Teagasc clients inspired by discussion groups

THREE out of four Teagasc clients involved in discussion groups say they adopted new farming practices as a direct result of being in a discussion group.

Discussion groups are now operating in most areas of farming, with dairy discussion groups the longest established, and cattle farmer groups also formed, mostly of calf to beef or suckler farmers.

The survey indicates that farmers are generally happy with the Teagasc advisory service. One of the key findings was that 90% of clients were ‘very satisfied’, or ‘satisfied’, with the overall quality of service, and 92% of respondents said Teagasc delivered a quality service. The service was considered to give value for money by 70%.