- Predictions for Irish straw supplies this winter are influenced by a potential drop in grain output, expected to be clearer after harvest in September due to delayed plantings.
- Reductions in the Straw Incorporation Measure budget from €12.5 million to €10 million in 2024 might limit straw returned to seedbeds, although more straw could be available as some farmers opt to bale and sell rather than incorporate.
- Despite healthier-looking crops this year, late harvesting poses risks to straw quality and yield, potentially complicating meeting livestock farmers’ demand for straw, exacerbated by low carryover from 2023.
Irish Straw Supplies Outlook for Next Winter
Forecasting Irish straw supplies for the upcoming winter involves evaluating several critical factors, as highlighted by Teagasc tillage specialist Shay Phelan.
He anticipates a decrease in Irish grain production this year, reports Agriland, although the exact extent will only be clear post-harvest, which is expected to extend into September due to delayed spring planting.
Regarding straw availability, Phelan notes a reduction in funding for the Straw Incorporation Measure, declining from €12.5 million in 2023 to €10 million in 2024.
This reduction might lead to less straw being returned to the seedbed after harvest. Interestingly, some farmers are opting out of this measure to bale and sell straw independently, potentially increasing availability compared to last year.
Phelan cautions that late harvesting poses risks to straw quality, yield, and baling. Despite healthier-looking standing crops this year, the actual availability of straw to meet livestock farmers’ demands remains uncertain, compounded by a lack of carryover from the 2023 harvest.
Expressing optimism, Phelan suggests that with a favorable harvest season, straw availability could improve compared to last year.
He advises farmers and advisors to secure straw bookings early, even recommending deposits to guarantee supply, based on lessons from previous seasons where delayed bookings resulted in limited availability post-harvest.
Factors such as reduced winter cereal planting and potentially shorter straw lengths from upcoming spring barley harvests also contribute to the complexity of predicting straw supplies in the coming months.
In summary, while some indicators point to potentially increased straw availability, uncertainties persist due to funding cuts, delayed harvests, and variable crop conditions. Farmers are encouraged to plan ahead and secure their straw needs proactively to mitigate risks of shortages.
