On Wednesday, the focus will involve the environmental sustainability of beef production in Ireland and what steps Irish farmers can take to reduce the environmental footprint of their cattle enterprises.

The latest Teagasc research on reducing greenhouse gasses (GHG), improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity – and protecting our soils – will be covered during Live@Grange; the discussion will be facilitated by Dr. Edward O’Riordan.

On the show, beef farmer Philip Rochford will discuss why he purchased a trailing shoe in 2008.

Philip Rochford

Mark Plunkett will then talk about the practical steps farmers can take to reduce ammonia emissions, such as using protected urea and using low emissions slurry application methods.

Also, beef farmer Tim Meagher will explain how he manages clover swards.

Tim Meagher

Dr. Mike Egan, Teagasc Grassland researcher, will show how white clover can be incorporated into grass systems for beef production and how artificial fertiliser use can be lowered.

Billy and Niall Nicholson will also feature on the night. They will outline how both the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) and the Beef Environmental Efficiency Pilot (BEEP) have benefited their suckler-to-beef operation.

Niall and Billy Nicholson

Andrew Cromie from the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) will talk about the contribution good genetics and breeding can contribute to sustainable beef production.

Additionally, Martin Shaughnessy, from Co. Mayo, will discuss fertiliser usage and water quality on his farm.

Martin Shaughnessy

Finally, Eddie Burgess – from the Agricultural Catchments Programme – will provide an update on water quality and on what simple measures farmers can take to improve water quality.

If you have a question during the live broadcast, just text the word TEAGASC followed by your question, name and location to 51444 (ROI only; standard network charges apply) or join in on Twitter at: #VirtualBeefWeek.

Don’t miss this live panel discussion – available on all AgriLand and Teagasc platforms – at 7:00pm tonight.