It’s understood that arrangements for Teagasc to take control of a significant farm in Co. Cork are at an advanced stage.
AgriLand understands that the agriculture and food development authority is to take over the running of a dairy farm which comprises about 500ac.
It’s expected that all animals on the farm will be kept on the farm – male and female.
Demonstration farms
Teagasc uses a combination of its own demonstration beef farms, and commercial cattle farms in joint programmes, to highlight best practice in cattle farming in terms of animal breeding; grassland management; physical animal performance; animal health and financial management.
The research is brought together to show the complete systems on these farms, and the critical technologies that can be utilised and adopted on individual cattle farms around the country.
Teagasc already runs Moorepark National Dairy Research Centre, which is also based in Cork – near Fermoy – and is responsible for all aspects of dairy production research.
Future plans for Cork farm
AgriLand understands that certain roles are already being advertised for the new farm project being undertaken by Teagasc.
A spokesperson for the authority has confirmed that the development of such a project is “at a sensitive stage” with further discussions to take place and board approval to be confirmed.