Over 80% of Irish farms were unable to get cattle out to grass in February

According to a recent FRS Co-Op said this issue has led to farmers working longer hours to manage their cattle

With some farms experiencing slurry storage issues, maintaining shed cleanliness and hygiene has become a challenge, leading to an increase in incidences of mastitis and milk fever.

A recent survey has found that 82% of participants were unable to turn cattle out to grass in February.

Farmers have been forced to work longer hours over the last few weeks, unable to get their cattle out onto pasture, according to the latest survey by Farm Relief Services Co-Operative (FRS Co-Op).

FRS Managers and Team Leads have noted that this issue has led to farmers working longer hours to manage their cattle or spending more on outside labour. In addition, farmers are experiencing added pressure towards managing their feed, silage and slurry storage.

With some farms experiencing slurry storage issues, maintaining shed cleanliness and hygiene has become a challenge, leading to an increase in incidences of mastitis and milk fever.

Additionally, some cows are coming into heat in sheds, which can cause injuries and falls on slippery surfaces.

These issues are compounded by a notable drop in milk quality and volumes on many farms. Although farmers are spending extra money on fodder and concentrate supplementation, the FRS survey has reported that milk yields have fallen due to the absence of grass.

Calving challenges

The survey also showed that on average, 63% of cows had calved on farms as of February 28.

On average, between 95% and 100% of farms in each county had started calving by the end of the month. Despite the added workload on farms, the majority of respondents (60%) said that this year’s calving season has been similar to last year.

However, a minority of farms have seen their calving period delayed or prolonged.

With the added slurry storage concerns, farmers have been quick to sell calves once they are of age. On average, 60% of farms have begun selling calves so far this year.

FRS Farm Services Manager for Cork, Graham Keane, said: “The start of 2026 has not been easy for Irish farmers. The usual challenges of calving have been multiplied by the wet weather experienced over the last two months.

"From surveying our network of FRS Farm Services staff, it has become apparent that not being able to get cattle out onto grass has led to slurry storage issues, animal health concerns, and lower milk yields.

“I would encourage any farmer to reach out to FRS Co-Op if they need support this spring, particularly if they are under added labour pressure due to having cattle inside this spring,” Mr Keane concluded.