OviCast

12: Episode 12: Nitrogen use efficiency

Episode 12: Nitrogen use efficiency In this episode we a focus on nitrogen use on farms. We are joined by Dr. David Wall Teagasc Johnstown Castle who starts by discussing the various factors affecting the efficiency of Nitrogen use. David offers his tips on how to get the best return on early spring applications. With an increased emphasis on the inclusion of protected urea in fertilizer programmes, David explains the difference between protected and standard urea and how it has benefits both ec...

11: Episode 11: Late pregnancy nutrition effect of concentrate quality and source of protein

Episode 11: Late pregnancy nutrition effect of concentrate quality and source of protein In this episode we focus on late pregnancy nutrition, we are joined by Dr. Tim Keady who shares some of his insights in the area. Tim starts by discussing the impact late pregnancy nutrition has on flock performance. We move on to discuss concentrate formulation, ingredient inclusion and how the ewe’s nutrient requirements change during this period. Tim discusses some of the key findings of research studies ...

10: Episode 10: Winter housing management

In this episode we are joined with Damien Costello Sheep Specialist who discussed some of the key management issues to consider during the housing period. Damian outlines why correct space allowance is a key consideration during the housing period. Damian also covers the importance of good ventilation, feed management and hygiene practices. We finish up discussing ways to improve the efficiency of the housing setup and ways in which it can be modified to improve efficiency and productivity of th...

9: Episode 9: Managing condition score

In this episode, we are joined by Liz Genever, an independent sheep consultant from the UK (Twitter - @LizGenever) to discuss the importance of managing condition score in flocks. We start by discussing the practice of condition scoring and the key time points during the year when it is important to assess it. Liz discusses some of the key findings of the AHDB’s funded key performance indicators project and the on-going Challenge Sheep project on the impact of condition on flock productivity. Fo...

8: Episode 8: Controlling external parasites: Sheep dipping

Within the industry there is a renewed interest in sheep dips as a means of external parasite control. Firstly we are joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc who discusses the role sheep dips both fixed and mobile units can play in external parasite control. He also offers his views on why they may be the better option in the coming years particularly for sheep scab control. Michael also takes us through the vital steps necessary when preparing to dip sheep from animal preparation a...

7: Episode 7: Role of alternative forages in store lambs systems

In this episode we are joined by Dr Frank Campion who discusses a new research trial that has started in Teagasc Athenry. The project aims to examine the role of alternative forages in store lambs finishing systems. Frank starts by giving us some background to the project and previous work on store lambs in Teagasc Athenry. We discuss crop selection and establishment and some of the targets he hopes to achieve with lambs grazing on these various crops. A cohort of lambs will also be finished ind...

6: Episode 6: Grazing focus – Gearing up for the autumn

Grazing focus – Gearing up for the autumn In this episode we are joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss setting up the grazing rotation for the autumn. We start by discuss current grass supply and demand targets for September and October. Phil discusses the importance that autumn closing has on spring grass availability and why it is necessary to set up for the final grazing rotation now. He also highlights the key targets for the sheep autumn closing plan. A copy of the Teagasc Autumn closing...

5: Episode 5: Flock health status- biosecurity and quarantine

In this episode we are joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss biosecurity risks posed when introducing new sheep to the flock. Michael outlines the potential risks that can be introduced to a flock from purchased animals, from resistant parasite and lameness to abortive agents and iceberg diseases. Having a quarantine procedure in place to deal with stock entering the farm is a vital step, Michael takes us through the mitigating strategies that can be employed to reduce ...

4: Episode 4: Ram Focus - using genetic information

Ram Focus - using genetic information. In this episode we are joined by Dr Noirin McHugh from Teagasc and Kevin McDermott programme manager with Sheep Ireland. Since the introduction of the Eurostar index in sheep we now have an additional tool to use when selecting rams. Noirin talks us through the terminal and replacement index and the key criteria to pay attention. We also get the opportunity to discuss the results on the on farm validation of the Eurostar index which examined the differences...

3: Episode 3: Internal Parasite Control

Internal parasite control – In this episode we catch up with Dr Orla Keane to discuss the topic of worm control during the mid-season period. We start by identifying the parasites that are encountered during the summer and autumn months and how parasite burden effects lamb performance. Controlling parasite burden has been predominantly reliant on anthelminthic treatment. However as an industry domestically and internationally we face the challenge of anthelminthic resistance where the available ...

2: Episode 2 - Silage feed value

In this episode we catch up with Dr Tim Keady to discuss the production of high feed value grass silage. We start by discussing silage feed value and its impact on animal performance and the benefits that can be gained from improving silage digestibility. We discuss many of the factors that can influence digestibility – including sward heading date, grazing management prior to closing, the negative impact lodging has etc. Tim discusses his views on the pros and cons of wilting and why a rapid wi...

1: Episode 1 - INZAC Flock Performance & Grassland management