The majority of Irish dairy farmers have been forced to return their cattle to sheds in some form due to the wet weather, according to the latest Calving Insights Survey. This was mainly seen on dairy farms where milking cattle were “cutting up the grass”, according to the March Calving Insights survey. To combat this, some farmers have resorted to on-off grazing and are returning cattle to sheds at night or, in some cases, completely. The survey reported that 85% of cows had now calved on farms as of the end of March. Although Irish farmers are resilient and experienced, I want to implore farmers to be vigilant of safety.

Source: Irish Examiner April 06, 2026 12:35 UTC