70 likes | 170 Views
Noel Lynch Ullanes West, Ballymakeera, Co Cork Organic Beef & Sheep Farmer. Before Conversion 2005. 164 acres grassland and mountain 30 suckler cows Bulls sold as weanlings Heifers finished 12-14 months Spring Calving Dec-March 80 ewes – lambs sold as stores. Conversion Process.
E N D
Noel Lynch Ullanes West, Ballymakeera, Co Cork Organic Beef & Sheep Farmer
Before Conversion 2005 • 164 acres grassland and mountain • 30 suckler cows • Bulls sold as weanlings • Heifers finished 12-14 months • Spring Calving Dec-March • 80 ewes – lambs sold as stores
Conversion Process • Introduced clover to existing pastures • Grow 6 acres oats and 6 acres red clover • Modified cubicles Switch to autumn calving
Current Situation 2009 • 164 acres – 36 acres grassland • 25 cows & 30 ewes • Autumn calving • All calves sold as 1 ½ year olds • Grow 6 acres red clover and oats
Grassland Management • Stitching in clover • Undersowing and Reseeding • Topping – weed control • Tight grazing in spring/early summer • Efficient use of FYM and slurry
Livestock Management • Closed Herd • Rotational Grazing • No routine dosing
Pros No Fertiliser Bill Grant Payments Premium for cattle sold Cons Drop in production levels Conversion Plan cost Annual Licence Fee Dearer concentrates More Straw Pros and Cons of Organic Farming