Three farm walks have been scheduled to take place over the next two weeks for dairy farmers who are thinking of converting to organic farming.

The farm walks are organised by Teagasc and will take place at three commercial organic farms in three counties.

The first farm walk takes place today (Tuesday, June 30) at a farm in Co. Waterford.

The next event will take on a farm in Co. Clare next Tuesday (July 7), and the last farm walk will take place on a Co. Wicklow farm the following Tuesday (July 14).

According to Teagasc, a lack of an organic premium is often cited as one of the most common reasons for dairy farmers to avoid contemplating an organic conversion for their farm.

However, organic milk currently commands a premium of almost 30c/L over conventional milk prices.

Teagasc said "now may be an opportune time" for Irish dairy farmers to consider whether organic dairying could be a viable option for their farms.

Ireland's organic milk price is currently the second highest in Europe, with Irish organic dairy farmers getting an average of 72.5c/L at the moment.

According to Teagasc, strong market demand for organic milk is expected to continue.

The advisory and education body said that organic dairying can enable farmers to reduce stock numbers and input costs.

The farm walks are aimed at any farmer who wants to find out more about organic dairy farming and the potential it may offer them for their farm.

Teagasc said the events are designed for dairy farmers considering organic conversion; existing dairy farmers looking to reduce input costs; farmers interested in improving environmental sustainability; and advisors and other agricultural professionals.

Speaking on the series of farm walks, Teagasc organic specialist Joe Kelleher said: "Irish organic farmers are currently receiving the second highest organic milk price in Europe and the demand for organic produce continues to rapidly grow.

"We have the perfect climate here in Ireland to grow high quantities of organic forages, and I believe that organic farming is a system that could suit many Irish dairy farms very well," Kelleher added.

Teagasc said participants at the farm walks will gain "practical insights" into all aspects of organic dairy farming.

These include the financial viability of conversion; stocking rates; grassland management; feeding organic dairy cows; veterinary health requirements; calf rearing; housing requirements; soil fertility and health; organic certification and conversion; market outlook and milk price prospects; and financial projections.

Teagasc said participants will also benefit from the "experiences and lessons learned by farmers who have already made the transition to organic production".

Places at the farm walks are limited, so booking early in advance is advised. Booking can be done through the Teagasc website.