Optimizing Grass Management and Breeding Practices in Bandon Farms

In the wake of significant rainfall at the end of June, farmers in Bandon, County Cork, are experiencing favorable conditions for grass growth, which is crucial for dairy production. Dermot Walsh, a local dairy farmer, reports that growth rates are expected to remain high in the coming days, aiding in the management of their livestock and ensuring optimal milk production.

As of June 24, 2025, Walsh noted that his cows are milking approximately 23 liters daily, with a fat content of 4.12% and protein at 3.6%. To maintain these production levels, Walsh is currently administering a diet comprising 3 kg of 14% concentrate per day. His strategic use of artificial insemination this breeding season has eliminated the need for stock bulls, with an expected breeding completion date around July 20. Walsh observes that the early breeding season saw a good number of repeats, but since then, the situation has stabilized, allowing for the introduction of bulls with heifers.

Walsh’s pasture management strategy includes monitoring the dry matter (DM) in his paddocks, with current metrics indicating one paddock at 1,500 kg DM/ha and another at 1,650 kg DM/ha. He plans to defer grazing these two paddocks to allow for baling next week, which he hopes will bolster forage availability. Currently, the farm's cover per livestock unit stands at 150, which Walsh acknowledges is lower than desired. However, he has contingency plans to graze his heaviest paddocks should grass become scarce.

The farmer's growth metrics reveal a daily demand of 62 kg DM/ha against a growth rate of 70 kg DM/ha, suggesting a favorable surplus. Walsh has opted not to pre-mow or top paddocks, as he believes this practice diminishes the quality of grass for grazing. Instead, he selectively removes paddocks for silage when there is a grass surplus, a method that has generally yielded better quality for grazing.

His reseeded fields, planted six weeks ago, show promising germination and are now at a stage suitable for spraying. Walsh plans to apply Clovermax to protect the red clover in these swards after top-dressing with 25 units of nitrogen.

In alignment with sustainable farming practices, Walsh is participating in the Farming for Water Environmental Impact Programme (EIP) through his Carbery ASSAP advisor. This initiative includes the completion of a nitrogen surplus plan and testing of slurry applications. Furthermore, all drains and rivers on the property have been fenced back by 1.5 meters to mitigate runoff pollution, and all water troughs are positioned over 20 meters away from watercourses to prevent contamination.

Looking forward, Walsh plans to attend Carbery’s Milk Quality and Sustainability farm walk at Glenn Forde’s farm on July 25, as part of his commitment to continuous improvement in farming practices. Dermot and Linda Walsh, alongside their children Tadgh, Aoife, Maebh, and Eoin, manage a herd of 84 cows that supply Barryroe Co-op, demonstrating a family-oriented approach to sustainable dairy farming in Bandon.

The rain's timely arrival has not only boosted grass growth but also underscores the importance of effective pasture and breeding management. As Walsh continues to adapt his practices, the implications for productivity and sustainability in dairy farming remain significant, offering insights for fellow farmers in the region.