Farmers must pay close attention to their obligations in order to optimise their own situation when it comes to CAP reform and Greening, according to Teagasc adviser Ivan Whitten.

Whitten was speaking at the Teagasc National Tillage conference in Kilkenny on Thursday, where he explained what Teagasc have been doing to ensure compliance from a practical point of view. Paul Evans of the Department of Agriculture presented the latest information on CAP reform and Greening to attendees.

Speaking at the conference John Spink said the key to the future profitability of the tillage sector "is to exploit our high yield potential with rotations playing a key role". He said that three of the main factors which determine profitability in good rotations are: profitable break crops, cost effective and sustainable disease control, and an understanding of crop growth and yield formation.

The new Teagasc and IFA funded break crop research programme was presented by John Carroll. He outlined agronomy for the coming season for those looking to introduce a new crop into their rotation to comply with the three crop rule and avail of up to €250/ha in additional payments under the protein payment.

Reporting on the latest fungicide survey information, Stephen Kildea said that while resistance to SDHI fungicides has not been found in Ireland, prudent use of these chemicals remains essential."SDHIs should not be used more than twice in a season and where they are they should be used in combination with a chemical from another family of fungicides," he said.

The Teagasc Spring Barley Guide produced in collaboration with DAFM and Boortmalt was also launched at the conference. It details how the crop grows and forms its yield; as well as crop management to optimise crop growth and yield in a one-stop shop for researchers, advisers, farmers and students.