Farm Contractors Ireland – the top tips for Silage 2022

With silage harvesting taking place over the coming weeks, Michael Moroney, the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Farm Contractors in Ireland (FCI), joins Catherine Egan on the latest Beef Edge podcast to discuss how to best to prepare for silage 2022 when it comes covering the pit, handling of bales and the cost of making silage. Michael first outlines that good communication between the farmer and contractors is very important. The farmer needs to plan in advance with the contractors as to what is expected and when and likewise the contractor will need the lead person have the farmer’s contact details to make sure the farmer knows when they are coming and where on the farm they will be starting. Michael also highlights the importance of safety at this time, in particular that no children be carried on tractors and to be safe when tractors and machines are being operated. Furthermore, farmers and contractors need to be aware of the height of the pit and cover the pit safely. Michael highlights that checking the silage ground to avoid objects causing issues is important along with ensuring gateways are suitably visible to make the public aware of machinery and when the gates are open. Costs have increased dramatically as well and Michael describes how it cost €225 to fill a tractor (300L tank) last October when diesel costs €0.75c/l, while now at €1.30/l, it costs almost €400. The price of tyres have increased by 50% and machinery parts have also increased while there are issues in getting parts and also delays in having them delivered. With a busy few weeks ahead Michael advises farmers and contractors that while there is a lot of work to be done when the weather is fine, it is important to take breaks and stop for meals. For more episodes from the Beef Edge podcast, visit the show page at: https://www.teagasc.ie/thebeefedge Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com