OviCast

• April Grass10 Update

  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

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• The National Sheep Welfare and Sheep Improvement Schemes

  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

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  20:56
• What fertiliser does your silage ground need?

  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

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  15:17
• Troubleshooting problems in the field

  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

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  23:09
• March Grass10 Update

  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

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