Christmas is almost on our doorsteps which means the start of the busy farming season is just around the corner and Kilbehenny farmer Maurice Walsh, chairperson of North & East Cork ICMSA says now is the time to plan your labour requirements.
“It is important for farmers to set aside some time to plan for 2018, figures show that the average farmer in Ireland works 49 hours per week, hence why it is vital to get a plan in place for spring now.”
Maurice recommends using the month of December to set yourself up for the busiest time on your farm and has put together a few pointers to get yourself prepared for the spring:
First of all be realistic – based on your requirements last spring.
Take time to change your practices and habits. If something did not work last year then it will not work this year.
Know your own limits. The assessment of labour is an area that many farmers struggle with. Based on workload last year, decide whether you need to get someone in to help out or not.
Plan your winter dry off and feeding so that cows calve in correct body condition score. Put an appropriate dry cow mineral feeding programme in place.
If you are planning to get cows to grass after calving, do you need additional cow tracks or paddock openings?
Order and have available all necessary veterinary supplies.
Anything that needs fixing around the farm get it done now.
Check your calving and calf-rearing facilities. Ensure that you have enough space for all expected calves.
You also need to prepare yourself for the busy calving season. Take a break in January from milking and the general farm work.
