Farmers urged to weigh heifers for winter prep
October marks a critical month for dairy farmers preparing for winter and spring. Experts advise strategic paddock closures and heifer weighing to safeguard next year’s grass supply and herd performance.
Source:
Teagasc Agricultural News
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⏱️ 2 min read
October’s grazing strategy demands precision as farmers balance immediate feed needs with long-term spring grass reserves. Dr Joe Patton, Head of Dairy Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc, urges farmers to graze every suitable kilogram of grass while strategically closing paddocks for spring turnout. The final rotation typically begins around October 5-10, with earlier closures required on difficult soils. Prioritise drier paddocks with good access and water to ease spring grazing challenges.
Weighing heifer calves this month is essential to identify animals lagging behind target weights. Stuart Childs, Teagasc Dairy Specialist, stresses that appearance alone is unreliable—scales provide the only accurate measure of performance. Earlier intervention allows cheaper corrections before housing, when managing multiple groups becomes more complex. Drying off preparations also require attention, with selective antibiotic therapy and teat sealant forming key parts of herd health strategies.
Budgeting has never been more critical. With 2026’s challenging conditions squeezing margins, a quick cash-flow check offers a snapshot of herd profitability. A result of around €100 per cow or better provides reassurance, while lower figures necessitate a full six-month budget review. Fodder deficits must be addressed early to avoid winter feed shortages. Registration for November’s National Dairy Conference in Cork opens soon on the official website.
Weighing heifer calves this month is essential to identify animals lagging behind target weights. Stuart Childs, Teagasc Dairy Specialist, stresses that appearance alone is unreliable—scales provide the only accurate measure of performance. Earlier intervention allows cheaper corrections before housing, when managing multiple groups becomes more complex. Drying off preparations also require attention, with selective antibiotic therapy and teat sealant forming key parts of herd health strategies.
Budgeting has never been more critical. With 2026’s challenging conditions squeezing margins, a quick cash-flow check offers a snapshot of herd profitability. A result of around €100 per cow or better provides reassurance, while lower figures necessitate a full six-month budget review. Fodder deficits must be addressed early to avoid winter feed shortages. Registration for November’s National Dairy Conference in Cork opens soon on the official website.
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