Hill sheep production, flock health and grassland management are to be part of 10 thematic villages at this years Sheep2015, Teagasc says.
Sheep2015 is to take place on Saturday June 20 in Athenry, Co. Galway, Teagasc has announced.
There is a positive outlook for the sheep sector and this event will provide an opportunity for all involved in the industry to come together to develop the potential that the sheep industry offers, Teagasc says.
Sheep2015 will also include a series of practical workshops, the Teagasc Sheep Research Demonstration flock, recently imported New Zealand Sheep Sheep Breed Championships and numerous commercial exhibits.
Frank Hynes, Co-chairman of the Sheep2015 organising committee, said that Saturday June 20 is a date for the diary for all interested in the sheep sector.
“This event, Sheep2015, will be a must attend event for all sheep producers and the sheep industry. Up-to-date information on all aspects of sheep production will be available on the day,” Hynes said.
Teagasc’s Sheep Enterprise Leader, Michael Diskin said that sheep farmers have had a good year so far this year with favourable weather conditions during the critical spring lambing period.
The sheep industry is important in Ireland and there are opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability on farms.
Teagasc says that during Sheep2015, farmers will be able to see the progress with the research demonstration farm in Athenry, review the results from the Teagasc BETTER farm sheep programme, and get information on the research that has commenced on the imported high genetic sheep from New Zealand.
Sheep production is a major economic activity in rural Ireland and its contribution to the agricultural economy is valued at €205m.
There are currently about 2.5m ewes in 33,000 flocks in the country, with over 75% of the lamb produced exported.
The event is organised by Teagasc in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, UCD and several other organisers.
Teagasc says that this years event is mainly sponsored by Kepak along with Musgraves/ Supervalu.