Grass Challenge Feedback Cattle & Sheep

I found the challenge to be very practical and hands-on and I learned a great deal from sharing my experiences with other farmers. I have been able to apply the programme in practical ways by developing systems and better sward control to produce top quality silage. Using soil analysis has also helped me target fertiliser application, save money and protect the environment.

There is a strong social element to the challenge as well. Farmers tend to work on their own but over the three years of this programme, there has been a great deal of contact between members of the group. We've learned from one another and this helped to maintain our commitment to the programme. The DARD adviser worked closely with us and developed a good relationship with the group.

I'm now focused on getting lower cost production and I can see real results from applying the principles of the Grass challenge to my daily farm management. These practical outputs certainly justify my three years input.

David Brown, Enniskillen, Fermanagh