Huge rise in farms switching to organic
Tuesday June 02 2009
There has been a massive increase in the number of farmers applying to convert to organic production.
The Department of Agriculture report an 80pc rise in the number of new applicants.
Although final figures have yet to be released, it is believed around 230 new farmers have lodged conversion plans so far this year.
The figure represents a 79pc increase on the 130 conversion plans submitted in 2008.
Farmers who wish to convert from conventional farming must undergo a two-year transition period before their produce can be certified by the Irish Organic Farmers' and Growers' Association (IOFGA) and the Organic Trust.
Some 150 farmers had their conversion plans approved by IOFGA this year, compared to 90 last year.
That represents a 67pc increase in one year.
"Farmers can see that there is a market for organic produce and they can get a premium price for it," said Angela Clarke, certification manager with IOFGA.
"Some farmers are already using very little fertiliser or pesticides, so it is not a big step to go organic for them," she explained.
Additional payments through REPS and the Organic Scheme are also attracting new entrants to the organic system.
However, tillage farmers remain the group of farmers least likely to make the switch to organic.
Last year, leading Irish porridge manufacturer Flahavans had a requirement for 2,000t of organic oats.
However, despite specifically seeking Irish oats and being willing to pay €400/t, the company had to import 75pc of its requirements.
The surge in interest in organic farming this year confirmed that the high attendance at organic farm walks in 2007 and 2008 has translated into concrete moves by farmers.
The latest series of organic farm walks, run by Teagasc and the Department, on IOFGA and Organic Trust-approved farms begins this month and continues until September.
The first walk takes place on Peter and Jenny Young's Castlefarm in Athy, Co Kildare, on June 17. Kinsale farmer Colm O'Regan hosts a walk on June 18, while Eagles Farm, Teagasc Athenry, is the venue on June 25.
There are 17 more open days planned for July, August and September.
- Caitriona Murphy
