Kilkenny Farming: As August arrives, we still await summer!

As we approach the first week of August we are still waiting for summer to arrive.
Looking back, it’s hard to recall three to four days of consecutive sunny days without the cold north wind or rain and showers.

Farming is very weather dependent and the lack of sun and heat has prevent grass growth. Silage cuts were much lighter than normal and the chance of saving hay without rain interruption proved difficult.

So, there is not too much joy on the weather front. But let’s not despair. It is suggested that we may see drying warmer weather in the days ahead, but my valid question is - how long will it last?

Farm Incomes
The farming scene has not had much to get excited about over the past few years and returns from 2023 showed a reduction in farming incomes in every sector.

Dairy, which was supposed to be major money-making sector in farming, saw a reduction of 69% compared to 2022.
Tillage farmers fared worse with a reduction of 71% year on year. Dry stock farmers who are used to taking poor returns saw prices back 15% and the sheep sector which appears to show not only a reduction in returns by 22% but also a sector that there is a big fall off of new entrance which is worrying going forward.

The world population is expanding and more mouths will need feeding going forward, but if we look at Ireland where we are lucky enough to produce excellent grass the producer must get a decent return for his or her product and that is not happening.

Perhaps it is time to look at the fact that the food prices on the shop floor have shown little or no reduction in prices but the main producer has seen cuts between 15% to 71%. Someone is winning, but it’s not the farmer.

Cattle
On Thursday an entry of 750 cattle sold very well with Beef bullocks ranging from €1,400 to €2,370 with forward store types €1,100 to €1,660 and lighter store bullocks €680 to €1,260.

Prices are still difficult for the plain animal especially if there is a Jersey or Holstein influence. The same is true in the heifer sector where there are plenty of customers for quality lots.

The cull cow sale has now reverted back to a Thursday which starts at 10am sharp. The trade for cull cows is excellent with Friesians ranging from €1.20 to €2.20 per kilo with continental types €1.70 to €2.70 per kilo which resulted in a 100% clearance. Remember you have until 3.30pm on the Wednesday to enter cattle for the next days sale which can be done by phoning 056-7721407.

On the sheep front, the dramatic cut in prices of a few weeks ago seems to have halted with more stability entering the trade. Butcher types ranges from €158 to €177 per head factory types €138 to €152 per head with store lambs ranging from €84 to €110. There are some enquiries for these types of animals so do not be shy to test the market.

Next week, our sheep sale will be held on Tuesday due to the Monday August Bank Holiday. Tuesdays sale will also include the Premier Belclare Ram and ewe sale which kicks off at 12.30pm.
Until next time, do be careful on the farm — and good buying, good selling, and good luck.