Mayo farmers win big at National FBD Better Farming Awards

FOUR Mayo farmers have brought home top honours at the FBD Better Farming Awards, held on November 7 at The Heritage Hotel, Killenard.

With a crowd of over 200 people in attendance, the awards ceremony was hosted by former Minister for Agriculture, Ivan Yates, and celebrated excellence and innovation in Irish farming across 20 categories. The west of Ireland emerged as a standout region, winning six awards, including four by Mayo recipients.

One of the major winners from Mayo was Kevin Moran of Claremorris, who earned the Agri Insider Young Researcher of the Year award for his study, “Access to Finance”.

Moran’s research highlights the significant challenges young farmers face in securing affordable financial support, especially those without land or guarantors. His work shines a light on a critical issue facing the next generation of Irish farmers, advocating for more accessible financing solutions.

Another winner, “David Dolan from Garrymore”, was awarded “Germinal Climate Smart Pasture Farmer of the Year” for his dedication to sustainable farming practices.

Dolan has embraced a range of climate-smart technologies, including the use of protective urea, clover, and sexed semen, all aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting a greener agricultural future.

“Dolan Industries”, based in Ballyglass, Mayo, was recognised for innovation in agricultural technology, winning the “AgTech Ireland Best Agritech Hardware Product” award.

Their “Intelligent Soil Management System” offers a more efficient approach to nutrient management on farms, reducing waste and promoting soil health through targeted nutrient delivery.

Completing the Mayo sweep, “Sinead Moran of Gleann Bui Farm” won “Dairygold Biodiversity Farmer of the Year”.

Known for her commitment to biodiversity, Moran’s farm operates within the natural ecological limits of her land, promoting a farming approach that is sustainable and equitable for people, place, and planet.