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

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

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.

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.

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

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.