Dairy Farmers Benefit from Teagasc Milk Campaign
Issued 28th March 2002
Dairy farmers who are participating in Teagasc's intensive dairy advisory programme are reaping the benefits of increased milk prices, lower costs and higher profits, said Dermot McCarthy, Chief Dairy Adviser with Teagasc.
Mr McCarthy said that higher milk protein levels are the biggest contributors to profit enhancement.
''The top performing dairy farms in the Teagasc programme are now receiving almost 2.5 cent per litre more for their milk than those at the bottom. This is due almost entirely to higher milk protein levels. This is the equivalent of €6,500 in additional net profit per annum for a dairy farmer with a milk quota of 182,000 litres (40,000 gallons)'', he said.
He was speaking at the announcement of the National Milk Protein Awards 2002 which are organised by Teagasc and sponsored by ACC Bank in association with the Irish Farmers Journal. The awards, which honour the top milk protein farms in Ireland have a prize fund of €5,000 and prestigious trophies.
Mr McCarthy said that protein, as well as being a vital determinant of profitability in dairying, also plays a crucial role in expanding the range of value-added products produced by the Irish dairy industry, thereby maximising export returns and ensuring a more internationally competitive industry.
The Teagasc intensive advisory programme aims to increase average protein levels in Irish milk, from around 3.2% at present to 3.5% over the coming years. The best performing dairy herds have already achieved or surpassed the 3.5%.
''The key to increased protein is superb utilisation of grass and superior animal breeding. This year, our top performing milk protein farms had cows out on grass in February, despite the difficult weather conditions'', said Dermot McCarthy.
Application forms for the National Milk Protein Awards are available from Teagasc offices and ACC Bank branches. The closing date for entries is Monday, 15 April.
