Teagasc has published a number of ‘farm diversification factsheets’ on its website, along with videos, aimed at providing farmers with information on possible ideas for diversifying their farms.
The suite of factsheets and videos will allow farmers explore different options suitable to them, Teagasc says.
“Diversification may not be practicable for every farmer, but well planned and seasoned projects can create new sources of income for farmers, and can enhance the range of facilities available in Ireland’s rural areas,” said Barry Caslin, Teagasc energy and rural development specialist.
Our farm diversification factsheets cover a wide range of topics including organics, food, equine, horticulture, poultry, renewable energy, goats, forestry and tourism.
“They are an excellent starting point for innovative rural dwellers to begin to find out more information on possible business options that might suit them,” Caslin said.
Fintan Phelan, head of the Teagasc farm management and rural development department, noted: “Niche opportunities exist for farmers to examine which could provide a diversified income stream, by utilising their existing resources and expertise.
“We should urge all those interested to start by gathering all available information on their topic of interest,” Phelan added.
The factsheets and videos are accessible through the Teagasc website.
Carbon sequestration tool
This is not the only new initiative from Teagasc this week.
On Wednesday, a new ‘Forest Carbon Tool’ that will allow forest owners calculate how much carbon can be removed in woodlands was launched by Minister of State with responsibility for land use and biodiversity Pippa Hackett.
The tool was developed by Teagasc with the support of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and private company FERS (Forestry Environment Research and Services).
Minister Hackett said the tool will be “user-friendly” and free, and will be aimed at both current and potential forestry owners.
“It will help them to predict the potential environmental benefits if they’re considering creating new woodlands. It is extremely versatile and can factor in livestock use on farms in agroforestry systems and model conifers and broadleaves on different land types and soil,” she added.