Smarter milking events to boost farm efficiency

A NEW collaboration between farm stakeholders and co-ops aims to teach dairy farmers how to become more efficient and cost effective in the face of increasing demands.

FRS Training, Teagasc and AHI (Animal Health Ireland) have teamed up with Glanbia, Kerry Agribusiness, Aurivo and Lakeland Dairies to host smarter milking events to teach farmers about cow f low, best practice milking technique, standard operating procedures, producing high milk quality and how to be more cost effective.

The smarter milking events are open to all farmers and farm workers alike and will run through June and July in counties Waterford, Kerry, Galway and Meath.

The source of information shared through these events will come from the Best Practice in Milking Course which has been available to farmers since 2014 and has trained hundreds of new and experienced milkers throughout the country.

Teagasc’s Padraig O’Connor said that the events are a great opportunity for farmers to see first hand an efficient milking process.

Herd size

“With the average herd size increasing, combined with larger milking units, the demands on the milker are more challenging. These smarter milking events will outline a practical approach on how dairy farmers and their staff can implement techniques to allow for a more efficient milking process,” he said.

The first event will take place in conjunction with Glanbia on Andrew Claxton’s farm in Kilminnin, Stradbally, Waterford. Eircode X42YK57.