Farmers focus on grazing

Job done!  Part of a group of Co Armagh farmers return to the farmyard of John McElroy, centre of the photograph, (Silverbridge) after undertaking a CAFRE short course with Michael Garvey.

The course aim was to consider the best ways of establishing the grazing rotation for milk production and to ensure sward quality in June and July.  Managing grass swards early in the season is always a challenge.  This year is certainly no different.  Cold dry conditions while restricting regrow this is providing the opportunity for excellent grass utilization.

At this stage John has enough grass available to support 24 hour grazing with the first rotation programmed to end the first week of May.  He is currently targeting M+20 litres from grass with an average top up of 3½ kilos of concentrate in the parlour.  John is also keeping a close eye on grass supply ahead of cows and the residual grazing covers.  The current milk prices may tempt some farmers to keep cows in and feed additional meal.  The conclusion of the group of farmers on John McElroy’s farm was to take the opportunity to improve the financial return to the farm by making maximum use of grass.

For further details on CAFRE Short Courses for Dairy Farmers in Co Armagh telephone 028 37 515 659.

John McElroy (centre) discussing his grazing system with neighbouring Silverbridge dairy farmers