It seems unusual to be discussing that a low level of rainfall has reduced growth rates on Newford farm when the farm has been continually combating the effects of high levels of rainfall over the last 18 months to two years.

Grass growth rates exceeded 100kg DM/ha on paddocks with a cover of grass a fortnight ago leading to surplus paddocks being taken out of the rotation.

As detailed in Table 1, growth rates, however, have fallen well back from this level, with the last cover completed on 11 June showing growth rates falling to 44kg and 46kg DM/ha on Tuohy’s and Gort na hAbhainn land blocks while growth on the Newford block fell to 65kg DM/ha.

The lower growth rates are also being influenced by surplus paddocks being taken out of the rotation and taking longer than expected to recover. The farm is still in a good position with regards grazing, with utilisation also excellent. The average farm cover on the Newford block is 906kg DM/ha, significant higher than on the other two land blocks. Demand, however, is highest on this block with the 100-cow suckler herd grazing on this block.

Fertiliser continues to be applied after grazing while swards which were damaged by grazing during inclement weather have received a bag of 18-6-12 to help regenerate swards. First-cut silage on 40 acres (16.2ha) was mown on 11 June and put into the pit on 12 June. This ground will now receive 2,500gls slurry per acre, be fertilised and closed for a second cut of silage.

The calf which was reported in the last update as suffering from heat stroke unfortunately died. This was despite the calf being identified early and veterinary treatment being administered.