Contractors are moving very quickly through first-cut silage, helped by the continuing dry weather.

The general reports are that grass crops bulked up significantly in recent days and that yields are now good.

Ennis-based Pat Hehir, who operates as Clare Agri-Contracting, said any crops he has cut in the past week have been high in volume.

“We’re getting two fills of a 20ft trailer per acre and this is still very good-quality fodder. Grass is very green.”

He plans to start on the second cut on 20 June. In the meantime, he is also making hay for farmers.

In Co Kildare, Michael Quigley of Quigley Agri Contracting also said crops had bulked up strongly. “We’re not complaining. Crops are dry and we can keep on top of it.

“Fields will need a drop of rain to bring on grass for second cuts,” he said. “Every bit of fodder will be needed because pits and sheds were empty after the long winter.”

Cork contractor Michael Cooney is finishing up his first cuts. “This week is quieter and we’ll have just a few jobs next week.”

The Ballyhooley man expects to be making a good bit of wholecrop silage this year. “I expect we’ll be starting in on winter barley in about three weeks’ time.”