Shows
OviCastThe essentials for successful farm successionTeagasc Farm Management specialist, James McDonnell, and Succession Ireland mediator, Clare O’Keeffe, join Ciaran Lynch and Catherine Egan on this week’s joint episode of the Ovicast and the Beef Edge podcast to discuss all aspects of generation renewal, succession and mediation. James highlights the importance of generation renewal while Clare outlines the importance of a mediator to aid the process. It is essential for every farmer to have a farm succession plan in place. There are complex legal and taxation rules that, if planned for, can be managed easily. If not planned for, howev...
2025-09-2337 min
OviCastFeeding the ewe in mid-pregnancyDr. Tim Keady is on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss feeding the ewe during mid-pregnancy and its impact on productivity. Tim outlines the energy requirements of the ewe during this phase, we discuss the impact of grass supply and feed value in outdoor scenarios and the impact of different qualities of silages indoors. Tim also talks about mobilising reserves, potential condition score loss and the impact that can have on next year’s lamb performance. We finish up discussing feed management introducing supplementation to thinner ewes and plan...
2024-12-2314 min
OviCastDecember Grass10 UpdateTeagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, has her monthly update on the OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. Niamh discusses the closing plan on farms, grazing conditions and the impact of re-grazing paddocks on spring growth. We discuss the variation in performance of individual fields on farms and some investments to improve productivity next year. You can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter here:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/grass10/grass10-enewsletter/ For more episodes from the OviC...
2024-12-1705 min
OviCastSeptember Grass10 UpdateTeagasc Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, gives her monthly update on the latest OviCast podcast discussing grass management tips for the month ahead. Niamh discusses current growth rates and grass covers and some of the variation across the country. We discuss building covers and planning ahead for closing up paddocks. Niamh also discusses the fertiliser register and upcoming deadlines for fertiliser slurry and FYM. We finish up with Niamh offering tips on grazing autumn reseeds.For more, you can subscribe to the Grass10 newsletter at:https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/grassland/gra...
2024-09-1307 min
OviCastPost-weaning lamb performanceDr. Frank Campion re-joins us as we discuss lamb performance post-weaning on the latest OviCast podcast. Frank talks about lamb performance on farms post-weaning and some of the factors that influence this. We discuss lamb growth rates since weaning on the BETTER farms and how they have been managing lambs. We move on to discuss lamb management, finish times, supplementation and where the priorities lie on farms for the coming weeks. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at:htt...
2024-08-3015 min
OviCastGrass update & management tips for the coming weeksCatherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, joins us on this week’s OviCast as we catch up with Grass10 advisor, Niamh Doyle, to get an update on the current situation and discuss management tips in the coming weeks. Niamh first highlights the factors that have limited grass growth over the last number of months. She also comments on the long term Nitrogen fertiliser type trial at Teagasc, Johnstown Castle, which provides an insight as to how different fertiliser types/formulations have performed under the same conditions and with N appli...
2024-07-2309 min
OviCastFocus on wool quality and shearingJayne Harkness-Bones, Depot Manager with Ulster Wool, joins us for this week’s OviCast to discuss the factors that influence the quality of wool, the challenges in the marketplace in recent years and what happens to the wool from purchase until it reaches market. We talk about shearing, wool handling and storage, with Jayne highlighting some simple practices to make the process easier and improve the quality of the wool harvested. In the latter half of the podcast, Jayne who is also a council member of the Irish Grown Wool Council, discus...
2024-06-1126 min
OviCastFarmer Focus: Olivia Hynes’ mixed grazing system in RoscommonFor this week’s OviCast, we’re also joined by Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we catch up with Co. Roscommon beef and sheep farmer, Olivia Hynes. Oliva starts by giving us an overview of her system, we discuss breeding and the use of AI in her suckler herd, lamb performance this spring and some of the challenges it has posed. We discuss mixed grazing, grassland management and investing in grazing infrastructure, before finishing up with Olivia highlighting the three things she has focused on that have had an i...
2024-05-2120 min
OviCastCompleting a profit monitorFor this week’s OviCast, I’m joined by my Teagasc colleague, Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we discuss financial management tips on drystock farms with Teagasc Financial Specialist, Kevin Connolly.Kevin first explains the benefits of completing a profit monitor and we discuss what data is required and the ways to simplify this process. Kevin takes us through the information the profit monitor can generate and how it can be used to highlight key areas to focus on, allowing farmers to benchmark their own farm performance. We finish up wit...
2024-01-3025 min
OviCastBreeding, grassland and finishing lambs in Ballyhaise collegeFergus O’Rourke and Niall Conaty from Teagasc Ballyhaise Agricultural College in Co. Cavan join us on the latest OviCast podcast for an update on the flock. We start with Fergus giving us a bit of background to the farm and flock. Niall discusses the breeding plan, keeping an eye on ewe condition mating management. With the difficult grazing conditions Niall discusses how they have adapted management to graze out heavier covers while we also discuss the closing plan for the farm and current targets. Fergus discusses lamb perf...
2023-10-2419 min
OviCastJoining ewe lambs & some of the factors that influence its successDr Tim Keady joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss joining ewe lambs and some of the factors that influence its success. Tim discusses what the key drivers of the system are, we discuss the impact of joining weight and the influence that the ram effect can have. Tim offers his insights on the duration of the breeding season and ram management during the mating period. We discuss post mating management with Tim emphasising the importance of nutrition and the need to manage ewe lambs separately during the production cycle. We...
2023-10-1322 min
OviCastHow do foster lambs perform relative to their counterparts?At a point in the season where we’re looking at how lambs perform and where the tail end lambs come from, on this week’s OviCast podcast, we chat to Dr Frank Campion about how foster lambs perform in commercial flocks. Frank discusses some work he has recently presented on the topic, we discuss how these lambs grow in early and late lactation, the variation among them and their counterparts and some of the reasons why some lag behind and others aren’t successfully reared drop off. We finish up discussing...
2023-08-2910 min
OviCastMarket challengesBord Bia Sheep Sector manager, Seamus McMenamin, joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to give a market update. Seamus discusses current throughput and some of the challenges with light carcass at present. He also discusses the international trade, in particular the increased volumes of Australian lambs and what impact that has had on our export market. Seamus has an update on plant approval to get lamb exported onto the US market, and with store lamb sales ramping up, we move on to discuss the potential impact of an...
2023-08-0816 min
OviCastCan we reduce ewe wastage and improve their longevity in a flock?Why are ewes leaving the flock and can we reduce the level of ewe wastage? On this week’s OviCast podcast, we discuss this topic in more detail with Prof. Paul Keynon from New Zealand’s Massey University. Paul discusses the reasons ewes are culled and lost out of the system and explains the impact this can have on flock output, lamb performance and costs in the system. Paul also talks to us about variation in ewe replacement rates in flocks in New Zealand and some of the reasons for these differen...
2023-06-1314 min
OviCastGetting clover into the grazing swardOn this week’s OviCast, I’m joined by Catherine Egan host of the Teagasc Beef Edge podcast for a joint episode to discuss all things clover with Dr. Mike Egan, Teagasc researcher. Mike starts by highlighting the potential role of clover in drystock systems, how it works and the potential cost savings. We discuss the impact of soil fertility and weed control has on successful establishment and Mike talks about the impact of timing, sowing rate and varieties selection and over-sowing methods of incorporating clover in to sward. Post...
2023-04-2529 min
OviCastNematodirus challenge in lambsDr. Orla Keane is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the challenge of Nematodirus in lambs this spring. Orla first explains how the Nematodirus challenge can carry over on farms from year to year. She highlights the Department of Agriculture Nematodirus forecast and the implications for farmers. Orla explains what age it affects lambs, the clinical signs, as well as the risk for young calves. She also discusses the possibility of co-infection with Coccidia and explains the treatment options and best practice w...
2023-04-1110 min
OviCastNew study aims to get to grips with lamenessOn this week’s OviCast podcast, we’re joined by postgraduate student, Jake Delaney, and Teagasc Researcher, Dr Frank Campion, to discuss a new project that aims to examine lameness and associated issues on Irish farms. Jake first outlines the common causes and issues around lameness, while Frank discusses the impact it has on performance and some of the practical control issues that occur at farm level. Jake explains what they will be examining in the study and highlights an online survey that is currently available and that he encourages farmers to compl...
2023-04-0411 min
OviCastDealing with the current adverse weather conditionsConditions during March have been difficult and has thrown up many challenges for farmers. On this week's OviCast podcast, we’re joined by Teagasc’s Head of Sheep, Michael Gottstein, to discuss this in more detail and offer some advice on how to manage things through this period for those at different stages - from those lambed in early March, to those currently lambing and with outdoor lambing flocks. We discuss various aspects of management, grazing, nutrition and hygiene and highlight some of the disease risks during the period with Michael offering...
2023-03-2928 min
OviCastTreating hypothermia in lambs and use of the glucose/intra-peritoneal injectionSheep specialist, Michael Gottstein, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to talk about diagnosing and treating hypothermia in lambs. Michael explains what hypothermia is, the symptoms and predisposing factors. They discuss steps involved to warm these lambs up to normal body temperature based on age, severity and the type of energy source required. Michael explains why and how to use the glucose/intra-peritoneal injection, describing the technique, how to make up the glucose solution and why it’s a vital lifesaving technique that farmers can use.
2023-03-1419 min
OviCastColostrum: what to know about collection, storage and thawingDr Emer Kennedy joins Ciarán Lynch on this latest OviCast podcast to talk about some key aspects of colostrum management on farms. Emer explains the importance of colostrum in newborn ruminants and discusses the importance of hygiene during the collection process, storage both fresh and frozen of the colostrum, as well as the correct thawing procedure. Emer highlights the impact management has on colostrum quality during each of these tasks and offers some useful practical tips that farmers can implement this spring. For more episodes from the Ovi...
2023-03-0711 min
OviCastTackling sheep scab in Northern IrelandCounty Antrim veterinarian and sheep farmer, Paul Crawford, who is also the chairman of the Northern Ireland Sheep Scab Group joins us on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss sheep scab. Paul starts by explaining what causes sheep scab, the clinical symptoms and how to diagnose it in flocks. We discuss the routes of transmission and risk factors for the spread of mites before Paul takes us through the treatment options and the challenge of developing resistance to some of these, highlighting the importance of best practice. We di...
2023-02-2828 min
OviCastFlock healthThis week’s OviCast podcast is from a recent Let’s Talk Sheep webinar with Maresa Sheehan who is based in the DAFM RVL in county Kilkenny. Maresa talks about the flock health issues that they observe in the lab each spring, what causes them and explains what approach to take when issues occur. She goes on to discuss the thin ewe survey which is a new project being run by the RVLs across the country this year. Maresa also takes questions submitted by the audience on the night...
2023-02-2237 min
OviCastSpring fertiliser planningTeagasc Soil & Plant Nutrition Specialist, Mark Plunkett, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss fertiliser planning this spring. With fertiliser costs remaining high, Mark starts by explaining timing, location and rate of nitrogen application this spring with Mark highlighting the crops’ requirements at present. He discusses the P & K requirements and how this could be supplied to grazing ground and the silage crop with Mark emphasising the importance of slurry use and alternative strategies where this is not available. He then discusses the impact...
2023-02-1414 min
OviCastLate pregnancy nutrition: energy demand, ration composition & protein sourceFor the latest OviCast podcast, Ciarán Lynch discusses late pregnancy nutrition with Dr Tim Keady. Tim discusses the impact of nutrition on performance in the weeks before lambing and Tim explains the increase in foetal growth that occurs during these final weeks of gestation and the impact this has on the ewe’s energy demand and intake. He discusses concentrate price and why it’s essential to examine ration composition when purchasing. Tim expands on this point giving his pick of energy, fibre and protein sources he would include in a ration...
2023-02-0822 min
OviCastThe impact of dosing adult ewes for worms has on the development of resistanceOn this week’s OviCast podcast Ciarán Lynch caught up with Dr Dave Leathwick following this year’s National Sheep Conference. Dave, who is principal scientist in parasitology at the Pastoral Agricultural Research Centre in New Zealand, has for almost 35 years been researching nematode parasites of grazing livestock, with a focus on their biology and control, and the development and management of anthelmintic resistance. Dave discusses the challenge posed by anthelminthic resistance in New Zealand and the factors contributing to its development. In a wide ranging discussion Dave explains in detail the impact o...
2023-01-3119 min
OviCastMarket Trends 2023: Throughput, current challenges & demand for the coming monthsSeamus McMenamin, Sector Manager with Bord Bia, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast with an update on the current market trends. Seamus first discusses the throughput in the back end of 2022 and the carryover of lambs into this year before moving on to some of the challenges seen in the current trade and lamb consumption figures in our main markets as well as the domestic trade. Seamus also highlights the current lamb supply and demand on the global market and what the prospects are for the coming months. Finally, Seamus...
2023-01-2615 min
OviCastManaging ewe lamb replacements – does it influence their performance as ewes?Dr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss managing ewe lamb replacements and the influence that has on their subsequent productivity. Tim first outlines the various sources of replacements in the national flocks. With the majority of these replacements not entering flocks until 18-19 months of age, he discusses the various factors during the rearing phase that influence their subsequent productivity. Tim breaks down the rearing phase into winter and summer management and explains their impacts. He then discusses the target weights at the various stages and ho...
2023-01-1017 min
OviCastFarmer Focus: Leitrim farmer John O’Connell on managing ewes this winter, scanning & setting the flock up for lambingFor the latest OviCast podcast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by county Leitrim farmer, John O’Connell, who is a participant in the Teagasc Signpost programme. John discusses what’s been happening on the farm in the past few weeks as he has housed the ewe flock. He also talks about grazing management this autumn and some of the challenges and benefits of winter grazing off farm. John explain maintaining ewe condition and the move to winter shearing ewes in recent seasons as well as why he has moved t...
2023-01-0616 min
OviCastDealing with the challenges during 2022 & the key tasks to start 2023Sheep Specialists, Michael Gottstein and Damian Costello, join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss the sheep farming year and look ahead to what’s in store for 2023. Michael first looks back at 2022 and some of the challenges it posed discussing how some farms were better able to adapt to these challenges and what made their systems more resilient. Damian discusses some key tasks that need to be completed early in the New Year to set farms up for 2023. Both Michael and Damian finish up encour...
2022-12-2028 min
OviCastUpdate on the forage crop study: performance to date & managing during the cold snapDr. Frank Campion and postgraduate student, Mark Dolan, join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast with an update on the ongoing work examining finishing hill-bred lambs on a range of forage crops. Mark first gives the background to the project and what crops they are grazing, followed by an update on crop yield and utilisation this year and the reason for some of the differences observed. They also discuss lamb performance across the different crops and how they have been managed up to this point. The recent cold snap has posed chal...
2022-12-1319 min
OviCastFarm Safety this WinterTeagasc Advisor, Serena Gibbons, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss farm safety this winter. Serena first discusses the recent data from the Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) highlighting the number and location of accidents on farms. She highlights the extra challenges the recent cold snap poses and has some practical tips to deal with it as well as the need for some caution around routine tasks. With a lot of work conducted in the evenings in farm yards, Serena details the importance of good yard lighting and why some jobs are b...
2022-12-0811 min
OviCastWhat you need to know about the new Sheep Improvement SchemeMichael Gottstein, Teagasc's Head of Sheep, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the new Sheep Improvement Scheme launched by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Michael starts by outlining the timeframe for the scheme and the payments available. He discusses how to apply for the scheme and the options for new entrants. He explains how the reference number is calculated for each flock and discusses the tasks involved for both lowland and hill farmers, detailing the new genotyped ram task and how this will ope...
2022-11-2918 min
OviCastAssessing the fluke risk this winterDr. James O’Shaughnessy from the Dept. of Agriculture Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast for a broad discussion on the risk fluke poses this winter. James describes the impact it has on animal health from acute to chronic infection and discusses the forecasted fluke risk for this winter and how that can vary across the country and amongst farms with James explaining detection, sources of information and the importance of farm history. Treatment options and the importance of choosing an appropria...
2022-11-2226 min
OviCastFinishing lambs: the impact of diet & managementDr Tim Keady is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss some key aspects of finishing lambs in the latter half of the season. Tim gives some context on the numbers finished in the latter half of the season and the levels of performance achieved at grass in late autumn along with the impact of concentrate supplementation. He also discusses indoor finishing systems and some of the key considerations from expected finish date to facilities available. With high concentrate prices, producers will be looking at some alternat...
2022-11-1520 min
OviCastManaging breeding ram lambs as the season draws to a closeTeagasc advisor, David Argue, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss some important aspects of ram lamb management as the breeding season draws to a close. Management during the first season can have an impact on ram longevity, David begins by emphasising the importance of having rams acclimatised prior to turnout. He discusses management of ram lambs during the breeding season and in particular the duration of the joining period. David also highlights the importance of meeting their nutritional needs during the post mati...
2022-11-0110 min
OviCastUpdate from the Central Progeny Testing flocks’ improving marginsSean Godfrey from Sheep Ireland is on this week’s OviCast podcast with an update on what’s happening in the Central Progeny Test (CPT) farms. Sean first explains the role of the CPT flocks and the other sources of commercial data that goes into the evaluations. He discusses the number of ewes and rams involved, plus the mating strategy on the farms from the use of cervical AI to mob mating and the role of genotyping to identify parentage. With a lot of traits being measured on the far...
2022-10-2714 min
OviCastThe 12 steps to reduce gaseous emissions on sheep farm whilst improving marginsAs part of Sustainability Week, Teagasc advisor Tom Coll joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the 12 steps from the Teagasc Signpost team to reduce gaseous emissions on sheep farms. Tom starts by highlighting how some of these steps will require a change of mindset, others are common practice on sheep farms which will not only have environmental benefits but will also result in better welfare and profitability on farms. Tom breaks down the 12 steps into 3 key sections: land, livestock and inputs. He explains each of these i...
2022-10-1820 min
OviCastMating advice - reducing the risk posed by an infertile ramTeagasc sheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast with key tips around ram management during the mating period. Firstly, Damian emphasises the need to make sure the ram is physically sound and any aliments are addressed prior to turnout and how this could impact ram fertility. Damian talks about the use of raddle and the need to observe mating activity and in particular repeats during the mating period. He discusses dealing with injured rams and why it’s a good idea to check ra...
2022-10-1113 min
OviCastPlanning the autumn grazing rotationDr Philip Creighton is on this week’s OviCast to discuss some key aspects of grazing management this autumn. Philip first talks about current grazing conditions and supply on farms as well as some of the challenges this autumn. He then discusses the closing plan and how this may need to be modified on farms where supplies are tight. Philip explains how clover or multi species swards may have to be managed slightly differently at closing to get the best out of these swards. Finally...
2022-10-0418 min
OviCastFarmer Focus: Drafting, breeding ewe lambs and grassland management in Co. RoscommonShane Moore, BETTER Farm Participant who is farming just outside Athleague in county Roscommon, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to talk about lamb performance and drafting. With the breeding season around the corner, he discusses breeding ewe lambs and how this year’s cohort are shaping up. Shane also discusses grassland management, overall production this year and how he has made some changes to his management from using protected urea to using a dribble bar for slurry to establishing clover based swards in response to increased input costs.
2022-09-2715 min
OviCastHaemonchus contortus: a parasite challenge to be aware of in sheepSéamus Fagan from the Department of Agriculture’s Regional Veterinary Lab in Athlone joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss Haemonchus contortus infection in sheep. Séamus explains how this parasite is sometimes referred to as the barber’s pole and how it affects sheep. With some cases appearing around the country this year, he discusses the symptoms, transmission and control options as well as diagnosis in flocks. Finally, Séamus encourages farmers to be vigilant when it comes to flock health issues, inv...
2022-09-0611 min
OviCastFarmer Focus: Francis Gonley in Co Sligo & his plans for lamb finishingBETTER Farm participant, Francis Gonley, and programme manager, Dr. Frank Campion, are on this week’s OviCast podcast to chat about Francis’ system and lamb finishing this autumn. Francis starts off explaining his lowland and hill system, grass growth and how the lambs have performed this season. He discusses his reasons for selling off the lighter lambs from both flocks as stores, while Frank discusses the level of performance of the long keep lambs and how they don’t suit every system. Francis details his options for selling and finishing the remaining lambs on the fa...
2022-08-3015 min
OviCastSheep Market UpdateSeamus McMenamin, Sheep Sector Manager with Bord Bia, is on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss current trends and the outlook for the sheep market in the coming months. Seamus begins by discussing current trade and throughput this year to date. Since spring, Seamus explains the impact reopening has had on lamb consumption both on the domestic and international market as well as the trends in international trade. He then discusses the prospects for the lambs and ewe trade over the coming weeks and months. Finally, Seamus h...
2022-08-1614 min
OviCastDo companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep?Post-graduate student, Sarah Woodmartin, and Dr Fiona McGovern join Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss ongoing work examining the effect of companion forages influence intake, digestibility and methane production in sheep as part of a wider Grass2Gas project. Sarah first gives a bit of background to the project before discussing what is being examined, some of the preliminary results and their implications as well as future areas of interest. For more episodes from the OviCast podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/ani...
2022-07-2112 min
OviCastTime to check and cull for mastitisWith ewes being weaned across the country it provides farmers with an opportunity to check udders for mastitis and other issues and remove these problem ewes from the flock. Ryan Duffy, Technical Vet with HIPRA, joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss the implications of mastitis in ewes and offers some practical advice on the topic. Ryan explains the different types of mastitis that occurs, the need to cull ewes exhibiting any signs of infection, as well as the impact of udder and teat structure. He...
2022-07-0521 min
OviCastParasite Control TASAH ConsultDr Natascha Meunier from Animal Health Ireland is on this week’s OviCast podcast to tell us more about the Targeted Advisory Service on Animal Health (TASAH) parasite control consult which is a new fully funded programme from Animal Health Ireland.
Natascha starts by putting the challenge of resistance in context and why we need to proactively address it.
The parasite control consult is available to cattle and sheep farmers and Natascha explains the aim of the programme and what it offers farmers who wish to participate.
The TASAH programme will fund a veterinary farm visit from trained practitioners and tw...
2022-05-2410 min
OviCastGetting clover into the systemWith clover more in focus than ever, this week’s episode of OviCast is joined by Germinal’s Dr Mary McEvoy to discuss in more detail.
Mary outlines the role of clover in swards and its potential benefits and talks about the different establishment methods from a full reseed to over-sowing.
She discusses field selection, sowing rate and a number of other key factors that will influence its success.
Mary then takes us through pre and post-sowing management to ensure good establishment while in the latter half of the podcast she discusses the potential of red clover in sheep systems with...
2022-05-0417 min
OviCastNematodirus in lambsDr James O’Shaughnessy from the Dept. of Agriculture Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Backweston joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss Nematodirus disease in lambs.
James starts by describing the life cycle of Nematodirus and how it differs from other stomach worms.
He discusses how it affects lambs and the symptoms to watch out for and he also discusses the limitations of faecal egg counts for this condition.
With the recent release of this year’s Nematodirus forecast, James explains how to use this information and how prevailing weather conditions can affect this from year to...
2022-04-1916 min
OviCastGrassland Focus: Priorities for AprilThe focus for this week’s episode of the OviCast podcast switches to grassland with Ciarán Lynch joined by Dr Philip Creighton to discuss the key priorities for April.
Philip starts by discussing the current grazing situation before then moving on to discuss the key management tasks from grouping up to temporary fencing with Philip explaining the impact this has on grass growth and animal performance.
He offers some advice on fertiliser application during April and the impact that this has on the system.
He then discusses planning next year’s winter fodder on farms emphasising the need to focus...
2022-04-0517 min
OviCastOpening covers, fertiliser and planning aheadGrassland researcher, Dr Philip Creighton, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss various aspects of grassland management this spring.
Philip starts by discussing current grass availability on farm with the higher than average winter growth. He moves on to the topic of fertiliser purchases this spring and Philip emphasises the need to complete a budget for the fertiliser spend on the farm this year.
Philip explains the impact that timing, conditions and grass covers have on response rates for fertiliser this spring and he also discusses tailoring fertiliser application rates depending on stocking rate and dem...
2022-01-2522 min
OviCastFarmer Focus: Tomás O’Toole and his lamb finishing in the westTomás O’Toole, a Teagasc BETTER Farm Sheep Programme participant, who is farming in Moyard outside of Clifden Co Galway, and sheep specialist Damian Costello, join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast.
Tomás runs a split hill and lowland flock and a suckler to weaning system which he explains in more detail. He discusses the changes in his flock over the past number of years and his decision to run two separate sheep enterprises, his breeding decisions and the progress and challenges he has encountered on the way.
Tomás explains the move away from selling...
2021-12-2818 min
OvicastComo começar na dublagem? com Thaís DurãesThaís faz a voz da Sage do Valorant (e diversos outros personagens), nesse episódio falamos sobre a carreira de dublagem e muito mais!
2021-12-101h 16
OviCastThe feed value of winter grazingDr Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of winter grazing and how it impacts ewe performance.
Tim starts by discussing the potential mutual benefits of moving sheep to winter grazing both for the flock owner and host farmer and he also discusses the role of extended grazing before moving on to discuss the frequency of grass allocation with Tim offering his tips on managing grazing at this stage of the year.
Tim explains the feed values of grass during the winter, the factors that influence it and how it affects ewe per...
2021-12-0617 min
OviCastUpdate on the Sheep Welfare SchemeSheep Specialist, Damian Costello, is on this week’s OviCast to discuss the Sheep Welfare scheme.
Damian starts by giving some background to the scheme before discussing the changes to the reference number for the coming year and what this well mean for participants.
He also reminds us of the various tasks in the current scheme and the proposed changes for the planned next phase as well as the suggested payment rate.
Damian reminds participants of the importance of maintaining records and necessary receipts before he then discusses the options for new entrants to the scheme.
For more episodes from th...
2021-11-2910 minOvicastDá pra viver de casting hoje? com AnyazitaConheça a história da Anyazita, narradora de eSports.
2021-11-281h 02
OviCastMeasuring methane in sheep – breeding for lower emissionsDr Noirín McHugh and postgraduate student Edel O’Connor join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the ongoing project examining methane emissions in sheep.
Noirín first highlights the importance of this work in the current climate, while Edel explains how they are using portable accumulation chambers to measure emissions from up to 72 sheep per day in Teagasc Athenry and on commercial farms.
Edel explains how much methane different ages of sheep emit and how this compares to other livestock while they discuss the variation observed in the level of emissions from sheep and Noirín explai...
2021-11-2311 minOvicastO sonho que me mantém viva! com JujuraxJujurax é uma mulher trans, já foi jogadora, coach e conta como foi se tornar analista de valorant.
2021-11-191h 14
OviCastAnimal Health Awareness week – focus on AMRAs part of Animal Health Awareness week, on this week’s OviCast are Department of Agriculture Vets Caroline Garvan and Damian Barrett.
Damian begins by explaining the objective of Animal Health Awareness week and its importance in the current climate while Caroline explains why Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major concern and the concept of the one health approach.
They discuss the usage within the sheep sector and how the overall industry figure is calculated and Caroline explains why some types of antibiotics are deemed critically important due to their use in human medicine and how the route of administration ca...
2021-11-1635 minOvicastQuando ela chegou era tudo mato! com Maria FoguetaMaria Fogueta, primeira narradora feminina na história do CBLOL.
2021-11-101h 04
OviCastThe importance of the Clean Livestock PolicyPresenting lambs clean at the abattoir becomes more challenging as the year progresses and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc to discuss this topic further.
Michael starts by explaining the Clean Livestock Policy (CLP) and its importance, highlighting the key areas on the lamb that cause issues and how the industry has implemented changes to address this.
He discusses the predisposing factors that will lead to lambs becoming dirtier and what practical steps can be taken at this time of the year to reduce this.
He also discusses rem...
2021-11-0915 minOvicastO que é a publi preguiçosa? com Vanessa DanieliVocê sabe o que faz uma analista de marketing de influência? A Vanessa conta tudo pra gente e muito mais!
2021-11-061h 06
OviCastChoosing the appropriate liver fluke doseAs liver fluke is a large risk at the moment, Teagasc’s Dr Orla Keane joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss selecting the appropriate treatment for this stage of the season.
Firstly Orla gives a quick recap on the risk that fluke poses and the stages of its development. She discusses the various classes of flukicide available with Orla explaining what stage of fluke they are suitable to treat and the role others could play later in the season.
Orla highlights the challenge of using combination fluke and wormers as part of routine fluke treatment in ad...
2021-11-0210 min
OviCastWhy you should consider temporary grazingDamian Costello, sheep specialist with Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss temporary grazing this back end.
Damian highlights some considerations when taking on temporary grazing and how it can benefit both parties involved.
He emphasises the need to ensure all animals are tagged before leaving farm and he discusses at length the various movement notification considerations for a variety of scenarios.
Damian also takes us through the need to retain movement records afterwards and how to apply for credit under the nitrates regulations.
For more detail, here is the link to the NSIS guide: htt...
2021-10-2615 minOvicastOs jogos não foram criados para as mulheres! com YokuYoku é streamer, já foi manager de uma organização e nesse episódio debatemos sobre a hipersexualização das mulheres em várias áreas.
2021-10-251h 37OvicastOs passos para a criação de um jogo! com Silvani NeriA Silvani é game designer e produtora, nesse episódio ela conta como é criar um jogo, quais as maiores dificuldades e muito mais.
2021-10-211h 05
OviCastCleaning out swards and closing up on timeAs we enter the final grazing rotation of the season, Ciarán Lynch is joined on this week’s OviCast by Dr. Philip Creighton who offers some grazing advice to keep us on track from now to set up our spring grazing.
Philip starts by discussing the importance of achieving good graze outs and how that influences sward production next spring. Philip also offers tips on dealing with heavy covers that are on many farms this October and he discusses the closing targets and why they are important.
Finally, Philip highlights why it’s important to avoid the temptation of re-gr...
2021-10-1914 minOvicastA Daenerys foi mais do que uma personagem! com Jenny YunoJenny é cosplayer e streamer na Bounce e hoje falamos sobre GOT e suas representações femininas.
2021-10-141h 02
OviCastThe benefits of raddling ramsSheep specialist, Damian Costello, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss why farmers should consider raddling rams this breeding season.
Damian discusses the two types used - either raddle paste or ram harnesses - and offers tips on their use and ways to leave it easier to catch rams to top these up.
He explains which order different raddle colours should be and discusses how to make use of changing raddle colour to better predict lambing date and plan feeding programmes in late pregnancy.
Damian and Ciarán discuss how raddling can be used to monitor ram...
2021-10-1211 minOvicastEstudar três línguas ao mesmo tempo? com HannocaaConheçam a Hanna, ela é ilustradora, social media e estudante de publicidade (e ainda fala 3 línguas diferentes)
2021-10-0746 min
OviCastFarmer focus: Brian Nicholson - breeding season kicking off in KilkennyThis week’s OviCast is a farmer focus interview with Brian Nicholson who farms just outside of Johnstown in Co Kilkenny. Brian runs a large-scale sheep flock and is a participant CPT flock with Sheep Ireland.
Brian discusses sales in this year’s lamb crop and his plans for finishing the remaining lambs this autumn before moving on to discuss the breeding plan for the farm and he takes us through the various breeding groups from the commercial flock of 290ewes to the ewes that will be AI’D and natural mated as part of the central progeny test programme with S...
2021-10-0517 minOvicastTrabalhar jogando é possível? com YariaxYariax é streamer e criadora de conteúdo da Beyond Digital Sports e conta como foi descobrir que dava pra trabalhar jogando
2021-10-031h 00
OviCastA group with a difference: Ólas Hill FarmsOn this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch heads to Westport in Co. Mayo where he was joined by Tom Gill and Teagasc Advisor John Noonan to find out more about Ólas Hill Farms.
Centred around Westport, Ólas Hill Farms was initially set up with a focus on breeding sales which then expanded to encompass a producer group that now has more than 400 members.
Tom is a member and one of the co-ordinators of the group and he explains how it has delivered for his own system and that of the other members.
The group works closely with Kildare Chilling where...
2021-09-2816 minOvicastA Disney não me quis, então fui minha própria princesa! com Cáah FigueiredoBarbie em pessoa?? Conheça a Cáah! Ela é atriz e artesã! A colorida mais fofa do mundooo!
2021-09-2358 min
OviCastTime to consider plunge dippingHead of sheep in Teagasc Michael Gottstein joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to discuss the control of external parasites in sheep.
Michael starts by describing how plunge dipping was common practice on many farms and now needs to be considered once again for external parasite control particularly to replace the use of injectable macrocyclic lactones (Group 3-ML) products for whole flock treatment.
They discuss best practice when it comes to dipping with Michael emphasising how the duration the sheep are dipped for has a big impact on its efficacy. He highlights the need to replenish the...
2021-09-2124 minOvicastEla é dona de uma empresa com 17 anos! Larissa SantEmpreendedora aos 17 anos? TEMOS! Dona da Phases Art, uma loja que fabrica peças de bijuterias personalizadas.
2021-09-1741 min
OviCastFarmer focus: John Joe Fitzgerald – a hill farm in transitionJohn Joe Fitzgerald, a participant in the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme and the new Teagasc Signpost Programme joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest farmer focus on OviCast.
John Joe first describes his farming system with some insights into the type of hill he is working on five miles west of Dingle in county Kerry.
He then discusses his ewe flock, the breeds used and how it has transitioned during the past few years as he pushed the flock back onto the hill more.
John Joe explains the new handling facility he built which includes a dipping tank and b...
2021-09-1413 min
OviCastJoining ewe lambs – what to considerDr. Tim Keady joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the subject of joining ewe lambs to lambs at 1 year old.
Tim starts by outlining the potential to improve productivity by lambing ewe lambs at 1 year old, but he also highlights some of the challenges it can place on the system.
He discusses the various effects of joining weight on productivity, the use of the ram effect and management of ewe lambs throughout the joining period.
Finally, Tim discusses the knock on effect lambing yearling ewes has on their subsequent performance particularly the following season as 18 mon...
2021-09-0716 minOvicastO que a Blizzard fez? com Mary e BeaInfluenciadoras do Esporte Clube Bahia contam como é criar conteúdo para a internet.
2021-09-041h 04
OviCastForage crops: can they carry store lambs to finish?Dr Frank Campion and Mark Dolan join Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss some of the ongoing work examining the role of forage crops in store lamb finishing systems.
Mark starts by giving some back ground to his project, discussing the crops sown, when they went in and the type of lambs he is finishing while Frank highlights the role these crops have in store lambs finishing systems.
As carrying and finishing capacity of these crops is highly important, Mark and Frank describe the crop yield they achieved last year, their carrying capacity and how many lam...
2021-08-3114 minOvicastComo ser uma streamer de sucesso? com Mandie RochaMandie é streamer, designer, atriz, (canta um pouquinho também) TEM ALGO QUE ESSA MULHER NÃO FAZ????
2021-08-261h 15
OviCastA field, a marquee, an auctioneer and 4000 sheep: the Cooley Sheep Breeders Association saleIf someone was travelling along the Greenore Road in Carlingford on the first Saturday in September they would be forgiven for stopping to take in the spectacle of the Cooley Sheep Breeders Association annual sale.
On a greenfield site the sale has become a focal point for local breeders to sell breeding ewe lambs and hoggets and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Conor McCann, the current chairman of the association, and local Teagasc advisor, Hugh Rooney, to explain more about the sale and how it came about.
Hugh and Conor give the background to how...
2021-08-2417 min2021-08-191h 01
OviCastPre-breeding vaccination: toxoplasmosis and enzootic abortionPre-breeding vaccination is one way to reduce lambs losses and barren rates next spring and is a key point highlighted by Sarah Campbell veterinary advisor with MSD Animal Health who joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain in more detail.
Sarah starts by highlighting the need to identify the cause of abortion through the veterinary laboratory’s and highlights the common causes reported on farm.
She discusses the two most common causes of abortion namely Enzootic abortion and Toxoplasmosis in more detail explaining how these are spread and how the timing of infection effects the ewe. In bo...
2021-08-1721 min
OvicastOVICAST #1 - Zhayra (Social Media)Tudo sobre a Zhayra, social media de grandes potências da Bahia!
2021-08-1337 min
OviCastQuarantine treating bought in stockWhen new animals arrive on farm they can potentially bring some unwanted health issues with them. To minimise the risk, it’s important there is a quarantine procedure in place and on this week’s OviCast, Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciarán Lynch to discuss this issue in more detail.
Michael starts by emphasising why this is an important consideration for any flock owner. He discusses the importance of inspecting the sheep at purchase and asking some basic questions of the seller about the health status of their flock.
Some preparation is needed to correctly quarantine anima...
2021-08-1017 min
OviCastTime to check the ram team and settle new rams inAssessing if the ram team is fit for purpose is an essential task at this point of the season and on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by drystock advisor Edward Egan to discuss this in more detail.
Edward starts by explaining why this needs to be conducted now to allow for corrective action to be taken or a replacement ram purchased well in advance of the breeding season.
Edward takes us through some of the basic checks that should be conducted, checking ram soundness and the absence of injuries, infections or other impairments.
They discuss the imp...
2021-08-0216 min
OviCastGenotyping – a step forward this seasonWith the rams sales season kicking into high gear, Dr Alan Bohan from Sheep Ireland joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss how genotyping has improved the genetic information available to breeders and farmers alike.
Alan discusses the increase in the number of animals genotyped this year and explains the process and costs involved in genotyping.
He then discusses the benefits of genotyping animals from parentage verification to scrapie genotyping.
Genotyping also provides a genomic evaluation which improves the accuracy of the index and Alan explains why this is a major benefit to farmers.
Finally, he dis...
2021-07-2711 min
OviCastSynchronising ewesAs the breeding season for early lambing and pedigree flocks is starting, Prof. David Kenny Head of the Animal Biosciences Dept in Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss various aspects of synchronisation in ewes.
David starts by explaining the pros and cons of synchronisation in sheep and he discusses the role of sponging and PMSG in the synchronising process as well as the protocol used, including the timing of ram introduction.
David then highlights the importance of the correct ewe to ram ratio and discusses some strategies to deal this.
He finishes up discussing the...
2021-07-2010 min
OviCastThe role of cobalt supplementationMichael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the role of cobalt supplementation in lambs.
Michael starts by describing how cobalt supplementation helps lamb performance and he moves on to discuss some of the typical signs of cobalt deficiency in lambs.
They discuss supplementation strategies and the pros and cons of each and how the type of cobalt contained in the supplement may affect the lamb’s ability to absorb it.
Finally, Michael encourages producers to check whether they are getting a performance benefit from supplementation with minerals.
For more episo...
2021-07-1313 min
OviCastTeagasc BETTER farm flocks – lamb growth & weaningDr. Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s episode of OviCast with an update on some of the performance and management decisions on the Teagasc BETTER sheep farms as we head into the mid-summer period.
Frank starts by discussing current activities on the farms and discusses lamb performance on the lowland flocks to date as well as some of the challenges they faced so far this year and how it influenced performance.
Frank highlights how lamb weaning weights can effect management for the season and how checking the proportion of lambs that fall into different weight categories is...
2021-07-0612 min
OviCastDon’t dose and move –short term gain vs long termTraditionally in mid-summer the idea of dosing and moving to clean or cleaner pasture in the form of reseeds or after grass was common practice, but with the increasing development of anthelminthic resistance, that practice has become problematic.
To explain why, on this week’s episode of OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Dr. Orla Keane. Orla sets out what the key issue is with dosing and moving to clean pasture and in doing so she also explains what is considered to be clean and cleaner pasture on sheep farms.
She discusses managing refugia and maintaining a susceptible worm pop...
2021-06-2910 min
OviCastReplacing silage offtakes and maintaining soil fertilityMark Plunkett, soil and plant nutrition specialist with Teagasc, joins Ciarán Lynch on the latest OviCast podcast to discuss some key areas to maintain soil fertility.
Mark discusses the importance of replacing p & K offtakes from surplus silage and discusses the fertiliser requirements for those considering a second cut of silage with Mark outlining a number of options.
He also explains why sulphur inclusion is an important consideration highlighting the responses achieved on a range of soils there is a discussion on the benefits of low emissions slurry spreading at this stage of the season.
Lime usage nationally is h...
2021-06-2315 min
OviCastMarket update - what’s influencing trends this year to dateSeamus McMenamin, sheep meat sector manager with Bord Bia, joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to discuss the market situation so far this year.
Seamus starts by discussing the trade in the year to date and the impact of tighter lamb supply on price.
They discuss how that has impacted the export market – and despite lower volumes the value of exports has gone up this year reflective of a higher global demand for sheep meat.
Seamus explains how the trend in lamb supply week on week is lower than last year to date relative to previous years befor...
2021-06-1513 min
OviCastSm@RT – precision livestock farming for sheepDr Tim Keady from Teagasc who is the lead researcher in Ireland for a new EU-funded project called Sm@RT joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast to explain the project.
Sm@RT brings together a network of researchers from eight countries: Ireland, Estonia, France, Hungary, Italy, Norway, UK and Israel. Tim explains how the aim of Sm@rt is to increase the awareness of those working in the sheep and goat sectors of newly available precision livestock farming (PLF) tools. He also explains what PLF tools are and how they can potentially improve productivity and labour efficiency.
Tim...
2021-06-0808 min
OviCastWeighing up the companion foragesThis week’s episode of OviCast finds out about an ongoing study between Teagasc and UCD examining how companion forages – chicory, plantain, red and white clover - perform alongside a perennial ryegrass sward in sheep systems.
Lisa McGrane a postgraduate student who is working on the project joined Ciarán Lynch on the podcast to explain more and began by discussing the crops and how they are being managed as separate farm lets in a system.
She then discussed how they are examining the effects on animal performance. They are also investigating how the sward performs under grazing conditions and the c...
2021-06-0113 min
OviCastGetting clover into the system – consider over-sowing?Incorporating clover into a sward has multiple benefits in livestock systems and to discuss this in more detail on this week’s OviCast, Ciarán Lynch is joined by Dr Philip Creighton.
From recent work being conducted in Teagasc Athenry, Philip starts by explaining the impact that increasing the clover content in swards has on animal performance.
He goes on to explain how this can reduce the requirement for chemical nitrogen during the mid-season period.
Philip and Ciarán then discuss inclusion levels in a reseed mix and Philip highlights the clover varieties that should be considered for sheep swards befo...
2021-05-2522 min
OviCastChecking the financesFarmers should consider examining the financial performance of their farm in more detail by completing a profit monitor and on this week’s OviCast podcast, Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc tells Ciarán Lynch why it’s important.
Firstly, Michael outlines how to complete a profit monitor and what information is required. He explains how the income and costs are classified and the difference in variable and fixed costs.
He then discusses how to use this information as an opportunity to examine and improve the business and it also allows a farmer to benchmark farm performance against others and s...
2021-05-1118 min
OviCastLambing review – where can we improveWith lambing finishing up, this week’s OviCast podcast recaps on how well flocks have performed and where improvements can be made and to discuss this in more detail Ciarán Lynch is joined by Michael Gottstein Head of Sheep in Teagasc.
Michael starts by outlining why it’s important to take stock of how flock has performed during lambing when it’s fresh in our minds and complete a simple lambing review.
He discusses some of the key performance targets including issues around barrenness and ewes not rearing lambs and what follow up actions farmers can take before moving on to d...
2021-04-2725 min
OviCastIdentifying the problem ewes during lambingDr Frank Campion joins Ciarán Lynch on this week’s OviCast podcast to talk about reducing the number of problem ewes.
As many of the problems seen in a flock occur during lambing, Frank highlights the importance of identifying these sheep for culling with a permanent means so that they don’t re-appear in the flocks for the coming year.
Frank discusses the reasons for culling in flocks but also the importance of recording the reasons why these ewes were culled. He outlines why it’s important to review these reasons to identify potential issues within the flocks and expands...
2021-03-2309 min
OviCastSilage samplingA key step in late pregnancy nutrition for ewes is knowing the feed value of silage being used. In this episode of the OviCast podcast, sheep specialist Damian Costello joins Ciarán Carroll to explain the process of silage sampling in more detail, from the equipment needed to the process of taking the sample itself.
Damian then highlights the importance of getting a representative sample and why it’s necessary to take a number of samples where silages from different harvest dates are being used.
He moves on to discuss the preparation of that sample for sending and how to mak...
2020-12-1514 min