Mayo nature-friendly farms to open their gates for unique 'Inside the Gate' open farm day

Farming for Nature invites visitors to experience farming and nature up close at their Inside the Gate event, taking place on 20 farms across 12 counties on Sunday, August 30.

Inside the Gate gives visitors a unique opportunity to explore a working farm, meet the farmers and experience first-hand how food can be produced while supporting wildlife, healthy soils, clean water and biodiversity.

With guided walks, demonstrations and the chance to learn about a variety of farming systems, each participating farm offers its own unique insight into the practical ways farmers are working with nature while producing nutritious food.

The Mayo farmers taking part in this years event include upland sheep farmer Colm Gavin of Gavins Farm (Leenane) and horticultural farmers Aoife and Joe Reilly of Glasraí Farm (Claremorris).

A morning event will take place on Colm Gavin's farm, catering for up to 30 people.

A morning and afternoon event will take place on Glasraí farm catering for up to 40 people at each.

Each farm will offer a different experience and perspective, and the farmers are excited to welcome the public to their farms to share their stories, experiences and insights first-hand with attendees.

Colm Gavin, farmer and Inside the Gate host, said: “I am delighted to open my gate and show people how upland farming works with nature in managing these areas. I am also keen to show how community groups are working on managing invasive species in this sensitive area.”

Aoife Reilly, farmer and Inside the Gate host, said: “We are delighted to open our farm gates and show you how healthy food is produced profitably and sustainably, while focusing on soil health and environmental health.

"Expect to learn about the importance of incorporating wildlife-friendly practices and soil regenerative practices on a seven-acre organic vegetable farm, while maximising food production. And have a lovely day enjoying talking about food.”

Adult tickets cost just €5, children go free and places are limited for each event, so early booking is recommended.

Please read about the different events on offer to get an understanding of what you can expect on the day, as well as timings, ticket booking options and FAQs.

All info is available at: www.farmingfornature.ie/inside-the-gate.