This year has been big for dairy expansion, especially for beef-to-dairy conversions, according to Teagasc dairy expansion adviser Patrick Gowing.

“Interest in dairying is always increasing, especially with the current state of beef prices,” he told the Irish Farmers Journal.

“We have farmers making plans for as far as 2021. Most lads are starting out with 90-100 cows, but we see farms being built to cater up to 400.

“Land area is a big consideration farmers have to take into account, along with how much they are willing to invest.

For a 100-150 cow farm, new entrants are looking at a €250,000 to €500,000 investment, depending on what existing buildings are on site

“We are beginning to see growing interest along the west. Many farmers in Donegal are making the conversion,” he said.

Farm planners and designers have also noted the spike. Aidan Kelly from Agri Design and Planning Services claims he’s never been as busy.

“We are building for three applicants each week. For a 100-150 cow farm, new entrants are looking at a €250,000 to €500,000 investment, depending on what existing buildings are on site. A quote for anything less would be unrealistic,” he said.

Demand

Similarly, Cork-based farm designer Grasstec has experienced a sharp growth in demand.

“We are building 50% more than last year alone; on an average week, we work on 15 to 20 farms. Milking parlours make up eight of these. Most parlours are being built on farms converting from beef to dairy,” said Grasstec director Bertie Troy.

“Suckler farmers and beef finishers are making the move to dairying because of the lack of income involved with keeping cattle.

“Farmers making the conversion have to be at the right age. It’s a big investment. Most dairy farms we are working on are in the midlands, with around 100 to 120 cows.”

Thomas Cooney from Lely Cork said demand for milking equipment doesn’t show any sign of dropping.

“A lot of the farmers we supply have taken labour into consideration when choosing a robot. We also ask about the farmer’s health, it’s equally as important as the welfare of the cows.”

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