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Young farmer in front of his blue tractor

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>For young farmers in Ireland, breaking into the industry feels like hitting a moving target. Land costs are steep, inputs aren’t cheap, and there’s a lot to figure out. Yet, alongside the challenges sits a genuine opportunity, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). This has specific support for people in your shoes.</p><p>But here’s the truth, it’s not a magic wand, it’s a helping hand, one that can give you breathing room but doesn’t replace a solid, sustainable strategy. Here’s what it offers, what it doesn’t, and how to make it work without illusions.</p><figure id="figure-36zdf18xalmdef1947" class=""><img id="36zdf18xalmdef1947" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/887357484/photo/all-the-tools-ready-for-the-harvest.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Qh8GBytTQylaCFVdYz-AtC3Gu1AveKuaUz12e0r34rM=" alt="All the tools ready for the harvest" title="All the tools ready for the harvest" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/887357484/photo/all-the-tools-ready-for-the-harvest.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Qh8GBytTQylaCFVdYz-AtC3Gu1AveKuaUz12e0r34rM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What’s on Offer</h3><p>Let’s start with the good news. If you’re under 40 and just setting up as the head of a farm, the CAP has a few things designed specifically for you.</p><p><strong>The Young Farmer Top‑Up</strong><br>For up to five years, you can claim an extra €145–€180 per hectare, up to 50 hectares, on top of your Basic Income Support. On a 40‑hectare farm at €160 per hectare, that works out to roughly €6,400 a year, or €32,000 over five years.</p><p><strong>The Start‑Up Grant</strong><br>There’s also a one‑off grant of up to €70,000 to help you invest in machinery, buildings, livestock or land improvements. You’ll need to co‑fund about 40 per cent, so it’s not entirely free, but it takes a big chunk out of your set‑up costs.</p><p><strong>Priority Access &amp; Higher Rates</strong><br>Young farmers often jump the queue and enjoy higher grant rates, up to 60 per cent, on schemes like TAMS (farm modernisation) and ACRES (environmental improvements).</p><p><strong>Eco‑Schemes</strong><br>On top of everything else, you can earn around €77 per hectare per year for meeting sustainability measures like planting pollinator strips, maintaining hedgerows, rotating crops or improving soil health. These payments matter, and they align your business with where the market and policy are heading.</p><figure id="figure-tkm082i85mmdef4fi6" class=""><img id="tkm082i85mmdef4fi6" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/884499410/photo/these-cows-are-hand-fed.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KgkPmslmPKgBlQ1QH-FwRzjBUGzM00mWAEGD-lpbCW4=" alt="These cows are hand fed" title="These cows are hand fed" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/884499410/photo/these-cows-are-hand-fed.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KgkPmslmPKgBlQ1QH-FwRzjBUGzM00mWAEGD-lpbCW4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Reality Check</h3><p><strong>The Age Problem</strong><br>Here’s why young farmers matter, and why the CAP is geared towards you. The average age of Irish farm holders is now 59.4 years. Around 38 per cent of Irish farmers are over 65, while just 4.3 per cent are under 35.</p><p>That makes young entrants rare, and vital, in an industry that badly needs new blood.</p><p><strong>Land</strong><br>CAP helps, but it can’t make land more affordable. With farmland prices hovering around €11,000–15,000 per acre, and rental markets extremely competitive, finding a viable piece of ground remains the biggest barrier for many.</p><p><strong>Paperwork</strong><br>Be prepared. The paperwork is heavy. Keeping detailed records and staying compliant can feel like a full‑time job. Inspections are part of the deal, and errors can cost you money.</p><p><strong>Budgets &amp; Competition</strong><br>These schemes don’t have endless money. Many are first‑come, first‑served, and the more applicants there are, the less each person might get.</p><p><strong>Productivity Trade‑Offs</strong><br>Some eco‑schemes require you to take land out of production or reduce stocking rates. The payments soften the blow, but the reality is you might see a dip in output.</p><figure id="figure-mhkph7qh5mmdef6u55" class=""><img id="mhkph7qh5mmdef6u55" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2200200580/photo/centrifugal-fertiliser-spreader-agricultural-machine.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ZRFFLRIRGiS311BOXcxl8Tp7fyICh048rPVtaplfL6c=" alt="Centrifugal fertiliser spreader agricultural machine" title="Centrifugal fertiliser spreader agricultural machine" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2200200580/photo/centrifugal-fertiliser-spreader-agricultural-machine.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ZRFFLRIRGiS311BOXcxl8Tp7fyICh048rPVtaplfL6c=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Making the CAP Work for You</h3><p>The CAP can be a real boost when you’re starting out, but only if you approach it with a clear head.</p><ul><li><strong>Get the basics in place early: </strong>Don’t leave your Green Cert, herd number or business plan to the last minute. Most applicants already have them sorted.</li><li><strong>Be honest about the land situation: </strong>Only about 14 per cent of young farmers own all their land. The rest lease or patch it together. Nothing wrong with that, but be realistic about costs and competition for ground.</li><li><strong>Pick schemes that fit your system: </strong>I’ve seen farmers jump at eco‑schemes that ended up hurting their output because they didn’t match their enterprise. If you’re intensive dairying, avoid measures that cut stocking rates. If you’re on heavier or marginal land, lean into biodiversity and carbon‑focused options.</li><li><strong>Run the numbers properly: </strong>That €77 per hectare eco‑scheme payment can look good, but if the required practice costs you more in lost production, you’re worse off. Do the sums before signing.</li><li><strong>Plan past the five‑year mark: </strong>The young farmer top‑up doesn’t last forever. Use it to invest wisely and build a system that works without it.</li><li><strong>Find your network: </strong>Farmers in discussion groups and mentorships consistently perform better. Teagasc data backs that up. Learn from others so you don’t have to make all the mistakes yourself.</li></ul><figure id="figure-2rn0d2a0bfmdefbfae" class=""><img id="2rn0d2a0bfmdefbfae" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1446022561/photo/cattle-herd-on-pasture-in-ireland.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=qn4Wc-mQDYYE2aB1hRD2kXRpjqSFg2vGL6PJag7Q5no=" alt="Cattle herd on pasture in Ireland" title="Cattle herd on pasture in Ireland" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1446022561/photo/cattle-herd-on-pasture-in-ireland.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=qn4Wc-mQDYYE2aB1hRD2kXRpjqSFg2vGL6PJag7Q5no=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What’s Next?</h3><p>The next round of CAP, due after 2027, is already taking shape and it’s clear that the rules are tightening, not loosening.</p><ul><li><strong>More tied to real results: </strong>At least a quarter of the budget is already earmarked for eco‑schemes, and that share is expected to rise. Farmers will need to show actual improvements in soil health, biodiversity and emissions, not just tick boxes.</li><li><strong>Fewer free rides: </strong>Payments will focus more on active farmers, not absentee landowners. If you’re hands‑on and farming properly, that’s a big positive.</li><li><strong>More support for smaller, sustainable farms:</strong> Big operators will continue to face caps, freeing funds for younger and greener farmers who are willing to adapt.</li><li><strong>Stricter compliance: </strong>More proof, more audits, and higher expectations. Younger farmers generally adapt better, but you’ll still need to keep good records and stay on top of your obligations.</li></ul><p>Bottom line: if you’re willing to farm actively and sustainably, and prove it, the direction of travel is very much in your favour.</p><figure id="figure-g8wfihoxqmdeffcma" class=""><img id="g8wfihoxqmdeffcma" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2058503672/photo/corn-grains-wheat-beet-seeds-eu-currency-european-union-flag-agricultural-policies.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dwEnXFS3mFeCe0uhZblBZkNHeAjzezsPFbkPy9Fsa8Y=" alt="Corn Grains. Wheat. Beet Seeds. EU Currency. European Union Flag. Agricultural Policies." title="Corn Grains. Wheat. Beet Seeds. EU Currency. European Union Flag. Agricultural Policies." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2058503672/photo/corn-grains-wheat-beet-seeds-eu-currency-european-union-flag-agricultural-policies.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dwEnXFS3mFeCe0uhZblBZkNHeAjzezsPFbkPy9Fsa8Y=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Starting out in farming today isn’t easy, but the CAP can give you the breathing space to get your feet under you and build something lasting. Use the support wisely, make decisions that suit your farm and your goals, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. The future of Irish farming needs young farmers,&nbsp; and you’ve got what it takes to make it work.</p><p>If you need guidance on navigating the schemes or planning your next steps, The Informed Farmer Consultancy is here to help you make the most of the opportunities.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Understanding the CAP: A Guide for Young Farmers

Land plot in aerial view for development or investment.

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>Rotational grazing isn’t just for big dairy outfits with ten reels and a quad. On a small or medium-sized Irish farm, it can be the difference between chasing your tail all summer or finally feeling like you’re one step ahead of your land. Whether you're running beef, sucklers, or even sheep, putting a bit of structure on your grazing can help your grass grow better, your animals thrive, and your own workload feel a bit less chaotic. The key? Start with what you have, plan smart, and build from there.</p><figure id="figure-ci06svonimboz5utt" class=""><img id="ci06svonimboz5utt" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2217537283/photo/multi-species-rotational-grazing.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=d8HFRkdnV8p-fY21jJvGK9EZVDTYPmSzlb4sldXRbhs=" alt="Multi species rotational grazing" title="Multi species rotational grazing" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2217537283/photo/multi-species-rotational-grazing.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=d8HFRkdnV8p-fY21jJvGK9EZVDTYPmSzlb4sldXRbhs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Why It Makes Sense Financially</h3><p>You’d be surprised how much grass gets wasted when animals graze freely across a field. With a basic rotational system, you’re giving the land a break and letting grass recover properly. Teagasc figures show grass use can jump from around 55% up to over 75% with rotation. That’s a decent bump. On a 30-acre platform, it could mean 30 extra tonnes of dry matter a year—easily saving you over €1,000 in bought-in feed if you’re making your own bales.</p><p>Cattle do better on it too. They’re getting lush, leafy grass more often, not picking through half-trodden stuff. It’s common to see an extra 150–200g a day liveweight gain with good rotation. That adds up over a season.</p><figure id="figure-alrp5gb7n5mbozaz4x" class=""><img id="alrp5gb7n5mbozaz4x" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1471489246/photo/patchwork-fields-in-the-ireland-countryside.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=M_CaEKt9XhAHtKSFHrO7SRcBUXzZmkZUC8eRL3F0UXM=" alt="Patchwork Fields in the Ireland Countryside" title="Patchwork Fields in the Ireland Countryside" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1471489246/photo/patchwork-fields-in-the-ireland-countryside.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=M_CaEKt9XhAHtKSFHrO7SRcBUXzZmkZUC8eRL3F0UXM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Layout: Design It to Fit Your Land, Not the Textbook</h3><p>Every farm is different, so don’t get caught up in some perfect paddock plan you saw on YouTube. For a typical 40-acre farm running 40–45 head of cattle, aiming for ten paddocks plus a sacrifice paddock near the yard is a solid starting point. That might mean dividing your land into 3.5 to 4-acre sections, moving stock every 3–4 days, and allowing 30–35 days of rest during mid-season.</p><p>Start with a rough sketch using an aerial map—Land Direct is handy for this. Think about where the water is, how you’ll access each paddock, and how the land lies. Long fields are best split across the width to avoid long walking distances. Try to keep raceways central, especially if you’re herding solo. Begin with temporary wire and posts to test out your layout before committing to permanent fencing.</p><figure id="figure-up6ltarkoembozcbu3" class=""><img id="up6ltarkoembozcbu3" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/685831576/photo/rice-field-in-chiangmai-thailand.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=0u2Gl8-XrqDX32H3XECjX-4gLXlA1fBi4FvisXXQqx0=" alt="Rice Field in Chiangmai, Thailand" title="Rice Field in Chiangmai, Thailand" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/685831576/photo/rice-field-in-chiangmai-thailand.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=0u2Gl8-XrqDX32H3XECjX-4gLXlA1fBi4FvisXXQqx0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Fencing: What Works, What’s a Waste</h3><p>You don’t need to spend a fortune to get started. A few reels of polywire, 100 step-in posts, and a decent fencer, battery or solar-powered, will cover most needs. A basic setup might cost between €500 and €1,000, depending on the size of your block. For cattle, one strand of polywire at chest height is usually enough, though younger stock might need two. Watch out for low-quality posts that bend or snap easily in dry ground, and make sure your fencer packs enough punch, underpowered units cause all sorts of grief when animals stop respecting the wire.</p><p>Keep your fencing flexible. Run temporary wire inside the permanent fence line to give you a chance to experiment with paddock sizes and flow before investing in permanent divisions.</p><figure id="figure-720cl55lx5mbozf9to" class=""><img id="720cl55lx5mbozf9to" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1312505118/photo/barbed-wire-fence-at-a-field.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dNexn26NlWKy8x346Iwc-kMQU8KZPU-xHf8XyariCgE=" alt="Barbed wire fence at a field" title="Barbed wire fence at a field" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1312505118/photo/barbed-wire-fence-at-a-field.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dNexn26NlWKy8x346Iwc-kMQU8KZPU-xHf8XyariCgE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Water: The Most Common Bottleneck</h3><p>One of the most overlooked parts of any grazing system is water access. If your animals can’t get enough to drink, their performance suffers, no matter how good the grass is. In warm weather, cattle can drink up to 70 litres a day each—more if they’re milking or finishing. That puts a serious strain on under-sized pipes or slow-filling troughs.</p><p>Portable troughs with quick-connect fittings are a lifesaver on smaller farms. They’re cheap, easy to move with the reel, and prevent wear on one water point. If you prefer something more fixed, installing drinkers at the junction of multiple paddocks is a good compromise. For anything more complex, like a ring main system, be prepared to spend upwards of €1,000–€3,000, depending on pipe length and fittings. Just don’t skimp on pipe diameter, go for 25mm or 32mm if you’re servicing more than 20 animals at once.</p><figure id="figure-y7hsr1swfdmbozgmf6" class=""><img id="y7hsr1swfdmbozgmf6" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/582280690/photo/blue-pump-pipe-water-flow-equipment-agriculture.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=iLAIgLoAMNfAwqgLskuI92ToMhWOOD5MFOLv3ROPUUI=" alt="Blue pump pipe water flow equipment agriculture" title="Blue pump pipe water flow equipment agriculture" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/582280690/photo/blue-pump-pipe-water-flow-equipment-agriculture.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=iLAIgLoAMNfAwqgLskuI92ToMhWOOD5MFOLv3ROPUUI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Managing the Rotation: Grass Covers, Rest Periods, and Timing</h3><p>Timing your rotation isn’t guesswork, it’s about knowing your growth rates and walking your ground regularly. In spring, grass can grow 30–70kg DM/ha/day, which means your rest period can be shorter—18 to 21 days is usually enough. By mid-season, you’re looking at 21 to 28 days, and in late summer, stretches of 30 to 35 days help keep covers up.</p><p>You want to graze grass when it’s at 1,200 to 1,600kg DM/ha. Go in too soon and you reduce yield. Leave it too late and you sacrifice quality. Try not to graze below 4cm, that’s where root systems weaken, and regrowth slows right down. If you find yourself ahead of the grass, cut surplus paddocks for bales. If you’re behind, stretch the rotation slightly and buffer with silage. This system doesn’t need to be rigid, it just needs to respond to what’s growing under your feet.</p><figure id="figure-gelhbh8cgcmbozhy1h" class=""><img id="gelhbh8cgcmbozhy1h" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1305496188/photo/four-leaf-clover-stands-out-against-green-leaves.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=x5na1vRRZv3DMAbRLSgtsaL5pDO2fMTwqC-7ChAHDZY=" alt="Four-leaf clover stands out against green leaves" title="Four-leaf clover stands out against green leaves" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1305496188/photo/four-leaf-clover-stands-out-against-green-leaves.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=x5na1vRRZv3DMAbRLSgtsaL5pDO2fMTwqC-7ChAHDZY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What It Looks Like in Year One</h3><p>In the first season, you don’t need to go full throttle. Start by splitting half your platform into six to eight paddocks using reels and polywire. Monitor regrowth—use your boots and eyes rather than apps. If it’s working, expand to ten paddocks by midsummer. Use one paddock close to the yard as a 'sacrifice' area during poor weather or times of pressure.</p><p>By year’s end, you’ll have a clearer idea of what works. Maybe some paddocks need resizing. Maybe one water point isn’t enough. That’s fine—this is a system you adapt as you go.</p><figure id="figure-jh8bz0rwvlmboziwjq" class=""><img id="jh8bz0rwvlmboziwjq" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1171304227/photo/aerial-view-of-endless-lush-pastures-and-farmlands-of-ireland-beautiful-irish-countryside.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=x3UrHqkBkfGCYK_TCJXmumZUMEL_9mgLosQsX1UldYs=" alt="Aerial view of endless lush pastures and farmlands of Ireland. Beautiful Irish countryside with green fields and meadows. Rural landscape on sunset." title="Aerial view of endless lush pastures and farmlands of Ireland. Beautiful Irish countryside with green fields and meadows. Rural landscape on sunset." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1171304227/photo/aerial-view-of-endless-lush-pastures-and-farmlands-of-ireland-beautiful-irish-countryside.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=x3UrHqkBkfGCYK_TCJXmumZUMEL_9mgLosQsX1UldYs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)</h3><p>A few pitfalls crop up time and again. First: waiting for everything to be perfect. Start small and improve. Second: ignoring water. Do your trough setup before stock go in, not after. Third: having too few paddocks. If grass doesn’t get a decent rest, the rotation fails. Fourth: overgrazing. It’s tempting to leave stock on an extra day, but the damage takes weeks to undo. And finally: having no emergency plan. Always keep one field or paddock in reserve for when the weather turns or machinery breaks down.</p><figure id="figure-9bcsmsdhv9mbozjo67" class=""><img id="9bcsmsdhv9mbozjo67" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1490737845/photo/summer-landscape-in-ouse-valley-park-uk.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=_om4FP4Lzsk6MNGs346y--0-2lPkac4hePdutOey2g4=" alt="Summer Landscape in Ouse Valley Park, UK" title="Summer Landscape in Ouse Valley Park, UK" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1490737845/photo/summer-landscape-in-ouse-valley-park-uk.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=_om4FP4Lzsk6MNGs346y--0-2lPkac4hePdutOey2g4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Rotational grazing is about putting structure on what you’re already doing. With a bit of planning, some cheap gear, and a willingness to tweak things as you go, you’ll see better grass growth, healthier animals, and a smoother year overall. You don’t need a new system every year, just a good one that evolves with your land and your stock.</p><p>Start with what you’ve got. Make a few small changes. And before long, you’ll wonder how you ever grazed without it.</p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Effective Strategies for Planning Rotational Grazing on Your Farm

<h3><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Introduction</span></h3><p>Most farmers have a story about water going wrong. Maybe it was a burst pipe in January that turned the yard into a skating rink. Maybe it was a dry spell in July when the troughs ran low and the pump ran hot. Or maybe it was the time you realised half your slurry tank was filled with rainwater from a broken gutter. The truth is, we don’t think much about water until we have to.</p><p>But now, with tighter rules, higher costs, and wilder weather, the way we manage water matters more than ever. And it doesn’t have to mean tearing up half the yard. Sometimes it’s the small, quiet fixes that make the biggest difference.</p><p><img id="ndskacnm6qmbkspder" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1eEaN6mnA3NrDXBVTqsVUvCzPjTAxRpcLTPZfpF0G64AINoJcBVjs6yTmQqCTcdr.jpeg" alt="rainwater collection" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/1eEaN6mnA3NrDXBVTqsVUvCzPjTAxRpcLTPZfpF0G64AINoJcBVjs6yTmQqCTcdr.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></p><h3>Leaks: The Silent Profit Killer</h3><p>You know that hiss from the drinker in the corner field? Or the one trough that’s always overflowing just a little? Those things add up. A tiny hole, just 1mm, can leak more than 10,000 litres a day. That’s more than 50 dairy cows' daily intake gone to waste. If you're on mains or running a pump, you're literally pouring money into the ground.</p><p>The worst part is, half the time you don’t even notice. Pumps run longer, pressure drops, electric bills creep up, but it’s easy to miss unless you’re looking. One good habit? Turn everything off at night and check your meter in the morning. If it's moved, you've got a problem.</p><p>Fixing a ballcock or replacing a leaking pipe section might cost you €40–€80. But left alone for a season, that leak can run into the thousands, in litres and euros.</p><figure id="figure-5ulry86lmombkstg3g" class=""><img id="5ulry86lmombkstg3g" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2166850469/photo/upvc-pipe-burst-waste-water-from-pipe-leaking.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YgmpP_ie3xAmoUUvmRzkR46wkGYzFnDUScnZha0HxLA=" alt="Upvc Pipe Burst. Waste Water From Pipe Leaking." title="Upvc Pipe Burst. Waste Water From Pipe Leaking." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2166850469/photo/upvc-pipe-burst-waste-water-from-pipe-leaking.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YgmpP_ie3xAmoUUvmRzkR46wkGYzFnDUScnZha0HxLA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Rainwater Harvesting: Free Water Falling from the Sky</h3><p>Ireland isn’t short on rain—most of us get over 1,200mm a year, some places double that. But we’re short on ways to make the most of it. A typical four-bay shed can collect around 300,000 litres of rainwater a year. That’s a serious backup during a drought, or a cost-saver if you're washing down parlours or yards.</p><p>Setting up a basic rainwater collection system doesn’t need a grant or a big investment. A few decent gutters, a filter, and a clean tank and you're away. A basic 2,000-litre IBC setup might set you back under €1,000. A buried concrete tank costs more, closer to €3,000–€5,000, but it’ll last decades and won’t freeze over in the winter.</p><p>You don’t need to plumb it into every pipe on the farm. Even just using harvested rain for yard washdowns or footbath top-ups can take pressure off your well and your pump.</p><figure id="figure-90r3uugr75mbkt8yyc" class=""><img id="90r3uugr75mbkt8yyc" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1289937464/photo/water-drains-from-the-drain-pipe-into-a-metal-container.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=PjiySWHS5U7jQcpIyPMdoBNi1bA2Xodn2DyB3yWCUKc=" alt="Water drains from the drain pipe into a metal container" title="Water drains from the drain pipe into a metal container" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1289937464/photo/water-drains-from-the-drain-pipe-into-a-metal-container.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=PjiySWHS5U7jQcpIyPMdoBNi1bA2Xodn2DyB3yWCUKc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Slurry: Keep the Clean Water Out</h3><p>This one gets missed a lot, but it’s one of the most important. If your yard or gutters are sending clean water into your slurry tank, you’re not just wasting water, you’re wasting space, nutrients, and spreading days.</p><p>Watered-down slurry takes up more storage, spreads like soup, and costs more to shift. And every winter, tanks fill faster than they should, forcing early spreading or worse, overflow. In 2023, over 30% of inspected Irish farmyards were flagged for poor clean water separation. That’s not a small issue.</p><p>Solutions? Simple stuff. Divert gutters away from tanks. Slope yards to keep runoff out. Invest in a basic clean-water diversion chamber. These fixes can cost as little as €200, but save thousands in storage space, fines, and stress.</p><figure id="figure-7ytgxetfm2mbkta6ux" class=""><img id="7ytgxetfm2mbkta6ux" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1226256274/photo/vertical-view-down-to-a-large-circular-tank-for-the-storage-of-liquid-manure.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=UIaj8kQA8zzomeUYDhEZI1Gs9R9SptLewar8pXa2UZo=" alt="Vertical view down to a large circular tank for the storage of liquid manure" title="Vertical view down to a large circular tank for the storage of liquid manure" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1226256274/photo/vertical-view-down-to-a-large-circular-tank-for-the-storage-of-liquid-manure.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=UIaj8kQA8zzomeUYDhEZI1Gs9R9SptLewar8pXa2UZo=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Grants That Actually Make a Difference</h3><p>There’s no shortage of paperwork in farming, but when it comes to water infrastructure, some of those forms are worth filling.</p><p>TAMS 3 (Animal Welfare and Nutrient Storage Scheme) is the big one. It covers up to 60% of costs for things like:</p><ul><li>Rainwater harvesting tanks.</li><li>Yard roofing to reduce run-off.</li><li>Clean and dirty water separation systems.</li><li>Extra slurry storage.</li></ul><p><br>There’s also the Organic Capital Investment Scheme, which supports low-input systems with drinkers, piping, and storage.</p><p>And if you’re in a priority water catchment, LAWPRO funding might cover works that protect local water quality, things like fencing off watercourses or installing drinker systems away from streams.</p><p>Don't assume you won’t qualify. Talk to your Teagasc advisor or local DAFM office. If you're planning yard works anyway, you might be halfway to a successful application.</p><figure id="figure-1ithdjifyrmbktdt1h" class=""><img id="1ithdjifyrmbktdt1h" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2148662526/photo/numbugga.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TAlBaGH-ghT3p3fZtnaPKRI0-Dwz5WtR6h7mcgIleLc=" alt="Numbugga" title="Numbugga" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2148662526/photo/numbugga.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TAlBaGH-ghT3p3fZtnaPKRI0-Dwz5WtR6h7mcgIleLc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Future-Proofing Your Farm’s Water Supply</h3><p>Even in a country that rains sideways, we’re not immune to water stress. The droughts in 2018 and again in 2022 left many farmers hauling tanks, dealing with dry wells, or watching production dip because stock didn’t have enough water. It will happen again.</p><p>Now’s the time to build resilience. That doesn’t mean a total overhaul. It could be:</p><ul><li>Fixing long-ignored leaks.</li><li>Installing a backup tank or two.</li><li>Cleaning out gutters properly before winter.</li><li>Keeping an eye on what’s going into the slurry pit.</li></ul><p><br>Water is one of the few inputs you can actually control with a bit of planning. And when it’s in short supply, everything else suffers.</p><figure id="figure-aneeanuda2embktffn8" class=""><img id="aneeanuda2embktffn8" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1494247832/photo/cong.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=B8kLiQ-m3pNsxduYrFuGzuhEekDYeIWhp69SNu2iIJI=" alt="Cong" title="Cong" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1494247832/photo/cong.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=B8kLiQ-m3pNsxduYrFuGzuhEekDYeIWhp69SNu2iIJI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Nobody farms well without water. It’s that simple. Whether it’s cows, crops, or clutches of hens, clean water is at the heart of every farm.</p><p>But between leaks, dilution, and poor storage, too many farms are losing it faster than they realise. The good news is: it’s fixable. With a few smart changes, and the right support, you can get ahead of the curve.</p><p>And in a world where prices keep rising, rules keep tightening, and the weather keeps shifting, that peace of mind is worth more than you think.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Managing Farm Water: Fixing Leaks, Storing Rain, and Grants

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>Ask any farmer who's had one and they'll tell you that there's nothing like the flutter in your chest when word comes through that there's an inspection’s on the way. Even if you’ve nothing to hide, it puts you on edge. You start second-guessing yourself: Did I update that remedies book? Are all the calves tagged? Is the vet cert still stuck to the fridge?</p><p>But here’s the truth: inspections aren’t about catching you out, they’re about making sure farms are safe, sustainable, and run with care. The trick is preparation, not perfection. And the farms that sail through aren’t the flashiest, they’re the ones with their house in order, paperwork tight, yards safe, and livestock well looked after.</p><p>So here’s a proper, no-nonsense guide to help you do just that.</p><figure id="figure-49hzs6wtqmbjmoymq" class=""><img id="49hzs6wtqmbjmoymq" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/598143276/photo/digital-technology-used-in-chicken-coop.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=XEk-Hf5TWLeWP6Se9f5KZQk2tSh8CyXCGC0KEdyW2g4=" alt="Digital technology used in chicken coop" title="Digital technology used in chicken coop" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/598143276/photo/digital-technology-used-in-chicken-coop.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=XEk-Hf5TWLeWP6Se9f5KZQk2tSh8CyXCGC0KEdyW2g4=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Start with the Paperwork – It Sets the Tone</h3><p>The paperwork might seem like the driest bit, but it’s the foundation of the inspection. If your documents are scattered in gloveboxes and biscuit tins, the whole thing starts on the back foot.</p><p>What to have on hand:</p><ul><li>Your herd register, up to date and matching movement records on the AIM system.</li><li>Remedies log showing every dose, date, product, and withdrawal period.</li><li>Slurry and fertiliser application records. Since early 2023, all chemical fertiliser purchases must be logged online.</li><li>Feed invoices and product labels. These need to be kept for at least five years.</li><li>Soil test results if you’re in ACRES or applying lime, less than four years old.</li><li>Nutrient Management Plan, especially if you’re in a derogation or have intensive grassland.</li><li>Proof of participation in schemes like ACRES, Eco Scheme or TAMS, including commitments and maps.</li></ul><p><br>Don't leave it to the night before. Have everything filed, printed if possible, or easily accessible online via AgFood.</p><figure id="figure-3y6x1w2m3smbjmrjeu" class=""><img id="3y6x1w2m3smbjmrjeu" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1132224201/photo/veterinarian-and-female-farmer-inspecting-livestock-on-pasture.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=US0OkLWYa42X92wmRdc4nIBJcUs34Nb0R5iTbd-4L5k=" alt="Veterinarian and female farmer inspecting livestock on pasture" title="Veterinarian and female farmer inspecting livestock on pasture" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1132224201/photo/veterinarian-and-female-farmer-inspecting-livestock-on-pasture.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=US0OkLWYa42X92wmRdc4nIBJcUs34Nb0R5iTbd-4L5k=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Yard Walk: Fix What’s Fixable, Tidy What’s Tidy</h3><p>Inspectors will walk the farm, not to nit-pick but to make sure you’re not running a risk, either to yourself, the animals, or the environment.</p><p>Things they’ll quietly take note of:</p><ul><li>Are gates hanging properly? Any sharp edges or broken slats?</li><li>Are slurry tanks and lagoons secure and signposted?</li><li>Is machinery safely stored, or left in a way that’s a danger to others?</li><li>Is chemical storage locked, dry, and clearly labelled?</li><li>Are livestock pens safe to work in? Think crush safety, head gates, and slip hazards.</li><li>Are feed stores clean, pest-free, and structurally sound?</li></ul><p><br>The overall state of the yard matters. It doesn’t need to be spotless, but it should show that you take pride in what you’re running.</p><figure id="figure-m5h2aezejmbjmuwka" class=""><img id="m5h2aezejmbjmuwka" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2156298073/photo/morning-sunlight-shining-through-a-countryside-field-gate.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ptZwMCrtt1z6HOO6Mbf8F0WVP42vZC3LVtxXJvSAseE=" alt="Morning sunlight shining through a countryside field gate" title="Morning sunlight shining through a countryside field gate" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2156298073/photo/morning-sunlight-shining-through-a-countryside-field-gate.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ptZwMCrtt1z6HOO6Mbf8F0WVP42vZC3LVtxXJvSAseE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Livestock Welfare: They’ll See What You See (and What You Don’t)</h3><p>Animal welfare is a central part of any inspection. One missed tag, one lame animal without treatment, and the conversation shifts.</p><p>Get ahead of it:</p><ul><li>Double-tag every animal. No excuses. One missing tag leads to more digging.</li><li>Calf registrations must be done within 27 days of birth.</li><li>Ensure animals have access to clean water and suitable bedding where housed.</li><li>If any animals are sick or lame, document the treatment, vet call, or decision.</li><li>Housing should allow enough space per head. Don’t overcrowd.</li></ul><p><br>Walk the sheds yourself a few days ahead. Imagine you’re seeing it for the first time. Better yet, ask a neighbour to do it with fresh eyes.</p><figure id="figure-1mxjk6dtu7mbjmwjeq" class=""><img id="1mxjk6dtu7mbjmwjeq" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1030239488/photo/young-woman-caring-for-cows.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Yj2-Sg2tewCLFs0SXq3ru5Sli6VIGLSeRp6xmsiSv54=" alt="Young Woman Caring for Cows" title="Young Woman Caring for Cows" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1030239488/photo/young-woman-caring-for-cows.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Yj2-Sg2tewCLFs0SXq3ru5Sli6VIGLSeRp6xmsiSv54=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Environmental Compliance: It’s Under the Microscope</h3><p>Fertiliser use, slurry storage, and water protection are no longer side notes—they’re key parts of compliance.</p><p>Here’s what they’ll ask:</p><ul><li>Have you enough slurry storage for your stocking rate? You’ll need proof- calculations or Teagasc reports.</li><li>Are you using low-emission spreading methods if in derogation or above certain nitrogen limits?</li><li>Is clean water properly diverted away from tanks or sheds?</li><li>Are buffer zones respected near ditches, streams, or wells?</li><li>Are there signs of runoff, over-spreading, or poaching?</li></ul><p><br>The closed period for spreading is now strictly enforced. Weather excuses won’t hold if your tanks were already full in October.</p><figure id="figure-fvt8veu1o7mbjmyewo" class=""><img id="fvt8veu1o7mbjmyewo" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1416468570/photo/aerial-view-above-waste-water-treatment-plant-with-green-algae.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kEZ5jcESPztN3gBEX9hL7BilV6rxCdFQ5VTapGI7Vp8=" alt="Aerial view above waste water treatment plant with green algae" title="Aerial view above waste water treatment plant with green algae" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1416468570/photo/aerial-view-above-waste-water-treatment-plant-with-green-algae.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kEZ5jcESPztN3gBEX9hL7BilV6rxCdFQ5VTapGI7Vp8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Scheme Compliance: Follow the Promises You Made</h3><p>If you’ve signed up to ACRES, Eco Scheme, or TAMS, then you’ve also committed to doing certain things a certain way.</p><p>Here’s what to double-check:</p><ul><li>ACRES actions like low-input pastures, buffer strips, or field margins must be marked, undisturbed, and grazed or cut as agreed.</li><li>Hedgerow management should follow the rules on cutting dates and biodiversity.</li><li>TAMS-funded equipment or infrastructure should be in place, used properly, and available for inspection.</li><li>Derogation farmers must have soil tests, a nutrient plan, and use low-emission slurry spreading gear.</li></ul><p><br>A surprising number of penalties happen because farmers forget the details of what they signed up for. Go back over your application and refresh the memory.</p><figure id="figure-ndbyyco5tmbjmzyrn" class=""><img id="ndbyyco5tmbjmzyrn" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1472762395/photo/countryside-near-westerham-in-kent-uk.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=raUYw5ytUktKl_SJ18dA6gbmJ1UqxkmzeYXHhQpICsk=" alt="Countryside near Westerham in Kent, UK" title="Countryside near Westerham in Kent, UK" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1472762395/photo/countryside-near-westerham-in-kent-uk.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=raUYw5ytUktKl_SJ18dA6gbmJ1UqxkmzeYXHhQpICsk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Health and Safety: Not Just Box-Ticking</h3><p>Even if you’re working alone, the Department will expect a basic level of safety awareness on the farm.</p><p>Have this ready:</p><ul><li>Risk assessments for slurry, livestock, machinery and chemicals.</li><li>Helmets, gloves, or goggles available where needed.</li><li>Fire extinguisher in good condition, especially near workshops.</li><li>First-aid kit stocked and visible.</li><li>Clear, safe access to sheds and exits.</li></ul><p><br>If you’ve got family helping out, contractors on site, or host farm walks, the expectations go up a notch.</p><figure id="figure-2iqequlebmbjn1bgb" class=""><img id="2iqequlebmbjn1bgb" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2167558560/photo/first-aid-kit.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=VAvfu09URflWSOiMjTKPHaXAYGJakMciwNJFZSzPimk=" alt="First aid kit" title="First aid kit" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2167558560/photo/first-aid-kit.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=VAvfu09URflWSOiMjTKPHaXAYGJakMciwNJFZSzPimk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>A Department inspection doesn’t have to ruin your week. If your farm is reasonably well-kept, your paperwork is in order, and you’re honest about what’s working and what’s not, most inspectors are fair.</p><p>But if things are in a heap, if the records don’t line up, or if safety’s been ignored, it can cost you. Payments, penalties, even reputation. So, take a walk today, print the last three months of AIM reports, pull your nitrate records into one folder, fix that broken gate hinge, because the best farms aren’t the most high-tech—they’re the ones that are proud to open the gate when someone knocks.</p><p><br></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Preparing Your Farm for a Department Inspection: A Step-by-Step Guide

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>You don’t need to be told that slurry is both a blessing and a headache. Managed well, it’s a valuable fertiliser that saves you money and boosts grass growth. Managed poorly, it’s a source of emissions, hassle, and Department grief. And with tighter rules now firmly in place, the question isn’t if you need to change how you’re handling slurry, it’s how, and how affordably.</p><p>The good news is that you don’t need to pour €50,000 into the ground just to stay compliant. There are practical, proven steps that can make a real difference, whether you’re running a suckler herd in Mayo or milking in Laois.</p><figure id="figure-7y4aimryglmbjlhssc"><img id="7y4aimryglmbjlhssc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/35pWjpiLLkY73pAeAMQDQQnmgjKtZbVwJFzp3eol0Ne556xPPKPp8pNlPHNkuybI.jpeg" alt="slurry management" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/35pWjpiLLkY73pAeAMQDQQnmgjKtZbVwJFzp3eol0Ne556xPPKPp8pNlPHNkuybI.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Storage: What You're Legally Required to Have and What Actually Works</h3><p>Depending on where you farm and your system, you need between 16 and 22 weeks of slurry storage. But for many, that’s barely enough to cover a bad winter. Once the tanks are full and the ground’s too wet, you’re into dangerous territory, both for compliance and for the environment.</p><p>A 100-cow suckler herd, wintered indoors, will produce around 600 to 800 cubic metres of slurry. If you’re short by 200 cubic metres, you have a few options that don’t involve tearing up half the yard.</p><ul><li>Installing a slurry bag or bladder (at roughly €90 per cubic metre) might cost around €18,000 for 200m³.</li><li>A steel above-ground tank will cost a bit more, but lasts longer—around €25,000–€35,000 fully installed.</li><li>Rehabilitating an old pit or lagoon can cost between €8,000 and €15,000, depending on condition.</li></ul><p><br>Most of these upgrades are eligible for 60% grant aid under TAMS 3—meaning a decent-sized storage improvement could cost you less than €10,000 out of pocket. That’s a serious saving over repeated panic spreads or fines.</p><figure id="figure-foasro37jbmbjlhyds" class=""><img id="foasro37jbmbjlhyds" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/08ZOTUbRHeGPPLe6Cx7FnhfPb2fJnme4e38yycUFQCIImGNA5snLYaZgcbQ2WzYZ.jpeg" alt="slurry storage" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/08ZOTUbRHeGPPLe6Cx7FnhfPb2fJnme4e38yycUFQCIImGNA5snLYaZgcbQ2WzYZ.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Don’t Let Your Nutrients Disappear Into Thin Air</h3><p>Slurry contains fertiliser. It’s got nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and it’s worth money, if you can hold onto it. But up to half of your nitrogen can be lost to the air through ammonia, especially if the slurry is open to rain, left to sit too long, or spread using old splash plates.</p><p>Covering your tank, rigid or flexible, can cut ammonia loss by up to 80%. A decent cover for a 100m³ tank might run to €2,500, but if you’re getting 60% of that back through grant aid, you’re only really paying €1,000. It also keeps the rain out, which means you’re not paying to store water.</p><p>Low-emission spreading (like trailing shoes or dribble bars) doesn’t just tick a regulatory box, it holds more nitrogen in the slurry. You could get 30–40% more nitrogen retention compared to splash plates. On a 40-hectare farm, that could mean an extra €3,500–€5,000 in fertiliser value every year. If you're not ready to buy, hiring a contractor or joining a machinery ring is a solid workaround.</p><figure id="figure-498t2xa1mrmbjlr03w" class=""><img id="498t2xa1mrmbjlr03w" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1298903406/photo/red-tractor-with-slurry-tanker-and-green-hoses-stands-on-an-autumn-meadow-the-field-can-be.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=GwPwCydfd43BCEl5jkYYwMxP0UkaUpdq-qD8-zbGypk=" alt="red tractor with slurry tanker and green hoses stands on an autumn meadow, the field can be cultivated faster with these machines, during the day , sunshine without clouds" title="red tractor with slurry tanker and green hoses stands on an autumn meadow, the field can be cultivated faster with these machines, during the day , sunshine without clouds" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1298903406/photo/red-tractor-with-slurry-tanker-and-green-hoses-stands-on-an-autumn-meadow-the-field-can-be.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=GwPwCydfd43BCEl5jkYYwMxP0UkaUpdq-qD8-zbGypk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What’s Actually In Your Slurry?</h3><p>Not all slurry is created equal. Testing your slurry for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium costs around €35 per sample, and gives you the actual value of what you’re spreading. Some tanks can differ by 40% in nutrient value depending on diet, water dilution, and how long it's been sitting.</p><p>One thousand gallons of slurry, well-managed, can be worth up to €25 in fertiliser replacement. Over a year, that could add up to €4,000–€6,000 across your spread lands. But only if you know what you’re working with, and spread it when it counts.</p><p>And timing matters. Slurry spread quickly after agitation holds more of its nutrient value. Stirred and left? You’re just feeding the clouds.</p><figure id="figure-2fbfs98ijcmbjlswwp" class=""><img id="2fbfs98ijcmbjlswwp" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1226256274/photo/vertical-view-down-to-a-large-circular-tank-for-the-storage-of-liquid-manure.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=UIaj8kQA8zzomeUYDhEZI1Gs9R9SptLewar8pXa2UZo=" alt="Vertical view down to a large circular tank for the storage of liquid manure" title="Vertical view down to a large circular tank for the storage of liquid manure" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1226256274/photo/vertical-view-down-to-a-large-circular-tank-for-the-storage-of-liquid-manure.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=UIaj8kQA8zzomeUYDhEZI1Gs9R9SptLewar8pXa2UZo=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Cutting Slurry at the Source</h3><p>Here’s a thought, rather than focus only on storing it, why not make less in the first place? Some of the simplest changes can have the biggest effects.</p><ul><li>Keeping cattle at grass just one extra week saves roughly €2.20 per suckler cow per day</li><li>Diverting clean water from roofs and yards away from the tank cuts storage demand and helps avoid overflow in wet winters.</li><li>Out-wintering pads or well-managed straw bedding can reduce shed pressure and slurry volume.</li></ul><figure id="figure-7afinhoydjmbjlumqi" class=""><img id="7afinhoydjmbjlumqi" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1197150288/photo/application-of-manure.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=v3QueNMsFAzNQSPyDQsMbu2l-G__5QilVli4USpClW0=" alt="Application of manure" title="Application of manure" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1197150288/photo/application-of-manure.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=v3QueNMsFAzNQSPyDQsMbu2l-G__5QilVli4USpClW0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What the Grants Can Actually Cover</h3><p>Here’s what you can apply for under TAMS 3:</p><ul><li>New or upgraded tanks (above or below ground).</li><li>Slurry bags or modular stores.</li><li>Tank covers.</li><li>Low-emission spreading equipment.</li><li>Rainwater harvesting systems.</li><li>Out-wintering infrastructure.</li></ul><p><br>You can claim up to €90,000 per tranche, with 60% grant aid for most farmers and 70% for young trained farmers. There’s no shame in going back for multiple tranches—especially when it helps future-proof your business.</p><figure id="figure-9z2dx6u8urmbjlxg78" class=""><img id="9z2dx6u8urmbjlxg78" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1887725278/photo/farm-tractor-spreading-manure-on-arable-land-in-autumn-season.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=xzk6xnOV4flg69unVVgYuvqQUzSeBEoWDkXI1bDNfAs=" alt="AERIAL, TOP DOWN: Farm tractor spreading manure on arable land in autumn season" title="AERIAL, TOP DOWN: Farm tractor spreading manure on arable land in autumn season" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1887725278/photo/farm-tractor-spreading-manure-on-arable-land-in-autumn-season.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=xzk6xnOV4flg69unVVgYuvqQUzSeBEoWDkXI1bDNfAs=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Managing slurry used to be a seasonal job. Now it’s a central part of farm planning, nutrient management, and staying above board. But getting it right doesn’t have to mean a total rebuild or unaffordable tech.</p><p>Start small; cover the tank, test the pit, talk to your local Teagasc advisor about storage audits. Even booking a contractor instead of sticking with the old splash plate can make a difference.</p><p>You don’t need to overhaul the yard overnight. But with some well-chosen improvements, and a bit of grant support, you can turn slurry into something that saves money, keeps the inspector happy, and leaves the fields stronger for the next generation.</p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

Cost-Effective Strategies for Better Slurry Management

Pretty cottage garden growing a variety of annual and biannual native flowers in Ireland

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>Every summer, Phoenix Park shifts gears. For five days in June, it stops being just a place to stretch the legs or walk the dog and becomes the buzzing heart of Ireland’s biggest celebration of gardening, food, and sustainable living. This year, Bloom 2025 marked its 19th edition, and if you were one of the 100,000-plus visitors wandering among the show gardens, you’ll know it was about more than petunias and perfect lawns.</p><p>This was a festival that spoke quietly but firmly to a bigger picture. Food security, climate action and community resilience. Bloom isn’t just about planting flowers anymore, it’s about planting ideas.</p><figure id="figure-elkizfd9egmbjdh35i" class=""><img id="elkizfd9egmbjdh35i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22SVAlUWGwamLZKDMAy1kcgdHMtT9veAuozVkgMYNtsqCLc6JyxOM1v9THmmANuA.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22SVAlUWGwamLZKDMAy1kcgdHMtT9veAuozVkgMYNtsqCLc6JyxOM1v9THmmANuA.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What Sustainability Looks Like—In Real Life</h3><p>It’s easy to throw the word “sustainability” around but Bloom actually shows what it looks like when it’s done right, and done practically. This year’s site ditched diesel generators in favour of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), cutting carbon emissions by over 90%. That’s not PR fluff, that’s actual, tangible change on a 70-acre site buzzing with life.</p><p>And speaking of buzz, Bloom’s organisers made a real effort to get people in sustainably. Over 20,000 came by bus or train, and 1,300 more cycled in—helping slash travel emissions across the board. Even waste was tackled head-on, with over 9,000 single-use cups swapped out thanks to a clever borrowing scheme, and 12,000 cans and bottles neatly returned for recycling.</p><p>None of it shouted for attention. It just worked. And it reminded every visitor that climate action isn’t all about big tech—it can be in the little decisions, too.</p><figure id="figure-nlj36fkkxkmbjdj7qw" class=""><img id="nlj36fkkxkmbjdj7qw" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2138942870/photo/wellington-monument-in-dublin-ireland-by-drone.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TqaWCzpDaM3mvDPvaTQtwRaVPvNh6y7a-8oHfuABgAY=" alt="Wellington Monument in Dublin, Ireland by Drone" title="Wellington Monument in Dublin, Ireland by Drone" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2138942870/photo/wellington-monument-in-dublin-ireland-by-drone.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TqaWCzpDaM3mvDPvaTQtwRaVPvNh6y7a-8oHfuABgAY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Gardens That Say Something</h3><p>The show gardens were as dazzling as ever, but this year, more of them were telling stories. One plot, which scooped a top award, was made almost entirely from reclaimed materials. Old railway sleepers, broken tiles, even salvaged fencing, proof that “low-waste” can still be high-design. Another winner blended repurposed steel with wild pollinator plants and rain-fed water features. It wasn’t just pretty. It was smart.</p><p>And that’s the point. Garden after garden hinted at the bigger themes: resilience, rewilding, adapting to climate pressure. They showed how we can grow food in smaller spaces, support biodiversity, and even make peace with drought—all while keeping things beautiful.</p><p>Some were built by community groups and schools through the Postcard Garden initiative. These tiny but thoughtful gardens covered everything from pollinator protection to climate anxiety, and it was heartening to see young people taking ownership of such big ideas in their own way.</p><figure id="figure-nbpm88utkqmbjdlxb0" class=""><img id="nbpm88utkqmbjdlxb0" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1181584084/photo/father-and-daughter-photographing-flowers-at-park.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Ijx4JVAdGqIiJLvb4VlEPOC5blRIfj0m038L2Eyc1rY=" alt="Father And Daughter Photographing Flowers At Park" title="Father And Daughter Photographing Flowers At Park" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1181584084/photo/father-and-daughter-photographing-flowers-at-park.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Ijx4JVAdGqIiJLvb4VlEPOC5blRIfj0m038L2Eyc1rY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Food That Walks the Talk</h3><p>If you managed to leave Bloom without a full belly, fair play to you. The food offering was outstanding as always but this year, it was also about making sustainable eating feel accessible.</p><p>All food traders were asked to use compostable packaging. No excuses. Meanwhile, surplus food wasn’t binned. In partnership with a national redistribution network, Bloom rescued over 500kg of quality ingredients and turned them into 1,200 meals. That wasn’t just kind, it was clever. It quietly showed how systems can be built around care and circular thinking.</p><p>At the Sustainable Living Stage, over 40 talks ran across the week, from soil health to low-waste living. Nothing preachy, just practical. Real advice for real people. Want to compost better? Save on food bills? Grow herbs in a window box? They had you covered.</p><figure id="figure-vz29xius3ymbjdnulo" class=""><img id="vz29xius3ymbjdnulo" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1413112769/photo/garden.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RNEf686c2Bv5grPTPhUJHTHujQWZf9ZpZ9kH9g2uhkw=" alt="Garden" title="Garden" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1413112769/photo/garden.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=RNEf686c2Bv5grPTPhUJHTHujQWZf9ZpZ9kH9g2uhkw=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>A Bigger Picture in Bloom</h3><p>There was a quiet but steady focus this year on the climate and biodiversity crisis, not in a heavy-handed way, but as a nudge. One garden created in partnership with an EU sustainability initiative used reclaimed stone and wild Irish plants to show how old ideas and new systems can co-exist. Another focused on green infrastructure and water conservation, things we don’t usually associate with “garden shows”, but that we’ll need more than ever in the coming years.</p><p>Even the President showed up and spoke to this. He reminded us that if we’re serious about protecting rural life, food systems and cultural identity, then green thinking has to become more than a hobby, it has to be how we live.</p><figure id="figure-r5uqhzjl7pmbjdt4xg" class=""><img id="r5uqhzjl7pmbjdt4xg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37jR6Q9zQaerolbBpCmBLzy7skQyksrQOvugKXSWUVUuaFPo3aL1fDoBfFdHssOl.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/37jR6Q9zQaerolbBpCmBLzy7skQyksrQOvugKXSWUVUuaFPo3aL1fDoBfFdHssOl.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>What Bloom Gets Right</h3><p>Maybe the reason Bloom works is because it doesn’t talk down to you. It doesn’t pretend everyone can build a €50,000 eco-garden in their back garden. Instead, it offers ideas, some big, some small, that can fit real lives. A rainwater barrel, a compost heap, a wild corner left unmown, a dinner made from leftovers. It’s about inviting change, not imposing it.</p><p>Sustainability can be intimidating, especially when you’re up to your neck in the day-to-day. But what Bloom 2025 proved is that it doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. It just has to be real. And reachable.</p><figure id="figure-fhpd8lc47cmbjduiqz" class=""><img id="fhpd8lc47cmbjduiqz" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1673243758/photo/wood-sawdust-with-bird-droppings-in-a-bucket-close-up-using-chicken-farm-waste-as-fertilizer.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ON56_fmsImJUV_WQC8PVgKR7W98hdU7Lt-gUVTdHK3A=" alt="Wood sawdust with bird droppings in a bucket close-up. Using chicken farm waste as fertilizer for the vegetable garden" title="Wood sawdust with bird droppings in a bucket close-up. Using chicken farm waste as fertilizer for the vegetable garden" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1673243758/photo/wood-sawdust-with-bird-droppings-in-a-bucket-close-up-using-chicken-farm-waste-as-fertilizer.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ON56_fmsImJUV_WQC8PVgKR7W98hdU7Lt-gUVTdHK3A=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>As Bloom packs up for another year, the flowers might wilt, but the ideas don’t. What we saw at Bloom 2025 was a country full of potential: farmers, growers, kids, innovators, cooks, all trying to make sense of sustainability in their own way. And doing a fantastic job of it.</p><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.</p>

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