Improving milk solids is not about one big change. It comes down to making better decisions, earlier, and backing them with the right information.

That’s exactly what happened on the farm of Tirlán supplier Elizabeth Hullen in Co. Louth, where a focused, data-driven approach has delivered a standout result.

Elizabeth recalled: “By the end of the year, we produced just over 510 kg of milk solids.

"It was quite unbelievable, and I felt like all my hard work was finally paying off."

Farming alongside her husband Shane, with support from wider family, Elizabeth has increasingly focused the business on dairy in recent years.

But like many farms, performance was not where it needed to be.

“Our milk performance just wasn’t on track. It was below average,” according to Elizabeth.

Starting with the numbers

That’s where the Milk Solids Growth programme came in.

Following a recommendation from her Tirlán Business Manager, Pat Treacy, Elizabeth began working with Milk Solids Growth Specialist Tony Brennan.

The first step was to establish a clear picture of performance using the Milk Solids Growth Tracker.

This tool, available through Tirlán FarmLife, gives farmers real-time insight into herd performance, helping to identify gaps and take corrective action quickly.

Tony explained: “From this information, we could highlight how the cows were doing on a daily basis."

That visibility quickly translated into action and results.

For Elizabeth, having that constant feedback loop was key.

“It was a great asset to have. We could always check in and it kept you on track as regards your results,” the Co. Louth farmer states.

Feeding for performance

With performance clearly mapped, the next step was to ensure cows were getting the energy required to sustain output.

Through detailed analysis of silage quality and diet, a structured feeding plan was developed.

Tony highlighted: “We were able to put a plan in place so that cows were getting 19 UFLs of energy in their diet every day."

This reflects a core principle of the programme, ensuring cows are fully supported nutritionally to maximise milk solids production.

The diet combined grass, concentrate and high-quality silage, with a strong focus on consistency.

Managing through pressure periods

Operating on a dry farm brings its own challenges, particularly when grass supply tightens during the summer months.

Rather than allowing performance to drop, Elizabeth and Tony took a proactive approach.

Tony pointed out that “when grass supplies got tight in June and July, we were able to buffer feed with high-quality silage made in May.”

That silage, which tested at over 75 dry matter digestibility (DMD), ensured cows maintained energy intake even when grass availability dipped.

This ability to react early is central to improving milk solids. It relies on data and on-farm insights to make timely decisions about feeding and management.

As Tirlán’s programme highlights, improving milk solids often comes down to optimising grass utilisation and supplementing effectively when required.

Consistency drives results

What stands out in Elizabeth’s system is not complexity but consistency.

There was no single silver bullet. Instead, performance improved through a combination of small, consistent actions, including daily monitoring of milk solids, maintaining a clear and consistent feeding strategy, and making timely interventions during pressure periods, all supported by ongoing technical advice.

As Elizabeth’s experience shows, it was not one big change - it was everything working together.

Just as importantly, support was always available when needed.

She noted: “Tony was always there on the other end of the phone, giving advice and supporting us along the way.”

A system that delivers

The result of 510 kg of milk solids reflects more than just output.

It shows a system that is now more efficient, more responsive and better equipped to maintain performance.

This is exactly what the Milk Solids Growth programme is designed to deliver.

It helps farmers get more from every litre of milk through better use of data, grass, and nutrition.

Building on momentum

Following a strong year in 2025, the focus now shifts to maintaining and building on that progress.

“We hope to implement the same procedures again and continue to improve production,” Elizabeth shared.

For Elizabeth, the formula is clear. Keep measuring, keep refining, and keep focusing on the fundamentals.

A practical takeaway for farmers

Elizabeth’s experience highlights a simple but powerful message. Improving milk solids is achievable on any farm, but it requires structure, discipline and the right support.

With the right tools and advice, small, consistent changes can deliver significant results.

Get in touch with your local Tirlán Milk Solids Growth Specialist today to see how you can get more from every litre on your farm.