Water supply: Sheep can often perform satisfactorily without a continual water source where there is regular rainfall and a low dry matter in grass. With the continued dry spell forecast to last significantly longer and the dry matter in grass continuing to increase, it is important that a fresh source of water is now provided. This is critical where lambs are receiving concentrates, with an inadequate water supply depressing intake and performance and also increasing the risk of health issues such as urinary calculi.

Sheep welfare scheme: Some farmers participating in the sheep welfare scheme who recorded reduced ewe numbers on their sheep census were recently informed that scheme balancing payments were being reduced or denied. The scheme has generally been received very positively by farmers but one area where there has been criticism is the lack of flexibility to drop below your reference number when selling cull ewes. This is one area farmers would love to see addressed in any future schemes. This means that where you want to maximise your payment you must retain the number of ewes stated as your reference number throughout the year. 2019-born hoggets can be included in the ewe calculation regardless of whether they have bred lambs in 2020 or are being run dry.

Farmers can drop below their reference number and accept a lower payment but they must contact the sheep welfare section notifying them of the reduction. The email address is sheepscheme@agriculture.gov.ie and phone number is 076-106 4420 while the postage address is Sheep Welfare Scheme, Department of Agriculture, Government Buildings, Old Abbeyleix Road, Portlaoise, Co Laois. Failing to notify the Department of a reduction in ewe numbers can lead to a penalty of double the shortfall if identified in an inspection.

Farmers tight on grass and not in a position to hold cull ewes should weigh up which is more economical – retaining ewes for the purposes of satisfying the reference number or selling ewes before replacements are in place and foregoing the payment per head.

Nematodirus risk: Reports suggest there is still a significant volume of lambs showing up with nematodirus infections despite lambs being previously treated. This is understandable given there is no residual cover with products for nematodirus, meaning lambs at the highest risk can pick up an infection immediately after treatment.

Reports also indicate problems are being seen most in young lambs that are not likely to have picked up a nematodirus burden previously. It is important to keep this in mind and treat accordingly if required. Characteristic signs of an infection are a green scour with signs of severe cases including lambs thriving poorly and drinking excessively due to dehydration.

TAMS II reminder: Tranche 17 of TAMS II closes for applications at midnight on Friday 5 June 2020. Tranche 18 opens for applications on Saturday 6 June. Applicants who are availing of the three-month extension to complete works or invest in equipment should keep an eye on dates to ensure there is enough time to complete tasks and get the required documentation submitted for the payment claim.