Mayo farmer to provide expert insights about nature-friendly farming
Sinéad Moran from Aghamore is set to lead workshops and demonstrations at the first ever Farming for Nature Festival in June, where she will share practical knowledge and real-life experiences of sustainable agricultural practices. Sinéad Moran operates Gleann Buí Dairy Farm in Aghamore. The farm, which she runs with her partner Michael McGrath, is known for its rich biodiversity and nutrient-dense produce. Sinéad produces raw organic milk for direct sale while the land features species-rich pastures, mature trees, hedgerows and a traditional orchard.
The Farming for Nature Festival takes place at Ballykilcavan Farm and Brewery in Stradbally, Co Laois, on June 22 and 23, and will provide an opportunity for farmers to learn from one another, explore new approaches, and connect with a growing community aiming to build more sustainable food systems. The event is being delivered in partnership with BASE Ireland and the National Organic Training Skillnet.
The festival will open on June 22 with a solstice-inspired shared evening meal, with the main programme of events beginning at 9.30 a.m. on June 23. The schedule runs throughout the day, featuring entry-level discussions and in-depth technical sessions focusing on topics such as soil health, biodiversity, water resilience and farm finance.
Alongside scheduled talks, attendees can take part in field demonstrations and drop-in workshops, providing hands-on learning and practical skills that can then be applied directly on their own land. The day will conclude with fireside chats, followed by food, music and entertainment into the evening.
Sinéad Moran and researcher Dr. Derek McLoughlin will be on hand to lead the events, offering expert insights during keynote addresses, workshops and demonstrations.
Dr. Derek McLoughlin is the Project Manager of the Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE Project. A trained ecologist, Dr. McLoughlin has a particular interest in how we interact with nature and the land, its people and their stories. This interest has guided his work with nature and agriculture towards the use of results-based payment schemes, development of employment opportunities in rural areas through nature restoration, and finding the opportunities for people and nature in our environmental challenges.
Dr. Derek McLoughlin, said:
"LIFE IP Wild Atlantic Nature is working to conserve and restore blanket bogs in Mayo and across the northwest of Ireland. We are fortunate to be working with several Farming for Nature Ambassadors. These pioneering farmers are inspiring others in the area to undertake actions on their farm to protect nature and demonstrating how nature and farming can work in harmony. We are looking forward to this year’s Farming for Nature Festival and meeting a new cohort of inspirational farmers”
Further information, including ticket details and accommodation options, is available via the event’s website here.