A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our listeners for a special 100th episode of the Dairy Edge this week when we review the dairy farming year with Teagasc Director Gerry Boyle, Teagasc specialist Abigail Ryan, and Head of Animal & Grassland Research Pat Dillon, join Emma-Louise Coffey to review the dairy farming year.  

Firstly, Pat and Abigail reflect on the indications of recovery on dairy farms in 2019 following the challenging weather conditions in 2018. Pat explains that dairy farmers are improving key performance indicators including achieving record high fat and protein % in 2019.

Gerry reviewed the Climate Action Plan and key practices such as Low Emission Slurry Spreading, clover inclusion in grazing swards and protected Urea fertiliser products that farmers can adopt to reduce emissions from their farms.

The panel also reviewed 20 years of the Economic Breeding Index and measured the many improvements in the performance of the dairy cow of today compared with the dairy cows in Ireland 20 years ago including fertility, milk and profitability. Furthermore, more genetic gains are attainable to benefit dairy herds to benefit dairy farmers.

For more episodes and information from the Dairy Edge podcast go to:
 https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/dairy/the-dairy-edge-podcast/