No Stone Left Unturned at Moorepark’19

Dairy

From grazing demonstrations to farm safety, and everything in between, there was no stone left unturned at the Dairy Open Day held in Teagasc Moorepark, Wednesday 3 July.

The biggest emphasis, however, was placed on sustainability within the industry moving forward in a post-quota era.

 

Growing and Growing

Attendees heard how the Irish dairy industry has been transformed with exports of Irish dairy products and ingredients increasing from €1.84 billion for the average of 2007 to 2009, to over €4 billion in 2018.

Milk production in Ireland has increased to 7.57 billion litres in 2018 and current indications are that milk production in 2019 could reach 8 billion litres.

 

Challenges Ahead

Director of Teagasc, Professor Gerry Boyle detailed a number of key challenges that are facing farmers in the future, namely climate change; water quality; remaining competitive; access to markets; and availability of skilled labour.

Speaking at the Open Day, Professor Boyle said: “The challenge is to grow the business sustainably. In relation to climate change, Teagasc has produced guidelines for the dairy sector, identifying key actions that need to be undertaken to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint.”

Liam Herlihy, Chairman of Teagasc said: “Dairy farming faces challenges and opportunities. The knowledge available here in Moorepark today will help farmers to inform themselves of the latest technologies to take advantage of the opportunities while meeting the challenges. I am pleased that Teagasc have partnered with FBD, Ulster Bank and Ornua to deliver this major dairy open day.”

 

Dairy Farm Infrastructure Workbook

A Dairy Farm Infrastructure Workbook, which was produced by Teagasc in partnership with Ulster Bank is being launched at Moorepark’19 and will help farmers to plan improvements in the areas of grazing infrastructure, milking practices and energy use.

Ulster Bank’s Head of Agriculture, Dr Ailish Byrne said: “As a bank that recognises the critical importance of good dairy farm infrastructure, we are proud to be the key partner for the Infrastructure Workbook. Ulster Bank wants to help farmers make good decisions for future growth while simultaneously recognising the inherent challenges such as weather and prices so that they are well-positioned to deal with whatever difficulties they face. Our Agriculture Managers have the expertise needed to provide support and help to farmers in good times as well as in more challenging times.”

 

Couldn’t Attend?

A comprehensive booklet outlining all the latest research and advice presented at the open day is available at https://www.teagasc.ie/publications/.

First Published 10 July 2019

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