Pregnancy scanning: Scanners and flock owners continue to report positive pregnancy scan results. For many, litter sizes are significantly above last year’s levels, with low barren rates and a tighter lambing spread also a feature of favourable breeding conditions. Given these factors, the value of pregnancy scanning cannot be emphasised enough in order to allow feeding plans match nutritional requirements of ewes entering late pregnancy.

The recommended time frame for scanning is 80 to 90 days after ram turnout. Saturday 11 January represents 80 days forward from breeding starting on 24 October and 90 days forward from a breeding start date of 14 October. Staying within the recommended time frame will allow supplementary feeding to be introduced at an earlier stage for triplet bearing ewes and any sheep in poor body condition. As shown on this week’s sheep pages, mortality at birth is strongly influenced by litter size and lamb birth weight.

You should also use scanning information to prepare for lambing. Depending on the results you may need to have more lambing pens available. The normal recommendation is one lambing pen for every seven to eight ewes. This ratio should be reduced where there is a higher number of triplets or a tighter than normal lambing spread.

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Soil fertility: Analysis of soil sample results in Johnstown Castle shows a continuing trend of deteriorating soil fertility, with phosphorus, potassium and soil pH levels declining year on year. Where soil pH is below optimum levels, maximum use of applied nutrients will not be achieved.

The benefits of taking soil samples far outweigh the cost. Samples cost between €15 and €30, depending on who takes the sample and the range of analysis carried out. It is important to take samples before applying organic or chemical fertilisers this spring.

The general recommendation is one soil sample per every four to five hectares, but this can be increased to 10 to 12 hectares where soil type is uniform. Likewise, the number of samples in a given area will need to be increased where there is a variation in soil type, significant differences in previous cropping history or fertiliser application.

Outdoor lambing: The best success with outdoor lambing is achieved where there is adequate grass cover that allows ewes to lamb without requiring supplementary feeding. If not already done, areas should be closed up immediately for flocks lambing in late spring. Choose dry fields with the best shelter and convenient for supervision.

Where possible, it is highly advantageous to have an area where problem ewes can be flocked easily if required. Some flock owners erect a temporary fence and penning to flock and deal with problem ewes quicker.

Sheep census: There have been numerous enquiries from applicants unable to access and submit the 2013 sheep census online. There is a technical fault in the system and the Department say this should be rectified before the end of the week. The closing date for returning applications is 31 January.