Rain in June is either a blessing or a curse, depending on soil type and geography. For those on dry, free-draining soils, it’s a blessing because it pretty much guarantees good grass growing conditions for the next month or so.

But for those on heavy soils, it’s beginning to cause problems as ground is getting wet and on some farms cows are doing a bit of damage.

Ground conditions cover a spectrum which varies from farm to farm and even field to field. So there are no doubts parts of most farms that can do without any more rain in June.

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One of the issues on heavy land is that gaps are wet, which not only means they are mucked up by cows walking in and out, but it also puts a stop to field work such as slurry spreading and silage.

Up to last Saturday, all parts of Ireland got between two and three times the normal rainfall for the week and there was more heavy rain on Sunday. This is in addition to the heavy rain that fell the week before.

While it's causing problems for some, others will be glad to see it as it staves off the risk of soil moisture deficits for at least a month.

In other words, if it stopped raining now and didn’t rain for a month, most farms would still be ok for grass.

Another issue that appears to be cropping up on farms is an increased level of lungworm with cows coughing.

Some farmers and vets are saying that this is partly due to the extremely warm weather that took place at the end of May.

If cows are coughing violently, consult with your vet on the best course of action to treat or manage the condition.