Cattle feed could cost €50 per tonne extra

BARLEY at €185 to €200 next spring will be the benchmark for dearer livestock feeds, predicted nutritionist Cathal Bohane of the Keenan feeder wagon company.

He warned that increases in feed costs of €40 to 50 per tonne could erode profitability, particularly on dairy farms carrying significant debts.

But dearer grain could leave beet attractively priced, even when transport and extra work are taken into account. Beet works very well in winter milk diets, or is an excellent alternative to grass silage in a spring calving scenario, said Mr Bohane.