May 20 @ 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Bryan & Gail will be taking part in an online webinar for Farming for Nature
Kilkenny Dairy Farmers Who Took Stand Against Soy and Palm Based Feed Imports – New Farming for Nature Ambassadors
Bryan and Gail Daniels, a husband and wife farming duo, are transforming traditional dairy farming practices in Co. Kilkenny into a model of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Farming 157 hectares (388 acres) in the scenic south Kilkenny hills, the Daniels family is committed to not only producing high-quality milk but also nurturing their land for future generations.
Adopting a conventional spring calving dairy system with a focus on animal and soil welfare, the Daniels’ operation includes 272 cows. Faced with milk quota limitations when starting out, Bryan and Gail pivoted their strategy to produce the cheapest litre of milk possible with the added benefit that this was helping the environment.
Since 2003, the Daniels have championed the use of clover to reduce reliance on artificial chemical fertilizers. Their innovative practices include:
Reduced Synthetic Nitrogen Use: Over 50% reduction, from 220kg/ha, has been achieved by incorporating clover into their pastures. Use of Protected Urea: Implemented for the last 8 years, showcasing their commitment to minimizing emissions. Selective Dry Cow Therapy: Employed since 2012 for improved animal welfare and production quality.
The Daniels take pride in their strategic breeding program, ensuring they only breed from cows free from lameness, high cell counts, or poor temperament. This dedication has resulted in a commendable somatic cell count of just 73, alongside a yield of 5,422 liters of milk per cow with 4.35% fat and 3.71% protein.
Reflecting their commitment to sustainable practices, Bryan insists on sourcing soy and palm-free feed and has eliminated chemical sprays for dock leaves since 2003. A significant portion of their farm has been kept completely chemical nitrogen-free in recent years.
The family’s connection to the land runs deep, as Bryan is the fifth generation to manage the farm, fostering a long-standing tradition of farming in harmony with nature. Their ongoing initiatives include Creating Habitats: From installing owl boxes and planting native trees to constructing ponds for aquatic species. Environmental Schemes Participation: Actively involved since 1997, they promote biodiversity by maintaining traditional hay meadows and engaging in hedge-laying each year.
Gail’s venture into soap-making from their farm’s milk diversifies their business, demonstrating their innovative spirit. The couple actively prioritizes human sustainability, implementing practices that allow for work-life balance, such as installing a 44-point rotary parlour in 2016 to reduce milking time.
Bryan and Gail Daniels exemplify how sustainable farming is possible while maintaining profitability and environmental integrity. As they continue to lead the way in progressive farming practices, they inspire their community and fellow farmers to consider the long-term impacts of their operations on both the environment and society.
