Breeding for Success: A Look at the Coolmohan Dairy Herd in Co. Cork

The dairy industry is a vital sector that plays a crucial role in meeting global food demand. It has been booming in recent times, and many farmers are taking a keen interest in enhancing their dairy farming skills. As such, the significance of Dairy Focus programs cannot be overemphasized. These programs are designed to help farmers improve their farming strategies, increase milk production, and optimize the efficiency of their operations. In this article, we will examine Dairy Focus and how it has contributed to the components and longevity of the Coolmohan herd. The Coolmohan herd is an excellent example of how a well-managed dairy farm can produce high-quality milk while maintaining animal welfare and sustainability.


Agriland recently visited Pat and Nora Flynn on their dairy farm near Kilworth, County Cork for this week’s Dairy Focus. The Coolmohan herd has made significant improvements in breeding, resulting in an average production of 7,800L at 4.62% fat and 3.77% protein, with their current economic breeding index placing them in the top 1% in the country. While 100 spring-calving cows are milked on the farm, about 156 were calved down this year, and excess stock is sold at a yearly sale along with some breeding bulls. Breeding is a major focus on the farm, and to improve the herd, Holstein genetics have been introduced and crossbreeding has been used for improved milk and fat volumes while maintaining protein levels. A combination of stock bulls and artificial insemination has been used to achieve a compact calving season, and cows must meet specific criteria to remain in the herd, including achieving over 3.70% protein. The farm is a family-run operation with a passion for breeding, and an exceptional quality of stock is on offer in their upcoming sale.


In conclusion, the Coolmohan herd has proven to be an exemplary model for dairy farming that emphasizes on the importance of nutrition, genetics and impeccable farming practices. With a keen focus on the components of milk and the longevity of their cows, the farm has achieved remarkable success in both economic profits and animal welfare. Hopefully, this article has shed some light on the importance of these factors in dairy farming and can serve as a useful resource for other farmers. Moreover, it highlights how with the right methods and dedication, a farmer can run a profitable and ethical business that can benefit both the animals and the environment.