This autumn, Teagasc is rolling out its Farm Business Options Training Programme across the country, offering farmers and farm family members the chance to explore diversification options and new business opportunities. The programme is delivered in collaboration with Local Enterprise Offices, providing accessible, locally relevant training throughout the autumn months.

The training is designed for those seeking to improve farm income, or branch into fresh ventures such as renewable energy, artisan food production, organic farming, and rural tourism. It offers practical guidance on business planning, connects participants with mentors, and links them with agencies that can provide ongoing support.

Workshops feature guest farmers who have successfully diversified their enterprises, along with Teagasc and industry specialists ready to answer questions. These sessions also offer valuable networking opportunities.

Attendance is free, but spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. Due to demand, additional courses may be added to accommodate more participants. 

If a workshop is not scheduled in your area, you can express interest in future sessions focused on topics you want to explore.

Applying lime in autumn benefits soil by correcting acidity over the winter, which prepares it for better growth in the spring and makes nutrients more available for plants. Application of lime when soils are dry and trafficable is ideal as the winter rains will help to move the lime into the soil where it can do its work, leading to improved soil structure and nutrient availability in spring for healthier grass growth. Some soils may already be too wet to traffic. Delaying liming until spring will mean early grass growth on low pH soils will be compromised. In particular the plant availability of phosphorus, the most expensive macronutrient to purchase, is limited by low soil pH. 

Lime should only be applied based on a recent soil test report. Target pH 6.3 for grassland (mineral soils) and 5.5 to 5.8 for grassland (peat soils). Soils with high Molybdenum - target pH 6.0 to 6.2 to prevent copper deficiency in grazing animals.

Calcium ground limestone is the most common form of lime and best value liming material. If ground conditions on your farm are not suitable for traffic (too wet), then lime can still be applied early next spring.

This course provides a valuable introduction for new breeders and also serves as a helpful refresher for others. It primarily focuses on reproductive physiology and the care of the mare before, during, and after mating. The course combines online learning with an on-farm workshop, and offers the added benefit of networking with other breeders.

Tuesdays, 11, 18, and 25 at 2:00pm -  online (Zoom) sessions focusing on the breeding programme overview, reproductive anatomy and physiology of the mare, reproduction husbandry and subfertility, 

Thursday, 4 December at 11.00am - on farm workshop in Co. Kildare reviewing veterinary aspects of equine reproductive husbandry with a specialist repro vet followed by an insight into on-farm husbandry practices and infrastructure.

Young Breeder training welcomes those aged 15-30 years of age. The next World Championships takes place July 16-19, 2026 at the State Stud Celle in Germany (individuals born 2000- 2010 are eligible to compete). 

Join the conversation. It is not all about the competitive elements.  #learning #making new friends

The final training activities for 2025 takes place on Saturday November 15th. This is a change of date to that originally scheduled. Garryrichard Stud in Co. Wexford, provides a unique opportunity to visit a multi-disciplinary yard with both National Hunt and show jumping sports catered to by the Hickey family. 

Photographed are the group attending October training at Barry O'Connor's stables in Malahide, Co. Dublin.

We are always delighted to welcome new participants. Keep an eye on the website and social media (Equine Young Breeders IRE) for information on 2026 events. 

Contact [email protected] if you have any questions. 

From Teagasc Equine Specialist Team Wendy Conlon and Seán Keane

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