31-07-2025
Withdrawing fields from SIM? Get the paperwork sorted out in time
A significant number of tillage farmers may wish to withdraw some fields from the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM).
This reflects the continuing good weather and excellent baling conditions.
Michael Hennessy, head of Teagasc's Crops Knowledge Transfer Department, commented: 'Harvest 2025 is progressing well.
"One particularly notable feature has been both the quantity and quality of straw produced by many crops.
'In light of this, some farmers may wish to withdraw some fields from the Straw Incorporation Measure .'
'Two points are relevant in this regard. First off, the Department of Agriculture should be notified of an intention to bale straw, rather than chop it, at point of combining.
According to Hennessey, waiting until after the straw is baled to notify the department "could prove problematic".
'Farmers should also ensure they have a market for the straw they are baling and that the prices on offer at least match the funding available through the Straw Incorporation Scheme,' he added
This week has seen the first of this year's spring barley crops harvested. And the feedback from farmers up to this point has been very encouraging.
Spring barley yields are in the range 3.0-3.5t/ac, with grain quality also good.
And it really is a case of action on all fronts with oilseed rape and winter wheat crops ready now ready for the combine in many parts of the country.
Early indications are that rape crops are yielding particularly well.
it is worth noting, however, that the spring crops coming through now were planted in March.
The yields of later sown spring barleys may not be as promising, a direct result of the drought conditions that impacted across Ireland throughout the month of May.
Meanwhile, most forage maize and beet crops continue to look well. Recent rains have boosted growth rates significantly.
The prospect of a September harvest date for maize grown under plastic is shaping up to be a genuine possibility in many parts of the country.
Demand for maize continues to grow on dairy and beef farms. The forage is widely recognised as a high quality feed source for stock of all ages.
Met Éireann is forecasting a good deal of dry weather for the week ahead. There will be some rain or showers at times with temperatures reaching the high-teens to low-twenties .
In terms of upcoming tillage events, Teagasc will be hosting its Tillage Forum in the Killashee Hotel, Naas on Wednesday, September 10.
