Series of Tipperary farm walks scheduled for the summer

Last week saw a very successful and well-attended farm walk at the lands of the Ryan family at Lisheen, near Thurles, with the sun beating down and perhaps more than one farming soul dreaming of getting yet more grass cut.

​For anyone who missed out, there’ll be another Tipperary outing on July 8, this time at the farm of Pat Maher at Freighduff in Cashel (E25 D211). The organic suckler beef farmer will be hosting one of Teagasc’s ‘Growing Organics’ farm walks, beginning at 11.30am. On July 22 there is a Dairy Calf to Beef Demonstration Farm Open Day to be held at Ballyvadin Beef Farm in Fethard, where the latest research will be presented, along with guidance on best practices to help farmers improve efficiency and sustainability.

With complimentary burgers provided by Dawn Meats, topics to be discussed include financial and physical performance; animal health; labour management and calf rearing.

On July 28, a Soilcrates Farm Walk takes place on Crawford’s Farm in Cloughjordan, where attendees will get soil demonstrations including soil pH measurements and an earthworm count.

For those who are considering agriculture as a career, on October 9 there will be a Gurteen College Open Day at the venue in Roscrea where Teagasc are holding a series of events for prospective applicants to its full-time Level 5 agriculture, horticulture, equine and forestry courses.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the courses available and get the chance to meet teaching staff, educational experts, current students and potential employers of course graduates along with a guided tour of the facilities.