Teagasc’s latest National Fodder Survey reveals that while 90 percent of Irish farms are prepared with enough feed for the coming winter, a concerning 5 percent face significant shortages of 20 percent or more.

Based on data from around 300 dairy and drystock farms nationwide, the findings highlight emerging risks for a portion of the farming community as they head into the critical winter months.

The spring of 2025 brought earlier turnout and favourable growing conditions, giving most farms a strong start compared to previous years. Yet, about one in five farms still had to purchase additional feed during spring, underlining ongoing challenges in securing enough quality fodder. Freshly calved and growing animals demand silage with at least 70 Dry Matter Digestibility, a standard not easily met without ample pasture or supplementary feed.

As many farms hold sufficient winter reserves, attention now turns to autumn grass growth. Experts warn that a strategic closing rotation is essential to maximise feed availability next spring and safeguard against future shortages.

While 54 percent of farms completed first-cut silage by May’s end and another 37 percent followed in early June, drought conditions affected 10 to 15 percent of farms. This regional variability threatens feed supplies and could worsen fodder deficits in some areas.

Alarmingly, only 40 percent of surveyed farms have completed a winter fodder budget, a vital tool for managing feed stocks effectively. Such budgeting not only identifies potential shortages but can also reveal surpluses that could be sold, easing pressure on the market.

Dr. Aisling Claffey, Teagasc Ruminant Nutrition Specialist, urged greater focus on feed quality, noting that just 30 percent of farms plan to test silage this year. “Feed quality has huge implications for animal performance and costs during winter,” she said, calling for more farmers to analyse silage to ensure it meets livestock needs.

Thomas Curran, Head of the Teagasc Advisory Service, highlighted the importance of silage analysis and annual fodder budgeting. “Healthy hay and silage stocks are encouraging, but knowing the quality is key to planning overwintering costs and animal health,” he said. Curran also reminded farmers that fodder budgeting can be easily done using the PastureBase Ireland app or with advisor support.