The project aims to deliver rapid, accurate feed nutritive value analysis to support data-driven decision-making across Ireland’s pasture-based livestock sector. A key output will be the integration of advanced forage analysis results with PastureBase Ireland, creating a dedicated database and dissemination tool to support the sharing and practical use of feed nutritive value data at both farm and industry level.

VistaMilk is the centre for digital innovation in sustainable, pasture-based dairy systems and is co-funded by Research Ireland and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. During Phase I (2018–2024), VistaMilk produced a broad and robust body of research spanning multiple areas of dairy science, from soil to food. A key element of this work was the development of a strong evidence base in grassland science and data-driven decision support. This established body of research provides the scientific foundation for the next stage of research being advanced in Phase II (2024–2030).

Speaking on the collaboration, Pat Cashman, Grass and Forage Development Manager of Goldcrop and Pasture Innovations, said: “Accurate, timely feed analysis is a cornerstone of good grassland management. By working with VistaMilk and FBA Laboratories, we are helping to ensure these tools are grounded in Irish conditions and practical for use on farms nationwide.”

He added: “This capability will also increase progress in forage breeding and evaluation programmes, enabling improved varieties to become available.”

FBA Laboratories, based in Cappoquin, Co. Waterford, is one of Ireland’s longest-established agricultural testing laboratories, providing accredited analysis services for soils, forages, fertilisers and environmental samples.

Conor Butler, Director of FBA Laboratories, commented: “Robust forage nutritive value data is central to farm management, sustainability and long-term competitiveness, particularly in pasture-based systems where home-grown forage quality directly influences animal performance, nutrient use efficiency and farm profitability. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to quality, traceability and continuous improvement in agricultural testing and advisory services.”

Dr Michael Dineen, Principal Investigator and Animal Nutrition Scientist at Teagasc, highlighted the practical benefits: “Rapid feed nutritive value analysis will provide farmers with greater confidence in day-to-day decision-making. It can help avoid over- or under-feeding of nutrients by supporting more precise nutrition management, for example optimising crude protein supplementation to reduce nitrogen excretion. It can also inform silage harvest timing, guide the allocation of silage to specific animal groups, and support more quantitative, data-driven problem-solving on farms. In addition, timely feedback on grassland management can help farmers consistently deliver high-digestibility pastures and reduce reliance on purchased feeds.”

Speaking at the launch, Professor Michael O’Donovan, Funded Investigator in VistaMilk and Head of Grassland Science at Teagasc, said: “This collaboration demonstrates the value of industry-directed research in driving innovation within Ireland’s grass-based systems. By integrating PastureBase Ireland as the dissemination centre for this research, rapid and accurate feed analysis results can be made readily available to farmers, helping them improve animal production efficiency and refine nutrient management to reduce emissions. By combining scientific expertise with industry insight, this project will deliver practical tools that strengthen both sustainability and profitability at farm level.”