestic and international market as well as the trends in international trade.

He then discusses the prospects for the lambs and ewe trade over the coming weeks and months.

Finally, Seamus highlights the potential market for organic lamb and some of the challenges both the organic and conventional lamb trade could face going forwards.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Tackling Ovine Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma (OPA) in a hill flock Aug 09, 2022

Patrick Dunne, who is a participant in the Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep programme, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss the impact of OPA on his flock and how he has addressed the issue over the past number of years.

Patrick goes back a number of years to explain how it was impacting the flock and the lack of awareness of what was causing it. He discusses how he went about getting a diagnosis and how he enlisted the services of Vet Patrick Grant to screen the flock via ultrasound scanning to detect infected ewes at an earlier stage.

Using this information, he was able to reduce the level of OPA in the flock and the impact that has had in subsequent years on the health and productivity of the flock.

He discusses OPA, or to give it its full title Ovine Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma, which is also referred to as Jaggsiekete or more commonly wheelbarrow disease, and it is an infectious cancerous tumour that affects the lungs of sheep.

The disease is spread through the inhalation of the virus from respiratory secretions, it is production limiting and as the condition progresses, the virus leads to the development of multiple tumours in the lungs which lead to the overproduction of fluid in the lungs and is nearly always fatal.

Early detection relies on the use of ultrasound to detect tumours in the lungs at an early stage thereby for culling of these infected animals at an early stage and limit the spread and incidence in a flock.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grassland management focus Aug 02, 2022

Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss grazing management as we head into the autumn.

Philip starts off by discussing grass supply and demand across the country and the need to take stock of these for the coming weeks and months. He goes on to outline the grazing targets for the coming weeks.

He discusses August fertiliser applications, the importance of targeting P & K and lime applications at key areas before finishing up with some grazing tips for newly established clover swards and explaining the impact this has on a successful establishment.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Buying a ram? Make use of the genetic information Jul 29, 2022

With ram sales in full swing, Kevin Mc Dermott, Sheep Ireland Manager, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss using genetic information when making your purchasing decisions.

First, Kevin highlights the benefits genetic improvement has in a flock as he discusses the results from on-farm validations.

There is a discussion on what information is available for recorded rams in sales catalogues with Kevin highlighting and explaining the key areas to focus on.

With over 1000 pedigree breeders recorded in LambPlus, Kevin explains the online ram search tool and how it can be used to identify rams right across the country.

Finally, Kevin discusses this year’s sheep Ireland multibreed rams sale.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Do companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep? Jul 21, 2022

Post-graduate student, Sarah Woodmartin, and Dr Fiona McGovern join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss ongoing work examining the effect of companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep as part of a wider Grass2Gas project.

Sarah first gives a bit of background to the project before discussing what is being examined, some of the preliminary results and their implications as well as future areas of interest.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The weights are in – BETTER farm update Jul 13, 2022

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch for this episode of OviCast with an update of how performance has stacked up on the lowland flocks at weaning.

He discusses lamb performance and its implications for sales, feeding and finishing strategies on the farms.

Frank emphasises the importance of assessing the weight of lambs and their expected finish time at this stage of the season.

Finally, Frank highlights the importance of internal parasite control and monitoring worm burdens as the season progresses.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Time to check and cull for mastitis Jul 05, 2022

With ewes being weaned across the country it provides farmers with an opportunity to check udders for mastitis and other issues and remove these problem ewes from the flock.

Ryan Duffy, Technical Vet with HIPRA, joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss the implications of mastitis in ewes and offers some practical advice on the topic.

Ryan explains the different types of mastitis that occurs, the need to cull ewes exhibiting any signs of infection, as well as the impact of udder and teat structure.

He also discusses the drying off process and the impact that can have before moving on to discuss mastitis that can occur in the dry period.

Finally, Ryan offers his advice for flocks that encounter a high incidence of mastitis annually.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Weaning - management tasks and performance checks Jun 28, 2022

With weaning occurring around the country, sheep specialist Michael Gottstein joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the key management tasks over the coming weeks and the opportunity it presents to benchmark performance.

They discuss various aspects of flock performance from ewe output to lamb performance to reasons for culling.

Michael advises as to why it’s a good opportunity to assess lamb weights, batch lambs accordingly and establish finishing lamb group early and plan ahead.

They discuss culling and taking advantage of the high cull ewe priced this season to tidy up flock performance.

Finally, Michael encourages producers to examine how their flock has performed and think about what changes could be made to improve for next season.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

What you need to know about the Fodder Support Scheme Jun 21, 2022

The Fodder Support Scheme opened for applications this week and sheep specialist Damian Costello joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain more about it.

Damian outlines the focus of the scheme and the potential payment and key dates involved.

He discusses eligibility criteria and maximum payable area plus explains how you can submit an application under agfood.ie and when payments are expected to be made.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The latest on the finishing systems for hill bred lambs post weaning study Jun 14, 2022

Postgraduate student, Mark Dolan, and Dr Frank Campion join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the results of an ongoing study between Teagasc and UCD examining the potential of using forage diets alongside conventional systems to finish hill bred lambs post-weaning.

Mark outlines the project now entering its third year and discusses the different forages grown, carrying capacities and lamb performance on the crops.

Frank outlines where these crops have a role as well as some of their limitations in conventional systems.

With increasing costs in lamb finishing predicted for the coming winter, Frank encourages those with an interest in the area to visit the open day in Teagasc Athenry on June 18th to find out more about the trial and the various options for lamb finishing.

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Update on the companion forage study Jun 10, 2022

This week’s OviCast is joined by post-graduate student Lisa McGrane and Dr Philip Creighton to discuss some of the results of an ongoing study between Teagasc and UCD examining how companion forages – chicory, plantain, red and white clover - perform alongside a perennial ryegrass sward in sheep systems.

With four years data collected, Lisa discusses what impact these forages have had on ewe and lamb performance before moving on to discuss the impact of this on drafting, concentrate supplementation and carcass spec.

Keeping some of these forages in the sward can prove challenging, and Philip explains this in more detail as well as some of the aspects they are examining that may help improve persistency.

Finally with the upcoming technical open day in the Athenry Research Centre looming Philip highlights how this is an ideal opportunity to hear more about Lisa’s work and the other ongoing studies in Teagasc.

To find out more about the upcoming sheep open day why not watch the following short clip:

https://youtu.be/2mL4AqygOso

For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Update from the BETTER farms May 31, 2022

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast with an update on what’s been happening in the BETTER farm flocks. They discuss grass growth, surpluses and silage and some of the management challenges during the past few weeks. With the first round of weighing complete for the lowland flocks, Frank outlines how lambs are performing this spring. They discuss the variation among flocks and across years and discuss how early lamb performance can actually impact management for the rest of the season and examine the options to reduce poor performers. Finally, Frank offers his advice on keeping lambs on track for the coming weeks. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Parasite Control TASAH Consult May 24, 2022

Dr Natascha Meunier from Animal Health Ireland is on this week’s OviCast podcast to tell us more about the Targeted Advisory Service on Animal Health (TASAH) parasite control consult which is a new fully funded programme from Animal Health Ireland. Natascha starts by putting the challenge of resistance in context and why we need to proactively address it. The parasite control consult is available to cattle and sheep farmers and Natascha explains the aim of the programme and what it offers farmers who wish to participate. The TASAH programme will fund a veterinary farm visit from trained practitioners and two faecal egg counts, we discuss how this provides an ideal opportunity to start looking at the resistance status on farms. We finish up with Natascha explaining how to register for this programme and avail of this initiative this season. To find out more about the TASAH parasite consult please visit the dedicated page on the Animal Health Ireland Website: https://bit.ly/TASAH_Parasite_Control For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The key factors in producing high quality silage May 17, 2022

Following on from the previous episode, Ciarán Lynch is re-joined by Dr. Tim Keady to discuss some of the various factors that influence silage digestibility. Tim covers a wide range of factors from harvest date and pre-closing management to heading date and sward type and he also discusses the pros and some cons to wilting. Tim explains the potential to make high quality later in the season and offers some tips to achieve this. He discusses the impact of poor preservation and the role of additives with Tim explaining how these work. He also highlights the impact of chop length on stock performance. Finally, Tim summarises the key points to consider to produce high feed value silage. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Silage – why quality matters May 10, 2022

As silage season is kicking off, this week’s OviCast is joined by Dr. Tim Keady to discuss the importance of focusing on quality. Tim highlights why high feed value silage is essential for the coming year and the opportunities it presents. Tim sets the target of producing 75+ DMD silage to sustain high levels of performance and allow for concentrate saving in the coming winter. He discusses the impact of silage quality on the performance pregnant ewes and beef systems before then discussing the concentrate sparing effect of high quality silage - something that will certainly come into focus in the coming winter. Finally, Tim discuss how much high quality silage is required in the system. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Getting clover into the system May 04, 2022

With clover more in focus than ever, this week’s episode of OviCast is joined by Germinal’s Dr Mary McEvoy to discuss in more detail. Mary outlines the role of clover in swards and its potential benefits and talks about the different establishment methods from a full reseed to over-sowing. She discusses field selection, sowing rate and a number of other key factors that will influence its success. Mary then takes us through pre and post-sowing management to ensure good establishment while in the latter half of the podcast she discusses the potential of red clover in sheep systems with Mary outlining the advances that have been made in breeding to improve the varieties available. Download the Teagasc Clover booklet here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2021/Management-and-establishment-of-grass-white-clover-swards.pdf For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Update from the Regional Veterinary Lab Apr 26, 2022

Maresa Sheehan from the Dept. of Agriculture’s Regional Veterinary Laboratory in Kilkenny joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast with an update on some of the issues she and her colleagues are encountering at the moment. The relatively mild winter and spring has helped many farms but it has also posed a risk for various parasite challenges from fluke to Nematodirus and Coccidia which are discussed in more detail. Maresa highlights how April tends to be a high risk period for clostridia issues as the maternally derived immunity in lambs wanes leading to sudden deaths in lambs arriving in the lab. She then discusses some of the chronic diseases affecting ewes and on this theme, Maresa discuss a new project that will get underway this year which will hopefully shed some light on those thin, pining ewes in flocks. Finally, Maresa encourages farmers to investigate health issues in their flock as it is the first step to addressing the issue. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Nematodirus in lambs Apr 19, 2022

Dr James O’Shaughnessy from the Dept. of Agriculture Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss Nematodirus disease in lambs. James starts by describing the life cycle of Nematodirus and how it differs from other stomach worms. He discusses how it affects lambs and the symptoms to watch out for and he also discusses the limitations of faecal egg counts for this condition. With the recent release of this year’s Nematodirus forecast, James explains how to use this information and how prevailing weather conditions can affect this from year to year. James moves on to discuss treatment options, offering some insight on the choice and timing of treatment before then discussing the risk of concurrent infection with coccidiosis and how to approach this. Nematodirus can cause severe damage to young lambs and James advocates making use of the regional veterinary labs where sudden losses occur to confirm the cause. Finally, James highlights the importance of correct dosing technique when treating for Nematodirus. The 2022 Nematodirus forecast can be found here: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/da3e5-department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marines-2022-nematodirus-forecast/#:~:text=The%20maximum%20Nematodirus%20egg%20hatching,term%20average%20of%20soil%20temperatures For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer focus: James Johnston - Grass, silage and clover in Co. Kildare Apr 12, 2022

Co. Kildare sheep and beef farmer, James Johnston, and his Teagasc advisor Dr Rachel Taylor join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to give an insight into his system, grassland management and how he is addressing some of the challenges going forwards. James first outlines his farming system before discuss grazing groups and the use of temporary fencing, fertiliser and soil fertility. Rachel and James outline the plans for this year’s silage crop, the importance of completing a fodder budget and the role high quality silage has for the winter ahead. Finally, James outlines how he is incorporating red clover into his system in a new reseed and his plans for over sowing white clover into targeted areas each year going forwards. For those interested in completing a fodder budget that Rachel outlined can do so here: http://interactive.teagasc.ie/Open/FeedChecker For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grassland Focus: Priorities for April Apr 05, 2022

The focus for this week’s episode of the OviCast podcast switches to grassland with Ciarán Lynch joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss the key priorities for April. Philip starts by discussing the current grazing situation before then moving on to discuss the key management tasks from grouping up to temporary fencing with Philip explaining the impact this has on grass growth and animal performance. He offers some advice on fertiliser application during April and the impact that this has on the system. He then discusses planning next year’s winter fodder on farms emphasising the need to focus not only on quantity but quality silage. Finally, Philip highlights the upcoming round of spring grass walks that will be held nationwide. For more on food and fodder security go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/beef/food-and-fodder-security/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Supplementing triplet rearing and yearling ewes post-lambing Mar 29, 2022

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the management of triplet rearing and yearling ewes post-lambing. Tim starts by highlighting the need to have a system to deal with multiples in prolific flock outlining the various options that are available. He takes us thorough the economics of rearing the third lamb on a ewe and discusses the energy requirements post-lambing with Tim outlining the supplementation strategy to make up the shortfall. Plus he outlines the role of condition score and suitability of ewes to manage in this system. Similarly Tim talks about his work with yearling or one year old ewes and how they need separate management, highlighting their nutritional requirements and the potential supplementation strategies to ensure they stay on track. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Managing artificial reared lambs – transitioning off milk Mar 22, 2022

With many farms in the middle of lambing, this week’s OviCast focuses on artificial reared lambs with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc. Michael starts off by highlighting the need to have a system in place to deal with orphan or pet lambs on farms. He outlines the various systems available and the importance of getting them set up on the feeder system early. As this can be a costly system mainly due to the milk replacer input, we discuss the importance of grouping up lambs in weekly batch sizes to facilitate their transition to cold milk and introduction of concentrate and roughage, with Michael outlining a number of practical tips to help prepare them for weaning. Finally, Michael outlines the target inputs for the system and the costs involved. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Tackling Joint Ill Mar 15, 2022

Vet Tommy Heffernan, aka Tommy the Vet, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss joint ill infection in lambs. Tommy starts by explaining the condition in a bit more detail and then discusses the bacteria that can cause the condition and their potential sources. Tommy describes the presentation of the condition, routes of transfer and how that infection affects the joint. He also highlights how doubling down on the basics of hygiene and colostrum management have a big impact on reducing risk of the condition. For treatment, Tommy offers his insights on effective treatment methods before finishing up with him urging farmers to revisit the basics and look at making the overall system easier to operate during lambing. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dealing with Orf Mar 08, 2022

Vet Cara Sheridan, ruminant technical advisor with MSD Animal Health, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of dealing with orf on farms. Cara starts by explaining a bit more about the condition, where it typically occurs and some of the predisposing factors. She discusses the vaccination process detailing the timing of administration and interval until immunity is reached. Cara then takes us through the actual vaccination procedure highlighting some practical tips and pitfalls before finally, discussing treatment options in the face of an outbreak. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Investigating flock health problems Mar 01, 2022

As we head into peak lambing season we also start to encounter flock health issues on farms and on this week’s OviCast is Dr Shane Mc McGettrick of the Department of Agriculture Regional Veterinary Lab (RVL) in Sligo to discuss this issue in more detail. Shane starts by encouraging farmers to submit samples where they encounter problems with abortions or increased mortality this spring and to identify the cause and start to address the issue. Shane describes the common issues they see in the lab at this stage of the season and takes us through the submission procedure for samples and what is required as well as discussing the timeline from submission of samples until results are available. As some of the conditions that cause issues on farms are zoonotic, particularly in the case of a number of the abortive agents, Shane highlights why we need to take extra care to protect human health. He also discusses why aborted ewes should be isolated form the main flocks early to minimise spread and finally, he urges caution when considering purchasing foster ewes and introducing them to the flock during this busy period. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Hill sheep conference preview Feb 22, 2022

Sheep Specialist, Damian Costello, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast with a preview of the Teagasc Hill Sheep Conference that is taking place on Thursday, 24th February in the Clayton hotel in Sligo at 7pm. This marks the return of the conference to an in-person event but as Damian explains, there is also an option to join online via Zoom with registration - details are on the Teagasc webpage. Damian profiles the speakers and the topics that will be covered on the night and how they have a broad appeal to many in the industry, and not only those directly involved in the hill sector. Finally, Damian explains how attendees, both in-person and online. will have the option to ask questions of the speakers on the night. For more details please visit: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/national-events/events/hillsheepcon22.php For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Colostrum Part 2: Impact on the lamb Feb 15, 2022

This week’s OviCast is the second part of the discussion on colostrum with Professor Tommy Boland and he discusses how colostrum impacts the lamb. Tommy starts by explaining the various roles colostrum has once it is consumed by the newborn lamb and how each of these affects lamb survival and performance. He highlights the importance of ensuring the lamb consumes sufficient quantities of colostrum quickly after birth and how this affects the transfer of immunity from the ewe to the lamb. Tommy discusses the colostrum alternatives that are available and what role they play, and why caution is needed when using them. Finally, Tommy offers his insights on how colostrum intake not only influences lamb survival and passive immunity,, but also plays a role in the early development of the rumen and impacts on subsequent lamb performance. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Colostrum Part 1: what influences ewe production Feb 08, 2022

Ensuring lambs receive adequate colostrum is vital to get them off to the best possible start and making sure ewes have adequate supplies is the starting point for this. In a 2-part special, Professor Tommy Boland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss this important topic in more detail. Firstly, Tommy focuses on the factors that influence colostrum production in the ewe and he explains the various functions of colostrum. Tommy discusses how production starts and the quantity a ewe needs to produce with Tommy explaining the various nutritional factors that have an impact on the quantity and quality of colostrum a ewe produces. He also explains the effects that ewe body condition, age and breed have on colostrum production and details some of reasons for poor milk let down in ewes post-lambing. Finally, Tommy discusses why the importance of getting management right not only ensures adequate colostrum production, but also sets the ewe up for early lactation. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Planning ahead with a fertiliser budget Feb 01, 2022

Following on from last week’s OviCast, Michael Gottstein joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode to discuss planning a fertiliser budget for your farm this year. Michael starts by discussing the challenge that increased fertiliser prices pose on farms and why it’s important to take action now. He explains why it’s important to look at your overall fertiliser spend on farm now and take into account what merchant credit and alternative credit is available to avoid the situation of unforeseen debt later in the year. Michael outlines a practical example of a fertiliser budget that he completed for a farmer this spring. He details how the farmer will incur an increase in spend but, through product substitution and a slight reduction in application rate, it will still allow the farmer to spread 80% of the nitrogen he used last year with the budget available. Michael discusses the option for some farms to reduce stocking rate by selling unproductive stock and why it’s a year to focus on the basics of grassland management and correcting soil pH. Finally, Michael encourages farmers to complete a fertiliser budget and seek assistance from advisors in completing this task where necessary. For more information: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2022/virtual-sheep-conference-2022.php For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Opening covers, fertiliser and planning ahead Jan 25, 2022

Grassland researcher, Dr Philip Creighton, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss various aspects of grassland management this spring. Philip starts by discussing current grass availability on farm with the higher than average winter growth. He moves on to the topic of fertiliser purchases this spring and Philip emphasises the need to complete a budget for the fertiliser spend on the farm this year. Philip explains the impact that timing, conditions and grass covers have on response rates for fertiliser this spring and he also discusses tailoring fertiliser application rates depending on stocking rate and demand on farm. With producers considering alternative feed supplies, Philip highlights the pitfalls of relying on purchased concentrate to make up the shortfall in feed supply where fertiliser isn’t applied. Philip also discusses using available slurry and FYM and why compound P & K will need to be applied on recent reseeds, where clover has been established, and low indexed silage ground where needed. He encourages farmers to consider conducting a soil test this year and to apply lime where needed. Finally, Philip highlights how getting grazing groups established early will be key to managing supply this spring with reduced fertiliser input – a topic OviCast will revisit as spring progresses. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

National Sheep Conference preview Jan 18, 2022

With the Teagasc National Sheep Conference just around the corner, this week’s OviCast was joined by Dr. Fiona McGovern to give us a preview of what’s in store this year. Fiona starts by discussing the format and topics covered in this year’s conference which takes place online over two nights on Tuesday and Thursday the 25th and 27th of January at 8pm. Fiona and Ciarán discuss the line-up of speakers with Fiona giving the highlights of the papers on both nights. Finally, they finish up with Fiona explaining how you can register for this year’s conference. To find out more and register please visit: www.teagasc.ie/sheepcon22 For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Why it’s time to soil sample Jan 11, 2022

Teagasc Advisor, Christy Watson, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the importance of tacking soil fertility. Christy starts by explaining why now is the ideal time to take soil samples on farms to determine the fertility status and identify areas that need attention. Christy takes us through the soil sampling process from how many samples per hectare to the correct collection method and he discusses the importance of acting on the result with Christy highlighting potential savings that can be made by reducing compound usage on high indexed grazing ground this year. However, Christy also highlights the need to make best use of slurry and farmyard manure on silage ground, highlighting the P and K offtake that occurs on an annual basis and the impact this has on yields. Finally, he explains the importance of liming and why this is the first port of call when addressing soil fertility issues. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer focus: Shane Moore, housing scanning and feeding plans Jan 04, 2022

Shane Moore, a Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant who is farming outside Athleague in Co Roscommon, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Shane starts by giving a quick re-cap on how mating went this year before discussing closing up his grazing ground this winter and housing the flock earlier than expected in December. Shane describes the new sheep house that he put up last year and how it left management of his flock a lot easier. He explains this year’s scan results and how he plans to split the flock up for penning on the basis of litter size and expected lambing date. Finally, he discusses silage results, his feeding plans and why he feels it’s important to start supplementing his pregnant ewe lambs early. For more on the Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme visit: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/better-farm-sheep/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Tomás O’Toole and his lamb finishing in the west Dec 28, 2021

Tomás O’Toole, a Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant, who is farming in Moyard outside of Clifden Co Galway, and sheep specialist Damian Costello, join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast. Tomás runs a split hill and lowland flock and a suckler to weaning system which he explains in more detail. He discusses the changes in his flock over the past number of years and his decision to run two separate sheep enterprises, his breeding decisions and the progress and challenges he has encountered on the way. Tomás explains the move away from selling store lambs to finishing all lambs on the farm and his reasons for doing so, while Damian highlights how this suits Tomás’ system but that it may have limitations for others. With the lighter hill lambs housed in October, they discuss the indoor finishing of these and how Tomás feels it’s delivering a greater margin for his system. Finally, Damian highlights the need for regular drafting and assessing fat cover on these type of lambs during intensive finishing period. For more from the Teagasc BETTER Sheep farm programme: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/better-farm-sheep/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The EuroSheep project Dec 21, 2021

Drs. Tim Keady and Bríd McClearn join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain the EuroSheep project which is a thematic network involving eight partner countries. Tim gives some background to the project and its aims while Bríd explains how the project is being implemented, firstly by identifying the needs from each of the countries. Bríd also explains how they drew on the resources within each country to come up with solutions to these needs. Tim discusses how practical ‘tips and tricks’ are being collated to facilitate the implementation of the solutions at farm level and Bríd explains how the distinct messages from the project are being disseminated to the wider industry through social media and the EuroSheep website as well as the upcoming national workshop which will be held next May. To find out more about the project visit their website at: https://eurosheep.network/ or the Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/EuroSheep/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer focus: Eddie Gavin wintering on forage crops Dec 14, 2021

Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant, Eddie Gavin, his Teagasc advisor Eoin Wolfe and Programme manager Dr Frank Campion join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss wintering on forage crops. Eddie, who is farming near Bagenalstown in Co Carlow, gives a bit of background to his farming system and flock. Managing a split flock, Eddie discusses the performance of the early lambing ewes and how mating has gone for the mid-season ewes. He moves on to discuss his use of forage crops to carry the ewe flocks during the winter months, describes what was sown and how he is managing grazing the crop. With a good autumn Eoin chats about how crops have yielded locally this year and the high levels of utilisation that was achieved during the early stages of grazing. Eddie explains how he plans to graze the crops post-lambing with the early lambing ewes and how the multiples in the mid-season flock will be housed after scanning with only the singles and replacements remaining on the crop during February. Transition of these crops with ewes in late pregnancy can be tricky and Frank explains the potential risks and offers advice on how best to manage the nutritional change during this period. Finally, Eoin tackles the question of possibly using these crops to finish store lambs as opposed to wintering ewes. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The feed value of winter grazing Dec 06, 2021

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of winter grazing and how it impacts ewe performance. Tim starts by discussing the potential mutual benefits of moving sheep to winter grazing both for the flock owner and host farmer and he also discusses the role of extended grazing before moving on to discuss the frequency of grass allocation with Tim offering his tips on managing grazing at this stage of the year. Tim explains the feed values of grass during the winter, the factors that influence it and how it affects ewe performance by comparison to ewes being feed on a grass silage indoor system. Tim also offers his advice on managing ewes in outdoor wintering systems and some of the pitfalls to avoid. Finally he finishes up discussing winter grazing dry ewe lambs with Tim highlighting some weight gain targets, advice on how to achieve them and why it’s important to avoid setbacks during this phase of production. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Update on the Sheep Welfare Scheme Nov 29, 2021

Sheep Specialist, Damian Costello, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss the Sheep Welfare scheme. Damian starts by giving some background to the scheme before discussing the changes to the reference number for the coming year and what this well mean for participants. He also reminds us of the various tasks in the current scheme and the proposed changes for the planned next phase as well as the suggested payment rate. Damian reminds participants of the importance of maintaining records and necessary receipts before he then discusses the options for new entrants to the scheme. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Measuring methane in sheep – breeding for lower emissions Nov 23, 2021

Dr Noirín McHugh and postgraduate student Edel O’Connor join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the ongoing project examining methane emissions in sheep. Noirín first highlights the importance of this work in the current climate, while Edel explains how they are using portable accumulation chambers to measure emissions from up to 72 sheep per day in Teagasc Athenry and on commercial farms. Edel explains how much methane different ages of sheep emit and how this compares to other livestock while they discuss the variation observed in the level of emissions from sheep and Noirín explains how they have collected records on over 7000 sheep and examined the underlying genetic component. She describes how this will be incorporated into the Sheep Ireland Index in the future to breed lower emitting sheep similar to what has happening in New Zealand. Finally Noirín acknowledges the support to get this project off the ground which is one of the first of its kind in the northern hemisphere. Find out more about the project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgdlLaDjiPU For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Animal Health Awareness week – focus on AMR Nov 16, 2021

As part of Animal Health Awareness week, on this week’s OviCast are Department of Agriculture Vets Caroline Garvan and Damian Barrett. Damian begins by explaining the objective of Animal Health Awareness week and its importance in the current climate while Caroline explains why Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major concern and the concept of the one health approach. They discuss the usage within the sheep sector and how the overall industry figure is calculated and Caroline explains why some types of antibiotics are deemed critically important due to their use in human medicine and how the route of administration can impact the development of AMR. Both Damian and Caroline discuss how good animal health can impact productivity, how we should approach health issues on farms and ways sheep farmers can reduce their antibiotic use. They move on to discuss some of the health challenges facing the sector at present and discuss the programme of informative webinars that will take place as part of this year’s Animal Health Awareness week that runs from 18th-24th November. For more information: https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/45f45-antimicrobial-resistance-amr/ http://www.animalhealthsurveillance.agriculture.gov.ie/currentnews/lambliverflukeantibodytestresults-september2021.html For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The importance of the Clean Livestock Policy Nov 09, 2021

Presenting lambs clean at the abattoir becomes more challenging as the year progresses and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss this topic further. Michael starts by explaining the Clean Livestock Policy (CLP) and its importance, highlighting the key areas on the lamb that cause issues and how the industry has implemented changes to address this. He discusses the predisposing factors that will lead to lambs becoming dirtier and what practical steps can be taken at this time of the year to reduce this. He also discusses remedial clipping and its role, with Michael highlighting the need to ensure that transport vehicles are clean and suitable for the task. Finally, Michael summarises the key areas for producers that are finishing lambs in the coming weeks and months can focus on to help keep lambs clean. Find out more: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2017/clean-livestock-policy-for-sheep-a-guide-for-sheep-producers.php https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2017/clean-livestock-policy-for-sheep-a-guide-for-sheep-transport.php For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Choosing the appropriate liver fluke dose Nov 02, 2021

As liver fluke is a large risk at the moment, Teagasc’s Dr Orla Keane joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss selecting the appropriate treatment for this stage of the season. Firstly Orla gives a quick recap on the risk that fluke poses and the stages of its development. She discusses the various classes of flukicide available with Orla explaining what stage of fluke they are suitable to treat and the role others could play later in the season. Orla highlights the challenge of using combination fluke and wormers as part of routine fluke treatment in adult sheep and why it’s better to use a targeted flukicide; she also discusses the situations where these combinations could be put to better use. Finally, Orla highlights the need to use a flukicide that targets the immature stage of liver fluke at this point in the season. A summary of flukicides licensed for sheep in Republic of Ireland can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Products-licensed-for-control-of-parasites-in-sheep.pdf For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Why you should consider temporary grazing Oct 26, 2021

Damian Costello, sheep specialist with Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss temporary grazing this back end. Damian highlights some considerations when taking on temporary grazing and how it can benefit both parties involved. He emphasises the need to ensure all animals are tagged before leaving farm and he discusses at length the various movement notification considerations for a variety of scenarios. Damian also takes us through the need to retain movement records afterwards and how to apply for credit under the nitrates regulations. For more detail, here is the link to the NSIS guide: https://www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/93969/c539786b-96ba-4500-89ec-a9f020779cea.pdf#page=1 For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Cleaning out swards and closing up on time Oct 19, 2021

As we enter the final grazing rotation of the season, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Dr. Philip Creighton who offers some grazing advice to keep us on track from now to set up our spring grazing. Philip starts by discussing the importance of achieving good graze outs and how that influences sward production next spring. Philip also offers tips on dealing with heavy covers that are on many farms this October and he discusses the closing targets and why they are important. Finally, Philip highlights why it’s important to avoid the temptation of re-grazing closed paddocks and why we need to prioritise these for spring grazing. Teagasc sheep autumn closing planner: https://www.teagasc.ie/news--events/daily/sheep/teagasc-sheep-autumn-closing-planner.php For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The benefits of raddling rams Oct 12, 2021

Sheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss why farmers should consider raddling rams this breeding season. Damian discusses the two types used - either raddle paste or ram harnesses - and offers tips on their use and ways to leave it easier to catch rams to top these up. He explains which order different raddle colours should be and discusses how to make use of changing raddle colour to better predict lambing date and plan feeding programmes in late pregnancy. Damian and Ciarán discuss how raddling can be used to monitor ram fertility and the level of repeats and finally Damian offers some practical tips to safeguard against this in flocks. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer focus: Brian Nicholson - breeding season kicking off in Kilkenny Oct 05, 2021

This week’s OviCast is a farmer focus interview with Brian Nicholson who farms just outside of Johnstown in Co Kilkenny. Brian runs a large-scale sheep flock and is a participant CPT flock with Sheep Ireland. Brian discusses sales in this year’s lamb crop and his plans for finishing the remaining lambs this autumn before moving on to discuss the breeding plan for the farm and he takes us through the various breeding groups from the commercial flock of 290ewes to the ewes that will be AI’D and natural mated as part of the central progeny test programme with Sheep Ireland. Brian discusses the various breeds used and how he manages this aspect of his flock. He moves on to talk about his grazing management for the autumn and how he used forage rape to winter part of his flock and how it fits into his overall system. Finally, Brian discusses why he has moved away from joining ewe lambs to lamb at 1 year old opting to run them dry and how they are used as a grazing management group the following year. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

A group with a difference: Ólas Hill Farms Sep 28, 2021

On this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch heads to Westport in Co. Mayo where he was joined by Tom Gill and Teagasc Advisor John Noonan to find out more about Ólas Hill Farms. Centred around Westport, Ólas Hill Farms was initially set up with a focus on breeding sales which then expanded to encompass a producer group that now has more than 400 members. Tom is a member and one of the co-ordinators of the group and he explains how it has delivered for his own system and that of the other members. The group works closely with Kildare Chilling where they send more than 30,000 lambs annually. With stock all produced locally and with transport leaving Westport three times a week, they discuss the type of lamb being sent, with Tom explaining how the group co-ordinates this, acknowledging the efforts of the committee and staff within the group. The breeding sales are still very much a part of Ólas Hill Farms and John and Tom explain more about this. John also discusses how the group has worked with the various stakeholders to develop a dedicated website where customers can find out more about their story and how the lamb was produced and the Ólas Hill Farms brand that they hope will be on the shelves in European markets. For more information visit: https://olashillfarms.ie/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Time to consider plunge dipping Sep 21, 2021

Head of sheep in Teagasc Michael Gottstein joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the control of external parasites in sheep. Michael starts by describing how plunge dipping was common practice on many farms and now needs to be considered once again for external parasite control particularly to replace the use of injectable macrocyclic lactones (Group 3-ML) products for whole flock treatment. They discuss best practice when it comes to dipping with Michael emphasising how the duration the sheep are dipped for has a big impact on its efficacy. He highlights the need to replenish the dip concentration as the active is removed during the dipping process and explains the option of using mobile plunge dipping providers or considering incorporating it into a handling unit. He also discusses dip disposal and why it’s vital this is done in a safe manner before finishing up encouraging farmers to consider dipping as a control option for external parasites. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer focus: John Joe Fitzgerald – a hill farm in transition Sep 14, 2021

John Joe Fitzgerald, a participant in the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme and the new Teagasc Signpost Programme joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest farmer focus on OviCast. John Joe first describes his farming system with some insights into the type of hill he is working on five miles west of Dingle in county Kerry. He then discusses his ewe flock, the breeds used and how it has transitioned during the past few years as he pushed the flock back onto the hill more. John Joe explains the new handling facility he built which includes a dipping tank and batch footbath and how this has improved flock health, performance and the efficiency of carrying out basic tasks with the flock. Finally he discusses selling this year’s lamb crop in the store lamb market. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Joining ewe lambs – what to consider Sep 07, 2021

Dr. Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the subject of joining ewe lambs to lambs at 1 year old. Tim starts by outlining the potential to improve productivity by lambing ewe lambs at 1 year old, but he also highlights some of the challenges it can place on the system. He discusses the various effects of joining weight on productivity, the use of the ram effect and management of ewe lambs throughout the joining period. Finally, Tim discusses the knock on effect lambing yearling ewes has on their subsequent performance particularly the following season as 18 month olds. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Forage crops: can they carry store lambs to finish? Aug 31, 2021

Dr Frank Campion and Mark Dolan join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the ongoing work examining the role of forage crops in store lamb finishing systems. Mark starts by giving some back ground to his project, discussing the crops sown, when they went in and the type of lambs he is finishing while Frank highlights the role these crops have in store lambs finishing systems. As carrying and finishing capacity of these crops is highly important, Mark and Frank describe the crop yield they achieved last year, their carrying capacity and how many lambs they finish off each crop. They then discuss the grazing management, use of temporary fences and the effect the difficult weather last year had on crop utilisation. Back to current events, with store lambs being purchased at the moment, Mark discusses the management of the lambs on arrival including the reasons they opted to fully shear them while Frank also offers some advice on getting these lambs acclimatised to the crops and the need to provide a forage source. Finally, Frank highlights the need for those using this system to assess the potential of the crops sown on their farms this year. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

A field, a marquee, an auctioneer and 4000 sheep: the Cooley Sheep Breeders Association sale Aug 24, 2021

If someone was travelling along the Greenore Road in Carlingford on the first Saturday in September they would be forgiven for stopping to take in the spectacle of the Cooley Sheep Breeders Association annual sale. On a greenfield site the sale has become a focal point for local breeders to sell breeding ewe lambs and hoggets and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Conor McCann, the current chairman of the association, and local Teagasc advisor, Hugh Rooney, to explain more about the sale and how it came about. Hugh and Conor give the background to how the sale was set up and how it has developed over the years. Conor explains how the exhibitors are all local to the area and what kind of stock is on offer in this multibreed sale. They discuss the unique setting and the effort that goes into setting it up to accommodate the sale. There’s strong community spirit behind the event and Hugh explains how it provides a means of adding value to the product they are producing. Conor discusses how the move online last year influenced the sale and how as an association they are continually trying to improve the service for potential purchasers such as providing free transport which was an initiative started last year. The sale has grown significantly over the years from just over 1000 breeding females on offer the first year to over 4000 in this current sale and Conor acknowledges all those who have helped along the way to help make this a successful addition to the area. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Pre-breeding vaccination: toxoplasmosis and enzootic abortion Aug 17, 2021

Pre-breeding vaccination is one way to reduce lambs losses and barren rates next spring and is a key point highlighted by Sarah Campbell veterinary advisor with MSD Animal Health who joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain in more detail. Sarah starts by highlighting the need to identify the cause of abortion through the veterinary laboratory’s and highlights the common causes reported on farm. She discusses the two most common causes of abortion namely Enzootic abortion and Toxoplasmosis in more detail explaining how these are spread and how the timing of infection effects the ewe. In both cases there is a vaccine available and the vaccination programme that can be implemented this autumn is discussed. As with any vaccine correct storage, handling and administration is an important consideration and Sarah highlights how this can affect vaccine efficacy and the key areas to focus on. Finally as these vaccines have to be given a number of weeks in advance of the breeding season Sarah encourages farmers to order their vaccines in time and plan their vaccination programme prior to breeding. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Quarantine treating bought in stock Aug 10, 2021

When new animals arrive on farm they can potentially bring some unwanted health issues with them. To minimise the risk, it’s important there is a quarantine procedure in place and on this week’s OviCast, Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciarán Lynch to discuss this issue in more detail. Michael starts by emphasising why this is an important consideration for any flock owner. He discusses the importance of inspecting the sheep at purchase and asking some basic questions of the seller about the health status of their flock. Some preparation is needed to correctly quarantine animals on arrival and Michael highlights the need to house these animals for 48 hours and correctly treat them for foot issues, internal and external parasites and Michael and Ciarán discuss the treatment options that are currently available. They move on to discuss turnout post treatment and why it’s a good idea to keep these animals separate from the main flocks for a number of weeks after purchase. Finally, Michael highlights the need to enrol these sheep in the flock’s health plan for the farm ensuring they receive the appropriate vaccinations. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Time to check the ram team and settle new rams in Aug 02, 2021

Assessing if the ram team is fit for purpose is an essential task at this point of the season and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by drystock advisor Edward Egan to discuss this in more detail. Edward starts by explaining why this needs to be conducted now to allow for corrective action to be taken or a replacement ram purchased well in advance of the breeding season. Edward takes us through some of the basic checks that should be conducted, checking ram soundness and the absence of injuries, infections or other impairments. They discuss the implications of each of these on the ram’s ability to function correctly and why that assessment needs to be made now. Edward finishes up explaining how to introduce new rams to the farm highlighting the need to deal with biosecurity issues and how to best acclimatise them to their new surroundings and the rest of the ram team. The process of the ram health can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/Pd8uSqTMERg For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Genotyping – a step forward this season Jul 27, 2021

With the rams sales season kicking into high gear, Dr Alan Bohan from Sheep Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss how genotyping has improved the genetic information available to breeders and farmers alike. Alan discusses the increase in the number of animals genotyped this year and explains the process and costs involved in genotyping. He then discusses the benefits of genotyping animals from parentage verification to scrapie genotyping. Genotyping also provides a genomic evaluation which improves the accuracy of the index and Alan explains why this is a major benefit to farmers. Finally, he discusses this year’s Sheep Ireland multi-breed sale and the use of the ram search tool to find rams and pedigree breeders in your own locality. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Synchronising ewes Jul 20, 2021

As the breeding season for early lambing and pedigree flocks is starting, Prof. David Kenny Head of the Animal Biosciences Dept in Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of synchronisation in ewes. David starts by explaining the pros and cons of synchronisation in sheep and he discusses the role of sponging and PMSG in the synchronising process as well as the protocol used, including the timing of ram introduction. David then highlights the importance of the correct ewe to ram ratio and discusses some strategies to deal this. He finishes up discussing the rate of PMSG used and how ewe prolificacy and time of season affect the level of response. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The role of cobalt supplementation Jul 13, 2021

Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the role of cobalt supplementation in lambs. Michael starts by describing how cobalt supplementation helps lamb performance and he moves on to discuss some of the typical signs of cobalt deficiency in lambs. They discuss supplementation strategies and the pros and cons of each and how the type of cobalt contained in the supplement may affect the lamb’s ability to absorb it. Finally, Michael encourages producers to check whether they are getting a performance benefit from supplementation with minerals. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Teagasc BETTER farm flocks – lamb growth & weaning Jul 06, 2021

Dr. Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast with an update on some of the performance and management decisions on the Teagasc BETTER sheep farms as we head into the mid-summer period. Frank starts by discussing current activities on the farms and discusses lamb performance on the lowland flocks to date as well as some of the challenges they faced so far this year and how it influenced performance. Frank highlights how lamb weaning weights can effect management for the season and how checking the proportion of lambs that fall into different weight categories is a useful check for farms at the moment. He moves on to discuss the flocks on the hill side of the programme and how they have performed to date before finishing up discussing their options for selling or finishing lambs later in the season. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Don’t dose and move –short term gain vs long term Jun 29, 2021

Traditionally in mid-summer the idea of dosing and moving to clean or cleaner pasture in the form of reseeds or after grass was common practice, but with the increasing development of anthelminthic resistance, that practice has become problematic. To explain why, on this week’s episode of OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Dr. Orla Keane. Orla sets out what the key issue is with dosing and moving to clean pasture and in doing so she also explains what is considered to be clean and cleaner pasture on sheep farms. She discusses managing refugia and maintaining a susceptible worm population and how dosing and moving to clean ground gives resistant worms a competitive advantage and can speed up the development of resistance. Orla and Ciarán also discuss seeding pasture with susceptible worms by grazing with un-dosed lambs or following with ewes can provide a source of refugia for this cleaner or clean ground, and Orla explains why this is not as important a factor on ground frequently grazed by sheep. Finally, Orla highlights why producers should consider using faecal sampling as a basis for decisions on worm dosing as the season progresses. Find out more about anthelminthic resistance: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/flock-health/anthelmintic-resistance/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Replacing silage offtakes and maintaining soil fertility Jun 23, 2021

Mark Plunkett, soil and plant nutrition specialist with Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss some key areas to maintain soil fertility. Mark discusses the importance of replacing p & K offtakes from surplus silage and discusses the fertiliser requirements for those considering a second cut of silage with Mark outlining a number of options. He also explains why sulphur inclusion is an important consideration highlighting the responses achieved on a range of soils there is a discussion on the benefits of low emissions slurry spreading at this stage of the season. Lime usage nationally is highlighted as well as explaining why current ground conditions provide an ideal opportunity to consider applying some to correct soil pH issues. Finally, there is a discussion on the use of Protected urea as a choice of N fertiliser during this stage of the season. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Market update - what’s influencing trends this year to date Jun 15, 2021

Seamus McMenamin, sheep meat sector manager with Bord Bia, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the market situation so far this year. Seamus starts by discussing the trade in the year to date and the impact of tighter lamb supply on price. They discuss how that has impacted the export market – and despite lower volumes the value of exports has gone up this year reflective of a higher global demand for sheep meat. Seamus explains how the trend in lamb supply week on week is lower than last year to date relative to previous years before discussing the increased demand from EU markets and how the UK sectors supply into the EU has influenced this and the potential for Irish lamb to increase its market share. Seamus then highlights how the opening up of food service may impact demand in the market and what to expect for the summer period with the upcoming EID festival in July. Finally, he discusses the live export trade this year to date. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Sm@RT – precision livestock farming for sheep Jun 08, 2021

Dr Tim Keady from Teagasc who is the lead researcher in Ireland for a new EU-funded project called Sm@RT joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain the project. Sm@RT brings together a network of researchers from eight countries: Ireland, Estonia, France, Hungary, Italy, Norway, UK and Israel. Tim explains how the aim of Sm@rt is to increase the awareness of those working in the sheep and goat sectors of newly available precision livestock farming (PLF) tools. He also explains what PLF tools are and how they can potentially improve productivity and labour efficiency. Tim then discusses how improving efficiency and reducing labour input is a challenge for the sector right across Europe. He outlines how the network of researchers involved will pool resources to identify solutions for the respective countries involved. As the project is in its early stages those involved in the project are seeking farmers and stakeholders opinions on PLF tools via a survey. The survey is available at the following link: https://bit.ly/3sI0Eni Tim encourages stakeholders in the sheep supply chain (farmer to processor) to have their voices heard by identifying their needs and areas of interest. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Weighing up the companion forages Jun 01, 2021

This week’s episode of OviCast finds out about an ongoing study between Teagasc and UCD examining how companion forages – chicory, plantain, red and white clover - perform alongside a perennial ryegrass sward in sheep systems. Lisa McGrane a postgraduate student who is working on the project joined Ciarán Lynch on the podcast to explain more and began by discussing the crops and how they are being managed as separate farm lets in a system. She then discussed how they are examining the effects on animal performance. They are also investigating how the sward performs under grazing conditions and the changes seen in sward composition during the year. In addition to the animal component of the study Lisa discussed another aspect of it that is looking at various establishment methods and seeding rates to see how these influence the sward composition and performance. Part of this is also examining the effect of different post grazing sward heights on how these companion forages perform. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Getting clover into the system – consider over-sowing? May 25, 2021

Incorporating clover into a sward has multiple benefits in livestock systems and to discuss this in more detail on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Dr Philip Creighton. From recent work being conducted in Teagasc Athenry, Philip starts by explaining the impact that increasing the clover content in swards has on animal performance. He goes on to explain how this can reduce the requirement for chemical nitrogen during the mid-season period. Philip and Ciarán then discuss inclusion levels in a reseed mix and Philip highlights the clover varieties that should be considered for sheep swards before moving on to focus on over-sowing clover into existing swards with Philip outlining why the coming weeks are an ideal time to consider this. They discuss the various methods available to accomplish this and what impact pre-sowing sward management and site selection have on the successful establishment of a clover in the sward. Finally, Philip discusses grazing management post-sowing and why frequent grazing of lighter covers is of benefit to clover establishment. For more on the grass and white clover recommended list varieties for Ireland 2021 go to: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/8dbf3-grass-and-white-clover-recommended-list-varieties-for-ireland-2021/ For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Blowfly: risk factors, control options and application procedure May 18, 2021

As we enter the risk period for blowfly on farms, Wesley Power, Veterinary Technical Consultant with Elanco Animal Health, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Wesley starts with the risk that blowfly poses on sheep farms as well as the predisposing factors before he moves on to explaining the life cycle of the blowfly and how that affects control options. He then discusses what control options are available and Wesley explains how they work. With many producers relying on topical applications as a control method they discuss the importance of correct application and how it impacts on product efficacy. As the risk seasonal period for blowfly is quite long Wesley explains the need for repeat applications in certain systems before finishing up by encouraging farmers to consider treatment to prevent the blowfly on farms before strike occurs. Watch the correct application method clip here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7iFeI1eLok For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Checking the finances May 11, 2021

Farmers should consider examining the financial performance of their farm in more detail by completing a profit monitor and on this week’s OviCast podcast, Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc tells Ciarán Lynch why it’s important. Firstly, Michael outlines how to complete a profit monitor and what information is required. He explains how the income and costs are classified and the difference in variable and fixed costs. He then discusses how to use this information as an opportunity to examine and improve the business and it also allows a farmer to benchmark farm performance against others and set targets for the business. Finally, Michael discusses possible investments that could be made to improve the business. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer Focus: Paddocks, residuals, regrowth and measuring performance in Co Louth May 04, 2021

Peadar Kearney from Co Louth who is running a high output sheep only system where measuring and managing play a key role, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Peadar is also a participant on the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme and gives a quick recap on how lambing went this year, what has happened with the lambs in the interim and how he monitors lamb performance. He moves on to discuss the grass situation on the farm and the growth rates in recent weeks. Peadar describes the grazing groups on the farm, his pre and post grazing management and the importance of achieving residuals and managing re-growths. He then explains the grazing infrastructure, his paddock system and the use of temporary fencing and the role that has had in maintaining grass supply for his flock. Peadar also discusses the importance of grass measuring and using PastureBase in his system to give him the information to manage grass supply. As Peadar is one of the participating flocks in the OviData programme working with Sheep Ireland, he finishes up discussing the kind of information they are recording on ewes for the upcoming 7 week weight. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Lambing review – where can we improve Apr 27, 2021

With lambing finishing up, this week’s OviCast podcast recaps on how well flocks have performed and where improvements can be made and to discuss this in more detail Ciarán Lynch is joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc. Michael starts by outlining why it’s important to take stock of how flock has performed during lambing when it’s fresh in our minds and complete a simple lambing review. He discusses some of the key performance targets including issues around barrenness and ewes not rearing lambs and what follow up actions farmers can take before moving on to discuss issues around prolapse and the short and longer term actions that need to be addressed. Michael also discusses flock health in particular antibiotic use in lambs and ways in which this can be drastically reduced. Sticking with the lambing theme Michael talks about the impact of nutritional and other contributing factors on lambing difficulty, the level of assistance during lambing and what strategies can be implemented to improve this situation. The interview finishes up with Michael highlighting how addressing some of the simple management changes from now on can improve the outcome of next year’s lambing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Dealing with scald in lambs and lameness issues early in the grazing season Apr 20, 2021

Teagasc's B&T advisor Tom Coll joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some issues with lameness appearing in flocks at present. Tom discusses how scald is the main problem in young lambs at the moment and what some of the predisposing factors are. He highlights the need for early intervention and discusses treatment options. Tom puts particular emphasis on the importance of good handling facilities in tackling some of these issues on farms. With many of his clients having invested in batch footbath facilities in recent years he finishes up discussing how this has helped reduce incidence of lameness in their flocks and some of the other benefits to this change. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Nematodirus – signs, treatment & differential diagnosis Apr 13, 2021

Dr Orla Keane joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast to discuss Nematodirus in lambs. Orla starts by explaining why it poses a risk for lambs in early spring, she explains the DAFM Nematodirus forecast and the implications that has for lambs this spring. She discusses the signs of infection in young lambs and the treatment options for this condition as well as discussing how the choice of treatment can impact the sustainable parasite control. As this occurs at a similar time to possible Coccidia infection, Orla explains how this can also impact lambs, the clinical presentation of the condition and treatment options. Orla finishes up by highlighting the need to use correct procedure when administering anthelminthic and highlighting the resources available on the Teagasc Website. Find out more about anthelminthic resistance at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/flock-health/anthelmintic-resistance/ For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Grazing focus - early season management Apr 06, 2021

With the grazing season well underway, on the latest OviCast episode Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr Philip Creighton who highlights the need to focus on grassland management for the coming weeks to maximise lamb performance. They discuss the current grazing conditions on farms around the country and the impact opening covers has had on grass growth during March. Philip moves on to discuss forming grazing groups and what impact that has on grass and animal performance. He then outlines the current grazing targets and the importance of achieving residuals to setup the sward for subsequent grazing rotations. They move on to discuss fertiliser application for the second round to meet rising demand and finish up discussing target farm covers for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Lambing one year old ewes – the farmer experience Mar 30, 2021

Tomás O’Leary who is farming outside Killarney in Co. Kerry joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Tomás who is a participant on the BETTER Farm Sheep Programme has always joined his ewe lambs and managed them alongside his mature ewes. He shares his experience on how to manage these ewes to achieve a high output. He also discusses his selection criteria to ensure his replacement ewe lambs are suitable to join, ram choice and joining period length. Tomás then detailed his scan result this year and feeding regime from housing right through to late pregnancy. He discussed management around lambing time and plans for turnout and highlights why he supplements this group post lambing and how he manages them from turnout to weaning, highlighting the importance of monitoring their condition. See more about his breeding policy here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcuvJqj3FeM For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Identifying the problem ewes during lambing Mar 23, 2021

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to talk about reducing the number of problem ewes. As many of the problems seen in a flock occur during lambing, Frank highlights the importance of identifying these sheep for culling with a permanent means so that they don’t re-appear in the flocks for the coming year. Frank discusses the reasons for culling in flocks but also the importance of recording the reasons why these ewes were culled. He outlines why it’s important to review these reasons to identify potential issues within the flocks and expands on this point with examples of the culling levels and variation seen in the flocks in the Sheep BETTER farms. As culling is an ongoing process they finish up discussing other issues to target as the season progresses. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Artificially rearing lambs – the key points Mar 16, 2021

Having a system in place to deal with surplus or orphan lambs is a must on many farms at this time of the year. On this episode of OviCast, Ciarán Lynch discusses this in more detail with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc. Michael outlines the various options for artificially rearing lambs indicating the pros and cons of each. They discuss training lambs onto feeders, batching according to age and group size. As these are high cost systems, Michael outlines the weaning process, emphasising its importance in keeping the cost of the system down. He also discusses the introduction of concentrate and provision of a fibre source and fresh water and finishes up highlighting the importance of hygiene and identifying poor performers and managing them separately. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

Farmer focus: Des Powell - Flock Expansion in Co. Tipperary Mar 09, 2021

Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant Des Powell who is running a mixed sheep and beef system in Co. Tipperary features on this week’s episode of OviCast. Des is also joined by Teagasc’s Dr. Frank Campion as they discuss plans for increasing flock size and implementing a breeding policy on the farm. With lambing already underway, Des discusses how he is selecting and identifying his replacements, while Frank highlights the challenge of expanding from within the flock and how it limits the selection process initially. They also highlight some of the infrastructure changes on the farm finishing up with a discussion on the current grass situation this spring and what changes Des has implemented to bring this about. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast

The causes, timing and on-farm practices associated with lamb mortality and the steps to reduce the incidence this Spring Mar 02, 2021

With lambing season well underway, the focus on this week’s OviCast episode turns to the subject of lamb mortality and ways to reduce it. Joining Ciarán Lynch is Dwayne Shields from Teagasc Sligo-Leitrim-Donegal who, during the course of his PhD studies, has examined the timing and causes of perinatal lamb mortality as well as farm surveys on common practices that can improve lamb survival. Dwayne begins by discussing the timing and main causes of lamb mortality. He delves into how some of these are preventable and which ones aren’t, highlighting the importance of correct diagnosis where problems occur. He moves on to discuss the importance of good hygiene in the lambing shed as well as treating lambs’ navels soon after birth, with Dwayne outlining the on-farm practices highlighted in his study and how they could be improved. Clostrum management and the use of alternatives and the role of nutrition has on lamb mortality is also highlighted. Finally, Dwayne encourages farmers to take an accurate assessment of lamb mortality on their own farms and use the information as an opportunity to address some potential causes. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Spring fertiliser – the key considerations Feb 23, 2021

Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the key factors to consider for fertiliser application this spring. Philip discusses some of the challenges this spring and the delay in fertiliser application. With both environmental and economic considerations, he outlines the importance of waiting until soil temperatures and ground conditions are suitable before applying fertiliser at the moment. He then discusses the options for farmers looking at split applications, how much to spread, where to target and why lower covers may be better suited to FYM or slurry applications. He also highlights the importance of soil fertility in terms of responsiveness of swards to spring nitrogen. Finally, Philip talks about fertiliser choice for the first round and subsequent applications and the need to match grass demand. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

BETTER Farm Hill flock update Feb 17, 2021

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with an update on the hill sheep flocks in the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme. Frank discusses the farms involved and those that have recently finished up in the programme and with many of the flocks just finished pregnancy scanning, he discusses the results they achieved this year including fertility issues encountered in one of the flock along with the possible causes and follow up actions. He moves on to litter size, management of twins and the possibility that some flocks may be pushing litter size too high to suit the system. They also discuss the need to look at the overall system and targeting the levels of output to best suit the farm. Finally, Frank highlights how the farmers are managing ewe body condition at this point of the year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Sheep market focus and outlook for 2021 Feb 09, 2021

Seamus McMenamin, sheep meat sector manager with Bord Bia joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast with a focus on the sheep market and an outlook for 2021. Seamus reviews some of the key highlights from the sheep meat trade during 2020 as well as overall throughput and imports from Northern Ireland. He discusses the growth seen in key markets and moves on to discuss the impact of global trade patterns on the competitiveness of Irish lamb. Seamus then outlines the influence of China on the world stage particularly in relation to New Zealand lamb exports before discussing the effects of Brexit on UK supply into the EU market and their production levels as well as the impact it has on trade and transport and their outlook for the UK production. Seamus also highlights the potential for growth in the Middle East, Asian and US markets as well as the welcome increase in domestic retail and he outlines the importance customers place on Quality Assurance certification delivering to market specification before finishing up discussing the outlook for the sheep meat trade in 2021. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Farmer Focus: John O’Connell – Scanning, feeding and managing ewes in Co. Leitrim Feb 02, 2021

Co. Leitrim native John O’Connell who runs a mixed sheep and dairy contract rearing system in Ballinamore joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast. John who is also a participant in the BETTER farm Sheep Programme starts by discussing the importance of having ewes in the right body condition and maintaining this during mid-pregnancy. John discusses his scanning results and subsequent management. He also explains the role of high-quality silage in his system and the ration specification he is using this year. John puts great emphasis on ensuring ewes have sufficient quantities of high-quality colostrum and takes us through his feeding regime, in particular how he manages singles to facilitate cross fostering. He moves on to discuss managing pregnant ewe lambs in his flock before finishing up explaining how these and triplet rearing ewes are managed post-lambing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Focus on Vaccination Jan 26, 2021

Vet Charles Chavasse from Zoetis Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the various aspects of vaccination. Charles starts by explaining how the vaccination process works and some of the differences between those commonly used vaccines at farm level. He highlights the role of safe handling and administration of vaccines and how that impacts their efficacy. Charles then discusses the process of passive immunity from the ewe to their progeny and the duration of cover of clostridial vaccines before finishing up on how to identify issues on farm this spring and how a vaccination programme may reduce some of these issues. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Feeding for late pregnancy Jan 19, 2021

Getting the feeding regime right in late pregnancy has a big impact on a successful lambing and flock performance and on this week’s OviCast episode, Ciarán Lynch discusses the various aspects of this with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc. They discuss using forage analyses, scan results and expected lambing date to determine the amount of supplementation required as well as how to manage thin ewes in late pregnancy. Michael offers advice for farms with low feed value silages. He discusses the pros and cons of pelleted versus coarse rations, how to introduce supplementation and minimise the risks of acidosis. He also explains the type of ingredients he would like to see in a ration for late pregnancy feeding. Delving into this a bit more he outlines the key energy requirements, protein source and mineral requirements. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Fluke control at this stage of the season Jan 12, 2021

Given the wet conditions this autumn and winter the level of fluke challenge on farms is high at the moment and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr. Orla Keane to discuss this in more detail. Orla explains the best means of diagnosis and highlights the importance of previous farm history when considering treatment. She also discusses treatment of replacement and remaining lambs on the farm. Orla then examines the treatment options and their suitability for a number of different circumstances highlighting the risk of continual use of products from an individual active ingredient from a resistance perspective and goes on to highlight best practice when dosing. A guide to the various products licenced for internal and external parasites is here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2018/Products-licensed-for-control-of-parasites-in-sheep.pdf For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Housing and feed management Jan 06, 2021

The practical aspects of housing and feed management are discussed on the latest episode of Ovicast with sheep specialist Damian Costello joining Ciarán Lynch. Damian begins by explaining why its important to match the number of ewes to pen capacity and he outlines the recommended feed and lying space guidelines. He then discusses feed management, access to roughage and introducing concentrates to the diet. With the cold snap in weather Damian highlights the importance of checking drinkers and ensuring there is a constant fresh water supply. He also talks about management of shy feeders and the need to manage these separately. Finally, Damian discusses tips for flocks housing close to lambing to facilitate the smooth transition of ewes on to late pregnancy diets. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Out wintering on forage crops Dec 29, 2020

On the final OviCast of 2020, Ciarán Lynch covers out wintering on forage crops with Teagasc advisor James Doran and BETTER Farm participant John Doyle. James begins by explaining the potential yield of the different crops and how they fit into the system. He outlines key management tips when grazing these crops to avoid digestive upsets and other health concerns. He also highlights potential issues around clean livestock policy and what actions can be taken. In the second half of the podcast, presenter Ciarán catches up with John Doyle who is farming in Ballindaggan in Co. Wexford. John has been out wintering on forage crops on an annual basis for a long number of years and he outlines the changes that have occurred in the type of crops he has sown during that period. He discusses the crops he has in this year, how he manages ewes and lambs on them, in particular the transition of ewes indoors before lambing. He also discusses the impact of sowing date and prevailing weather on the potential crop yield. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Using scanning results Dec 22, 2020

With many farmers pregnancy scanning their flocks during the coming weeks we discuss how to best make use of this information with sheep specialist Damian Costello. Damian starts by discussing the flock performance at scanning, some factors that influence it and benchmarking against targets. He then discusses the options for empty eyes and follow-up actions where issues occur before moving on to talk in more detail about using the results as part of a feeding plan for late pregnancy and how to put a practical plan in place for a flock. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Silage sampling Dec 15, 2020

A key step in late pregnancy nutrition for ewes is knowing the feed value of silage being used. In this episode of the OviCast podcast, sheep specialist Damian Costello joins Ciarán Carroll to explain the process of silage sampling in more detail, from the equipment needed to the process of taking the sample itself. Damian then highlights the importance of getting a representative sample and why it’s necessary to take a number of samples where silages from different harvest dates are being used. He moves on to discuss the preparation of that sample for sending and how to make use the results once you receive them. Finally, Damian encourages anyone who hasn’t taken a sample to do so to know the feed value of the silage their using. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Health and Safety focus Dec 08, 2020

Health and Safety Specialist Francis Bligh joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast with advice on safety around machinery and on farm. Firstly, Francis discusses the HSA figures for accidents that have occurred in agriculture and the particular trends in the sheep sector during the previous 12 months - a stark reminder of the dangers encountered in the industry. Francis highlights some of the steps that can be taken to improve personal safety and how to reduce the risk of zoonotic infection from livestock. He then discusses safety around machinery and safe transport on roads, with Francis highlighting some of the risks associated with ATVs in particular. Francis then moves on to farmyard safety offering his advice on some areas to focus on during the winter months and he also outlines the TAMS grants and capital allowances available for investments in farm safety equipment. Finally, he finishes up by discussing farmers’ own health and mental wellbeing with Francis offering some sound advice in this area. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Managing condition in ewes during mid-pregnancy Dec 01, 2020

With mating finished up on the majority of lowland farms our attention turns to an often overlooked area of ewe management during mid pregnancy and to discuss its importance, Professor Tommy Boland from UCD joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast. Tommy starts by discussing the importance of assessing ewe condition and why assessing ewe condition is a key management tool but one that’s not used frequently enough at farm level. He discusses the variation in ewe condition that we see within flocks and the importance of monitoring and managing the ewe’s body reserves during their period. He also discusses the effects of ewe condition on performance particularly during early lactation and the carryover effects for the rest of the season. He then finishes up discussing flock management during the coming weeks with Tommy offerings his views on the need to address any deficit in ewe condition before ewes enter late pregnancy. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Sheep health- views from a Regional Vet Lab post-mortem room Nov 24, 2020

As part of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Animal Health Awareness Week, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Maresa Sheehan, Senior Research Officer in DAFM Regional Veterinary Laboratories. Maresa starts by explaining what animal health awareness week is and why it’s important. She discusses some of the current health issues that they are finding in the lab as well as some of the more seasonal conditions and they discuss how they might be prevented. Maresa explains how the post-mortem process works and the timelines involved in the various aspects of testing as well as their limitations. She also discusses the importance of early intervention when the first signs of sudden death or abortions occur and what steps can be taken. Many of the conditions affecting livestock are zoonotic and the impact on human health cannot be underestimated, Maresa puts this in context in a farming situation highlighting the importance of good hygienic practice. High burdens of stomach worms and the health concerns that occur as a result are an issue. She highlights the increasing issue with anthelminthic resistance and the need to identify what products are working effectively on individual farms. Finally, Maresa highlights the benefits of a high health status in our flocks and its role in safeguarding our industry. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Ram management post-mating Nov 17, 2020

With the mating season finishing up on many farms, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss ram management post mating. Rams are a significant investment for any flock and Michael puts this into perspective on a cost per lamb basis. He goes on to outline the issues with ram longevity and the high turnover rate seen in flocks. He discusses how management practices during the post-mating period can influence this. Michael outlines the problems encountered with rams fighting and offers his tips on how to reduce this risk; he then talks about the importance of addressing ram health issues and culling at this stage of the season. Finally, he discusses the importance of putting condition back on rams post-mating, particularly ram lambs, and what supplementation may be required to achieve this. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

External parasites control options Nov 13, 2020

To discuss the whole area of external parasite control at this stage of the season, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Morgan Lane from Bimeda. Morgan describes the main external parasites that can be an issue in flocks at this stage of the season such as lice and sheep scab. He explains the various control measures that are available from topical applications, injectable treatments and plunge dipping. Morgan explains what each of these treatment options are suitable for, their correct use and their limitations. As plunge dipping provides the most comprehensive treatment option, he discusses best practice when it comes to dipping, safe use of the chosen product and disposal afterwards. Morgan finishes up by discussing the availability of mobile plunge dip operators who are currently providing a service nationally. List of Mobile plunge dip operators: http://www.sheepdippers.ie/ For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Grazing management – graze outs in difficult conditions and staying on track for closing Nov 03, 2020

With the wet weather in recent weeks, Ciarán Lynch catches up with Dr. Philip Creighton to discuss current grazing management on the latest episode of OviCast. Philip discusses how to make the most of the remaining grass on the farm given the poor utilisation at present. He also discusses grouping up ewes to reduce residency period and managing graze outs. Philip explains the importance of closing out paddocks, in particular the first 40% to ensure grass supply next spring and what impact it has on management. He highlights the need to reassess current supply and take steps where necessary to reduce demand with Philip discussing the current options being implemented in Athenry. Finally, he details the pitfalls of letting ewes lose condition by delaying housing or supplementation this winter. Details of the autumn closing planner can be found here: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdf For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Store lamb finishing Oct 27, 2020

This week’s OviCast focuses on a number of aspects of store lambs finishing with Prof. Michael Diskin sheep enterprise leader in Teagasc and Michael discusses the store lamb market this year and the renewed interest in this area. With the change in weather in recent weeks we discuss some of the key considerations for housing, ration composition and building up of feeding levels and general advice for housed lambs. There have been a number of large-scale finishing studies and Michael outlines the level of feed intake and performance to expect from various types of lambs on an intensive feeding system as well as target carcass ranges and expected kill-outs. He then discusses the management of long keep lambs on farms and the level of supplement needed to maintain performance. Michael also discusses the impact of shearing on performance and importance of CLP and highlights some of the work conducted on the light lamb carcass and how that market has developed during the past few years. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Farmer focus: Francis Gonely, breeding, grass and finishing lambs Oct 20, 2020

Francis Gonely who is running a hill and lowland system in Co Sligo joins Ciarán Lynch for the latest Farmer Focus episode of OviCast. Francis is a participant in the BETTER Farm Sheep Programme and talks through the system he is running and the changes he has made over the past number of years. The hill flocks have seen numbers increase and a change in breeding policy that saw replacement blackface ewe lambs purchased. Francis discusses the changes, settling in the new stock and the plans for the flock going forward. During the same period he has increased his lowland flock and implemented a paddock grazing system and he discusses the initial challenges faced in managing grass supplies whilst still lowly stocked and how he has improved management and output with increased ewe numbers. Finally, there’s a discussion on lambs’ finishing, the store lamb trade this autumn and the option of carrying over lambs to finish in the New Year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Mating Management Oct 13, 2020

With the breeding season underway for many flocks, on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch catches up with sheep specialist Damian Costello to discuss mating management. Damian starts by outlining the final checks that should be conducted on the breeding flock of ewes and rams. He then delves into ram management in a bit more detail emphasising the importance of addressing any issues that may cause infertility. Following on from that, Damian explains the benefits of raddling, the options available and correct application procedure before discussing single sire mating vs. group mating, rotating rams between groups, ewe:ram ratio and a number of practical steps to guard against the risk of using an infertile ram. Damian also offers his tips on joining ewe lambs and ram choice for the task before he finished with a summary of his key tips for management during the mating period. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Quad bike maintenance Oct 06, 2020

Quad bikes are an extremely useful machine on many farms and on this episode of OviCast, Ciaran Lynch is joined by Francis Quigley machinery specialist, who chats about basic maintenance and some general advice on safe use and how to keep quads in good working order. Francis starts by discussing the importance of correct tyre pressure and why it should be monitored and adjusted to suit the needs of the specific task the quad is being used for, he also highlights the need to periodically assess tyre wear. Francis then discusses oil and filter servicing, checking brakes and general mechanical maintenance as well as matching up quad bikes to suitable towing equipment and highlights some important considerations in this regard. Finally, he explains the importance of checking the controls regularly and addressing any issues. To add some context to the messages Francis highlighted, particularly around safety, have a look at the following recently produced clip: http://bit.ly/QuadSafetyVid For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Fluke control this autumn Sep 30, 2020

Michael Gottstein, Teagasc’s Head of Sheep joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss fluke control this autumn. Michael begins by describing how liver fluke affects the sheep and what the high-risk periods for fluke infection are. He then moves on to discuss control options with Michael explaining the difference between the various categories of flukicide that are available and why not all are suitable at particular stages of the year. As with other anthelmintics, resistance is an issue, which is discussed in a bit more detail with Michael offering his views on how this could be delayed on farms. There is a discussion then on rumen fluke and what risk it poses on sheep farms before finishing up with Michael summarising the key points to consider in relation to fluke on farms for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Joining ewe lambs – the key criteria that influence performance Sep 22, 2020

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss in detail the subject of joining ewe lambs - a topic of relevance to many sheep producers this year. Tim starts by discussing the increased interest in joining ewe lambs this season as well as some of the common practices observed on farms. Tim presents results from his studies at Athenry on joining ewe lambs. We discuss the influence of ewe genotype and the effect of weight at joining on productivity. Tim outlines key aspects of mating management including, time of joining, duration of the joining period and use of the ram effect. He then discusses the impact of lambing ewe lambs at 1 year old on their performance when lambing at 2 years of age. Finishing up Tim highlights the need to managed ewe lambs correctly to maintain performance. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Farmer focus: Denis O’Riordan on hill farming, selling lambs and managing ewes in West Cork Sep 15, 2020

Denis O’Riordan, one of the BETTER farm programme participants in Co. Cork, joins Ciaran Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast giving an insight into his farm and the system he is managing. Running a 350 Blackface ewe hill flock, we discuss current management on the farm, his plans for selling lambs, selecting and managing replacements as well as breeding decisions for the flock. Finally, he also discusses some of the changes he has made since joining the programme. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Forage crops – carrying capacity & grazing setup Sep 08, 2020

Drs Philip Creighton & Frank Campion join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some key aspects of forage crop management. Philip begins by discussing the importance of assessing the yield of the crop and he also outlines how to work out the expected carrying capacity. As good utilisation is vital, Philip outlines how to approach setting up grazing divisions and manage these in difficult conditions. On the subject of divisions Frank highlights the importance of fencer setup and takes us through how they are transitioning lambs on to the various crops in Athenry. He also highlights the importance of shearing lambs prior to grazing forage crops. Finally, Frank outlines the on-going trial assessing the performance of hill bred store lambs when grazed on forage crops. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Managing autumn reseeds Sep 01, 2020

Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast to discuss management of autumn reseeds. Philip starts by discussing current conditions and the limitations of late reseed being established in September. He then moves on to discuss grazing management, opening covers and residuals as well as management during the current difficult grazing conditions. Philip emphasises the importance of having a clean reseed and shares his insights on post emergence spray as well as fertiliser application. Finally, Philip explains when a reseed should receive its final grazing and why it’s important to consider how it fits into the closing plan for the farm. For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/publications/2017/Reseeding-booklet.pdf For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Autumn shearing – performance benefit? Aug 25, 2020

Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest episode of OviCast to discuss the effects of autumn shearing on the performance of ewes, ewe lambs and store/finishing lambs. With the cost of shearing versus return from wool at a low point, Tim starts off by emphasising why it’s important for producers to get a performance benefit from it where possible. Tim takes us through the results of many studies conducted in the area, examining fertility traits, subsequent progeny performance, growth rate and carcass gain. He then outlines where the measurable gains are and dispels some of the perceived performance benefits. Aside from the performance differences they also discuss management benefits to shearing at this stage of the season finishing up with Tim’s views on how late in the season he would consider shearing. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Getting ewe condition right Aug 18, 2020

Dr Frank Campion joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the importance of getting ewes in the right condition at joining. Frank outlines how to assess condition, what it equates to in terms of live weight and the time needed to increase ewe condition. There is also a discussion on the factors influencing condition managing thin ewes separately and culling ewes that fail to improve in ewe condition. Finally, Dr. Campion explains the carryover effects of condition at joining on the productivity of the ewe the following year. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

August grassland management focus Aug 11, 2020

Dr Philip Creighton joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast to discuss grassland management for the coming weeks. Philip discusses the current situation around the country, growth rates, grass dry matter and grazing management. He offers his tips on dealing with heavy covers and discusses why it’s important not to delay removing surplus from the rotation and taking stock of grass demand on the farm for the coming weeks. Finally, there’s a discussion on the importance of building autumn covers, planning the final round of fertilizer and setting up the rotation for the coming weeks. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Farmer focus: John Bell – paddock system & finishing groups Aug 04, 2020

On a blustery evening in the end of July, for this episode of Ovicast, Ciaran Lynch caught up with Co. Westmeath Farmer John Bell, a former winner of the Sheep Farmer of the Year completion and a previous host of the Irish Grassland Association Sheep event. John runs a high output sheep system from a 46 ha grass based farm he manages a 500 ewe flock with an additional 130+ ewe lambs rearing lambs each year. John started by giving a background to the flock, the system and the farm, he discusses some of the changes in the system over the past number of years and how he implemented a paddock grazing system on the farm including his use of temporary fencing. Finally, he discusses lamb finishing on the farm and how he targets supplementation at finishing groups opposed to blanket feeding. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Ram selection – making use of indices Jul 28, 2020

With the ram sales underway, Ciaran Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Eamon Wall from Sheep Ireland who discusses ram selection. Eamon begins by emphasising the importance of paying attention to ram functionality at the time of purchase. He then takes us through the basic of the Sheep Ireland genetic index explaining the Terminal and Maternal traits and the various individual sub-indexes. Ciaran and Eamon then discuss the across breed evaluation as well as the overall Euro value. Eamon highlights the importance of the DQI and accuracy figures. There is also a discussion on the move to genotyping and parentage verification and how this improves the accuracy of the evaluations. With the majority of the information included in the index coming from commercial flocks, Eamon emphasises the relevance of this in the evaluations for commercial producers. Finally, Eamon discusses this year’s multi-breed ram sale. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Early Lamb Systems? Jul 21, 2020

With the breeding season kicking off, this week’s OviCast discusses the pros, cons and alternatives to early lambing systems. In this episode, Ciaran Lynch is joined by Shane Moore, who is farming just outside Athleague in Co. Roscommon and Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc. Michael starts by outlining the key dates and requirements for early lambing systems for 2021 while Shane explains he has run an early lamb system for many years. He discusses why it initially suited his system and why he has moved away from it in recent years as sheep numbers increased on his farm. One of the challenges that Shane’s early lamb system presented was the increasing cost and conversely the declining returns. Early lamb is characterised by a high sale price but Michael takes us through the economics of this system and some of the hidden costs involved. As early sales provide a valuable source of cash flow on many dry stock farms, Shane discusses how he will offset this with a switch to carrying over light lambs for the hogget trade next spring. Meeting a continual supply is an important issue for the industry and Michael discusses the role of store lambs carried over as a way to meet this demand and how this practice is gaining popularity on many farms. For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Checking for resistance – the Drench test Jul 14, 2020

Dealing with anthelminthic resistance is an issue on Irish sheep farms. Determining the efficacy of the products used is a necessary first step in adapting to this challenge and on this episode of OviCast, Ciaran Lynch is joined by Damian Costello, Sheep Specialist, to discuss why it’s so important to check products on farm. The use of a drench test is one means to check how an anthelminthic product is working on a farm and Damian takes us through the various steps involved in conducting a drench test. Finally, Damian explains how to interpret the result and determine the level of resistance to the chosen product. For more information go to: https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/control-of-stomach-worms--improving-sustainability.php For more episodes from OviCast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Mineral supplementation in sheep flocks Jul 07, 2020

Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss mineral supplementation in sheep flocks. A common practice on many farms during the season, Michael starts by discussing some of the findings of a recent study that has looked at this in more detail. He discusses the extent of mineral usage in Irish flocks and some of the drivers behind the decision process of why farmers are using mineral supplementation. He also discusses some of the key minerals that influence production and clinical signs of mineral deficiencies. Focusing in particular on cobalt, Michael describes how it influences lamb performance. Finally, he explains why it is important to see a performance benefit from the investment in supplementation to offset the cost and effort involved and how you might go about doing this. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Farmer Focus, Patrick Dunne: Changing systems and dealing with this year’s drought Jun 30, 2020

Sheep BETTER farm participant Patrick Dunne who farms in the Wicklow Mountains joins Ciaran Lynch on this week’s OviCast. Patrick describes his farming system and how it has changed over the past number of years from the original 300 ewe Cheviot hill flock that were run essentially as a lowland system to his current 500 ewe flock split between a lowland and hill system. One of the drivers behind this change was to reduce costs in hill system by increasing the time these ewes spend on the hill. Patrick discusses a strict culling and selection procedure to select a more suitable ewe for the flock. The change in system has also allowed him to increase overall numbers and operate a higher output lowland flock which he discusses in more detail. Patrick talks us through how he managed the flock during the prolonged dry spell which caused grass growth rates to drop significantly on the farm and the planned management strategy for the coming weeks for both systems. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Control of stomach worms – improving sustainability Jun 23, 2020

Anthelminthic resistance is one of the key challenges for the sheep industry and will require a change in some of the routine control practices for the coming seasons. To expand further on this subject, Ciaran was joined by Teagasc Researcher Dr Orla Keane who discusses four key areas that will help to maintain a susceptible worm population and prolong the efficacy of commonly used anthelminthic products. These are: 1. Don’t dose adult ewes unless there is a demonstrated need 2. Use only products from group 1-BZ (white drenches) to treat Nematodirus in lambs 3. Quarantine drench - prevent ‘buying in’ resistance on arrival to the farm 4. Drench test/Faecal egg count Orla shares her insights on why each of these steps will have a beneficial impact on the rate of development of anthelminthic resistance. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Considering the hard-to-see traits when selecting replacements Jun 16, 2020

A lot of flocks have started the process of selecting their replacement ewe lambs for this season and with this in mind we’re joined by Dr Fiona McGovern who shares some of her insights in the area. We start off by discussing some recent findings on the factors influencing ewe longevity and then move on to discuss the genetic component of a number of the key traits that influence production such as: lambing and mothering ability, lameness, mastitis and others. Fiona discusses why a replacement policy should have scope for continual selection and culling during the year and how to use records and simple identifiers to target underperformer or problem sheep in the flock. Fiona also describes the variations she has seen from the detailed recording on maternal traits in the INZAC flock over the past number of years. Finally, Fiona highlights the need to make use of genetic indices when selecting sires for future replacements, particularly when trying to improve flock performance for those hard-to-see traits. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

The Data Quality Index and commercial performance recording Jun 09, 2020

Alan explains what the DQI is and why it is an important measure for pedigree breeders and potential customers alike. He also discusses what steps pedigree breeders can take to improve their DQI score and some of the key changes to the system this season.

Ciaran then moves on to the topic of performance recording in commercial flocks which is an important element of the Sheep Ireland evaluation. Alan shares some of his findings on the cost/benefit performance recoding has on commercial sheep farms.

For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page:

https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/

Focus on weaning Jun 02, 2020

Michael discusses the weaning process and what he considers best practice in terms of ewe and lamb management at weaning time. We finish up discussing the impact weaning ewes can have on reducing grass demand and how it allow prioritisation of grazing for lambs. Michael emphasises why this is a key action to take at the moment on farms experiencing grass shortage.

Here is a short video clip discussing the effect of weaning has on reducing grass demand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-Ym_gkAtNk&t=1s

Effective sheep footbath facilities May 26, 2020

Damian describes how to work out the appropriate size required for a flock and highlights key features of its design. He also offers his views on where it should be located in relation to the handling race and the importance of having a standoff area. We finish up with Damian summing up why it’s a worthwhile investment on sheep farms.

Here’s a short clip on how to correctly make up a footbath solution:
https://youtu.be/VklHIlJ81-A

Shearing season underway May 19, 2020

George starts by outlining how the current restrictions are changing the way shearers are operating this season. We discuss the importance of preparation prior to shearing to leave the process easier for both the shearer and farmer alike. George highlights the importance of safety at shearing time and the need to keep shearing equipment well maintained.

We finish up the podcast with George outlining the opportunities for young shearers to get into the industry and why it’s an important skill that farmers should consider learning.

Blowfly control May 12, 2020

We start by discussing some of the pre-disposing factors and ways to reduce the risk of strike. Tom outlines the various control measures that are available, how they vary in the mode of action and the period of cover they provide. We finish up with Tom discussing how ensure product efficacy thorough correct application methods.

Making high DMD silage May 05, 2020

e also describes ways to reduce the risk of soil contamination, improve preservation and the importance of correct storage. The overall silage requirement for use in late pregnancy is relatively low Damian discusses how removing surpluses from the grazing rotation could help meet his demand.

Here is a link to a short technical article discussing this in more detail:
https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/importance-of-quality-silage-for-sheep.php

And heres a short video clip on removing surplus grass as baled silage:
https://youtu.be/RW8D4bk4Rws

For more information:
https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/2020/importance-of-quality-silage-for-sheep.php

Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on the sheep sector Apr 28, 2020

With additional pressure on family farm incomes this year Kevin urges a cautious approach, paying particular attention to expenditure in the farm business for the coming year.

Keeping with that theme in the latter half of the podcast we are joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc who highlights key areas where costs can be reduced and where the easy gains can be made. With uncertainty in the economy Michael also discusses on farm investment for the coming season.

19: Episode 19: Nematodirus infection in young lambs Apr 21, 2020

Nematodirus is one of the first parasite challenges young lambs will face during the grazing season. In this episode of OviCast we are joined by Dr. Orla Keane who explains the life cycle of Nematodirus and how it differs from other stomach worms. We also discuss how the parasite affects young lambs. Orla describes how to recognise the condition and the role the DAFM Nematodirus forecast plays in determining when to treat lambs in different regions throughout the country. In the final section we discuss timing of treatment and choice of anthelminthic product for this particular condition. DAFM 2020 Nematodirus forecast: https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/press/pressreleases/2020/april/title,141793,en.html

18: Episode 18: Sheep sector market update Apr 14, 2020

For this episode we are Joined by Declan Fennell, sheep Sector Manager with Bord Bia. Declan starts by discussing what has been happening in the market in the past 12 months , some of the challenges faced and the new opportunities that have arisen. With the current Covid-19 crisis Declan describes is happening on the markets over the last month or so , how its influencing demand for lamb domestically and in other countries and how restrictions in other countries affecting the movement of meat. We also discuss what the potential outlook is shaping up like for the rest of the year when markets reset and how global trade of sheep meat has changed. Declan finished up by highlighting on going promotional activity from Bord Bia at present. For more information check out their website www.bordbia.ie or follow them @Bordbia

17: Episode 17: Grazing management: Keeping on track in April Apr 07, 2020

Dr Philip Creighton re-joins us in this episode to discuss grazing management and key targets during April. He starts by giving us a quick update on progress on the farm in Athenry. With grass growth rates increasing in favour of supply over demand Philip outline’s the key targets for the coming month – opening covers, residuals and farm covers/days grazing ahead. Philip emphasises the importance of assessing farm covers and the percentage of the farm grazed at this stage of the year and what the short and long term actions farmers need to stay on track for the coming weeks. Further updates available on grass growth and advice available from @PastureBase and @TeagascSheep over the coming weeks

16: Episode 16: Artificially rearing lambs Apr 01, 2020

In this episode we are joined by Tomas O'Leary who is farming outside Killarney Co. Kerry. Tomas runs a 300 ewe sheep flock along side a contract heifer rearing system. Running a prolific flock of ewes with an annual scanned litter size of 2.2 Tomas has a lot of multipiles on the farm. In order to effectively manage the additional lambs, he choses to artifically rear the third lamb along with any other orphan lambs that arise. We catch up with Tomas towards the end of lambing to discuss how he manages his artifically rearing system. He also shares some of his top tips on how to make it more efficent. Heres a link to a short video clip of his setup: https://youtu.be/AJ91aIXJRwo

15: Episode 15: Coccidiosis in lambs Mar 27, 2020

In this episode Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins us to discusss coccidiosis in lambs. Michael starts by discribing the condition itself and the clinical symptoms infected lambs will display. He moves on to describe the impact it has on lamb health, subsequent performance and ways by which farmers can reduce the enviromental challenge . In the final segment Michael outlines the various treament options available.

14: Episode 14: Grass Tetany in ewes – predisposing factors and prevention measures Mar 12, 2020

In this episode we are joined By Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc who discusses the Grass Tetany in ewes. With many ewes in the early stages of lactation the difficult grazing conditions and adverse weather this spring presents a high risk period for Grass Tetany. Michael discusses the predisposing factors encountered on farms that increase the risk and some of the preventive measures that can be employed at this stage of the season. Michael finishes up discussing how clinical cases need to be treated.

13: Episode 13: Managing Ewe lambs Feb 18, 2020

In this episode we focus on the management of ewe lambs during the growing phase from the first winter to Joining as 18 month old Hogget’s. We are joined by Dr. Tim Keady who has conducted a number of research studies in this area. Tim outlines how management during the growing phase can influence subsequent performance as mature ewes. We discuss the key performance targets, nutrient requirements and what interventions can be made to keep performance on track.

12: Episode 12: Nitrogen use efficiency Feb 18, 2020

Episode 12: Nitrogen use efficiency In this episode we a focus on nitrogen use on farms. We are joined by Dr. David Wall Teagasc Johnstown Castle who starts by discussing the various factors affecting the efficiency of Nitrogen use. David offers his tips on how to get the best return on early spring applications. With an increased emphasis on the inclusion of protected urea in fertilizer programmes, David explains the difference between protected and standard urea and how it has benefits both economically and environmentally for farmers. List of Protected-urea Fertilisers: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/environment/soil/Protected-Urea-List--December,--2019.pdf Technical information on protected urea: https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/soil--soil-fertility/protected-urea/ Spring Fertilizer advice: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/environment/soil/Early-Nitrogen-Advice---Grassland.pdf

11: Episode 11: Late pregnancy nutrition effect of concentrate quality and source of protein Feb 18, 2020

Episode 11: Late pregnancy nutrition effect of concentrate quality and source of protein In this episode we focus on late pregnancy nutrition, we are joined by Dr. Tim Keady who shares some of his insights in the area. Tim starts by discussing the impact late pregnancy nutrition has on flock performance. We move on to discuss concentrate formulation, ingredient inclusion and how the ewe’s nutrient requirements change during this period. Tim discusses some of the key findings of research studies that he has undertaking in Teagasc that evaluated the effect of source of protein in the diet during late pregnancy has on ewe and lamb performance. We finish up with Tim offering his tips on what he looks for in a concentrate and the pelleted concentrate he has formulated for use this year in Teagasc Athenry.

10: Episode 10: Winter housing management Jan 09, 2020

In this episode we are joined with Damien Costello Sheep Specialist who discussed some of the key management issues to consider during the housing period. Damian outlines why correct space allowance is a key consideration during the housing period. Damian also covers the importance of good ventilation, feed management and hygiene practices. We finish up discussing ways to improve the efficiency of the housing setup and ways in which it can be modified to improve efficiency and productivity of the system.

9: Episode 9: Managing condition score Nov 26, 2019

In this episode, we are joined by Liz Genever, an independent sheep consultant from the UK (Twitter - @LizGenever) to discuss the importance of managing condition score in flocks. We start by discussing the practice of condition scoring and the key time points during the year when it is important to assess it. Liz discusses some of the key findings of the AHDB’s funded key performance indicators project and the on-going Challenge Sheep project on the impact of condition on flock productivity. Following on from this Liz shares her insights and on why it’s important to actively manage condition during the year and why it’s necessary to manage thin and young sheep ewes separately from the main flock.

8: Episode 8: Controlling external parasites: Sheep dipping Oct 11, 2019

Within the industry there is a renewed interest in sheep dips as a means of external parasite control. Firstly we are joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc who discusses the role sheep dips both fixed and mobile units can play in external parasite control. He also offers his views on why they may be the better option in the coming years particularly for sheep scab control. Michael also takes us through the vital steps necessary when preparing to dip sheep from animal preparation and the use of personal protective equipment. In the second half of the podcast we are joined by Kevin O’Sullivan ASSAP programme Advisor in Co Kerry. Kevin discusses best practice for dip procedure to minimise the risk of any environmental impact offering key advice on dipping procedure and dip disposal.

7: Episode 7: Role of alternative forages in store lambs systems Sep 18, 2019

In this episode we are joined by Dr Frank Campion who discusses a new research trial that has started in Teagasc Athenry. The project aims to examine the role of alternative forages in store lambs finishing systems. Frank starts by giving us some background to the project and previous work on store lambs in Teagasc Athenry. We discuss crop selection and establishment and some of the targets he hopes to achieve with lambs grazing on these various crops. A cohort of lambs will also be finished indoors and on grass based diets to provide some comparative performance. With the project only in its infancy its certainly one we will be revisiting in the coming months.

6: Episode 6: Grazing focus – Gearing up for the autumn Sep 17, 2019

Grazing focus – Gearing up for the autumn In this episode we are joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss setting up the grazing rotation for the autumn. We start by discuss current grass supply and demand targets for September and October. Phil discusses the importance that autumn closing has on spring grass availability and why it is necessary to set up for the final grazing rotation now. He also highlights the key targets for the sheep autumn closing plan. A copy of the Teagasc Autumn closing planner for sheep can be found at the following link: https://www.teagasc.ie/media/website/animals/sheep/Sheep-Autumn-Closing-Planner.pdf . We finish up by discussing what aspects of soil fertility we can still address at this stage of the season.

5: Episode 5: Flock health status- biosecurity and quarantine Aug 16, 2019

In this episode we are joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss biosecurity risks posed when introducing new sheep to the flock. Michael outlines the potential risks that can be introduced to a flock from purchased animals, from resistant parasite and lameness to abortive agents and iceberg diseases. Having a quarantine procedure in place to deal with stock entering the farm is a vital step, Michael takes us through the mitigating strategies that can be employed to reduce the risks. We also discuss some of the potential vaccination programmes that can be implemented on farm to reduce the effects of abortive agents. Some of these unwanted conditions have a long incubation period before physical signs are evident. We discuss the benefits of examining stock on farm and purchasing stock from a limited number of known sources.

4: Episode 4: Ram Focus - using genetic information Aug 12, 2019

Ram Focus - using genetic information. In this episode we are joined by Dr Noirin McHugh from Teagasc and Kevin McDermott programme manager with Sheep Ireland. Since the introduction of the Eurostar index in sheep we now have an additional tool to use when selecting rams. Noirin talks us through the terminal and replacement index and the key criteria to pay attention. We also get the opportunity to discuss the results on the on farm validation of the Eurostar index which examined the differences observed in progeny from high and low genetic merit rams on commercial farms. In the second half of the podcast we catch up with Kevin McDermott. We start the conversation discusses the level of breeder involvement and information being recorded with Sheep Ireland. We also discuss the online ram search tool that’s available on their website (www.sheep.ie). Kevin also describes the across breed evaluation a new initiative launched in 2019 and how this can be used by commercial farmers.

3: Episode 3: Internal Parasite Control Jul 03, 2019

Internal parasite control – In this episode we catch up with Dr Orla Keane to discuss the topic of worm control during the mid-season period. We start by identifying the parasites that are encountered during the summer and autumn months and how parasite burden effects lamb performance. Controlling parasite burden has been predominantly reliant on anthelminthic treatment. However as an industry domestically and internationally we face the challenge of anthelminthic resistance where the available products that we depend on have reduced efficacy. During the session Orla describes what resistance is and how it can occur on farm. With a number of studies conducted on this area in recent years Orla discusses the anthelmintic resistance status of the national flock and how it has changed in recent years. She also outlines the potential strategies that could be implemented on farm to prolong the efficacy of the available products such as faecal egg testing and using correct dosing

2: Episode 2 - Silage feed value May 21, 2019

In this episode we catch up with Dr Tim Keady to discuss the production of high feed value grass silage. We start by discussing silage feed value and its impact on animal performance and the benefits that can be gained from improving silage digestibility. We discuss many of the factors that can influence digestibility – including sward heading date, grazing management prior to closing, the negative impact lodging has etc. Tim discusses his views on the pros and cons of wilting and why a rapid wilt is preferable. Tim also comments on the effect of silage chop length for sheep systems. With an increasing quantity of silage being baled from paddocks with heavy covers from the grazing area Tim discusses key management issues. Lastly, Tim offers his views on how to approach silage harvesting in during periods of inclement weather.

1: Episode 1 - INZAC Flock Performance & Grassland management May 15, 2019

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