Teagasc National Dairy Conference: Navigating Challenges, Seizing Opportunities
Source: DairyNews.today
The challenges and opportunities facing Ireland's dairy farmers took center stage at the Teagasc National Dairy Conference held at Limerick Racecourse on Wednesday, 27 November 2024.
In his opening address, Teagasc Director Professor Frank O'Mara highlighted the mixed nature of the year, noting that while 2024 presented several difficulties, it is ending on a positive note. "2024 was another tough year for dairy farmers, but it is concluding on a more hopeful outlook with rising milk prices and favorable autumn grazing conditions," O'Mara said. He pointed to challenging spring and summer weather that impacted grazing and fodder conservation, yet underscored the recovery in dairy farm incomes from the low points seen in 2023. Teagasc economists are expected to release updated income projections for 2024 next week.
Professor O'Mara also emphasized the ongoing issue of climate change, acknowledging progress in reducing agriculture's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), emissions from agriculture fell by 4.6% in 2023, with further reductions of 2.4% projected for Q1 2024. O'Mara credited farmers for their efforts, particularly through a 30% reduction in chemical nitrogen usage over the past two years and a shift to protected urea, which accounted for approximately 27% of nitrogen use in 2024.
Professor O'Mara also emphasized the ongoing issue of climate change, acknowledging progress in reducing agriculture's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), emissions from agriculture fell by 4.6% in 2023, with further reductions of 2.4% projected for Q1 2024. O'Mara credited farmers for their efforts, particularly through a 30% reduction in chemical nitrogen usage over the past two years and a shift to protected urea, which accounted for approximately 27% of nitrogen use in 2024.
