Using GPS technology to learn more about hill sheep grazing
Teagasc Walsh Scholar, Michael Dever, and Teagasc researcher, Dr. Frank Campion, join us on this week’s OviCast to discuss an exciting new project, recently launched in collaboration with SRUC. The project aims to use GPS technology to better understand hill sheep grazing patterns.Frank provides background on the project, while Michael outlines how they will assess animal performance across different groups of sheep that are released onto the hill at various stages. He also explains how the team will evaluate the botanical composition of the different grazing areas.Michael goes on to describe how GPS collars fitted to the ewes will allow the researchers to track their movements and identify specific grazing zones on the hill.We wrap up the episode with Frank sharing insights into the future direction of the project and the next steps in their research.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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May Grass10 Update
Teagasc Grass10 Advisor, Joseph Dunphy, returns with the monthly update on grassland management.In this episode, Joseph covers:· Current grass growth rates and average farm covers· Key grazing targets and maintaining sward quality· Fertiliser recommendations for second-cut silage and how to replenish offtakes· Tips for managing newly reseeded paddocksWhether you're actively grass measuring or just looking to stay ahead this season, Joseph shares practical, timely advice to help optimise your 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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Tackling scald and other lameness issues
Jake Delaney joins us on the latest OviCast to explore the issue of scald and other lameness problems on farm, and their wider impact on flock performance.Jake breaks down:- the causes and risk factors behind scald- why early intervention is essential- treatment optionsWe also take a look at other lameness conditions currently affecting farms, and the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.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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All you need to know about reseeding this spring
In a joint episode this week, we’re joined by Catherine Egan, host of the Beef Edge podcast, as we catch up with Dr Mary McEvoy, Technical Development manager with Germinal, to discuss all things reseeding. Mary discusses her top tips, from field preparation to seed mixes for grazing and silage as well as clover inclusion. We also discuss post sowing management and the impact that can have on a successful reseed. 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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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
OviCast is the Teagasc Sheep podcast.
Presented by Ciaran Lynch it brings you the latest advice, insights and technical updates for the sheep industry.
Visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/