UGS annual conference reminder

The overarching theme of the event is: growing and utilising more grass, where does it all begin? This year’s speakers will provide conference delegates with valuable perspectives on how farmers in Northern Ireland can better manage their soils in order to fully realise their grassland potential.

“At last year’s conference we heard that farmers in Northern Ireland are, on average, only obtaining half of the potential from their swards,” said Johnston.

“As grass is the cheapest livestock feed, this year’s conference will look at how farmers can best manage their land to optimise outputs from their swards.”

The four speakers for the conference are Jo Scamell; Dr Stan Lalor; Francis Breen and Michael Murphy.

Jo runs an independent company, Ground Level Nutrition Ltd, working in soil, forage and livestock nutrition management and consultancy.

Stan is head of speciality with Grassland Agro. Stan will look at soil as the foundation for production for grass growth. He will discuss the key components of soil fertility and steps to managing soil fertility such as soil testing, liming, fertiliser recommendations, slurry and selecting the right fertiliser product.

Francis is an adviser in the Northern Ireland Suckler Beef Programme. The project focuses on breeding/fertility; grassland management and increasing output.

Michael is a dairy farmer and businessman from Cork. He has interests in America, New Zealand and Chile. Michael is a big advocate of improving soil fertility to grow more grass, whether to graze or make into silage. Presentation of the Grassland Farmer of the Year Awards will take place immediately before lunch.

Conference booking forms should be returned to UGS Secretary George Reid by Monday January 18th. The fee for members is £20 per person: non-members £30 and young delegates £15. Events get underway on the day at 10.00am sharp.

For further information, contact UGS Honorary Secretary George Reid on 07920 037 910 or email: [email protected]