Project Introduction: Improving productivity and efficiency from grass

Site: Rhiwaedog, Rhos-y-Gwaliau, Bala, LL23 7EU

Technical Officer: Gwawr Hughes

Project title: Improving productivity and efficiency from grass 

Introduction to project: 

The main aim of this project is to improve the productivity and efficiency from grass on an upland hill farm. This will be achieved by assessing various aspects of grassland management at Rhiwaedog and adjusting them accordingly through the duration of the project to increase productivity from grass. Grass is the cheapest form of feed and by maximising utilisation, inputs can be slashed, leading to a more profitable and sustainable farm business. Elements explored during this project will include: the potential of multi-species leys, the effectiveness of applying nitrogen fertiliser with inhibitors, effective liming options (ground vs prilled lime) and over-sowing clover into leys. 

Project objectives:

• Increase grassland quality
• Increase quantity of grass grown
• Reduce amount of purchased concentrates
• Reduce use of artificial fertiliser
• Improve soil health
• Improve grassland utilisation

Key KPI’s set:

• Reduce amount of purchased concentrates by at least 40% 
• Increase grass yields by at least 15%
• Increase clover content by 20% in the sward 
• Increase kg/ha produced