21 June 2012

2 minute read

Europe

With more male calves being finished as bulls, this open day will provide an opportunity for all cattle farmers to hear and see the results of the latest Teagasc research on suckled bull beef production.

The focus of the event is on producing quality beef from the suckler herd. A live demonstration on the selection of finished bulls for sale, along with marketing to meet market specifications will be featured at the open day.

Eddie O’ Riordan, Teagasc Beef Enterprise Leader said: “The proportion of male animals produced as bulls has increased rapidly over the last few years with over one in four males produced as bulls in 2011. Through research at Grange a number of production blueprint options have been developed and these systems will be outlined. Suckled bull systems ranging from indoor ad libitum meal feeding, to blueprints incorporating a store period and/or part of a second season at pasture have been developed.“

On suckled calf-to beef units the financial implications of producing either steers and heifers, or bulls and heifers will be discussed and outlined at the open day. The role of alternative conserved forages for beef production will also be featured.

The stock in the Derrypatrick herd will be on display for visitors to view. Eddie O’ Riordan said: “While the stock from this herd will be on view on 27 June, there will be a specific open day on the Derrypatrick herd in September.“

Bernard Smyth, Head of Beef Knowledge Transfer, Teagasc said: “good grass management is the key to high levels of animal performance in most cattle systems. Teagasc advisers will facilitate farmer discussion at a Grassland demonstration at the open day.”

All cattle farmers are welcome, especially those involved in discussion groups in the new Beef Technology Adoption Scheme (BTAP). This is a BTAP qualifying event.

Research from the Teagasc Animal Bioscience Department will also be featured. The Beef Open Day runs from 11am - 4pm.

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