Teagasc Walsh Scholar, Michael Dever, and Teagasc researcher, Dr. Frank Campion, join us on this week’s OviCast to discuss an exciting new project, recently launched in collaboration with SRUC. The project aims to use GPS technology to better understand hill sheep grazing patterns.

Frank provides background on the project, while Michael outlines how they will assess animal performance across different groups of sheep that are released onto the hill at various stages. He also explains how the team will evaluate the botanical composition of the different grazing areas.

Michael goes on to describe how GPS collars fitted to the ewes will allow the researchers to track their movements and identify specific grazing zones on the hill.

We wrap up the episode with Frank sharing insights into the future direction of the project and the next steps in their research.

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

Teagasc Grass10 Advisor, Joseph Dunphy, returns with the monthly update on grassland management.

In this episode, Joseph covers:

·       Current grass growth rates and average farm covers

·       Key grazing targets and maintaining sward quality

·       Fertiliser recommendations for second-cut silage and how to replenish offtakes

·       Tips for managing newly reseeded paddocks

Whether you're actively grass measuring or just looking to stay ahead this season, Joseph shares practical, timely advice to help optimise your grazing performance.

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

Jake Delaney joins us on the latest OviCast to explore the issue of scald and other lameness problems on farm, and their wider impact on flock performance.

Jake breaks down:

- the causes and risk factors behind scald

- why early intervention is essential

- treatment options

We also take a look at other lameness conditions currently affecting farms, and the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

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

In a joint episode this week, we’re joined by Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we catch up with Dr Mary McEvoy, Technical Development manager with Germinal, to discuss all things reseeding. 

Mary discusses her top tips, from field preparation to seed mixes for grazing and silage as well as clover inclusion. 

We also discuss post sowing management and the impact that can have on a successful reseed.

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

Teagasc Grass10 Advisor, Joseph Dunphy, has the monthly update on grassland management.

In this episode, Joseph discusses:

·      Current grass growth rates and average farm covers

·      Tips for managing grass supply through April into early May

·      How to handle surpluses and maintain short residency periods

·      Fertiliser options for silage ground

·      Considerations for spring reseeding

Whether you're actively grass measuring or just looking to stay ahead this season, Joseph offers practical, timely advice to help optimise grazing performance.

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

David Buckley from the Department of Agriculture joins us to discuss the 2025 National Sheep Welfare Scheme and the Sheep Improvement Scheme. 

David outlines key elements of the Welfare Scheme, including eligible tasks, increased payment rates, and compliance requirements. 

We also cover the application process, key dates, and record-keeping obligations. 

The conversation then shifts to the Sheep Improvement Scheme—now in its third year—as we explore some of the key tasks involved and the opportunities available for new entrants. We finish up with a look at the 2025 payment schedule.

For more information:

2025 National sheep welfare scheme: 

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

Sheep Improvement Scheme: 

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/services/sheep-improvement-scheme/

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

Teagasc Specialist, Mark Plunkett, joins us on this week’s OviCast to explore the nutrient requirements for this year’s silage crop. 

Mark provides valuable insights into the nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) demands of a silage crop, detailing how slurry and farmyard manure contribute to nutrient supply and what additional inputs may be necessary to achieve optimal yields.

We also discuss the essential role of sulphur and why it should be incorporated into fertiliser applications. 

Additionally, Mark offers guidance on selecting appropriate fertilisers for grazing applications and strategies for replenishing nutrient offtakes throughout the summer.

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

Sheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, joins us on this week's OviCast to discuss how to stay ahead of potential issues in the flock post-turnout.

Michael provides insights into the current situation on farms and shares practical advice for maintaining performance, especially where grass supplies are tight. 

He explains why managing a separate group of problem ewes and lambs can be a beneficial strategy.

We also cover key health concerns, including the treatment and prevention of grass tetany, as well as common challenges farmers may face - ranging from mastitis and lameness to coccidiosis in lambs.

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

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

Niamh discusses current growth grass rates, grazing management, setting up a rotation and targets for the month ahead as well as fertiliser advice. 

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

Niall Conaty from Teagasc Agricultural College Ballyhaise joins us to discuss practical tips for the lambing shed. 

We cover setup, pen layout, group pens and dedicated areas for problem cases and Niall offers insights on streamlining tasks to reduce workload during this busy period.

We also discuss how simple additions, such as whiteboards and labels on pens, can improve communication, along with best practices for recording replacements, identifying problem ewes, and maintaining hygiene and biosecurity throughout lambing.

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