‘Summer sets the standard’ for 2026 CalfCare events

AHI has announced the 2026 CalfCare events, which will focus on best practice for calf rearing systems and maintaining animal performance throughout the grazing season

AHI has announced CalfCare events in Louth, Sligo and Kildare.

Farmers are invited to attend the summer CalfCare 2026 events, which will be hosted countrywide.

Animal Health Ireland (AHI) has announced the theme of the series, ‘Summer Sets the Standard,’ as it sees the return of the CalfCare events this June.

Farm families will host on-farm events in collaboration with Teagasc’s DairyBeef 500 Programme and supported by Volac Milk Replacers Ireland Ltd (Feed For Growth).

The events aim to highlight best practice in all calf rearing systems and support farmers in maintaining animal performance throughout the grazing season.

Building on the success of previous CalfCare programmes, this year’s summer events will take place over three consecutive evenings from June 9 to June 11, bringing farmers practical, on-farm advice and technical expertise focused on calf health, growth and long-term system performance.

The events will showcase various aspects of best practice, with particular focus on keeping calves healthy, causes of summer scour and calf performance at grazing.

Each event will begin at 7pm, with refreshments served afterwards. Events will take place on the farms of:

• Francis Bellew, Monasterboice, Drogheda, Co Louth, A92 NR52;
• Caroline and Kieran Henry, Toberscarden, Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, F91 X3C4;
• Simon and Peter Byrne, Castledermot, Athy, Co Kildare, R14 R763.

AHI’s CalfCare Programme manager Michelle McGrath said: "Summer Sets the Standard reflects the aim of these events — showcasing practical steps that any farmer rearing calves can take to achieve targets, maintain animal performance throughout the grazing season and support strong results across their systems.” 

"The summer programme provides an opportunity to focus on key management priorities during the grazing season, from grassland and nutrition to herd health. With longer evenings and strong interest from farmers and farm families, these events offer a valuable opportunity to share practical advice and on-farm experience that can help maintain growth and performance throughout the season," she added.

For further information, visit AHI’s CalfCare webpage.